Aerosol generating device and method for providing adaptive feedback through puff recognition

Abstract

To provide an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, an aerosol generating device in which a variety of feedback is provided through recognition of a user's puff.SOLUTION: Disclosed is a device comprising: a battery for supplying power; a heater which receives the power from the battery to heat an aerosol generating material; a sensor; at least one output unit; and a control unit, where the control unit detects a puff of a user by using the sensor (501) and controls the at least one output unit (505) on the basis of puff characteristic data on the basis of a detection result (503).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly to recognizing a user's puff and providing multiple feedback. [Background technology]

[0002] Existing smoking articles use a method of generating aerosol by directly burning an aerosol-generating material during use. However, when the aerosol-generating material is directly burned, undesirable volatile compounds are generated, which may cause health problems. Therefore, in recent years, various aerosol-generating devices have been developed that provide the flavor of cigarettes without generating undesirable volatile compounds by heating the aerosol-generating material without burning it.

[0003] However, the aerosol generating device does not provide users with a satisfactory feeling as compared with the existing combustion cigarettes. For example, the aerosol generating device is slightly different from the feeling provided by the existing combustion cigarettes, and is also different from the existing combustion cigarettes in the number of puffs and the amount of aerosol material generated.

[0004] Therefore, a method is needed that allows a user to utilize an aerosol generating device and obtain a sensation that closely resembles the sensation of smoking. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem that the present invention seeks to solve is to recognize a user's puffs and provide adaptive feedback. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Some embodiments for solving the problems of the prior art as described above include a device including a battery for supplying power, a heater for heating an aerosol generating material, a sensor, at least one output unit, and a control unit, wherein the control unit can use the sensor to sense a user's puff and control the at least one output unit based on puff characteristic data corresponding to the sensing result.

[0007] The sensor may further include a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the heater, and the control unit may sense a user's puff by measuring a change in temperature of the heater using the temperature sensor.

[0008] The sensor further includes a flow sensor, and the controller can utilize the flow sensor to sense a user's puff by measuring a change in flow rate within the device.

[0009] The puff characteristic data may include at least one of data related to puff strength, puff interval, and number of puffs.

[0010] The control unit can predict the possible number of puffs based on the amount of power of the power supply device or the aerosol product mass, and change the predicted possible number of puffs based on the puff characteristic data.

[0011] The control unit may output the changed number of possible puffs using the at least one output unit.

[0012] The control unit can determine the number of remaining puffs based on the puff characteristic data, and control the output strength of the vibration motor based on the determined number of remaining possible puffs.

[0013] The control unit can determine the number of remaining puffs based on the puff characteristic data, and control the light emission intensity or blinking interval of the LED lamp based on the determined number of remaining possible puffs.

[0014] The control unit can determine the number of remaining puffs based on the puff characteristic data, and control the sound output intensity or the type of sound to be output based on the determined number of remaining possible puffs.

[0015] The device further includes an outer case, and the control unit can control a temperature of the outer case based on a heater temperature at the time of puffing.

[0016] The control unit can predict the remaining possible number of puffs based on the measured puff strength and the estimated remaining battery capacity, and output the predicted remaining possible number of puffs.

[0017] The control unit may control the at least one output unit to provide a notification to a user each time the heater rises above a predetermined temperature.

[0018] The control unit may control the at least one output unit to provide a notification to a user based on the measured puff intensity or the measured puff interval.

[0019] The control unit may control the at least one output unit to notify a user at predetermined intervals that a puff is possible.

[0020] As a technical means for achieving the aforementioned technical problem, some embodiments of the present disclosure may include a step of using a sensor to sense a user's puff, a step of acquiring puff characteristic data based on the sensing result, and a step of controlling at least one output unit based on the puff characteristic data.

[0021] The method may further include predicting the number of possible puffs based on the amount of battery power or the aerosol product mass, and changing the predicted number of possible puffs based on the puff characteristic data.

[0022] The method may further include outputting the altered number of available puffs using the at least one output unit.

[0023] As a technical means for achieving the above technical object, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a computer-readable recording medium having a program for implementing the above method recorded thereon. Effect of the Invention

[0024] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENTS The present invention provides a method for puff-aware based feedback that provides the necessary information while still providing a satisfying experience to the user of the device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an external view of a holder according to some embodiments. [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates a block diagram of a holder according to some embodiments. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates a conceptual diagram of a holder according to some embodiments. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a conceptual diagram of a holder according to some embodiments. [Diagram 5] 11 is a diagram illustrating a method of controlling a holder that senses a puff and controls an output unit, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6] 11 is a diagram illustrating a method of controlling an output mode according to a remaining possible number of puffs according to some embodiments. [Figure 7] 11 is a diagram illustrating the change in heater temperature due to puffing, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram illustrating the change in flow rate with a puff, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9A] 1 is a diagram illustrating LED lamp output control according to the remaining possible number of puffs according to some embodiments. [Figure 9B] 1 is a diagram illustrating LED lamp output control according to the remaining possible number of puffs according to some embodiments. [Figure 9C] 1 is a diagram illustrating LED lamp output control according to the remaining possible number of puffs according to some embodiments. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram illustrating the correlation between puff strength and vibration strength, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 12A] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a holder from various sides. [Figure 12B] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a holder from various sides. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram illustrating an example of a cradle. [Figure 14A] 1A-1D are diagrams illustrating an example cradle from various sides. [Figure 14B] 1A-1D are diagrams illustrating an example cradle from various sides. [Figure 15] 13 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a holder is inserted into a cradle. [Figure 16] 11 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a holder is tilted in a state where the holder is inserted into a cradle; [Figure 17A] 13 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a holder is inserted into a cradle; [Figure 17B] 13 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a holder is inserted into a cradle; [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of an operation of the holder and the cradle. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of an operation of the holder. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the cradle. [Figure 21] 1 is a view illustrating an example in which a cigarette is inserted into a holder; [Figure 22A] FIG. 1 is a structural diagram illustrating an example of a cigarette. [Figure 22B] FIG. 1 is a structural diagram illustrating an example of a cigarette. [Figure 23A]1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cooling structure of a cigarette. [Figure 23B] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cooling structure of a cigarette. [Figure 23C] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cooling structure of a cigarette. [Figure 23D] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cooling structure of a cigarette. [Figure 23E] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cooling structure of a cigarette. [Figure 23F] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cooling structure of a cigarette. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] Some embodiments for solving the problems of the prior art as described above include a holder including a battery for supplying power, a heater for heating an aerosol generating material, a sensor, at least one output unit, and a control unit, wherein the control unit can use the sensor to sense a user's puff and control the at least one output unit based on puff characteristic data corresponding to the sensing result.

[0027] The terms used in the present invention are currently common terms that are selected as much as possible while taking into consideration the functions of the present invention, but they may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, or the emergence of new technologies. In addition, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, and in such cases, the meanings of the terms will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply by the names of the terms.

[0028] Throughout the specification, when a part is said to be connected to another part, this includes not only direct connection, but also electrical connection with another element in between. Furthermore, when a part includes a certain component, this does not mean excluding other components, but means that it may further include other components, unless otherwise specified to the contrary. Furthermore, terms such as "part" and "module" described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and may be realized by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0029] Throughout the specification, an aerosol generating material means a material capable of generating an aerosol, also referred to as an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol may comprise a volatile compound. The aerosol generating material may be a solid or a liquid.

[0030] For example, the solid aerosol generating material may include solid materials based on tobacco raw materials such as flat tobacco, cut tobacco, and reconstituted tobacco, and the liquid aerosol generating material may include liquid materials based on nicotine, tobacco extract, and various flavoring agents, although it should be understood that the above examples are not intended to be limiting.

[0031] Throughout the specification, an aerosol generating device (hereinafter referred to as "holder") is also a device that generates an aerosol by utilizing an aerosol generating substance to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the lungs of a user through the mouth of the user. The terms "aerosol generating device" and "holder" can be used interchangeably.

[0032] Throughout the specification, a puff refers to a user inhaling, where inhalation refers to drawing in air through the user's mouth or nose into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity or lungs.

[0033] Throughout the specification, puff characteristic data may include information related to puff strength, puff interval, number of puffs, etc. For example, the puff characteristic data may include information related to the strength of a user's puff, the time interval between a user's puffs, the number of remaining puffs, and the current total number of puffs, but is not limited to the above examples.

[0034] FIG. 1 illustrates an exterior view of a holder according to some embodiments.

[0035] According to an example illustrated in FIG. 1, the holder 1 is also in the form of a stick. A user can use the holder 1 by holding it between his fingers like an existing cigarette. The holder 1 is also in the form of a holder. That is, a solid aerosol-generating material 3 is inserted into the holder 1 and heated to generate an aerosol. According to some embodiments, the solid aerosol-generating material 3 is also a cigarette. The terms "cigarette" and "aerosol-generating material 3" can be used interchangeably. The operation performed when the aerosol-generating material 3 is inserted into the holder 1 and the structure of the cigarette will be described in more detail below.

[0036] According to some embodiments, once the aerosol is generated, the generated aerosol is delivered to the user via a filter, which may be provided in the holder 1 or attached to the aerosol generating material 3, and is not limited to the above examples.

