Aerosol generation device

Abstract

[Problem] To provide an arrangement that can further improve the quality of user experience. [Solution] An aerosol generating device includes: a housing portion for housing a matrix containing an aerosol source in its internal space; a load for heating the matrix; an impedance circuit including a pair of electrodes for detecting electrostatic capacitance in the internal space of the housing portion; a signal generator for generating an input signal input to the impedance circuit; and a control unit for initiating heating of the load based on a voltage from an output signal from the impedance circuit, wherein the pair of electrodes is disposed above the load, and at least one of the vertical length of the pair of electrodes and the frequency of the input signal is set based on the vertical length of a portion of the matrix in which the aerosol source is distributed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol generating devices for producing aerosols for users to inhale are becoming increasingly common. For example, an aerosol generating device produces a flavored aerosol by using an aerosol source for generating the aerosol and a matrix including a flavor source to impart flavor components to the generated aerosol. Users can enjoy the flavor by inhaling the flavored aerosol produced by the aerosol generating device. The act of a user inhaling the aerosol will also be referred to below as "inhalation" or "inhalation action." Devices that can be categorized as aerosol generating devices include those used as alternatives to cigarettes, such as heated tobacco products. It should be noted that heated tobacco products are a type of aerosol generating device that produces aerosols by heating an aerosol source.

[0003] For aerosol generating devices that heat the inserted substrate, techniques are being developed for detecting whether the substrate has been inserted. For example, PTL 1 below describes such a technique, in which electrodes are arranged at locations surrounding a fully inserted substrate, and the rate of increase or decrease in voltage is used to determine whether the substrate has been fully inserted, while repeatedly applying and releasing voltage to the electrodes.

[0004] Citation List

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] PTL 1: JP 6348985 B2 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention

[0008] However, the technology disclosed in PTL 1 has only been developed recently and there is still room for improvement in various aspects.

[0009] Therefore, this disclosure is designed in response to the above-mentioned problems, and the purpose of this disclosure is to provide an arrangement that can further improve the quality of user experience.

[0010] Solution to the problem

[0011] To address the aforementioned problems, one aspect of this disclosure provides an aerosol generating apparatus comprising: a receiving portion having an opening on its upper side, the opening allowing vertical insertion / extraction of a matrix containing an aerosol source, the receiving portion housing the matrix within its internal space; a load for generating energy for heating the aerosol source contained in the matrix within the receiving portion; an impedance circuit including a pair of electrodes for detecting electrostatic capacitance in the internal space of the receiving portion; a signal generator for generating an input signal input to the impedance circuit; a comparator for comparing a voltage of an output signal from the impedance circuit with a threshold voltage; and a control unit for controlling the operation of the load based on an output from the comparator, wherein the pair of electrodes is disposed above the load, at least one of the vertical length of the pair of electrodes and the frequency of at least one of one or more signals constituting the input signal is set based on the vertical length of a portion of the matrix in which the aerosol source is distributed, and the control unit activates the load to generate energy when the output from the comparator satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0012] With the substrate fully inserted into the receiving portion, the electrode pair can be positioned above the portion of the substrate where the aerosol source is distributed.

[0013] The signal generator can set the frequency of at least one of the one or more signals constituting the input signal such that a defined time period, including one or more cycles, is included, during which the amount of aerosol source present between the electrodes is at its maximum, the defined time period being calculated based on the vertical length of the electrodes, the vertical length of the portion of the matrix in which the aerosol source is distributed, and the assumed velocity of the matrix insertion into the receiving portion.

[0014] The control unit can set the frequency of at least one of the one or more signals constituting the input signal based on the time it takes for the electrostatic capacitance of the electrode pair to change when the user inserts the substrate into the receiving part.

[0015] Impedance circuits can be filter circuits.

[0016] The filter circuit can be designed such that when the amount of aerosol source present between the electrodes is at its maximum, the cutoff frequency corresponds to the frequency of at least one of the signals constituting the input signal.

[0017] The signal generator, the electrode pair, and the comparator can form part of a series circuit.

[0018] The wiring between the electrodes can be shielded at the GND potential.

[0019] The impedance circuit may further include an amplifier for amplifying the output signal.

[0020] The amplifier can operate intermittently.

[0021] The amplifier can operate intermittently at a period commensurate with the length of a defined time period during which the amount of aerosol source present between the electrodes is at its maximum. This defined time period is calculated based on the vertical length of the electrodes, the vertical length of the portion of the matrix in which the aerosol source is distributed, and the assumed velocity of the matrix insertion into the receiving portion.

[0022] The input signal can be a sine wave.

[0023] The load can be a heating unit.

[0024] Advantages of the present invention

[0025] As described above, this disclosure provides an organization that can further improve the quality of user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0026] [ Figure 1 [Illustrated diagram showing an example configuration of an aerosol generating device.]

[0027] [ Figure 2 [Illustration] is a diagram showing an overview of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0028] [ Figure 3 [Illustration 1] is a diagram illustrating an exemplary configuration of the control circuit.

[0029] [ Figure 4 [Illustrated diagram] is a schematic diagram showing an exemplary configuration of an impedance circuit.

[0030] [ Figure 5 ] is shown Figure 4 The graph shows an example of the gain characteristics of the impedance circuit.

[0031] [ Figure 6 [ ] is a graph showing an example of the timing variation of the output voltage as the rod matrix is ​​inserted.

[0032] [ Figure 7 [ ] is a diagram that schematically illustrates another exemplary configuration of an impedance circuit.

[0033] [ Figure 8 ] is shown Figure 7 The graph shows an example of the gain characteristics of the impedance circuit.

[0034] [ Figure 9 [ ] is a diagram that schematically illustrates another exemplary configuration of an impedance circuit.

[0035] [ Figure 10 [ ] is a diagram that schematically illustrates another exemplary configuration of an impedance circuit.

[0036] [ Figure 11 [Illustration] is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow implemented by means of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0037] [ Figure 12 [This is a diagram illustrating problems related to impedance circuits.]

[0038] [ Figure 13 [Illustrated diagram] is a diagram that schematically illustrates an exemplary configuration of an impedance circuit according to a variant instance.

[0039] [ Figure 14 [Illustrated diagram] is a diagram that schematically shows an exemplary configuration of an impedance circuit according to a variant instance.

[0040] [ Figure 15 [ ] is a time graph showing the intermittent operation of the amplifier.

[0041] [ Figure 16 [ ] is a graph showing the experimental results when the amplifier is operated intermittently with the scrap section placed between a pair of electrodes.

[0042] [ Figure 17 [This is a graph showing the experimental results when the amplifier is operated intermittently with the hand close to the electrode pair and the debris is not placed between the electrode pair.] Detailed Implementation

[0043] Preferred embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the same reference numerals will be assigned to components having substantially the same functional configuration in the specification and drawings to avoid repetitive descriptions.

[0044] <1. Example of Aerosol Generating Device Configuration>

[0045] An aerosol generating device is a device used to generate aerosols for users to inhale.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example configuration of an aerosol generating device. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the aerosol generating device 100 according to this configuration example includes: a power supply unit 111, a sensor unit 112, a notification unit 113, a memory unit 114, a communication unit 115, a control unit 116, a heating unit 121, a housing portion 140, and a heat insulation portion 144.

