Aerosol generating device and system including same

Abstract

An aerosol generating device and a system including the same are provided. The aerosol generating device includes a heater for heating an aerosol generating material, a communication interface for communicating with an external device, and a controller, and the controller checks whether authentication of a user has been completed in a state where a communication link with the external device has been formed via the communication interface, and if the authentication has not been completed, restricts the use of at least one function including a heating function for supplying power to the heater, and if the authentication has been completed, lifts the restriction on the use of the at least one function.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device and a system including the same. [Background technology]

[0002] The aerosol generating device is for extracting a predetermined component from a medium or substance via an aerosol. The medium may contain a substance having a variety of components. The substance contained in the medium may be a flavoring substance having a variety of components. For example, the substance contained in the medium may contain a nicotine component, a herb component, and / or a coffee component. In recent years, much research has been conducted on such aerosol generating devices. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] The present disclosure is directed to solving the above-referenced problems and other problems.

[0004] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device and a system including the same that can restrict use by third parties who are not authorized to use the aerosol generating device.

[0005] It is still another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device and a system including the same that can provide a user with not only the function of generating aerosol but also various convenient functions.

[0006] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device and a system including the same that can provide a user with convenient functions using a communication link formed between an external device and the aerosol generating device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the subject matter described in the present application, an aerosol generating device includes a heater for heating an aerosol generating material, a communication interface for communicating with an external device, and a control unit, and the control unit checks whether authentication of the user has been completed when a communication link with the external device has been formed via the communication interface, and if the authentication has not been completed, restricts the use of at least one function including a heating function for supplying power to the heater, and if the authentication has been completed, lifts the restriction on the use of the at least one function.

[0008] According to another aspect of the subject matter described in the present application, a system includes an aerosol generating device and an external device, wherein the aerosol generating device includes a first communication interface for communicating with the external device, and the external device includes a second communication interface and a memory for communicating with the aerosol generating device, and the aerosol generating device checks whether authentication of a user has been completed when a communication link with the external device is formed via the first communication interface, and if the authentication has not been completed, restricts the use of at least one function, and if the authentication has been completed, lifts the restriction on the use of the at least one function. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to restrict the use of the aerosol generating device by unauthorized third parties.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a user with not only the function of generating aerosol but also various convenient functions.

[0011] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a user can be provided with the convenience of using a communication link formed between an aerosol generating device and an external device.

[0012] Further scope of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of example only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0013] The above and other objects, features and other characteristics of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 illustrates a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an external device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11A]1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11C] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14C] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18C]1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19C] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20C] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21C] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21D] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21E] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22A] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22B] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals are given to the same or similar components even if they are illustrated in different drawings, and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

[0016] The suffixes "module" and "section" for components used in the following description are used only for ease of description of the specification. "Module" and "section" do not have different meanings or roles from each other.

[0017] In addition, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if a specific description of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings. Therefore, the attached drawings should be interpreted as including all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included in the idea and scope of the present disclosure.

[0018] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

[0019] When an element is said to be "connected" to another element, it will be understood that there can be other elements in between, whereas when an element is said to be "directly connected" to another element, it will be understood that there are no other elements in between.

[0020] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generation device 10 may include a communication interface 11, an input / output interface 12, an aerosol generation module 13, a memory 14, a sensor module 15, a battery 16, and / or a control unit 17.

[0023] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may be composed of only a main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 10 may be located in the main body. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may be composed of a cartridge that stores an aerosol generating material and a main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 10 may be located in at least one of the main body and the cartridge.

[0024] The communication interface 11 may include at least one communication module for communication with an external device and / or a network. For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wired communication such as a universal serial bus (USB). For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wireless communication such as wireless fidelity (WiFi), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark) low power (BLE), Zigbee (registered trademark), near field communication (NFC), etc.

[0025] The input / output interface 12 may include an input device that receives commands from a user and / or an output device that outputs information to a user. For example, the input device may include a touch panel, a physical button, a microphone, etc. For example, the output device may include a display device that outputs visual information such as a display, a light emitting diode (LED), an audio device that outputs auditory information such as a speaker or a buzzer, a motor that outputs tactile information such as a haptic effect, etc.