[0037] In some embodiments, the holder 1 may include at least one output unit for providing feedback to the user, such as, but not limited to, an LED display window 121 or an LED lamp 122. The at least one output unit included in the holder 1 will be described in more detail below.

[0038] Additionally, according to some embodiments, the holder 1 can be powered on and off by user input, and can also be powered on when a user puff is sensed. The operation of the holder 1 when it is powered on is described in FIG. 2 below.

[0039] According to some embodiments, the holder 1 is also coupled to a cradle, which will be explained in more detail in the following figures.

[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the holder 1 according to some embodiments.

[0041] The holder 1 illustrated in Fig. 2 may include a battery 110, a control unit 120, a sensor 130, an output unit 140, and a heater 150. However, none of the components illustrated in Fig. 2 are essential components of the holder 1. The holder 1 may be embodied with more components than those illustrated in Fig. 2, or may be embodied with fewer components than those illustrated in Fig. 2.

[0042] According to some embodiments, the control unit 120 is configured to control the overall operation of the holder 1. The control unit 120 may include, but is not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, and an IC circuit including the same.

[0043] According to some embodiments, the controller 120 may sense a puff by a user using the sensor 130. The controller 120 may also obtain puff characteristic data based on the puff sensing result. The controller 120 may control the output unit 140 based on the puff characteristic data.

[0044] According to some embodiments, the holder 1 may include an output unit 140. The output unit 140 may include a display such as an LED display window or an LED lamp, a motor, a speaker, a temperature controller, etc., but is not limited to the above examples. The holder 1 may also include at least one output unit 140. For example, one holder 1 may include all of an LED display window, an LED lamp, and a motor.

[0045] According to some embodiments, the controller 120 can control the output 140 based on the puff characteristic data.

[0046] For example, the control unit 120 can predict the remaining number of puffs, recognize the user's puffs, and output the remaining number of puffs obtained by subtracting the user's number of puffs from the remaining number of puffs. That is, the control unit 120 can output the changed number of puffs. The control unit 120 can predict the remaining number of puffs based on the amount of the battery and the amount of the aerosol generating material (e.g., cigarettes).

[0047] Also, according to some embodiments, the control unit 120 may control the output strength of the vibration motor based on the remaining number of possible puffs. For example, the control unit 120 may control the vibration motor so that the output is stronger as the remaining number of possible puffs decreases. However, the opposite is also possible, and the control unit 120 may of course control the vibration motor so that it vibrates as much as the remaining number of puffs.

[0048] In addition, the control unit 120 can control the light emission intensity or blinking interval of the LED lamp based on the remaining number of possible puffs. For example, the control unit 120 can control the LED lamp to emit stronger light as the remaining number of possible puffs decreases. Here, the opposite is also possible, and it goes without saying that the control unit 120 can control the LED lamp to blink more quickly as the remaining number of possible puffs decreases.

[0049] The control unit 120 may also control the sound output intensity or the type of sound to be output based on the remaining number of possible puffs. For example, the control unit 120 may control the sound output unit 140, such as a speaker, to output a stronger sound as the remaining number of possible puffs decreases. The control unit 120 may also control the sound output unit 140 to output one of various types of sounds, such as the sound of wind or the sound of burning paper.

[0050] In addition, the control unit 120 can control the case temperature outside the holder based on the temperature of the heater 150 at the time of puffing. Even if the temperature of the heater 150 is high, there is a possibility that the user using the holder will not know that the temperature of the heater 150 is high. Therefore, if the temperature of the heater 150 is excessively high, the external housing temperature can be increased to a predetermined level or more to notify the user of the temperature of the heater 150 through the change in the case temperature.

[0051] In addition, the control unit 120 may provide a notification to the user every time the heater 150 is heated to a predetermined temperature or higher. When the temperature of the heater 150 is heated to a predetermined temperature or higher, an optimal aerosol (based on aspects such as the size of the generated aerosol particles, the amount of the generated aerosol, and the temperature of the generated aerosol) that can give a sense of satisfaction to the user is generated, so that the control unit 120 may control the output unit 140 to notify the user to puff when the temperature of the heater 150 is heated to a predetermined temperature or higher so that the user can puff the optimal aerosol.

[0052] In addition, the control unit 120 can control the output unit 140 to inform the user that a puff is possible at predetermined intervals. That is, the control unit 120 can provide a notification to the user to puff at predetermined time intervals to provide an optimal aerosol.

[0053] Also, according to some embodiments, the control unit 120 may control the output unit 140 to provide a notification to the user based on the measured puff strength or the measured puff interval. Since excessively strong puffs or puffs at too short intervals make it difficult to provide a satisfactory aerosol, when the user puffs too strongly or the interval between puffs is too short, the control unit 120 may control the output unit 140 to provide a notification to the user so that the user maintains a puff strength and puff interval according to a predetermined standard.

[0054] The sensor 130 may be any type of sensor and may include at least one of a flow sensor and a temperature sensor.

[0055] In some embodiments, the controller 120 can use a temperature sensor to measure the temperature of the heater 150. The temperature sensor can be a sensor that measures the air temperature around the heater and a sensor that uses the conductive track of the heater to determine the heater temperature. By measuring the temperature of the heater 150, the controller 120 can sense the user's puffs.

[0056] According to some embodiments, the controller 120 can utilize a flow sensor to measure the flow and / or flow rate of air, gas, and aerosol within the holder. The controller 120 can sense a user's puff by measuring changes in the flow rate. A generalized configuration of the controller 120 is described in further detail in the following figures.

[0057] In some embodiments, the heater 150 is also configured to heat the aerosol-generating material (e.g., a cigarette or a liquid) using power provided by the battery 110. The temperature of the heater 150 is also set to vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating material. In particular, the temperature of the heater 150 varies depending on whether the aerosol-generating material is a solid or liquid, and, if the aerosol-generating material is a solid, the thickness and material of the aerosol-generating material. Details regarding the battery 110 are described in further detail below.

[0058] The heater 150 may also be configured in various shapes. The heater may be a tube-type heater, a plate-type heater, or a needle- or rod-type heater. Depending on the shape, the heater 150 may heat the inside or outside of the aerosol generating material. The configuration of the heater 150 will be described in more detail below.

[0059] According to some embodiments, the control unit 120 may control the heater 150 and the battery 110. Specifically, the control unit 120 may preheat the heater 150 to a predetermined temperature and control the battery 110 to save power. In addition, the control unit 120 may control the battery 110 and the heater 150 by classifying them into various modes using a stored profile.

[0060] For example, the control unit 120 may control the mode into a power saving mode, a preheating mode, a normal inhalation mode, or an amplified inhalation mode that generates more aerosol at a higher temperature than the normal inhalation mode but consumes more power, but is not limited to the above examples.

[0061] According to some embodiments, the battery 110 may include at least one power source. For example, the battery 110 may include at least one battery. The battery 110 is charged by an external charging device, but there is no limitation on the charging method. Also, when the battery 110 is being charged, the holder may be automatically powered off or operate in a power saving mode.

[0062] Additionally, the holder 1 may further include a memory (not shown) that can store user information, data for temperature control such as profiles, puff characteristic data, and the like.

[0063] 3 and 4 illustrate conceptual diagrams of a holder according to some embodiments.

[0064] 3, the holder 1 may include an outer case 170. The outer case may include a battery 110, a control unit 120, a sensor 130, an output unit 140, and a heater 150. In addition, a solid aerosol generating material 3 is inserted from the outside of the holder 1. The operation of each component corresponds to the content described in FIG. 2, so detailed description will be omitted.

[0065] 4 illustrates a configuration in which the holder 1 further includes a liquid storage unit 180, as compared to FIG. 3. The liquid storage unit 180 contains a liquid aerosol-generating substance. The holder 1 of FIG. 4 can generate the aerosol-generating substance by simultaneously, alternately, and / or sequentially heating the solid aerosol-generating substance and the liquid aerosol-generating substance.

[0066] 4 may also heat the liquid aerosol generating material via a separate heater, but there is no limitation on the configuration of the heater that heats the liquid aerosol generating material and the solid aerosol generating material. In the following drawings, conceptual diagrams of other holders are additionally illustrated and described.

[0067] FIG. 5 illustrates a method of controlling a holder that senses a puff and controls an output, according to some embodiments.

[0068] In step 501, the holder can use a sensor to sense a puff by a user. The holder can use a flow rate sensor and a temperature sensor to sense a puff by a user.

[0069] In some embodiments, the holder can utilize a flow sensor to sense a user's puff by determining the amount of air flowing into the holder or the amount of gas flowing out of the holder.

[0070] In addition, the holder can use a temperature sensor to measure the temperature of the heater and detect the user's puff by checking the temperature change of the heater. In addition, the holder can also use a pressure sensor to recognize the user's puff, but the method by which the holder can detect the user's puff is not limited to the above examples.

[0071] In step 503, the holder can obtain puff characteristic data based on the sensing results.