[0047] The power supply unit 111 stores electricity. The power supply unit 111 then supplies power to each component of the aerosol generating device 100 based on the control executed by the control unit 116. For example, the power supply unit 111 may be configured with a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion secondary battery).

[0048] Sensor unit 112 acquires various types of information related to aerosol generating device 100. As an example, sensor unit 112 is configured with a pressure sensor (such as a capacitive microphone, flow sensor, or temperature sensor) and acquires values ​​associated with user inhalation. As another example, sensor unit 112 is configured with an input device (such as a button or switch) for receiving information input from the user.

[0049] The notification unit 113 notifies the user of information. For example, the notification unit 113 may be configured with a light-emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays images, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that can vibrate.

[0050] Memory unit 114 stores various types of information for the operation of aerosol generating device 100. Memory unit 114 is configured, for example, by a non-volatile storage medium (such as flash memory).

[0051] Communication unit 115 is a communication interface capable of performing communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards that can be used include those employing Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) (registered trademark), Near Field Communication (NFC), or Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) standards.

[0052] The control unit 116 serves as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, thereby controlling all operations within the aerosol generating device 100 according to various programs. For example, the control unit 116 is implemented by a CPU (central processing unit) or electronic circuitry (such as a microprocessor).

[0053] The receiving portion 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the rod-shaped substrate 150, while also housing a portion of the rod-shaped substrate 150 within the internal space 141. The receiving portion 140 has an opening 142 that allows communication between the internal space 141 and the outside, and receives the rod-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 through the opening 142. For example, the receiving portion 140 is a cylindrical body including the opening 142 and a bottom portion 143 serving as a bottom surface, and this receiving portion defines the cylindrical internal space 141. An airflow path for supplying air to the internal space 141 is connected to the receiving portion 140. For example, an air inlet hole is provided in the side surface of the aerosol generating device 100, which serves as an inlet for air to enter the airflow path. For example, an air outlet hole is provided in the bottom portion 143, which serves as an outlet for air to exit from the airflow path to the internal space 141.

[0054] The stick-shaped matrix 150 includes a matrix portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The matrix portion 151 contains an aerosol source. The aerosol source includes tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. If the aerosol generating device 100 is a medical inhaler (such as a nebulizer), the aerosol source may include a drug. The aerosol source may be, for example, a liquid containing tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components, such as polyols (such as glycerol or propylene glycol) or water, or it may be a solid containing tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. With the stick-shaped matrix 150 held in the receiving portion 140, at least a portion of the matrix portion 151 is contained in the internal space 141, and at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. Thus, when a user holds the mouthpiece portion 152 protruding from the opening 142 in their mouth and inhales, air flows into the internal space 141 through an airflow path (not depicted) and reaches the user's mouth along with the aerosol generated by the matrix portion 151.

[0055] Heating unit 121 heats the aerosol source to atomize it, thereby generating an aerosol. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the heating unit 121 has a membrane-like form and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of the receiving portion 140. Thus, when the heating unit 121 generates heat, the matrix portion 151 of the rod-shaped matrix 150 is heated from the outer periphery, thereby generating an aerosol. The heating unit 121 generates heat when powered by the power supply unit 111. For example, power can be supplied when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has begun inhalation and / or has entered predetermined information. Then, power supply can be stopped when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has completed inhalation and / or has entered predetermined information.

[0056] The heat insulation portion 144 prevents heat from being transferred from the heating unit 121 to other components. For example, the heat insulation portion 144 is made of vacuum insulation material or aerogel insulation material.

[0057] The above describes a configuration example of the aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 is, of course, not limited to the configuration described above, but can have various configurations shown below.

[0058] As an example, the heating unit 121 may be in the form of a blade and may be arranged to protrude from the bottom portion 143 of the receiving portion 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating unit 121 is inserted into the matrix portion 151 of the rod-shaped matrix 150 and heats the matrix portion 151 of the rod-shaped matrix 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating unit 121 may be arranged to cover the bottom portion 143 of the receiving portion 140. Furthermore, the heating unit 121 may be configured by a combination of two or more heating units: a first heating unit covering the outer periphery of the receiving portion 140, a blade-shaped second heating unit, and a third heating unit covering the bottom portion 143 of the receiving portion 140.

[0059] As another example, the receiving portion 140 may include an opening and closing mechanism (such as a hinge) for opening and closing a portion of the housing forming the internal space 141. Thus, by opening and closing the housing, the receiving portion 140 can clamp and receive the rod-shaped substrate 150 that has been inserted into the internal space 141. In this case, a heating unit 121 may be disposed on the clamping portion of the receiving portion 140, and can heat the rod-shaped substrate while pressing it.

[0060] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating provided by the heating unit 121. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source can be induction heating. In this case, the aerosol generating device 100 includes at least an electromagnetic induction source (such as a coil) for generating a magnetic field, instead of the heating unit 121. A sensor for generating heat by means of induction heating can be provided in the aerosol generating device 100, or it can be included in the rod-shaped matrix 150.

[0061] <2. Technical Features>

[0062] <2.1. Overview>

[0063] The following will refer to Figure 2 An overview of the aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to an embodiment is described.

[0064] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an overview of the aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to an embodiment. Figure 2This illustrates the insertion of the rod-shaped substrate 150 into the receiving portion 140. (As shown...) Figure 2 As shown, the insertion direction of the rod-shaped substrate 150 is also called downward, and the extraction direction is also called upward.

[0065] The receiving portion 140 has an opening 142 on its upper side, which allows the rod-shaped substrate 150 to be vertically inserted / removed, and the receiving portion houses the rod-shaped substrate 150 in its internal space 141.

[0066] Heating unit 121 is disposed on the bottom portion 143 side of receiving portion 140, and heating unit heats rod-shaped substrate 150 contained in receiving portion 140.

[0067] The portion of the rod-shaped matrix 150 containing the aerosol source will also be referred to as the fragmented portion 153. The fragmented portion 153 consists of... Figure 1 At least a portion of the matrix portion 151 shown. The heating unit 121 and the crushing portion 153 are positioned thermally adjacent in a state of being accommodated in the receiving portion 140.

[0068] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a pair of electrodes C arranged on both sides of the internal space 141 and detecting the electrostatic capacitance of the internal space 141 in the receiving portion 140.

[0069] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a control circuit 10 for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. The control circuit 10 corresponds at least to... Figure 1 The control unit 116 is included in the depicted components. Control circuit 10 is connected to the pair of electrodes C and detects the insertion of the rod-shaped substrate 150 into the receiving portion 140 based on the electrostatic capacitance detected by means of the pair of electrodes C. Control circuit 10 is also connected to the heating unit 121 and controls the operation of the heating unit 121. For convenience, in... Figure 2 In the diagram, the control circuit 10 is shown as separate from the pair of electrodes C and the heating unit 121, but in the following description, it is assumed that the control circuit 10 includes the pair of electrodes C and the heating unit 121.