[0026] The input / output interface 12 can transmit data corresponding to commands input by a user via the input device to other components (and the like) of the aerosol generating device 10. The input / output interface 12 can output information corresponding to data received from other components (and the like) of the aerosol generating device 10 via the output device.

[0027] The aerosol generating module 13 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. Here, the aerosol generating material can be any one of a variety of materials capable of generating an aerosol, such as a liquid material, a solid material, a gel material, or a combination of two or more materials.

[0028] The liquid aerosol generating material may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material, including volatile tobacco flavor components, according to one embodiment. The liquid aerosol generating material may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco material, according to another embodiment. For example, the liquid aerosol generating material may include water, solvent, nicotine, botanical extracts, flavors, flavorings, vitamin mixtures, and the like.

[0029] The solid-state aerosol-generating material may include solid materials based on tobacco raw materials such as reconstituted tobacco sheets, shredded tobacco, and granulated tobacco. The solid-state aerosol-generating material may also include solid materials containing taste modifiers, seasonings, and the like. For example, taste modifiers may include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium oxide, and the like. For example, seasonings may include natural materials such as herb granules, silica containing fragrance ingredients, zeolite, dextrin, and the like.

[0030] Additionally, the aerosol generating material may further include an aerosol forming agent such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0031] The aerosol generation module 13 can include at least one heater.

[0032] The aerosol generation module 13 can include an electrical resistive heater. For example, the electrical resistive heater can include at least one electrically conductive track and can be heated by passing an electric current through the electrically conductive track. Here, the aerosol generating material can be heated by the heated electrical resistive heater.

[0033] The electrically conductive track may comprise an electrically resistive material. As an example, the electrically conductive track may be made of a metallic material. As another example, the electrically conductive track may be made of a ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite of a ceramic material and a metal.

[0034] The electrical resistive heater may include an electrically conductive track formed in a variety of shapes, for example, the electrically conductive track may be formed in any one of a tube, a plate, a needle, a rod, and a coil.

[0035] The aerosol generating module 13 may include a heater using an induction heating method. For example, an induction heater may include an electric conductive coil, and an alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically may be generated by adjusting a current flowing through the electric conductive coil. Here, when an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy loss due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss may occur in the magnetic material, and the lost energy may be released as thermal energy to heat the aerosol generating material adjacent to the magnetic material. Here, the object that generates heat due to the magnetic field may be called a susceptor.

[0036] On the other hand, the aerosol generation module 13 can also generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

[0037] The aerosol generating module 13 may be referred to as a cartomizer, an atomizer, a vaporizer, or the like.

[0038] The memory 14 can store programs for each signal processing and control within the control unit 17, and can store data processed by the control unit 17 and data to be processed.

[0039] For example, memory 14 can store application programs designed to perform various tasks that can be processed by control unit 17, and can selectively provide some of the stored application programs upon request of control unit 17.

[0040] For example, the memory 14 may store the operating time of the aerosol generating device 10, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, the number of times the battery 16 has been charged, the number of times the battery 16 has been discharged, at least one temperature profile, data on the user's inhalation pattern, data on charging and discharging, etc. Here, "puff" may refer to the user's inhalation, and inhalation may be a situation in which the user inhales through the mouth or nose into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs.

[0041] The memory 14 may include at least one of a volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.) and a non-volatile memory (e.g., a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid-state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0042] The sensor module 15 may include at least one sensor.

[0043] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for detecting a puff (hereinafter, referred to as a "puff sensor"), where the puff sensor may be implemented by a proximity sensor such as an IR sensor, a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, or the like.

[0044] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for detecting a puff (hereinafter, referred to as a "puff sensor"), where the puff sensor may be implemented by a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, or the like.

[0045] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter, referred to as a "temperature sensor") for detecting the temperature of a heater included in the aerosol generation module 13, the temperature of an aerosol generating material, etc. Here, the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13 may also function as a temperature sensor. For example, the electrically resistive material of the heater may be a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance. The sensor module 15 may sense the temperature of the heater by measuring the resistance of the heater, which changes depending on the temperature.