[0072] According to some embodiments, the puff characteristic data may include information related to puff strength, puff interval, and number of puffs. Specifically, the puff characteristic data may include information related to the pressure (puff strength, intensity) when the user puffs, the time interval between the first puff and the second puff, the number of remaining puffs, and the current total number of puffs. The current total number of puffs refers to the number of puffs calculated since the holder was turned on or the aerosol generating material was inserted, but is not limited to the above examples.

[0073] According to some embodiments, the holder is capable of sensing at least one puff from a user and capturing information relating to the strength of the puff, the time between puffs, the number of puffs, and the like.

[0074] In step 505, the holder can control at least one output based on the puff characteristic data.

[0075] According to some embodiments, the holder can control the output unit based on the remaining number of possible puffs. For example, the holder can control the vibration motor to vibrate weakly when the remaining number of possible puffs is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, and can control the vibration motor to vibrate strongly when the remaining number of possible puffs is equal to or less than the predetermined number.

[0076] Additionally, the holder can control the blinking interval of the LED lamp to be shorter or the light emission intensity of the LED lamp to be increased as the remaining number of possible puffs decreases.

[0077] In addition, according to some embodiments, the holder can also control the output unit according to the puff strength. For example, the holder can control the puff strength to be proportional to the vibration strength of the vibration motor. The method of the holder controlling at least one output unit based on the puff characteristic data is not limited and may include the contents described in FIG. 2.

[0078] FIG. 6 illustrates a method for controlling an output mode based on the remaining number of available puffs according to some embodiments.

[0079] In step 601, the holder can use a sensor to detect a user's puff, which corresponds to the above, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0080] In step 603, the holder may determine whether the remaining number of possible puffs is less than or equal to a critical value.

[0081] According to some embodiments, the holder can predict the number of remaining puffs based on the amount of aerosol generating material, the amount of battery, the baseline puff strength, the number of puffs the user has taken, etc.

[0082] The remaining number of puffs is also changed according to the user's puff strength and puff interval. For example, assuming that the initial remaining number of puffs predicted by the holder is 8 based on the amount of aerosol generating material and battery, after the user puffs twice, the remaining number of puffs is predicted to be 5, not 6, according to the user's puff strength and puff interval. That is, the holder can calculate the remaining number of puffs based on the puff characteristic data.

[0083] According to some embodiments, the holder can determine whether the calculated remaining number of puffs is greater than or equal to a critical value or less than or equal to a critical value, and can output the calculated remaining number of puffs. The holder can output the remaining number of puffs via an LED display window or an LED lamp.

[0084] In step 605, if the remaining number of puffs is equal to or greater than the critical value, the holder may maintain the output mode. The output mode refers to a mode in which the holder controls at least one output unit.

[0085] For example, output mode 1 means a 1-stage light-emitting mode of an LED lamp and a 1-stage vibration mode of a vibration motor, and output mode 2 means a 2-stage light-emitting mode of an LED lamp and a 2-stage vibration mode of a vibration motor, but is not limited to the above examples.

[0086] That is, the output mode means a combination of modes in which at least one output unit included in the holder outputs. Specifically, the light emission mode of an LED lamp means a predetermined LED blinking intensity and blinking interval, and the vibration mode of a vibration motor means a predetermined vibration intensity and vibration interval, but is not limited to the above examples.

[0087] According to some embodiments, the holder may maintain the output mode when the remaining number of puffs is equal to or greater than a critical value, i.e., the holder does not change the output mode, for example, the holder may maintain the output mode at stage 1 when the remaining number of puffs is equal to or greater than 4.

[0088] In step 607, if the remaining number of possible puffs is equal to or less than the critical value, the holder may determine whether the remaining number of possible puffs is 0. For example, if it is determined that the remaining number of possible puffs is 4 or less, the holder may check whether the remaining number of possible puffs is 0.

[0089] In step 609, the holder can change the output mode if the remaining puff count is not 0. For example, the holder can change the output mode to step 2 if the remaining puff count is not 0 but is less than 4.

[0090] Also, in step 611, the holder may stop the output mode when the remaining number of puffs is 0. That is, the holder may stop the blinking of the LED and the vibration of the vibration motor.

[0091] Here, it goes without saying that the holder can change the output mode rather than completely stopping the output mode, and can notify the user of the need to remove or replace the aerosol generating material or charge the holder by using an output unit different from that used in the existing output mode. For example, when the remaining number of puffs is 0, the holder can notify the user of the need to remove or replace the aerosol generating material or charge the holder by using an LED display window instead of using the LED lamp and vibration motor any more.

[0092] FIG. 7 illustrates the change in heater temperature due to puffing according to some embodiments.

[0093] As mentioned above, the action of the user inhaling the aerosol generated through the holder can be referred to as a puff.

[0094] According to some embodiments, when puffing, the holder does not transmit only the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating material to the user through heating, but rather the generated aerosol is mixed with the air flowing to the outside through the holder and transmitted to the user.

[0095] According to some embodiments, the holder can sense the user's puff in various ways. For example, the holder can sense the user's puff by measuring a pressure change within the holder using a pressure sensor. However, the holder can also sense the user's puff by measuring the heater temperature without a separate pressure sensor.

[0096] The heater temperature varies depending on when the user puffs. When the user puffs, air with a temperature lower than the heater temperature flows in from the holder, so the heater temperature drops. Referring to FIG. 7, it can be seen that the heater temperature drops during the first puff (701) when the user first inhales the aerosol.

[0097] The holder then supplies power to the heater to further raise the heater temperature to a predetermined temperature. During the second puff (702) and third puff (703), the heater temperature also drops, just like during the first puff (701). The holder measures the heater temperature, and can sense that a puff has occurred when the heater temperature drops. Also, since the heater temperature drops during the puff, the holder can supply power to the heater to further raise the heater temperature to a predetermined temperature.

[0098] FIG. 8 illustrates the change in flow rate with a puff according to some embodiments.

[0099] As described above, when a user puffs, not only the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating material is delivered to the user through the heating of the holder, but the air flowing to the outside through the holder and the generated aerosol are mixed and delivered to the user. Therefore, the holder can recognize the user's puff through a change in the flow rate inside the holder.

[0100] The flow rate varies depending on when the user puffs. When the user puffs, air flows in from outside the holder, so the flow rate inside the holder increases. Referring to FIG. 8, it can be seen that the flow rate increases during the first puff (801) when the user first inhales the aerosol.

[0101] During the second puff (802) and the third puff (803), the flow rate increases in the same manner as during the first puff (801). The holder can measure the change in flow rate and detect that a puff has occurred when the flow rate increases. Therefore, the holder can detect a puff based on the change in flow rate and the change in temperature without a separate pressure sensor. The holder can also detect the strength of the puff based on the degree of change in flow rate and the degree of change in temperature.

[0102] 9A-9C illustrate LED lamp output control according to remaining available puffs according to some embodiments.

[0103] As described above, the holder 1 can change the output mode depending on the remaining possible number of puffs.

[0104] 9A to 9C, when the remaining puff count is 5, 3, and 1, the holder 1 can control the LED lamp 901 to have different flashing hues, flashing degrees, and flashing intervals. The LED lamp 901 in Fig. 9 is the same as the LED lamp 122 in Fig. 1. Also, when the remaining puff count is 0, the holder 1 can control the LED lamp not to flash.

[0105] Additionally, the holder 1 can control the LED lamp 901 to flash only when puffing, and can control the flashing intensity of the LED lamp 901 and output sound to interact with user input using the power button or input button.

[0106] The holder 1 can also control an LED lamp or a vibration motor to inform the user of the insertion or ejection of the aerosol generating substance. In other words, at least one output unit included in the holder 1 is also controlled to provide a notification to the user for interaction with the user, to provide feedback to the user's puff.

[0107] FIG. 10 illustrates the correlation between puff strength and vibration strength according to some embodiments.

[0108] According to some embodiments, the user's puff strength and the vibration strength of the vibration motor in the holder can be proportional, i.e. depending on how hard the user puffs, the vibration strength is also modified.

[0109] As shown in Fig. 10, when the vibration strength is adjusted according to the user's puff strength, it is possible to provide the user with immediate feedback on the puff strength. In order to provide an optimal aerosol, a puff of an appropriate strength must be provided, and the holder provides the user with feedback on the puff strength via the vibration strength, thereby guiding the user to puff at an appropriate strength.

[0110] Here, contrary to the case shown in Fig. 10, it is possible to set the vibration strength to be weaker as the puff strength is stronger, and it goes without saying that there is no restriction on the relationship between the vibration strength and the puff strength. In other words, it is sufficient as long as the method can give feedback to the user.

[0111] FIG. 11 is a configuration diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol generating device.

[0112] 11, the aerosol generating device 1 (hereinafter, referred to as a holder) includes a battery 110, a control unit 120, and a heater 2130. The holder 1 also includes an internal space formed by a case 2140. A cigarette is inserted into the internal space of the holder 1. The holder 1 shown in FIG. 11 is also another embodiment of the holder 1 described above, and corresponds in part or in whole to the configuration of the holder 1 described above.

[0113] Only components related to the present embodiment are shown in the holder 1 in Fig. 11. Therefore, it would be understood by a person skilled in the art that the present embodiment may further include other general components in addition to the components shown in Fig. 11.