[0070] The control circuit 10 may have an automatic start function. That is, when the control circuit 10 determines that the rod-shaped substrate 150 has been inserted into the receiving portion 140 based on the electrostatic capacitance detected by means of the pair of electrodes C, the control circuit 10 may start the heating unit 121 to heat it.

[0071] Here, the pair of electrodes C is positioned above the heating unit 121. Specifically, the pair of electrodes C is positioned above the scrap portion 153 when the rod-shaped substrate 150 is contained within the receiving portion 140 (i.e., the end of the rod-shaped substrate 150 has reached the bottom portion 143 and insertion is complete). Therefore, as the rod-shaped substrate 150 is inserted into the receiving portion 140, the scrap portion 153 passes between the pair of electrodes C (or more precisely, through the space between the pair of electrodes C). Here, the scrap portion 153 has an aerosol source distributed therein, and therefore the scrap portion has a higher relative permittivity than other portions of the rod-shaped substrate 150 without aerosol sources. Therefore, as the scrap portion 153 passes between the pair of electrodes C, the electrostatic capacitance changes significantly during the time the scrap portion 153 is present between the pair of electrodes C and during the time the scrap portion 153 is not present between the pair of electrodes. According to this embodiment, the insertion of the rod-shaped substrate 150 can therefore be accurately detected based on the change in electrostatic capacitance.

[0072] The control circuit 10 determines whether the fragment portion 153 exists between the electrodes C (i.e., whether the rod-shaped matrix 150 has been inserted) based on the electrostatic capacitance during time period T, during which the amount of fragment portion 153 (i.e., aerosol source) present between the electrodes C is at its maximum (this time period is also referred to below as the determination time period). Using the vertical length Le [mm] of the electrodes C, the vertical length Lk [mm] of the fragment portion 153, and the speed V [mm / s] at which the rod-shaped matrix 150 is inserted into the receiving portion 140, the determination time period T is calculated by means of the following equation.

[0073] Mathematical Formula 1

[0074]

[0075] To simplify the following description, the state in which the amount of debris 153 present between the electrodes C is at its maximum will also be referred to as the state in which debris 153 is present between the electrodes C. On the other hand, the state in which the amount of debris 153 present between the electrodes C is not at its maximum will also be referred to as the state in which debris 153 is not present between the electrodes C.

[0076] The above describes an overview of the aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to an embodiment.

[0077] Various other types of techniques for inserting detection rods (such as rod matrix 150) into devices (such as aerosol generating device 100) have also been proposed.

[0078] As an example, a technique for an induction-heating device is proposed, in which the insertion of a rod into the device is detected based on the change in inductance when the rod with a built-in sensor is inserted. However, when the rod has a built-in sensor, the sensor may damage the digestive system if the rod is accidentally ingested. Furthermore, this technique may only be used with induction-heating devices and is difficult to apply to heating devices (such as aerosol generating device 100).

[0079] In this regard, the technology related to the above embodiments is applicable to both induction heating devices and heating devices because it does not require the rod to have a built-in sensor. Therefore, the quality of the user experience can be improved.

[0080] Furthermore, a technique based on the insertion of an electrostatic capacitance detection rod has been proposed, as described in PTL 1 above. However, in the prior art including PTL 1, the electrostatic capacitance detection rod is used after it has been fully inserted. More specifically, in the prior art, the aerosol source is also located adjacent to the heater or induction coil after the rod has been fully inserted. However, the sensor used to measure electrostatic capacitance is typically placed away from the heater or induction coil to prevent noise contamination from the heater or induction coil. Therefore, after the rod has been fully inserted, the portion with the aerosol source is far from the sensor, thus limiting the accuracy of detecting the rod insertion. Furthermore, even if the sensor used to measure electrostatic capacitance can be placed outside, for example, the heater or induction coil, concerns remain regarding noise contamination and increased device size.

[0081] In this regard, the technology related to the above embodiments can accurately detect the insertion of the rod-shaped matrix 150 by referring to the change in electrostatic capacitance when the fragment portion 153 with a high relative permittivity passes between the pair of electrodes C. Furthermore, the insertion of the rod-shaped matrix 150 can be detected during insertion rather than after full insertion, thus enabling faster implementation of the automatic start-up function. Additionally, the pair of electrodes C can be placed away from the heating unit 121, thus reducing restrictions related to sensor placement and allowing for a more compact aerosol generating device 100. Therefore, the quality of the user experience can be improved.

[0082] <2.2. Configuration of Control Circuit 10>

[0083] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary configuration of the control circuit 10. (As shown) Figure 3 As shown, the control circuit 10 includes: a signal generator 11, an impedance circuit 12, a comparator 13, and a heating circuit 14.

[0084] Signal generator 11 generates a signal that is input to impedance circuit 12 (this signal is also referred to as the input signal below). For example, signal generator 11 generates a sine wave as the input signal.

[0085] Impedance circuit 12 is an AC circuit including the pair of electrodes C. An input signal generated by signal generator 11 is input to impedance circuit 12, and an output signal is output from impedance circuit 12. The relationship between the voltage of the input signal input to impedance circuit 12 (hereinafter also referred to as input voltage) Vin and the voltage of the output signal from impedance circuit 12 (hereinafter also referred to as output voltage) Vout differs when the scrap portion 153 is present between the pairs of electrodes C and when the scrap portion 153 is not present between the pairs of electrodes. This is because the electrostatic capacitance of the pair of electrodes C changes when the scrap portion 153 is present between the pairs of electrodes C and when the scrap portion 153 is not present between the pairs of electrodes, and the gain characteristics of impedance circuit 12 change.

[0086] Comparator 13 compares the voltage Vout of the output signal from impedance circuit 12 with a threshold voltage Vth and outputs the comparison result. The threshold voltage Vth is set such that the voltage Vout of the output signal from impedance circuit 12 can distinguish between when the scrap portion 153 is present between the electrodes C and when the scrap portion 153 is not present between the electrodes. Therefore, comparator 13 outputs information indicating whether the scrap portion 153 is present between the electrodes C as the comparison result.

[0087] Heating circuit 14 controls the operation of heating unit 121 based on the output from comparator 13. Heating circuit 14 should be considered as control unit 116.

[0088] Specifically, when the output from comparator 13 meets a predetermined condition, heating circuit 14 activates heating unit 121 to heat it. More specifically, when a comparison result indicating the presence of the fragmented material 153 between the electrodes C is obtained, heating circuit 14 determines that the rod-shaped substrate 150 has been inserted and activates heating unit 121 to heat it. On the other hand, if heating circuit 14 determines that the rod-shaped substrate 150 has not been inserted, heating unit 121 is placed in standby mode to prepare for heating until a comparison result indicating the presence of the fragmented material 153 between the electrodes C is obtained.

[0089] <2.3. Specific Examples>

[0090] Impedance circuit 12 can be a filter circuit. (See below for reference.) Figures 4 to 10 Describe specific examples of when impedance circuit 12 is configured as an RC high-pass filter circuit or an RC low-pass filter circuit.