[0046] For example, if a stick can be inserted into the main body of the aerosol generating device 10, the sensor module 15 can include a sensor that detects the insertion of the stick (hereinafter referred to as a "stick detection sensor").

[0047] For example, in the case where the aerosol generating device 10 includes a cartridge, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a "cartridge detection sensor") that detects the attachment / detachment, position, etc. of the cartridge relative to the main body.

[0048] Here, the stick detection sensor and / or the cartridge detection sensor may be implemented by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance-type sensor, a resistance sensor, a hall sensor (hall IC) using the hall effect, or the like.

[0049] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a voltage sensor that detects the voltage applied to a component (e.g., battery 16) provided in the aerosol generating device 10 and / or a current sensor that detects the current.

[0050] The battery 16 can supply power used for the operation of the aerosol generation device 10 under the control of the control unit 17. The battery 16 can supply power to other components provided in the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the battery 16 can supply power to a communication module included in the communication interface 11, an output device included in the input / output interface 12, a heater included in the aerosol generation module 13, etc.

[0051] The battery 16 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 16 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium ion battery or a lithium polymer battery. For example, if the battery 16 is rechargeable, the charge rate (C-rate) of the battery 16 may be, but is not limited to, 10C and the discharge rate (C-rate) of the battery 16 may be, but is not limited to, 10C to 20C. For stable use, the battery 16 may be manufactured to ensure 80% or more of its total capacity even after 2000 charge / discharge cycles.

[0052] The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a protection circuit module (PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 16. The protection circuit module (PCM) may be disposed adjacent to an upper surface of the battery 16. For example, in order to prevent overcharging and overdischarging of the battery 16, the protection circuit module (PCM) may cut off an electric path to the battery 16 when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery 16, when an overvoltage is applied to the battery 16, when an overcurrent flows through the battery 16, etc.

[0053] The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a charging terminal to which power supplied from an external source is input. For example, a charging terminal is formed on one side of the body of the aerosol generating device 10, and the aerosol generating device 10 may charge the battery 16 using power supplied through the charging terminal. Here, the charging terminal may be a wired terminal for USB communication, a pogo pin, or the like.

[0054] The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a power terminal (not shown) to which power supplied from an external source is input. For example, a power line may be connected to a power terminal disposed on one side of the body of the aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 10 may charge a battery using power supplied through the power line connected to the power terminal. Here, the power terminal may be a wired terminal for USB communication.

[0055] The aerosol generation device 10 can also wirelessly receive power supplied from an external source via the communication interface 11. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can receive power wirelessly using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication, and can charge the battery 16 using the wirelessly supplied power.

[0056] The control unit 17 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generation device 10. The control unit 17 is connected to each component provided in the aerosol generation device 10, and can transmit and / or receive signals between each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0057] The control unit 17 may include at least one processor and may use the processor to control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 10. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or a processor based on other hardware.

[0058] The control unit 17 can perform any one of a plurality of functions of the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the control unit 17 can execute any one of a plurality of functions of the aerosol generation device 10 (e.g., a preheating function, a heating function, a charging function, a cleaning function, etc.) according to the state of each component included in the aerosol generation device 10, a user's command received via the input / output interface 12, etc.

[0059] The control unit 17 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generation device 10 based on the data stored in the memory 14. For example, the control unit 17 can control the battery 16 to supply a predetermined amount of power to the aerosol generation module 13 for a predetermined period of time based on data about a temperature profile, a user's inhalation pattern, and the like stored in the memory 14.

[0060] The control unit 17 can determine the occurrence of a puff through a puff sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the control unit 17 can check a temperature change, a flow change, a pressure change, a voltage change, etc. in the aerosol generating device 10 based on a sensing value of the puff sensor, and can determine the occurrence of a puff according to the confirmed result based on the sensing value of the puff sensor.

[0061] The control unit 17 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generating device 10 depending on the presence or absence of a puff and / or the number of puffs. For example, the control unit 17 can control the heater temperature to be changed or maintained based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 14.