[0114] When a cigarette is inserted into the holder 1, the holder 1 heats the heater 2130. The aerosol generating material in the cigarette is heated by the heated heater 2130, thereby generating an aerosol. The generated aerosol is transmitted to the user through the filter of the cigarette. However, the holder 1 can also heat the heater 2130 when the cigarette is not inserted into the holder 1.

[0115] The case 2140 is separated from the holder 1. For example, the user rotates the case 2140 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, whereby the case 2140 is separated from the holder 1.

[0116] In addition, the diameter of the hole formed by the end 2141 of the case 2140 is made smaller than the diameter of the space formed by the case 2140 and the heater 2130, in which case it can act as a guide for the cigarette inserted into the holder 1.

[0117] The battery 110 supplies power used for operating the holder 1. For example, the battery 110 can supply power to heat the heater 2130, and can supply power necessary for the control unit 120 to operate. The battery 110 can also supply power necessary for the display, sensor, motor, and the like, which are output units provided in the holder 1, to operate.

[0118] The battery 110 may be a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, but is not limited to the above example. For example, the battery 110 may be a Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a Lithium Titanate battery, etc.

[0119] The battery 110 may also be cylindrical with a diameter of 10 mm and a length of 37 mm, but is not limited thereto. The battery 110 may have a capacity of 120 mAh or more, and may be a rechargeable battery or a one-time use battery. For example, if the battery 110 is rechargeable, the charge rate (C-rate) of the battery 110 may be 10C, and the discharge rate (C-rate) may be 16C to 20C, but is not limited thereto. For stable use, the battery 110 is manufactured to ensure 80% or more of its total capacity even after 8,000 charge and discharge cycles.

[0120] Here, whether the battery 110 is fully charged or completely discharged is also determined based on the level of the power stored in the battery 110 compared to the total capacity of the battery 110. For example, if the power stored in the battery 110 is 95% or more of the total capacity, the battery 110 is determined to be fully charged. Also, if the power stored in the battery 110 is 10% or less of the total capacity, the battery 110 is determined to be fully discharged. However, the criteria for determining whether the battery 110 is fully charged or completely discharged are not limited to the above examples.

[0121] The heater 2130 is heated by power supplied from the battery 110. When a cigarette is inserted into the holder 1, the heater 2130 is located inside the cigarette. The heated heater 2130 therefore increases the temperature of the aerosol-generating material inside the cigarette. The heater 2130 has a configuration corresponding to that of the heater 150 described above.

[0122] The heater 2130 may have a shape that combines a cylinder and a cone. For example, the heater 2130 may have a cylindrical shape with a diameter of about 2 mm and a length of about 23 mm, and the end 2131 of the heater 2130 may be finished at an acute angle, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the heater 2130 may be applicable without limitation as long as it is in a form that is inserted inside the cigarette. Also, the heater 2130 may be heated only partially. For example, assuming that the length of the heater 2130 is 23 mm, only 12 mm from the end 2131 of the heater 2130 is heated, and the remaining part of the heater 2130 is not heated.

[0123] The heater 2130 may also be an electrically resistive heater, for example comprising an electrically conductive track through which an electric current is passed, thereby heating the heater 2130.

[0124] For stable use, the heater 2130 is supplied with power according to, but not limited to, the specifications of 3.2 V, 2.4 A, and 8 W. For example, when power is supplied to the heater 2130, the surface temperature of the heater 2130 rises to 400° C. or more. Before 15 seconds have elapsed since power began to be supplied to the heater 2130, the surface temperature of the heater 2130 rises to approximately 350° C.

[0125] The holder 1 may be provided with a separate temperature sensor, or the heater 2130 may function as the temperature sensor without providing a temperature sensor in the holder 1. For example, the heater 2130 may further include a second electrically conductive track for temperature sensing in addition to a first electrically conductive track for heat generation.

[0126] For example, the voltage across the second electrically conductive track and the current through the second electrically conductive track are measured to determine the resistance (R). The temperature (T) of the second electrically conductive track is then determined according to Equation 1 below. The temperature sensor is also one embodiment of the sensor 130 described above.

[0127]

number

[0128] In Equation 1, R is the current resistance of the second electrically conductive track, R0 is the resistance at temperature T0 (e.g., 0°C), and α is the temperature coefficient of resistance of the second electrically conductive track. Although conductive materials (e.g., metals) have their own temperature coefficient of resistance, α is predetermined depending on the conductive material that constitutes the second electrically conductive track. Therefore, when the resistance (R) of the second electrically conductive track is determined, the temperature (T) of the second electrically conductive track can be calculated according to Equation 1.

[0129] The heater 2130 is also composed of at least one electrically conductive track (a first electrically conductive track and a second electrically conductive track). For example, but not limited to, the heater 2130 is also composed of two first electrically conductive tracks and one or two second electrically conductive tracks.

[0130] The electrically conductive track comprises an electrically resistive material. In one embodiment, the electrically conductive track is made of a metallic material. In another embodiment, the electrically conductive track is made of an electrically conductive ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite of a ceramic material and a metal.

[0131] The holder 1 may also include both an electrically conductive track that acts as a temperature sensing sensor and a temperature sensing sensor.

[0132] The control unit 120 generally controls the operation of the holder 1. Specifically, the control unit 120 controls the operation of not only the battery 110 and the heater 2130 but also other components included in the holder 1. The control unit 120 can also check the state of each component of the holder 1 and determine whether the holder 1 is in an operable state.

[0133] The control unit 120 includes at least one processor. The processor may be realized by an array of a number of logic gates, or may be realized by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. Those skilled in the art will understand that the control unit 120 may also be realized by other types of hardware.

[0134] For example, the control unit 120 can control the operation of the heater 2130. The control unit 120 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 2130 and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater 2130 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature. The control unit 120 can also check the status of the battery 110 (e.g., the remaining charge of the battery 110, etc.) and generate a notification signal if necessary.

[0135] In addition, the control unit 120 can check whether the user has puffed and the strength of the puff, and can count the number of puffs. In addition, the control unit 120 can continuously check the time that the holder 1 is operating. In addition, the control unit 120 can check whether a cradle 2, which will be described later, is connected to the holder 1, and control the operation of the holder 1 according to the connection or separation of the cradle 2 and the holder 1.

[0136] Meanwhile, the holder 1 may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 110, the control unit 120, and the heater 2130.

[0137] For example, the holder 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information or a motor for outputting tactile information. For example, when the holder 1 includes a display, the control unit 120 may transmit to the user, via the display, information related to the status of the holder 1 (e.g., whether the holder can be used, etc.), information related to the heater 2130 (e.g., pre-heating start, pre-heating progress, pre-heating completion, etc.), information related to the battery 110 (e.g., remaining capacity of the battery 110, whether it can be used, etc.), information related to resetting the holder 1 (e.g., reset time, reset progress, reset completion, etc.), information related to cleaning the holder 1 (e.g., cleaning time, cleaning required, cleaning progress, cleaning completion, etc.), information related to charging the holder 1 (e.g., charging required, charging progress, charging completion, etc.), information related to puffs (e.g., number of puffs, puff end notice, etc.), or information related to safety (e.g., usage time has elapsed, etc.). As another example, if the holder 1 includes a motor, the control unit 120 can use the motor to generate a vibration signal to communicate the above-mentioned information to the user.

[0138] The holder 1 may also include at least one input device (e.g., a button) that allows a user to control the functions of the holder 1, and / or a terminal coupled to the cradle 2. For example, a user can perform various functions using the input device of the holder 1. A desired function among the multiple functions of the holder 1 can be executed by adjusting the number of times the user presses the input device (e.g., once, twice, etc.) or the time the user presses the input device (e.g., 0.1 seconds, 0.2 seconds, etc.). When the user operates the input device, the holder 1 performs a function of preheating the heater 2130, a function of adjusting the temperature of the heater 2130, a function of cleaning the space into which the cigarette is inserted, a function of checking whether the holder 1 is in an operable state, a function of displaying the remaining amount (available power) of the battery 110, a function of resetting the holder 1, and the like. However, the functions of the holder 1 are not limited to the above examples.

[0139] The holder 1 may also include a puff sensor, a temperature sensor, and / or a cigarette insertion sensor. For example, the puff sensor may be realized by a general pressure sensor, and the cigarette insertion sensor may be realized by a general capacitance sensor or resistance sensor. The holder 1 may also be fabricated in a structure that allows outside air to flow in / out even when a cigarette is inserted.

[0140] 12A and 12B are diagrams illustrating an example of a holder from various sides.

[0141] FIG. 12A is a view illustrating an example of the holder 1 viewed from a first direction. As illustrated in FIG. 12A, the holder 1 may be made cylindrical, but is not limited thereto. The case 2140 of the holder 1 may be separated by the user's action, and a cigarette may be inserted into the end 2141 of the case 2140. The holder 1 may also include buttons 2150 that allow the user to control the holder 1, and a display 2160 on which an image is output. The case 2140 is also an embodiment of the case described above.