[0091] (RC high-pass filter)

[0092] Figure 4 This is a diagram schematically illustrating an exemplary configuration of the impedance circuit 12. (As shown...) Figure 4 As shown, impedance circuit 12a can be configured as an RC high-pass filter circuit with a pair of electrodes C and a resistor R.

[0093] Figure 4 The relationship between the input voltage Vin and the output voltage Vout of the impedance circuit 12a shown is expressed by the following equation.

[0094] Mathematical formula 2

[0095]

[0096] C is the electrostatic capacitance of the electrode pair C. R is the resistance value of resistor R. f is the frequency of the input signal.

[0097] The gain |G(jω)| at each frequency is calculated using the following equation.

[0098] Mathematical Formula 3

[0099]

[0100] The cutoff frequency fc is calculated using the following equation.

[0101] Mathematical expression 4

[0102]

[0103] For example, the parameters of impedance circuit 12a should be set as follows.

[0104] Resistance value R: 510 kΩ

[0105] electrostatic capacitance C

[0106] When there is a fragmented portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 6.7 [pF]

[0107] When there is no debris portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 5.1 [pF]

[0108] The frequency f of the input signal: 5 kHz

[0109] Input signal amplitude: 1 [Vp-p]

[0110] exist Figure 5 The gain characteristics of the impedance circuit 12a with the above parameter settings are shown in the figure. Figure 5 It shows Figure 4A graph illustrating an example of the gain characteristics of the impedance circuit 12a is shown. The vertical axis of the graph indicates the gain [dB], while the horizontal axis indicates the frequency [Hz]. The frequency characteristics of the output signal gain are thus shown when the scrap portion 153 is present between the electrodes C and when the scrap portion 153 is not present between the electrodes. It is clear from the graph that when the frequency f of the input signal is 5 [kHz] as indicated by the aforementioned parameter setting, the gain of the output signal when the scrap portion 153 is present between the electrodes C is higher than the gain of the output signal when the scrap portion 153 is not present between the electrodes C.

[0111] The amplitude of the output signal of the impedance circuit 12a with the above parameter settings is as follows.

[0112] When there is a fragmented portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 0.73 [Vp-p]

[0113] When there is no debris in the portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 0.63 [Vp-p]

[0114] Therefore, the amplitude difference of the output signal is 0.1 [V] when the fragmented material 153 is present between the electrodes C and when the fragmented material 153 is not present between the electrodes. In this case, the threshold voltage Vth can be set to 0.68 [V]. That is, when the output voltage Vout is equal to or greater than the threshold voltage Vth of 0.68 [V], the heating circuit 14 determines that the fragmented material 153 is present between the electrodes C. On the other hand, when the output voltage Vout is less than the threshold voltage Vth of 0.68 [V], the heating circuit 14 determines that the fragmented material 153 is not present between the electrodes C.

[0115] Here, the frequency f of the input signal is set based on the vertical length Le of the electrode pair C and the vertical length Lk of the scrap portion 153. As described above, this configuration enables accurate detection of changes in electrostatic capacitance that occur during the insertion of the rod-shaped substrate 150.

[0116] More specifically, the signal generator 11 sets the frequency f of the input signal such that a defined time period T includes one or more cycles during which the amount of aerosol source present between the electrodes C (i.e., the amount of fragment 153) is maximized. This defined time period is calculated based on the vertical length Le of the electrodes C, the vertical length Lk of the fragment 153, and the assumed insertion speed V of the rod matrix 150. With this configuration, the change in output voltage Vout caused by the change in electrostatic capacitance accompanying the insertion of the rod matrix 150 is significant within the defined time period T, while the amount of aerosol source present between the electrodes C (i.e., the amount of fragment 153) remains unchanged within the defined time period. (Refer to...) Figure 6Let me explain this.

[0117] Figure 6 This is a graph illustrating an example of the timing variation of the output voltage Vout as the rod substrate 150 is inserted. In this graph, the vertical axis indicates voltage, the horizontal axis indicates time, and time progresses from left to right. Figure 6 As shown, the rod-shaped substrate 150 is inserted into the receiving portion 140 in the following sequence: insertion in progress (the fragmented portion 153 is present between the electrodes C), insertion in progress (the fragmented portion 153 is not present between the electrodes C), and insertion completed. By setting the frequency f of the input signal as described above, within a defined time period T, the output voltage Vout is equal to or greater than the threshold voltage Vth at least once, as shown. Figure 6 As shown. Therefore, comparator 13 can reliably detect the presence of the scrap portion 153 at the electrode pair C.

[0118] The following will provide a specific example based on the vertical length Le of the electrode pair C, the vertical length Lk of the fragmented part 153, the assumed insertion speed V of the rod matrix 150, and the time period T calculated by Equation 1 above.

[0119] Le: 5 [mm]

[0120] Lk: 20 [mm]

[0121] V: 75 [m / s]

[0122] T: 2 [ms]

[0123] It should be noted that in the above parameter settings, the insertion speed V of the rod-shaped matrix 150 is assumed to be 75 [m / s], which is the speed of a finger during a snap and is considered the fastest speed in the human body. This speed can be used to assume the shortest determining time period T. That is, no matter how fast the user inserts the rod-shaped matrix 150, the comparator 13 can still detect the insertion of the rod-shaped matrix 150.

[0124] When the input signal is a sine wave, at least one peak of the sine wave (i.e., preferably including one or more periods) will preferably exist during a defined time period T. That is, preferably, the frequency f ≥ 1 / T [Hz]. More preferably, it is desirable for multiple (e.g., 10 or more) peaks of the sine wave to exist during the defined time period T, for example, preferably, the frequency f ≥ 10 / T [Hz].

[0125] In the above parameter settings, T = 0.002 [s], so the frequency f is preferably set such that the frequency f ≥ 10 / T = 5 [kHz].

[0126] Impedance circuit 12a is designed such that when the amount of aerosol source present between the electrodes C (i.e., the amount of debris 153) is at its maximum, the cutoff frequency fc corresponds to the frequency f of the input signal. For example, if the frequency f of the input signal is 5 kHz, the electrostatic capacitance C of the electrodes C and the resistance R of the resistor R are set such that when the amount of aerosol source present between the electrodes C (i.e., the amount of debris 153) is at its maximum, the cutoff frequency fc is equal to or greater than 5 kHz. With this configuration, the debris 153 can be detected more accurately.

[0127] (RC low-pass filter)

[0128] Figure 7 This is a diagram schematically illustrating another exemplary configuration of the impedance circuit 12. (As shown) Figure 7 As shown, impedance circuit 12b can be configured as an RC low-pass filter circuit with a pair of electrodes C and a resistor R.

[0129] Figure 7 The relationship between the input voltage Vin and the output voltage Vout of the impedance circuit 12b shown is expressed by the following equation.

[0130] Mathematical formula 5

[0131]

[0132] C is the electrostatic capacitance of the electrode pair C. R is the resistance value of resistor R. f is the frequency of the input signal.

[0133] The gain |G(jω)| at each frequency is calculated using the following equation.

[0134] Mathematical formula 6

[0135]

[0136] The cutoff frequency fc is calculated using the following equation.