[0062] The control unit 17 can control to cut off the power supply to the heater under a predetermined condition, for example, when the stick is removed and the cartridge is separated, when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs, when no puffs are detected for a preset time or more, when the remaining amount of the battery 16 is less than a preset value, etc.

[0063] The control unit 17 may calculate the remaining amount of power (hereinafter, referred to as the remaining amount) stored in the battery 16. For example, the control unit 17 may calculate the remaining amount of the battery 16 based on the sensing values ​​of a voltage sensor and / or a current sensor included in the sensor module 15.

[0064] The control unit 17 may control the supply of power to the heater using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0065] For example, the control unit 17 can use a PWM method to control a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the heater. Here, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0066] For example, the control unit 17 can determine a target temperature to be a control target based on the temperature profile. Here, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater using a PID method, which is a feedback control method based on a difference between the heater temperature and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0067] Meanwhile, although the PWM method and the PID method have been described as examples of control methods for supplying power to the heater, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various control methods such as a Proportional-Integral (PI) method and a Proportional-Differential (PD) method can be used.

[0068] Meanwhile, the control unit 17 may control the heater to supply power under preset conditions. For example, when a cleaning function for cleaning a space into which the stick is inserted is selected according to a command input by the user via the input / output interface 12, the control unit 17 may control the heater to supply a predetermined amount of power.

[0069] 2 to 4 are diagrams illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device 10 can include a body 100 and / or a cartridge 200 .

[0071] Referring to FIG. 2, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 configured to allow the stick 20 to be inserted into a space formed by a housing 101.

[0072] The stick 20 may be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the stick 20 may be divided into a first portion including an aerosol-generating substance and a second portion including a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second portion of the stick 20 may also include an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance formed in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

[0073] The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generation device 10, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generation device 10, or both the first part and the second part may be inserted. A user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. Here, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol may be delivered to the user's mouth by passing through the second part.

[0074] The main body 100 may be formed to have a structure that allows external air to flow into the main body 100 when the stick 20 is inserted. Here, the external air that has flowed into the main body 100 may pass through the stick 20 and flow to the user's mouth.

[0075] The heater may be located at a position within the body 100 that corresponds to the position of the stick 20 when the stick 20 is inserted into the body 100. In this drawing, the heater is shown as an electrically conductive heater 110 that includes needle-like electrically conductive tracks, although the invention is not so limited.

[0076] The heater can heat the inside and / or outside of the stick 20 using power supplied from the battery 16. An aerosol can be generated in the heated stick 20. A user can inhale the aerosol with added tobacco flavor by inhaling through one end of the stick 20 with their mouth.

[0077] Meanwhile, the control unit 17 may control the heater to supply power under preset conditions even when the stick 20 is not inserted. For example, when a cleaning function for cleaning the space into which the stick 20 is inserted is selected according to a command input by the user via the input / output interface 12, the control unit 17 may control the heater to supply a predetermined power.

[0078] The control unit 17 can monitor the number of puffs based on the sensing value of the puff sensor from the point when the stick 20 is inserted.

[0079] The control unit 17 can initialize the current number of puffs stored in the memory 14 when the inserted stick 20 is removed.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment may include a body 100 supporting a cartridge 200, and the cartridge 200 storing an aerosol generating substance.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be configured to be detachably attached to the main body 100. According to another embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be configured integrally with the main body 100. For example, the cartridge 200 may be attached to the main body 100 by inserting at least a portion of the cartridge 200 into an internal space formed by the housing 101 of the main body 100.

[0082] The main body 100 may be formed in a structure that allows external air to flow into the main body 100 when the cartridge 200 is inserted. Here, the external air that has flowed into the main body 100 may flow to the user's mouth through the cartridge 200.

[0083] The control unit 17 may determine whether the cartridge 200 is attached / detached by a cartridge detection sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the cartridge detection sensor may transmit a pulse current through one terminal connected to the cartridge 200. Here, the cartridge detection sensor may detect whether the cartridge 200 is connected based on whether a pulse current is received through another terminal.