[0142] FIG. 12B is a drawing illustrating an example of the holder 1 viewed from the second direction. The holder 1 may include a terminal 2170 coupled to the cradle 2. When the terminal 2170 of the holder 1 is coupled to the terminal 2260 of the cradle 2, the battery 110 of the holder 1 is charged by the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2. The holder 1 can also be operated by the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2 via the terminal 2170 and the terminal 2260, and communication (transmission and reception of signals) is possible between the holder 1 and the cradle 2. For example, the terminal 2170 may be configured by four micro pins, but is not limited thereto.

[0143] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cradle.

[0144] 13, the cradle 2 includes a battery 210 and a control unit 220. The cradle 2 also includes an internal space 2230 into which the holder 1 is inserted. For example, the internal space 2230 is formed on one side of the cradle 2. Therefore, even if the cradle 2 does not include a separate cover, the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2 and fixed therein.

[0145] Only components related to the present embodiment are shown in the cradle 2 in Fig. 13. Therefore, it would be understood by a person skilled in the art that the present embodiment includes other general components in addition to the components shown in Fig. 13.

[0146] The battery 210 supplies power used for operating the cradle 2. The battery 210 can also supply power to charge the battery 110 of the holder 1. For example, when the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2 and the terminal 2170 of the holder 1 and the terminal 2260 of the cradle 2 are coupled, the battery 210 of the cradle 2 can supply power to the battery 110 of the holder 1.

[0147] Furthermore, when the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are coupled, the battery 210 can supply power used for operating the holder 1. For example, when the terminal 2170 of the holder 1 and the terminal 2260 of the cradle 2 are coupled, the holder 1 can operate using the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2, regardless of whether the battery 110 of the holder 1 has been discharged or not.

[0148] Examples of the types of the battery 210 are the same as the examples of the battery 110 described with reference to Fig. 11. The capacity of the battery 210 can be 3,000 mAh or more. However, the capacity of the battery 210 is not limited to the above-mentioned examples.

[0149] The control unit 220 generally controls the operation of the cradle 2. The control unit 220 can control the operation of all components of the cradle 2. In addition, the control unit 220 can determine whether the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are coupled or not, and control the operation of the cradle 2 according to the coupling or separation of the cradle 2 and the holder 1.

[0150] For example, when the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are coupled, the control unit 220 can supply the power of the battery 210 to the holder 1 to charge the battery 110 or heat the heater 2130. Therefore, even if the remaining charge of the battery 110 is low, the user can couple the holder 1 and the cradle 2 and smoke continuously.

[0151] The control unit 120 includes at least one processor. The processor may be realized by an array of a number of logic gates, or may be realized by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. Those skilled in the art will understand that the control unit 120 may also be realized by other types of hardware.

[0152] Meanwhile, the cradle 2 may further include a general-purpose component in addition to the battery 210 and the control unit 220. For example, the cradle 2 may include a display capable of outputting visual information. For example, if the cradle 2 includes a display, the control unit 220 can generate a signal to be displayed on the display, thereby transmitting to the user information related to the battery 220 (e.g., remaining capacity of the battery 220, usability, etc.), information related to resetting the cradle 2 (e.g., reset time, reset progress, reset completion, etc.), information related to cleaning the holder 1 (e.g., cleaning time, cleaning required, cleaning progress, cleaning completion, etc.), information related to charging the cradle 2 (e.g., charging required, charging progress, charging completion, etc.). The display is also one embodiment of the above-mentioned output unit 140.

[0153] The cradle 2 may also include at least one input device (e.g., a button) that allows a user to control the functions of the cradle 2, a terminal 2260 that couples with the holder 1, and / or an interface for charging the battery 210 (e.g., a USB port, etc.).

[0154] For example, a user can execute various functions using the input device of the cradle 2. A desired function among the multiple functions of the cradle 2 can be executed by adjusting the number of times the user presses the input device or the time for which the user presses the input device. When the user operates the input device, the cradle 2 can perform functions such as preheating the heater 2130 of the holder 1, adjusting the temperature of the heater 2130 of the holder 1, cleaning the space in the holder 1 into which the cigarette is inserted, checking whether the cradle 2 is in an operable state, displaying the remaining capacity (available power) of the battery 210 of the cradle 2, and resetting the cradle 2. However, the functions of the cradle 2 are not limited to the above examples.

[0155] 14A and 14B are diagrams illustrating various sides of an example cradle.

[0156] 14A is a view showing an example of the cradle 2 seen from a first direction. One side of the cradle 2 has a space 2230 into which the holder 1 is inserted. In addition, even if the cradle 2 does not include a separate fixing means such as a lid, the holder 1 is inserted and fixed in the cradle 2. In addition, the cradle 2 also includes buttons 2240 by which a user can control the cradle 2, and a display 2250 on which an image is output.

[0157] FIG. 14B is a diagram illustrating an example of the cradle 2 viewed from the second direction. The cradle 2 may include a terminal 2260 that is coupled to the inserted holder 1. When the terminal 2260 is coupled to the terminal 2170 of the holder 1, the battery 110 of the holder 1 is charged by the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2. The holder 1 can also be operated by the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2 via the terminal 2170 and the terminal 2260, and signals can be transmitted and received between the holder 1 and the cradle 2. For example, the terminal 2260 can be configured by four micro pins, but is not limited thereto.

[0158] 11 to 14B, the holder 1 is inserted into the internal space 2230 of the cradle 2. The holder 1 is also completely inserted into the cradle 2, and tilted even when inserted into the cradle 2. An example of inserting the holder 1 into the cradle 2 will be described below with reference to Figs. 15 and 17B.

[0159] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example in which the holder is inserted into the cradle.

[0160] 15 shows an example in which the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2. Since the space 2230 into which the holder 1 is inserted exists on one side of the cradle 2, the inserted holder 1 is not exposed to the outside through the other side of the cradle 2. Therefore, the cradle 2 does not need to include other configurations (e.g., a lid) for not exposing the holder 1 to the outside.

[0161] The cradle 2 also includes at least one binding member 2271, 2272 to increase the strength of binding with the holder 1. The holder 1 also includes at least one binding member 2181. Here, the binding members 2181, 2271, 2272 may be magnets, but are not limited thereto. For convenience of explanation, FIG. 15 illustrates the holder 1 including one binding member 2181 and the cradle 2 including two binding members 2271, 2272, but the number of the binding members 2181, 2271, 2272 is not limited thereto.

[0162] The holder 1 may include a fastening member 2181 at the first position, and the cradle 2 may include fastening members 2271, 2272 at the second and third positions, respectively. Then, the first and third positions are also positions that face each other when the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2.

[0163] Since the holder 1 and the cradle 2 include the bonding members 2181, 2271, and 2272, the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are bonded more strongly even when the holder 1 is inserted into one side of the cradle 2. In other words, since the holder 1 and the cradle 2 further include the bonding members 2181, 2271, and 2272 in addition to the terminals 2170 and 2260, the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are bonded more strongly. Therefore, even if the cradle 2 does not have a separate structure (e.g., a lid), the inserted holder 1 is not easily separated from the cradle 2.

[0164] Furthermore, if it is determined by the terminals 2170, 2260 and / or the binding members 2181, 2271, 2272 that the holder 1 is completely inserted into the cradle 2, the control unit 220 can charge the battery 110 of the holder 1 using the power of the battery 210.

[0165] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example in which the holder is tilted in a state where it is inserted into the cradle.

[0166] 16, the holder 1 is tilted inside the cradle 2. Here, the tilt means that the holder 1 is inclined at a certain angle from the state where it is inserted into the cradle 2.

[0167] 15, when the holder 1 is fully inserted into the cradle 2, the user cannot smoke. In other words, when the holder 1 is fully inserted into the cradle 2, no cigarette is inserted into the holder 1. Therefore, when the holder 1 is fully inserted into the cradle 2, the user cannot smoke.

[0168] As shown in FIG. 16, when the holder 1 is tilted, the end 2141 of the holder 1 is exposed to the outside. Therefore, a user can insert a cigarette into the end 2141 and inhale (smoke) the generated aerosol. The tilt angle θ is ensured to be a sufficient angle so that the cigarette is not broken or damaged when inserted into the end 2141 of the holder 1. For example, the holder 1 is tilted to a minimum angle at which the entire cigarette insertion hole included in the end 2141 is exposed to the outside, or to an angle greater than that. For example, the tilt angle θ may range from 0° to 180°, and preferably from 10° to 90°. More preferably, the tilt angle θ may range from 10° to 20°, from 10° to 30°, from 10° to 40°, from 10° to 50°, or from 10° to 60°.

[0169] Furthermore, even if the holder 1 is tilted, the terminal 2170 of the holder 1 and the terminal 2260 of the cradle 2 are connected to each other. Therefore, the heater 2130 of the holder 1 is also heated by the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2. Therefore, even if the remaining charge of the battery 110 of the holder 1 is low or absent, the holder 1 can generate aerosol by using the battery 210 of the cradle 2.