[0137] Mathematical Formula 7

[0138]

[0139] For example, the parameters of impedance circuit 12b should be set as follows.

[0140] Resistance value R: 510 kΩ

[0141] electrostatic capacitance C

[0142] When there is a fragmented portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 6.7 [pF]

[0143] When there is no debris portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 5.1 [pF]

[0144] The frequency f of the input signal: 5 kHz

[0145] Input signal amplitude: 1 [Vp-p]

[0146] exist Figure 8 The gain characteristics of the impedance circuit 12b with the above parameter settings are shown in the figure. Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 A graph illustrating an example of the gain characteristics of the impedance circuit 12b is shown. The vertical axis of the graph indicates the gain [dB], while the horizontal axis indicates the frequency [Hz]. The frequency characteristics of the output signal gain are thus shown when the scrap portion 153 is present between the electrodes C and when the scrap portion 153 is not present between the electrodes. It is clear from the graph that when the frequency f of the input signal is 5 [kHz] as indicated by the aforementioned parameter setting, the gain of the output signal when the scrap portion 153 is present between the electrodes C is lower than the gain of the output signal when the scrap portion 153 is not present between the electrodes C.

[0147] The amplitude of the output signal of the impedance circuit 12b with the above parameter settings is as follows.

[0148] When there is a fragmented portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 0.68 [Vp-p]

[0149] When there is no debris in the portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 0.77 [Vp-p]

[0150] Therefore, the amplitude difference of the output signal is approximately 0.1 [V] when the fragment 153 is present between the electrodes C and when the fragment 153 is not present between the electrodes. In this case, the threshold voltage Vth can be set to 0.73 [V]. That is, when the output voltage Vout is less than the threshold voltage Vth of 0.73 [V], the heating circuit 14 determines that the fragment 153 is present between the electrodes C. On the other hand, when the output voltage Vout is equal to or greater than the threshold voltage Vth of 0.73 [V], the heating circuit 14 determines that the fragment 153 is not present between the electrodes C.

[0151] The frequency f of the input signal should be set as described above for the RC high-pass filter. The cutoff frequency fc should also be set in the same manner as described above for the RC high-pass filter, during a defined time period T, during which the amount of aerosol source present between the electrodes C (i.e., the amount of fragment 153) is at its maximum.

[0152] (Circuit using operational amplifier)

[0153] Impedance circuit 12 may further include an amplifier for amplifying the output signal. Figure 9 and Figure 10 An example of the circuit configuration in this case is shown in the figure.

[0154] Figure 9 This is a diagram schematically illustrating another exemplary configuration of the impedance circuit 12. (As shown) Figure 9 As shown, impedance circuit 12c can be a high-pass filter circuit configured by amplifier circuit 15, which includes operational amplifier OA, resistors R1 and R2, and a pair of electrodes C. It should be noted that when the resistance values ​​of resistor R1 and resistor R2 are equal, Figure 9 The impedance circuit 12c shown is equivalent to Figure 4 The impedance circuit 12a shown is configured as an RC high-pass filter circuit.

[0155] Figure 10 This is a diagram schematically illustrating another exemplary configuration of the impedance circuit 12. (As shown) Figure 10 As shown, impedance circuit 12d can be a low-pass filter circuit configured by amplifier circuit 15, which includes operational amplifier OA, resistors R1 and R2, and a pair of electrodes C. It should be noted that when the resistance values ​​of resistor R1 and resistor R2 are equal, Figure 10 The impedance circuit 12d shown is equivalent to Figure 7 The impedance circuit 12b shown is configured as an RC low-pass filter circuit.

[0156] The output voltage Vout is amplified according to these circuit configurations, thus allowing for more accurate detection of the debris section 153.

[0157] <2.4. Processing Flow>

[0158] Next, we will refer to Figure 11 An example of a processing procedure for detecting the insertion of rod-shaped matrix 150 is described.

[0159] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow implemented by means of the aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to this embodiment.

[0160] like Figure 11 As shown, signal generator 11 first begins to supply a signal to impedance circuit 12 (step S102). For example, signal generator 11 generates a sine wave as an input signal, which is supplied to impedance circuit 12. As a result, impedance circuit 12 outputs an output voltage Vout, and comparator 13 outputs a comparison result between the output voltage Vout and the threshold voltage Vth to heating circuit 14.

[0161] The heating circuit 14 then determines whether the output from the comparator 13 meets a predetermined condition (step S104). As a result of... Figure 4 The example shown relates to impedance circuit 12a configured as an RC high-pass filter, where heating circuit 14 determines that the output voltage Vout is equal to or greater than the threshold voltage Vth as a predetermined condition. As a result... Figure 7 Another example related to the impedance circuit 12b shown is configured as an RC low-pass filter, where the heating circuit 14 determines that the output voltage Vout is less than the threshold voltage Vth as a predetermined condition.

[0162] If the output from comparator 13 is deemed not to meet the predetermined condition (step S104: No), the heating circuit 14 determines that there is no debris portion 153 between the pair of electrodes C, in other words, the rod-shaped substrate 150 has not yet been inserted (step S106). The heating circuit 14 then waits until the output from comparator 13 meets the predetermined condition.

[0163] On the other hand, if the output from comparator 13 is deemed to meet a predetermined condition (step S104: yes), then heating circuit 14 determines that there is a fragment portion 153 between the electrodes C, in other words, the rod-shaped substrate 150 has been fully inserted (step S108). Heating circuit 14 then activates heating unit 121 to heat it (step S110).

[0164] <3. Variant Examples>

[0165] <3.1. Examples of variations related to impedance circuit 12>

[0166] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating a problem related to impedance circuit 12. Figure 12 Examples are given to illustrate the relationship with Figure 7 Problems related to the impedance circuit 12b configured as an RC low-pass filter shown.

[0167] One exemplified problem with impedance circuit 12b is the reduced detection accuracy of the insertion of the rod-shaped substrate 150 caused by the electrostatic capacitance Chuman of the human body. For example... Figure 12 As shown, in impedance circuit 12b, the electrostatic capacitance Chuman between the human body and GND forms a parallel capacitance with the electrode pair C. Therefore, when a user's finger approaches the electrode pair C, for example, when the rod-shaped substrate 150 is inserted into the receiving portion 140, the capacitance between the electrode pair C and GND increases due to the influence of the human body's electrostatic capacitance Chuman. As a result, there is a risk of reduced accuracy in detecting the insertion of the rod-shaped substrate 150.

[0168] A second problem with the impedance circuit 12b, which can be exemplified, is the reduced accuracy of the detection of the insertion of the rod-shaped substrate 150 caused by the inter-line parasitic capacitance Cline of the electrode pair C. For example... Figure 12 As shown, in impedance circuit 12b, the inter-line parasitic capacitance Cline forms a parallel capacitance with the electrode pair C. Therefore, if the inter-line parasitic capacitance Cline is large, the difference in electrostatic capacitance measured by means of the electrode pair C when the fragment portion 153 is present between the electrodes C and when the fragment portion 153 is not present between the electrodes is unlikely to be apparent. As a result, the detection accuracy of the insertion of the rod-shaped matrix 150 may be reduced.