[0084] The cartridge 200 may include a heater 210 for heating an aerosol generating substance and / or a storage unit 220 for storing the aerosol generating substance. For example, a liquid transmission means impregnated (containing) the aerosol generating substance may be disposed inside the storage unit 220. The electrically conductive track of the heater 210 may be formed in a structure that wraps around the liquid transmission means. Here, an aerosol may be generated by heating the liquid transmission means by the heater 210. Here, the liquid transmission means may include a wick made of cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0085] The cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 230 into which the stick 20 can be inserted. For example, the cartridge 200 may include an insertion space formed by an inner wall (not shown) extending in a circumferential direction along the direction in which the stick 20 is inserted. Here, the insertion space may be formed by opening the inside of the inner wall upward and downward. The stick 20 may be inserted into the insertion space 230 formed by the inner wall.

[0086] The insertion space into which the stick 20 is inserted may be formed to have a shape corresponding to the shape of a portion of the stick 20 to be inserted into the insertion space. For example, if the stick 20 is formed to have a cylindrical shape, the insertion space may be formed to have a cylindrical shape.

[0087] When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space, the outer circumferential surface of the stick 20 is surrounded by the inner wall and may come into contact with the inner wall.

[0088] A part of the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 230 of the cartridge 200, and the remaining part can be exposed to the outside.

[0089] A user can inhale the aerosol while holding one end of the stick 20 in the mouth. The aerosol generated by the heater 210 can be delivered to the user's mouth through the stick 20. Here, as the aerosol passes through the stick 20, a substance contained in the stick 20 is added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with the added substance can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick 20.

[0090] 4, an aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment may include a main body 100 supporting a cartridge 200 and a cartridge 200 storing an aerosol generating substance. The main body 100 may be configured so that the stick 20 can be inserted into the insertion space 130.

[0091] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a first heater that heats the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 200. For example, when a user inhales into the mouth through one end of the stick 20, the aerosol generated by the first heater may pass through the stick 20. Here, a flavor may be added to the aerosol as it passes through the stick 20. The flavored aerosol may be inhaled into the mouth of the user through one end of the stick 20.

[0092] Meanwhile, according to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a first heater for heating the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and a second heater for heating the stick 20 inserted into the body 100. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and the stick 20 by the first heater and the second heater, respectively.

[0093] 5 and 6 are diagrams illustrating a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] 5, a stick 20 according to one embodiment can include a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. The first part described above with reference to FIG. 2 can include the tobacco rod 21. The second part described above with reference to FIG. 2 can include the filter rod 22.

[0095] Although the filter rod 22 is shown as a single segment in FIG. 5, this is not limiting. In other words, the filter rod 22 may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a first segment that cools the aerosol and a second segment that filters a predetermined component contained in the aerosol. In addition, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment that performs another function, if necessary.

[0096] The stick 20 may have a diameter in the range of 5 mm to 9 mm and a length of about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may have a length of about 12 mm, the first segment of the filter rod 22 may have a length of about 10 mm, the second segment of the filter rod 22 may have a length of about 14 mm, and the third segment of the filter rod 22 may have a length of about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0097] The stick 20 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may have at least one hole through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out. As an example, the stick 20 may be wrapped by one wrapper 24. As another example, the stick 20 may be wrapped by two or more wrappers 24 stacked on top of each other. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped by a first wrapper 241. For example, the filter rod 22 may be wrapped by wrappers 242, 243, and 244. The tobacco rod 21 and the filter rod 22 wrapped by individual wrappers may be combined, and the entire stick 20 may be further wrapped by a third wrapper. When each filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped by an individual wrapper 242, 243, and 244. The entire stick 20, in which the segments wrapped by the individual wrappers are combined, may be further wrapped by another wrapper.

[0098] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of a general filter wrapper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be a porous wrapper or a non-porous wrapper. Also, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum laminate wrapper.

[0099] The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard wrapper paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is 88 g / m 2 ~96g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94g / m 2 The thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be 125 μm.