[0170] 16 illustrates an example in which the holder 1 includes one binding member 2182, and the cradle 2 includes two binding members 2273 and 2274. For example, the positions of the binding members 2182, 273, and 2274 are as described with reference to FIG. 15. If the binding members 2182, 273, and 2274 are assumed to be magnets, the magnetic strength of the binding member 2274 is greater than the magnetic strength of the binding member 2273. Therefore, even if the holder 1 is tilted, the holder 1 is not completely separated from the cradle 2 due to the binding members 182 and 2274.

[0171] Furthermore, if it is determined by the terminals 2170, 2260 and / or the binding members 2182, 273, 2274 that the holder 1 is tilted, the control unit 220 can use the power of the battery 210 to heat the heater 2130 of the holder 1 or charge the battery 110.

[0172] 17A and 17B are diagrams illustrating an example in which the holder is inserted into the cradle.

[0173] 17A illustrates an example in which the holder 1 is fully inserted into the cradle 2. When the holder 1 is fully inserted into the cradle 2, the cradle 2 is fabricated to have a sufficient internal space 2230 to minimize the user's contact with the holder 1. When the holder 1 is fully inserted into the cradle 2, the control unit 220 supplies power from the battery 210 to the holder 1 so that the battery 110 of the holder 1 is charged.

[0174] 17B illustrates an example in which the holder 1 is tilted while being inserted into the cradle 2. When the holder 1 is tilted, the control unit 220 supplies power from the battery 210 to the holder 1 so that the battery 110 of the holder 1 is charged or the heater 2130 of the holder 1 is heated.

[0175] FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the holder and the cradle.

[0176] The method of generating an aerosol shown in Fig. 18 is composed of steps that are processed in a time series manner in the holder 1 shown in Fig. 11 or the cradle 2 shown in Fig. 13. Therefore, even if the content is omitted below, it can be understood that the content described above regarding the holder 1 shown in Fig. 11 and the cradle 2 shown in Fig. 13 also applies to the method of Fig. 18.

[0177] In step 2710, it is determined whether the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2. For example, the control unit 120 may determine whether the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2 based on whether the terminals 2170 and 2260 of the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are connected to each other and / or whether the connecting members 2181, 2271, and 2272 are operating.

[0178] If the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2, the process proceeds to step 2720; if the holder 1 is separated from the cradle 2, the process proceeds to step 2730.

[0179] In step 2720, the cradle 2 determines whether the holder 1 is tilted. For example, the control unit 220 can determine whether the holder 1 is tilted based on whether the terminals 2170, 2260 of the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are connected to each other and / or whether the connecting members 2182, 273, 2274 are operating.

[0180] In step 2720, it has been described that the cradle 2 determines whether the holder 1 is tilted or not, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other words, the control unit 120 of the holder 1 may also determine whether the holder 1 is tilted or not.

[0181] If the holder 1 is tilted, proceed to step 2740, and if the holder 1 is not tilted (ie, the holder 1 is fully inserted into the cradle 2), proceed to step 2770.

[0182] In step 2730, the holder 1 determines whether the use conditions of the holder 1 are satisfied. For example, the control unit 120 can determine whether the use conditions are satisfied by checking the remaining charge of the battery 110 and whether other components of the holder 1 can operate normally.

[0183] If the conditions for using Folder 1 are met, the procedure proceeds to step 2740; if not, the procedure ends.

[0184] In step 2740, the holder 1 notifies the user that it is ready for use. For example, the control unit 120 may output an image notifying the user that it is ready for use on a display of the holder 1, or may control a motor of the holder 1 to generate a vibration signal.

[0185] In step 2750, the heater 2130 is heated. As an example, when the holder 1 is separated from the cradle 2, the heater 2130 is also heated by the power of the battery 110 of the holder 1. As another example, when the holder 1 is tilted, the heater 2130 is also heated by the power of the battery 210 of the cradle 2.

[0186] The controller 120 of the holder 1 or the controller 220 of the cradle 2 can check the temperature of the heater 2130 in real time and adjust the amount of power supplied to the heater 2130 and the time for which power is supplied to the heater 2130. For example, the controllers 120 and 220 can check the temperature of the heater 2130 in real time via a temperature sensor included in the holder 1 or an electrically conductive track of the heater 2130.

[0187] In step 2760, the holder 1 performs an aerosol generating mechanism. For example, the controller 120, 220 can check the temperature of the heater 2130, which changes as the user performs puffing, and adjust the amount of power supplied to the heater 2130 or cut off the supply of power to the heater 2130. In addition, the controller 120, 220 can count the number of puffs by the user, and when a certain number of puffs (e.g., 1,500 puffs) is reached, output information notifying the user that the holder needs to be cleaned.

[0188] In step 2770, the cradle 2 charges the holder 1. For example, the control unit 220 can supply power from the battery 210 of the cradle 2 to the battery 110 of the holder 1, thereby charging the holder 1.

[0189] Meanwhile, the control units 120 and 220 can also stop the operation of the holder 1 depending on the number of puffs by the user or the operation time of the holder 1. Hereinafter, an example in which the control units 120 and 220 stop the operation of the holder 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 19 .

[0190] FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining another example of the operation of the holder.

[0191] The method of generating an aerosol shown in Fig. 19 is composed of steps that are processed in a time series manner in the holder 1 shown in Fig. 11 and the cradle 2 shown in Fig. 3. Therefore, even if the content is omitted below, it can be understood that the content described above regarding the holder 1 shown in Fig. 11 or the cradle 2 shown in Fig. 3 also applies to the method of Fig. 19.

[0192] In operation 2810, the controller 120 or 220 determines whether the user has puffed. For example, the controller 120 or 220 may determine whether the user has puffed via a puff detection sensor included in the holder 1.

[0193] In step 2820, aerosol is generated by the user's puff. As described with reference to Fig. 18, the control unit 120, 220 can adjust the power supplied to the heater 2130 according to the user's puff and the temperature of the heater 2130. In addition, the control unit 120, 220 counts the number of puffs by the user.

[0194] In operation 2830, the control unit 120, 220 determines whether the number of puffs of the user is equal to or greater than the puff limit. For example, if the puff limit is set to 14, the control unit 120, 220 determines whether the number of counted puffs is equal to or greater than 14.

[0195] On the other hand, if the user's number of puffs approaches the puff limit (for example, if the user's number of puffs is 12), the controller 120, 220 can output a warning signal via a display or a vibration motor.

[0196] If the number of puffs by the user is greater than or equal to the puff limit, the process proceeds to step 2850. If the number of puffs by the user is less than the puff limit, the process proceeds to step 2840.

[0197] In step 2840, the control unit 120, 220 determines whether the time during which the holder 1 has operated is equal to or longer than the operation time limit. Here, the time during which the holder 1 has operated means the accumulated time from when the holder started operating to the present. For example, if the operation time limit is set to 10 minutes, the control unit 120, 220 determines whether the holder 1 has operated for 10 minutes or more.

[0198] On the other hand, when the operating time of the holder 1 approaches the operating time limit (for example, when the holder 1 has been operating for 8 minutes), the control unit 120, 220 can output a warning signal via a display or a vibration motor.

[0199] If the holder 1 has been operating for the operation time limit or more, the process proceeds to step 2850. If the holder 1 has been operating for the operation time limit or less, the process proceeds to step 2820.

[0200] In step 2850, the controller 120, 220 aborts the operation of the holder. In other words, the controller 120, 220 stops the aerosol generating mechanism of the holder. For example, the controller 120, 220 can abort the operation of the holder by cutting off the power supplied to the heater 2130.

[0201] FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the cradle.

[0202] The flowchart shown in Fig. 20 is composed of steps that are processed in chronological order in the cradle 2 shown in Fig. 3. Therefore, even if the content is omitted below, it can be understood that the content described above regarding the cradle 2 shown in Fig. 3 also applies to the flowchart of Fig. 20.

[0203] Although not shown in FIG. 20, the operation of the cradle 2 described below may be performed regardless of whether the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2 or not.

[0204] In step 2910, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 determines whether the button 2240 is pressed. If the button 2240 is pressed, the process proceeds to step 2920. If the button 2240 is not pressed, the process proceeds to step 2930.

[0205] The cradle 2 displays the battery status in operation 2920. For example, the controller 220 may output information on the current status (e.g., remaining charge, etc.) of the battery 210 to the display 2250.

[0206] In step 2930, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 determines whether a cable is connected to the cradle 2. For example, the control unit 220 determines whether a cable is connected to an interface (e.g., a USB port, etc.) included in the cradle 2. If a cable is connected to the cradle 2, the process proceeds to step 2940; otherwise, the process ends.

[0207] The cradle 2 performs a charging operation in step 2940. For example, the cradle 2 charges the battery 210 using power supplied via the connected cable.

[0208] 11, a cigarette is inserted into the holder 1. The cigarette contains an aerosol-generating substance, and when heated by the heater 2130, an aerosol is generated.

[0209] Examples of cigarettes to be inserted into the holder 1 will now be described with reference to Figs. 21 to 23F.

[0210] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a holder with a cigarette inserted therein.