[0169] When the detection accuracy of the insertion of the rod matrix 150 decreases, malfunctions may occur, such as automatic startup before insertion or failure to automatically start after insertion.

[0170] The following will refer to Figure 13 Describe variant instances used to solve these problems. Figure 13 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates an exemplary configuration of the impedance circuit 12 according to a variant example.

[0171] like Figure 13 As shown, the impedance circuit 12e can be configured with a resistor R connected in parallel with the input signal and a pair of electrodes C connected in series with the input signal. In other words, the signal generator 11, the pair of electrodes C, and the comparator 13 can form part of a series circuit. With this configuration, the electrostatic capacitance Chuman of the human body no longer forms a parallel capacitance with the pair of electrodes C. Therefore, the increase in capacitance between the pair of electrodes C and GND caused by the electrostatic capacitance Chuman of the human body can be suppressed. As a result, the detection accuracy of the insertion of the rod-shaped substrate 150 can be prevented from decreasing. The first problem mentioned above is solved in this way.

[0172] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown, in the impedance circuit 12e, the wiring between the electrodes C is shielded at the GND potential. More specifically, the wiring between the electrodes C and the circuit (e.g., comparator 13) used to detect the electrostatic capacitance of the electrodes C is shielded at the GND potential. Therefore, the inter-line parasitic capacitance Cline no longer forms a parallel capacitance with the electrodes C. Thus, even if the inter-line parasitic capacitance Cline is large, the electrostatic capacitance measured by means of the electrodes C can produce a significant difference when the fragment portion 153 is present between the electrodes C and when the fragment portion 153 is not present between the electrodes. As a result, the accuracy of detecting the insertion of the rod-shaped matrix 150 can be prevented from decreasing. The second problem mentioned above is solved in this way.

[0173] It should be noted that the first question mentioned above can also be answered by... Figure 4The impedance circuit 12a shown is configured as an RC high-pass filter circuit to solve this problem. This is because in the impedance circuit 12a, the signal generator 11, the pair of electrodes C, and the comparator 13 also form part of a series circuit.

[0174] <3.2. Examples of variations of circuits using amplifiers>

[0175] The following will refer to Figure 14 The description includes a variant example of the impedance circuit 12 of the amplifier used to amplify the output signal. Figure 14 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates an exemplary configuration of the impedance circuit 12 according to a variant example.

[0176] like Figure 14 As shown, the impedance circuit 12f can be configured with a pair of electrodes C connected in series with the input signal, a first amplifier circuit 15-1, a capacitor C', and a second amplifier circuit 15-2. The first amplifier circuit 15-1 is configured with resistors R1 and R2 and operational amplifier OA1. The second amplifier circuit 15-2 is configured with resistors R3 and R4 and operational amplifier OA2.

[0177] Figure 14 The impedance Z of the impedance circuit 12f shown is calculated by means of the following equation when the scrap portion 153 is not present between the electrodes C.

[0178] Mathematical formula 8

[0179]

[0180] On the other hand, the impedance Z when the fragment portion 153 is present between the electrodes C is calculated by means of the following equation.

[0181] Mathematical formula 9

[0182]

[0183] Here, ΔC is the electrostatic capacitance of the debris portion 153 existing between the electrodes C.

[0184] The relationship between the input voltage Vin and the output voltage Vout is expressed by the following equation.

[0185] Mathematical formula 10

[0186]

[0187] Here, R1-R4 are the resistance values ​​of resistors R1-R4.

[0188] The gain |G(jω)| at each frequency is calculated using the following equation.

[0189] Mathematical formula 11

[0190]

[0191] It should be noted that an ideal operational amplifier can amplify frequencies up to infinity. However, in practice, the frequencies that an operational amplifier can amplify are limited.

[0192] For example, the parameters of impedance circuit 12f should be set as follows.

[0193] The frequency f of the input signal is 32.768 kHz.

[0194] Input signal amplitude: 5 [V]

[0195] Impedance Z

[0196] When there is no debris in the 153 section between the electrodes C, the value is: 13.88 [MΩ]

[0197] When there is a fragmented portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 9.17 [MΩ]

[0198] Resistor R1: 51 kΩ

[0199] Resistor R2: 330 kΩ

[0200] Resistor R3: 5.1 kΩ

[0201] Resistor R4: 82 kΩ

[0202] The amplitude of the output signal of the impedance circuit 12a with the above parameter settings is as follows.

[0203] When there is a fragmented portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 3.5072 [Vp-p].

[0204] When there is no debris in the portion 153 between the electrodes C, the value is: 3.9965 [Vp-p].

[0205] Therefore, the amplitude difference of the output signal is 0.49 [V] when the fragment 153 is present between the electrodes C and when the fragment 153 is not present between the electrodes. In this case, the threshold voltage Vth can be set to 3.75 [V]. That is, when the output voltage Vout is less than the threshold voltage Vth of 3.75 [V], the heating circuit 14 determines that the fragment 153 is present between the electrodes C. On the other hand, when the output voltage Vout is equal to or greater than the threshold voltage Vth of 3.75 [V], the heating circuit 14 determines that the fragment 153 is not present between the electrodes C.

[0206] Therefore, compared to circuits without amplifiers (such as impedance circuits 12a and 12b), impedance circuit 12f can amplify the amplitude difference of the output signal when the fragment 153 is present between the electrodes C and when the fragment 153 is not present between the electrodes. Thus, the fragment 153 can be detected more accurately.

[0207] <3.3. Examples of variations related to intermittent operations>

[0208] The control circuit 10 can intermittently perform detection of the rod-shaped substrate 150. For example, the amplifier can operate intermittently in the impedance circuit 12 that includes the amplifier. With this configuration, power consumption can be limited.

[0209] Specifically, the amplifier can operate intermittently with a period commensurate with the length of a defined time period T. For example, the amplifier's on / off period is set to be no longer than the defined time period T. However, when the input signal is a sine wave, the on / off period is preferably set such that at least one peak of the sine wave is included during the amplifier's on period. With this configuration, power consumption can be limited while maintaining the accuracy of detecting the scrap section 153.

[0210] The following will refer to Figure 15 Description used as Figure 14 Intermittent operation of the amplifier circuits 15-1 and 15-2 (more specifically, operational amplifiers OA1 and OA2) in the impedance circuit 12f shown.

[0211] Figure 15 This is a time graph showing the intermittent operation of the amplifier. The upper part of the time graph shows the clock on / off of the real-time clock (RTC) installed in the control circuit 10. The middle part of the time graph shows the on / off of the amplifiers (i.e., operational amplifiers OA1 and OA2). During the on period of the amplifier, the output voltage Vout from the impedance circuit 12f corresponds to the presence of the debris portion 153 between the electrodes C, thus allowing it to be determined whether the debris portion 153 is present between the electrodes C. The bottom of the time graph shows the timing transitions based on the presence of the debris portion 153 between the electrodes C when the rod substrate 150 is inserted. That is, yes (YES) indicates that the debris portion 153 is present between the electrodes C, and no (NO) indicates that the debris portion 153 is not present between the electrodes C.