[0100] The fourth wrapper 244 may be made from a grease-resistant hard wrapper paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 is 88 g / m 2 ~96g / m 2For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94g / m 2 The thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be 125 μm.

[0101] The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) may be a paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 is 57 g / m 2 ~63g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 60 g / m 2 The thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be 67 μm.

[0102] The fifth wrapper 245 may include a predetermined material. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon may have properties such as heat resistance, which is less susceptible to change with temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, any material other than silicon that has the above-mentioned properties may be applied or coated onto the fifth wrapper 245 without any restrictions.

[0103] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the stick 20 from burning. For example, when the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater 210, the stick 20 may burn. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the flash point of any one of the materials contained in the tobacco rod 21, the stick 20 may burn. Even in such a case, the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-flammable material, and therefore can prevent the stick 20 from burning.

[0104] In addition, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the main body 100 from being contaminated by a substance produced in the stick 20. A liquid substance can be produced in the stick 20 by the user's puff. For example, a liquid substance (e.g., moisture) can be produced as the aerosol produced in the stick 20 is cooled by the outside air. The fifth wrapper 245 wraps the stick 20, thereby preventing the liquid substance produced in the stick 20 from leaking out of the stick 20.

[0105] The tobacco rod 21 may include an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The tobacco rod 21 may also include other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. A flavoring liquid, such as menthol or a humectant, may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by being sprayed onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0106] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from a sheet. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from a strand. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from a small piece obtained by cutting a tobacco sheet into small pieces. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be surrounded by a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can uniformly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 and improve the thermal conductivity to the tobacco rod. Therefore, the tobacco taste can be improved. The thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. Although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 can further include an additional susceptor in addition to the thermally conductive material surrounding the outside.

[0107] The filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. Meanwhile, the shape of the filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical type rod. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a tube type rod having a hollow inside. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a recess type rod. When the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments may be manufactured into another shape.

[0108] The first segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure having a hollow inside. When the heater 110 is inserted, the first segment can prevent the inner material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed backward, and can also provide a cooling effect for the aerosol. The diameter of the hollow included in the first segment may be an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0109] The length of the first segment may be an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the first segment may be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0110] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 110 heating the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol that has been cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0111] The length or diameter of the second segment may be determined in various ways depending on the shape of the stick 20. For example, the length of the second segment may be appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment may be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0112] The second segment can be made by weaving polymeric fibers, in which case the flavor liquid can be applied to the fibers made from the polymer, or the second segment can be made by weaving together the fibers made from the polymer with separate fibers that have been coated with the flavor liquid, or the second segment can be formed from a crimped polymer sheet.

[0113] For example, the polymer may be made from a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0114] The second segment may be formed from woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, such that the second segment includes one or more longitudinally extending channels, where the channels may be passageways through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) may pass.

[0115] For example, the second segment of crimped polymer sheet may be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, such as between about 10 μm and about 250 μm, and the total surface area of ​​the second segment may be less than about 300 mm 2 / mm and about 1000mm 2 / mm. Also, the aerosol cooling element may have a specific surface area of ​​about 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100mm 2 / mg of material.

[0116] Meanwhile, the second segment can include a thread containing a volatile flavor component, which can be, but is not limited to, menthol. For example, the thread can be loaded with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0117] The third segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be appropriately selected within a range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0118] The filter rod 22 may be manufactured to generate a flavor. For example, a flavoring liquid may be sprayed onto the filter rod 22. For example, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted into the filter rod 22.

[0119] The filter rod 22 may also include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may function to generate flavor. The capsule 23 may also function to generate aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is enveloped in a coating. The capsule 23 may have, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0120] 6, the stick 30 according to an embodiment may further include a front end plug 33. The front end plug 33 is located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 facing the filter rod 32. The front end plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from falling out. The front end plug 33 can prevent aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generation device 100.

[0121] Filter rod 32 can include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. First segment 321 can correspond to the first segment of filter rod 22 of FIG. 5. Second segment 322 can correspond to the third segment of filter rod 22 of FIG. 5.