[0211] 21, the cigarette 3 is inserted into the holder 1 via the end 2141 of the case 2140. When the cigarette 3 is inserted, the heater 2130 is located inside the cigarette 3. Thus, the aerosol generating material of the cigarette 3 is heated by the heated heater 2130, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0212] The cigarette 3 is similar to a typical combustion cigarette. For example, the cigarette 3 is divided into a first portion 3310 including an aerosol-generating material and a second portion 3320 including a filter or the like. Meanwhile, the cigarette 3 according to an embodiment may include the aerosol-generating material in the second portion 3320. For example, the aerosol-generating material in the form of granules or capsules is inserted into the second portion 3320 as well.

[0213] The entire first portion 3310 is inserted into the holder 1, and the second portion 3320 is exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first portion 3310 is inserted into the holder 1, and both the first portion 3310 and the second portion 3320 are inserted.

[0214] The user can inhale the aerosol with the second portion 3320 held to the mouth. At this time, the aerosol is mixed with outside air and delivered to the user's mouth. As shown in Fig. 21, outside air also flows in through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 3 (3110) and also flows in through at least one air passage formed in the holder 1 (3120). For example, the air passage formed in the holder 1 is also made to be opened and closed by the user.

[0215] 22A and 22B are diagrams illustrating an example of a cigarette.

[0216] 22A and 22B, the cigarette 3 includes a tobacco rod 3300, a first filter segment 3321, a cooling structure 3322, and a second filter segment 3323. The first portion 3310 described with reference to FIG. 21 includes the tobacco rod 3300, and the second portion 3320 includes the first filter segment 3321, the cooling structure 3322, and the second filter segment 3323.

[0217] On the other hand, comparing FIG. 22A and FIG. 22B, the cigarette 3 in FIG. 22B further includes a fourth wrapper 3334 compared to the cigarette 3 in FIG. 22A.

[0218] 22A and 22B are merely examples, and some components may be omitted. For example, the cigarette 3 may not include one or more of the first filter segment 3321, the cooling structure 3322, and the second filter segment 3323.

[0219] The tobacco rod 3300 includes an aerosol-forming material. For example, the aerosol-forming material may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The length of the tobacco rod 3300 may be between about 7 mm and 15 mm, or preferably about 12 mm. The diameter of the tobacco rod 3300 may be between 7 mm and 9 mm, or preferably about 7.9 mm. The length and diameter of the tobacco rod 3300 are not limited to the numerical ranges set forth above.

[0220] The tobacco rod 3300 may also include other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or acetate compounds. For example, the flavoring agents may include licorice, sucrose, fructose syrup, isosweet, cocoa, lavender, cinnamon, cardamom, celery, fenugreek, cascarilla, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, mint oil, cinnamon, caraway, cognac, jasmine, chamomile, menthol, cinnamon, ylang-ylang, sage, spearmint, ginger, coriander, or coffee. The humectants may also include glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0221] As an example, the tobacco rod 3300 is also filled with cut tobacco, which may also be produced by finely grinding a tobacco sheet.

[0222] In order for a wide tobacco sheet to be filled into the narrow space of the tobacco rod 3300, an additional process is required to allow the tobacco sheet to be easily folded. Therefore, it is easier to fill the tobacco rod 3300 with cut tobacco than to fill the tobacco rod 3300 with a tobacco sheet, and the productivity and efficiency of the process for producing the tobacco rod 3300 is further increased.

[0223] In another example, the tobacco rod 3300 may be filled with a plurality of tobacco strands formed by cutting a tobacco sheet into strips. For example, the tobacco rod 3300 may be formed by arranging a plurality of tobacco strands in the same direction (parallel) or randomly. A single tobacco strand may be manufactured in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with a width of 1 mm, a length of 12 mm, and a thickness (height) of 0.1 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0224] Compared to a tobacco rod 3300 filled with a tobacco sheet, a tobacco rod 3300 filled with tobacco fibers generates a larger amount of aerosol. Assuming that they are filled in the same space, tobacco fibers ensure a larger surface area than tobacco sheets. The larger surface area means that the aerosol-generating material has more opportunities to come into contact with the outside air. Therefore, when the tobacco rod 3300 is filled with tobacco fibers, more aerosol is generated than when it is filled with a tobacco sheet.

[0225] Furthermore, when the cigarette 3 is separated from the holder 1, the tobacco rod 3300 filled with tobacco streaks is more easily separated than one filled with a tobacco sheet. Compared with a tobacco sheet, the frictional force generated by the tobacco streaks coming into contact with the heater 2130 is smaller. Therefore, when the tobacco rod 3300 is filled with tobacco streaks, it is more easily separated from the holder 1 than one filled with a tobacco sheet.

[0226] The tobacco sheet may also be formed by grinding the tobacco raw material into a slurry form and then drying the slurry. For example, the slurry may be doped with 15 to 30% aerosol-forming material. The tobacco raw material may be tobacco shreds, tobacco stems, tobacco dust generated during tobacco processing, and / or primary side strips of tobacco leaves. The tobacco sheet may also contain other additives, such as wood cellulose fibers.

[0227] The first filter segment 3321 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first filter segment 3321 may be in the form of a tube having a cavity therein. The length of the first filter segment 3321 may be about 7 mm to 15 mm, or preferably about 7 mm. The length of the first filter segment 3321 is preferably shorter than about 7 mm, but long enough to prevent the function of at least one cigarette element (e.g., cooling element, capsule, acetate filter, etc.) from being impaired. The length of the first filter segment 3321 is not limited to the above-mentioned numerical range. Meanwhile, the length of the first filter segment 3321 is extendable, and the overall length of the cigarette 3 is adjusted by the length of the first filter segment 3321.

[0228] The second filter segment 3323 is also a cellulose acetate filter. For example, but not limited to, the second filter segment 3323 is made of a recess filter including a cavity. The length of the second filter segment 3323 is about 5 mm to 15 mm, or preferably about 12 mm. The length of the second filter segment 3323 is not limited to the aforementioned numerical range.

[0229] The second filter segment 3323 may also include at least one capsule 3324. Here, the capsule 3324 has a structure in which a content liquid containing a flavoring is covered with a coating. For example, the capsule 3324 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape. The diameter of the capsule 3324 may be 2 mm or more, or preferably 2 to 4 mm.

[0230] The material forming the coating of the capsule 3324 is also starch and / or a gelling agent. For example, gellan gum or gelatin is used as the gelling agent. A gelling aid is further used as the material forming the coating of the capsule 3324. Here, calcium chloride is used as the gelling aid. A plasticizer is further used as the material forming the coating of the capsule 3324. Here, glycerin and / or sorbitol is used as the plasticizer. A coloring agent is further used as the material forming the coating of the capsule 3324.

[0231] For example, menthol, plant essential oils, etc. are used as flavorings contained in the content liquid of the capsule. In addition, heavy chain fatty acid triglyceride (heavy chain) is used as a solvent for the flavorings contained in the content liquid. In addition, the content liquid may contain other additives such as colorants, emulsifiers, and thickeners.

[0232] The cooling structure 3322 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 2130 heating the tobacco rod 3300. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature. The length of the cooling structure 3322 may be about 10 mm to 20 mm, or preferably about 14 mm. The length of the cooling structure 3322 is not limited to the above numerical range.

[0233] For example, the cooling structure 3322 may be made of polylactic acid. The cooling structure 3322 may also be made in various shapes to increase the surface area per unit area (i.e., the surface area in contact with the aerosol). Various examples of the cooling structure 3322 are described below with reference to Figures 23A-23F.

[0234] The tobacco rod 3300 and the first filter segment 3321 are also wrapped by a first wrapper 3331. For example, the first wrapper 3331 is also made of a paper wrapping material having oil resistance.

[0235] The cooling structure 3322 and the second filter segment 3323 are also wrapped by the second wrapper 3332. The entire cigarette 3 is also rewrapped by the third wrapper 3333. For example, the second wrapper 3332 and the third wrapper 3333 are made of a general paper wrapping material. Optionally, the second wrapper 3332 is also an oil-resistant hard wrapping paper or PLA scented paper. The second wrapper 3332 wraps the second filter segment 3323 portion, and can further wrap the second filter segment 3323 and the cooling structure 3322.

[0236] 22B, the cigarette 3 may include a fourth wrapper 3334. At least one of the tobacco rod 3300 and the first filter segment 3321 is also wrapped by the fourth wrapper 3334. In other words, only the tobacco rod 3300 is also wrapped by the fourth wrapper 3334, and the tobacco rod 3300 and the first filter segment 3321 are also wrapped by the fourth wrapper 3334. For example, the fourth wrapper 3334 is also made of a paper wrapping material.

[0237] The fourth wrapper 3334 is produced by applying (or coating) a predetermined substance to one or both surfaces of the paper packaging material. An example of the predetermined substance is silicon, but is not limited thereto. Silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fourth wrapper 3334 without any restrictions.

[0238] 22B illustrates the cigarette 3 including both the first trumpet 3331 and the fourth trumpet 3334, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the cigarette 3 may include only one of the first trumpet 3331 and the fourth trumpet 3334.

[0239] The fourth trumpet 3334 can prevent the cigarette 3 from being burned. For example, if the tobacco rod 3300 is heated by the heater 2130, the cigarette 3 may be burned. Specifically, if the temperature of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 3300 rises above the ignition point, the cigarette 3 will be burned. Even in such a case, the fourth trumpet 3334 contains a non-combustible substance, so that the cigarette 3 is prevented from being burned.