[0212] like Figure 15As shown, the switching on / off of operational amplifiers OA1 and OA2 is synchronized with the switching on / off of the RTC clock. Operational amplifiers OA1 and OA2 then repeat the switching on cycle for 244 [µs] and off cycle for 1.756 [ms]. In this case, the period of operational amplifiers OA1 and OA2 lasts for 2 [ms], which is consistent with the 2 [ms] length of the determination period T. According to this configuration, operational amplifiers OA1 and OA2 are switched on at least once during the determination period T, making it possible to determine whether there is a debris section 153 between the electrodes C.

[0213] The following is a specific example of parameter settings for impedance circuit 12f.

[0214] Current consumption when the amplifier is turned on: 1.2 [mA]

[0215] Current consumption when the amplifier is off: 1.1 [µA]

[0216] Determine the time period T: 2 [ms]

[0217] Amplifier on-time: 244 µs

[0218] Amplifier shutdown time: 1.756 [ms]

[0219] The total average current consumption I with the above parameter settings can be calculated using the following equation.

[0220] Mathematical expression 12

[0221]

[0222] By operating the amplifier intermittently in this manner, current consumption can be limited more than when the amplifier is always on. A balance between maintaining detection accuracy and limiting current consumption can be achieved by adjusting the on / off duty cycle.

[0223] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 17 The experimental results describe this variant instance.

[0224] Figure 16This is a graph showing the experimental results when the amplifiers (i.e., operational amplifiers OA1 and OA2) are operated intermittently with the fragmentation section 153 positioned between the electrodes C. The vertical axis in this graph indicates voltage, the horizontal axis indicates time, and time passes from left to right. Waveform 21 represents the waveform of the input signal. Waveform 22 represents the output from comparator 13. As shown in waveform 21, the periods when the amplifier is off and the input signal voltage Vin remains unchanged, and the periods when the amplifier is on and the input signal voltage Vin changes, can be considered as periods. As shown in waveform 22, the output from comparator 13 subsequently changes during the periods when the amplifier is on. That is, comparator 13 outputs the fact that the fragmentation section 153 exists between the electrodes C.

[0225] Figure 17 This is a graph showing the experimental results when the amplifiers (i.e., operational amplifiers OA1 and OA2) are operated intermittently with a hand near the electrode pair C and the fragment portion 153 is not positioned between the electrodes. The vertical axis in this graph indicates voltage, the horizontal axis indicates time, and time passes from left to right. Waveform 21 represents the waveform of the input signal. Waveform 22 represents the output from comparator 13. As shown in waveform 21, the periods when the amplifier is off and the input signal voltage Vin does not change, and the periods when the amplifier is on and the input signal voltage Vin changes, can be considered as periods. As shown in waveform 22, the output from comparator 13 also does not change during the periods when the amplifier is on. That is, comparator 13 outputs the fact that the fragment portion 153 is not present between the electrodes C.

[0226] <4. Supplementary Information>

[0227] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, this disclosure is not limited to these examples. It is obvious that those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will conceive of various modifications or variations within the scope of the technical concept set forth in the claims, and such modifications and variations will naturally be understood to fall within the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0228] In the examples described above, the heating unit 121 is a load for generating heat, which is energy used to heat the aerosol source housed in the housing portion 140 of the rod-shaped matrix 150. The load is not limited to the heating unit 121. When the means of heating the aerosol source is induction heating, the load may be an induction coil for generating a magnetic field, which is energy used to inductively heat the sensor adjacent to the aerosol source.

[0229] In the examples described above, the frequency f of the input signal is set based on the assumption that the insertion speed V of the rod matrix 150 is 75 [m / s] (i.e., the speed of the finger when snapping). However, this disclosure is not limited to this example. For example, the signal generator 11 may set the frequency f of the input signal based on the time it takes for the electrostatic capacitance of the pair of electrodes C to change when the user inserts the rod matrix 150 into the receiving portion 140. As mentioned herein, the time for the electrostatic capacitance of the pair of electrodes C to change refers to the time when the amount of aerosol source present between the pair of electrodes C (i.e., the amount of fragments 153) is at its maximum. For example, during actual use of the aerosol generating device 100, the time during which the fragments 153 are present between the pair of electrodes C can be used to determine this time by comparing the output voltage Vout with the threshold voltage Vth.

[0230] The examples described above assume that the electrode pair C has a given vertical length Le and that the frequency f of the input signal is set based on the vertical length Le of the electrode pair C and the vertical length Lk of the fragment portion 153; however, this disclosure is not limited to this example. At least one of the vertical length Le of the electrode pair C and the frequency f of the input signal should be set based on the vertical length Lk of the fragment portion 153. As an example, when the frequency f of the input signal is a given frequency, the vertical length Le of the electrode pair C can be set based on the frequency f of the input signal and the vertical length Lk of the fragment portion 153. In this case, the value of the vertical length Le of the electrode pair C is set such that a defined time period T includes one or more cycles obtained from the frequency f of the input signal, during which the amount of aerosol source present between the electrode pair C (i.e., the amount of fragment portion 153) is at its maximum.

[0231] In the example described above, the pair of electrodes C is positioned above the scrap portion 153 when the rod-shaped substrate 150 is fully inserted into the receiving portion 140; however, this disclosure is not limited to this example. When the rod-shaped substrate 150 is fully inserted into the receiving portion 140, the pair of electrodes C may be positioned at a location overlapping the scrap portion 153.

[0232] In the example described above, the automatic startup function is triggered by detecting the insertion of the rod-shaped substrate 150; however, this disclosure is not limited to this example. The wake-up function (recovery from low-power standby mode) can also be triggered by detecting the insertion of the rod-shaped substrate 150.

[0233] In the example described above, signal generator 11 generates a sine wave, but this disclosure is not limited to this example. As an example, signal generator 11 can generate a rectangular wave. As another example, signal generator 11 can generate a composite signal combining multiple signals as an input signal. In this case, at least one of the one or more signals constituting the input signal may include technical features associated with the aforementioned input signal. For example, the frequency of at least one of the one or more signals constituting the input signal from signal generator 11 can be set based on the vertical length Le of the counter electrode C and the vertical length Lk of the scrap portion 153.

[0234] It should be noted that the series of processes performed by each device described in this specification can be implemented using software, hardware, or any combination of software and hardware. For example, the program constituting the software is pre-stored on a recording medium (more specifically, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium) located internally or externally to each device. Then, when these programs are executed, for example, by a computer used to control each device described in this specification, these programs are read into random access memory (RAM) and executed by means of processing circuitry such as a central processing unit (CPU). This recording medium is, for example, a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or flash memory. Furthermore, the computer program can be distributed, for example, via a network without using a recording medium. Additionally, the computer can be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a general-purpose processor that performs functions by reading software programs, or a computer on a server used for cloud computing. Furthermore, the series of processes performed by each device described in this specification can be centrally processed by a single computer or processed in a distributed manner by multiple computers. Additionally, in the above embodiments, two or more communication means existing in a single device can be physically implemented using a single medium.