[0240] In addition, the fourth wrapper 3334 can prevent the holder 1 from being contaminated by a substance produced in the cigarette 3. A liquid substance is also produced in the cigarette 3 by a user's puff. For example, a liquid substance (e.g., moisture, etc.) is produced when an aerosol produced in the cigarette 3 is cooled by external air. The fourth wrapper 3334 wraps the tobacco rod 3300 and / or the first filter segment 3321, thereby preventing the liquid substance produced in the cigarette 3 from leaking out of the cigarette 3. Therefore, the case 2140 of the holder 1 and the like from being contaminated by a liquid substance produced in the cigarette 3 is prevented.

[0241] 23A to 23F are diagrams illustrating examples of cooling structures for cigarettes.

[0242] For example, the cooling structure illustrated in Figures 23A to 23F may be fabricated using fibers made from pure polylactic acid (PLA).

[0243] For example, when a film (sheet) is filled to create a cooling structure, the film (sheet) may be torn by an external impact, reducing the effect of the cooling structure in cooling the aerosol.

[0244] As another example, when a cooling structure is manufactured by extrusion molding, the process efficiency is reduced due to the additional process of cutting the structure, and there is also a limit to the variety of shapes of the cooling structure.

[0245] According to an embodiment, the cooling structure is fabricated (e.g., woven) using polylactic acid fiber, which reduces the risk of the cooling structure being deformed or losing its function due to an external impact. Also, by changing the method of combining fibers, cooling structures having various shapes can be fabricated.

[0246] Furthermore, by using fibers to fabricate the cooling structure, the surface area in contact with the aerosol is increased, thereby further improving the aerosol cooling effect of the cooling structure.

[0247] Referring to FIG. 23A, the cooling structure 3510 is also fabricated in a cylindrical shape, and at least one air passage 3511 is formed in the cross section of the cooling structure 3510 .

[0248] 23B, the cooling structure 3520 may be fabricated as a structure in which a plurality of fibers are interwoven. In this case, the aerosol flows between the fibers, and a vortex is formed due to the shape of the cooling structure 3520. The formed vortex increases the area with which the aerosol contacts the cooling structure 3520, and extends the time that the aerosol remains within the cooling structure 3520. Therefore, the heated aerosol is effectively cooled.

[0249] Referring to FIG. 23C, the cooling structure 3530 may also be fabricated in the form of a collection of multiple bundles 3531.

[0250] 23D, the cooling structure 3540 is filled with granules made of polylactic acid, tobacco or charcoal. The granules are also made of a mixture of polylactic acid, tobacco and charcoal. Meanwhile, the granules may further include elements that can improve the cooling effect of the aerosol other than polylactic acid, tobacco and / or charcoal.

[0251] Referring to FIG. 23E, the cooling structure 3550 may include a first cross section 3551 and a second cross section 3552.

[0252] The first cross section 3551 interfaces with the first filter segment 3321 and includes a void through which the aerosol flows in. The second cross section 3552 interfaces with the second filter segment 3323 and may include a void through which the aerosol flows out. For example, the first cross section 3551 and the second cross section 3552 may include a single void having the same diameter, although the diameter and number of voids included in the first cross section 3551 and the second cross section 3552 are not limited thereto.

[0253] In addition, the cooling structure 3550 may include a third cross section 3553 including a plurality of voids between the first cross section 3551 and the second cross section 3552. For example, the diameter of the plurality of voids included in the third cross section 3553 is smaller than the diameter of the voids included in the first cross section 3551 and the second cross section 3552. Also, the number of voids included in the third cross section 3553 is greater than the number of voids included in the first cross section 3551 and the second cross section 3552.

[0254] 23F, the cooling structure 3560 may include a first cross section 3561 that contacts the first filter segment 3321 and a second cross section 3562 that contacts the second filter segment 3323. The cooling structure 3560 may also include one or more tubular elements 3563. For example, the tubular element 3563 may penetrate the first cross section 3561 and the second cross section 3562. The tubular element 3563 may also be wrapped with a microporous wrapping material and filled with a filling material (e.g., granules described with reference to FIG. 23D) that can improve the cooling effect of the aerosol.

[0255] According to the above, the holder can generate an aerosol by heating the cigarette, and can also generate an aerosol when the holder is independently installed or when the holder is inserted into a cradle and tilted, particularly when the holder is tilted, where the heater is heated by the battery power of the cradle.

[0256] In the above drawings and description, the same components are referred to by different part numbers depending on the drawings and embodiments. However, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that the different part numbers are used for convenience only, and the same components may be used regardless of the part numbers.

[0257] The apparatus according to the present invention may include a processor, a memory for storing and executing program data, a permanent storage such as a disk drive, a communication port for communicating with an external device, and a user interface device such as a touch panel, keys, and buttons. The method embodied by the software module or algorithm may also be stored on a computer readable recording medium as computer readable code or program instructions executable on the processor. Here, examples of the computer readable recording medium include magnetic recording media (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), floppy disk, hard disk, etc.) and optically readable media (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disc (DVD)). The computer readable recording medium may be distributed among computer systems coupled to a network, and the computer readable code may be stored and executed in a distributed manner. The medium may be computer readable, stored in the memory, and executed by the processor.

[0258] All references cited in this application, including but not limited to publications, patent applications, patents, etc., are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as if each reference was individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference herein.

[0259] For the sake of understanding the present invention, reference symbols are used in the preferred embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific terms are used to describe the embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to these specific terms, and the present invention may include all components that are generally considered by those skilled in the art.

[0260] The present invention is also illustrated by functional block configurations and various processing steps. Such functional blocks may be embodied by any number of hardware and / or software configurations that perform a particular function. For example, the present invention may employ direct circuit configurations such as memory, processing, logic, look-up tables, etc., that can perform various functions under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Similar to the components of the present invention being implemented as software programming or software elements, the present invention includes various algorithms embodied by a combination of data structures, processes, routines, or other programming constructs, and may be embodied by programming languages ​​such as C, C++, Java, assembler, or scripting languages. Functional aspects may also be embodied by algorithms executed by one or more processors. The present invention may also employ conventional techniques for electronic configuration, signal processing, and / or data processing. Terms such as "mechanism," "element," "means," and "configuration" are generalized and are not limited to mechanical, physical configurations. The term may include the meaning of a set of processing routines of the software in conjunction with a processor or the like.

[0261] The specific implementation described in the present invention is an embodiment and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any manner. For the sake of brevity, descriptions of conventional electronic configurations, control systems, software, and other functional aspects of the system are omitted. In addition, the wire connections or connecting members between components shown in the drawings are illustrative of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections, and in an actual device, various functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections that can be substituted or added are also shown. In addition, unless specifically mentioned as "essential" or "important", a component is not necessarily required for application of the present invention.

[0262] In the present specification (particularly the claims), the use of the term "said" and similar indicators applies to both the singular and the plural. In addition, when a range is described in the present invention, it includes the invention to which each individual value within the range is applied (unless otherwise specified), and each individual value constituting the range is described in the detailed description of the invention. Finally, unless the steps constituting the method of the present invention are clearly described in order or are described to the contrary, the steps are performed in an appropriate order. The order in which the steps are described is not necessarily intended to limit the present invention. In the present invention, the use of all examples or exemplary terms (such as, for example, etc.) is merely for the purpose of explaining the present invention in detail, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the above examples or exemplary terms, since it is not limited by the claims. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, combinations and changes can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents, depending on design conditions and factors.

Claims

1. a holder in which a cigarette is inserted into a cigarette insertion hole formed at one end thereof and which generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating material contained in the inserted cigarette; a cradle including an interior space into which the holder is inserted; At least one of the holder and the cradle is provided with at least one fastening member for increasing a fastening strength therebetween by using a magnetic force; The cradle is provided with a terminal for supplying power to an inserted holder, When the holder is inserted into the internal space of the cradle, the holder is tiltable between a first position where the cigarette insertion hole is completely hidden by the cradle and a second position where the cigarette insertion hole is completely exposed from the cradle; The holder includes: a sensor for sensing a user's puff; an output unit that outputs feedback signals in a plurality of output modes; A control unit, The control unit is controlling the output unit to output a first feedback signal corresponding to a first output mode among the plurality of output modes; The aerosol generating system outputs a second feedback signal corresponding to a second output mode among the plurality of output modes when the remaining number of puffs possible due to the detected puff is smaller than a threshold value.

2. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor is a temperature sensor.

3. The first output mode is The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the first feedback signal is output via a visual output means including an LED display or an LED lamp.

4. The second output mode is 4. The aerosol generating system of claim 3, wherein the second feedback signal is output via a tactile output means including a vibration motor.

5. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the intensity and interval of each of the feedback signals is adjusted based on puff characteristic data from the puff.

6. The control unit is The aerosol generation system according to claim 1, characterized in that the operation time of the holder is judged, and when the operation time exceeds an operation limit time, the operation of the holder is terminated.

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