[0235] Furthermore, the processes described using flowcharts or sequence diagrams in this specification do not necessarily have to be implemented in the order depicted. Some processing steps can be implemented in parallel. In addition, additional processing steps can be used, and some processing steps can be omitted.

[0236] It should be noted that configurations such as the following also fall within the scope of this disclosure. (1)

[0238] An aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising:

[0239] The receiving portion has an opening on its upper side that allows for the vertical insertion / extraction of a matrix containing an aerosol source, and the receiving portion houses the matrix within its internal space;

[0240] The load is used to generate energy for heating the aerosol source contained in the containment portion;

[0241] An impedance circuit, comprising a pair of electrodes for detecting the electrostatic capacitance of the internal space within the accommodating portion;

[0242] A signal generator that generates an input signal that is input to the impedance circuit;

[0243] A comparator is used to compare the voltage of the output signal from the impedance circuit with a threshold voltage; and

[0244] The control unit controls the operation of the load based on the output from the comparator.

[0245] in,

[0246] The electrode pair is positioned above the load.

[0247] The vertical length of the electrode and at least one of the frequencies of at least one of the signals constituting the input signal are set based on the vertical length of the portion of the matrix where the aerosol source is distributed, and

[0248] When the output from the comparator meets a predetermined condition, the control unit activates the load to generate energy. (2)

[0250] As disclosed in (1) above, the aerosol generating device, wherein,

[0251] With the substrate fully inserted into the receiving portion, the pair of electrodes is positioned above the portion of the substrate where the aerosol source is distributed. (3)

[0253] As disclosed in (1) or (2) above, in which,

[0254] The signal generator sets the frequency of at least one of the signals constituting the input signal such that it includes one or more cycles within a defined time period during which the amount of the aerosol source present between the electrodes is at its maximum. The defined time period is calculated based on the vertical length of the electrodes, the vertical length of the portion of the matrix in which the aerosol source is distributed, and the assumed speed at which the matrix is ​​inserted into the receiving portion. (4)

[0256] As disclosed in any one of (1) to (3) above, in which,

[0257] The control unit sets the frequency of at least one of the signals constituting the input signal based on the time it takes for the electrostatic capacitance of the electrode pair to change when the user inserts the substrate into the receiving portion. (5)

[0259] As disclosed in any one of (1) to (4) above, the aerosol generating device, wherein,

[0260] This impedance circuit is a filter circuit. (6)

[0262] As disclosed in (5) above, the aerosol generating device, wherein,

[0263] The filter circuit is designed such that when the amount of the aerosol source present between the electrodes is at its maximum, the cutoff frequency corresponds to the frequency of at least one of the one or more signals constituting the input signal. (7)

[0265] As disclosed in any one of (1) to (6) above, the aerosol generating device, wherein,

[0266] The signal generator, the electrode pair, and the comparator form part of a series circuit. (8)

[0268] As disclosed in any one of (1) to (7) above, the aerosol generating device, wherein,

[0269] The wiring between the electrodes is shielded at the GND potential. (9)

[0271] As disclosed in any one of (1) to (8) above, the aerosol generating device, wherein,

[0272] The impedance circuit further includes an amplifier for amplifying the output signal. (10)

[0274] As disclosed in (9) above, the aerosol generating device, wherein,

[0275] The amplifier operates intermittently. (11)

[0277] As disclosed in (10) above, the aerosol generating device, wherein,

[0278] The amplifier operates intermittently at a period commensurate with the length of a defined time period during which the amount of the aerosol source present between the electrodes is at its maximum. The defined time period is calculated based on the vertical length of the electrodes, the vertical length of the portion of the matrix in which the aerosol source is distributed, and the assumed velocity at which the matrix is ​​inserted into the receiving portion. (12)

[0280] As disclosed in any one of (1) to (11) above, in which,

[0281] The input signal is a sine wave. (13)

[0283] As disclosed in any one of (1) to (12) above, the aerosol generating device, wherein,

[0284] The load is a heating unit.

[0285] List of reference numerals

[0286] 100 Aerosol Generating Device

[0287] 111 power supply unit

[0288] 112 sensor units

[0289] 113 Notification Unit

[0290] 114 memory cells

[0291] 115 Communication Unit

[0292] 116 control unit

[0293] 121 heating unit

[0294] 140-unit capacity

[0295] 141 Interior Space

[0296] 142 opening

[0297] 143 bottom part

[0298] 144 heat insulation section

[0299] 150 rod-shaped substrate

[0300] 151 Matrix Part

[0301] 152 nozzle section

[0302] 10 Control Circuit

[0303] 11 signal generator

[0304] 12 Impedance Circuit

[0305] 13 comparators

[0306] 14 Heating Circuit

[0307] 15. Amplifier circuit.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device comprising: The receiving portion has an opening on its upper side that allows for the vertical insertion / extraction of a matrix containing an aerosol source, and the receiving portion houses the matrix within its internal space; The load is used to generate energy for heating the aerosol source contained in the containment portion; An impedance circuit, comprising a pair of electrodes for detecting the electrostatic capacitance of the internal space within the accommodating portion; A signal generator that generates an input signal that is input to the impedance circuit; A comparator is used to compare the voltage of the output signal from the impedance circuit with a threshold voltage. as well as The control unit controls the operation of the load based on the output from the comparator. in, The electrode pair is positioned above the load. The vertical length of the electrode and at least one of the frequencies of at least one of the signals constituting the input signal are set based on the vertical length of the portion of the matrix where the aerosol source is distributed, and When the output from the comparator meets a predetermined condition, the control unit activates the load to generate energy.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein, With the substrate fully inserted into the receiving portion, the pair of electrodes is positioned above the portion of the substrate where the aerosol source is distributed.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The signal generator sets the frequency of at least one of the signals constituting the input signal such that it includes one or more cycles within a defined time period during which the amount of the aerosol source present between the electrodes is at its maximum. The defined time period is calculated based on the vertical length of the electrodes, the vertical length of the portion of the matrix in which the aerosol source is distributed, and the assumed speed at which the matrix is ​​inserted into the receiving portion.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The control unit sets the frequency of at least one of the signals constituting the input signal based on the time it takes for the electrostatic capacitance of the electrode pair to change when the user inserts the substrate into the receiving portion.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, This impedance circuit is a filter circuit.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 5, wherein, The filter circuit is designed such that when the amount of the aerosol source present between the electrodes is at its maximum, the cutoff frequency corresponds to the frequency of at least one of the one or more signals constituting the input signal.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The signal generator, the electrode pair, and the comparator form part of a series circuit.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The wiring between the electrodes is shielded at the GND potential.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The impedance circuit further includes an amplifier for amplifying the output signal.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The amplifier operates intermittently.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus as claimed in claim 10, wherein, The amplifier operates intermittently at a period commensurate with the length of a defined time period during which the amount of the aerosol source present between the electrodes is at its maximum. The defined time period is calculated based on the vertical length of the electrodes, the vertical length of the portion of the matrix in which the aerosol source is distributed, and the assumed velocity at which the matrix is ​​inserted into the receiving portion.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The input signal is a sine wave.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The load is a heating unit.

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