[0122] The diameter and overall length of the stick 30 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the stick 20 of Figure 5. For example, but not limited to, the length of the front end plug 33 may be about 7mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be about 15mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be about 12mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be about 14mm.

[0123] The stick 30 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole formed therein through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out. For example, the front end plug 33 may be wrapped by a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 may be wrapped by a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 may be wrapped by a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 may be wrapped by a fourth wrapper 354. Then, the entire stick 30 may be rewrapped by a fifth wrapper 355.

[0124] Also, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, but not limited to, the perforation 36 may be formed in a region surrounding the tobacco rod 31. For example, the perforation 36 may play a role in transferring heat generated by the heater 210 shown in FIG. 3 to the inside of the tobacco rod 31.

[0125] The second segment 322 may also include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may function to generate a flavor. The capsule 34 may also function to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring is enveloped by a coating. The capsule 34 may have, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0126] The first wrapper 351 may be formed by bonding a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, to a general filter wrapper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be 50.3 μm. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm. For example, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be 6.3 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be 50 g / m 2 ~55g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 53 g / m 2 It could be.

[0127] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be made from a conventional filter wrapper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be a porous wrapper or a non-porous wrapper.

[0128] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be, but is not limited to, 35000 CU. The thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. For example, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be 78 μm. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be 20 g / m 2 ~25g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 23.5 g / m 2 It could be.

[0129] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be, but is not limited to, 24000 CU. The thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of 60 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be 68 μm. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be 20 g / m 2 ~25g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of 21 g / m 2 It could be.

[0130] The fourth wrapper 354 may be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, the PLA laminated paper may be a triple layer paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 100 μm to 120 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be 110 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be 80 g / m 2 ~100g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 88 g / m 2 It could be.

[0131] The fifth wrapper 355 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) may be a paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is 57 g / m 2 ~63g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 60 g / m 2 The thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be 67 μm.

[0132] The fifth wrapper 355 may include a predetermined material. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance, which is less susceptible to change with temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, other materials than silicon may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without any restrictions as long as they have the above-mentioned properties.

[0133] The front end plug 33 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the front end plug 33 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate toe. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate toe may be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate toe may be in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the front end plug 33 may be 5.0. Also, the cross section of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the front end plug 33 may be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the front end plug 33 may be in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the front end plug 33 may be 28,000.

[0134] Optionally, the front end plug 33 may also include at least one channel, the cross-section of which may be fabricated in a variety of shapes.

[0135] The tobacco rod 31 may correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to Figure 5. Therefore, in the following, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted.

[0136] The first segment 321 may be made from cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure with a hollow interior. The first segment 321 may be made from cellulose acetate to which a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) is added. For example, the mono and total denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the mono and total denier of the front end plug 33.

[0137] The second segment 322 may be made of cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 may be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be 9.0. Also, the cross section of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 may be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the second segment 322 may be 25,000.

[0138] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an external device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 7, an external device 700 may include a communication interface 710, a memory 720, an input / output interface 730, and / or a controller 740.

[0140] The communication interface 710 may include at least one communication module for communication with the aerosol generation device 10 and / or a network. For example, the communication interface 710 may include a communication module for wired communication, such as USB, recommended standard 232 (RS-232), registered jack-45 (RJ-45), etc. For example, the communication interface 710 may include a communication module for wireless communication, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), ZigBee, NFC, etc.

[0141] The communication interface 710 may include at least one antenna 715 corresponding to a communication module for wireless communication. The antenna 715 may include an antenna corresponding to Bluetooth (registered trademark), an antenna corresponding to GPS (Global Positioning System), etc.

[0142] The memory 720 may include at least one of a non-volatile memory (eg, a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0143] The memory 720 can store programs for signal processing and control in the control unit 740, and can store processed data and data to be processed. In the present disclosure, programs and applications can be used together as needed.

[0144] The memory 720 may store a unique identifier for the external device 700. For example, the identifier for the external device 700 may consist of a media access control address (MAC address), a serial number, an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI), etc.

[0145] The input / output interface 730 may include an input device for receiving commands from a user and / or an output device for outputting information to a user. For example, the input device may include a touch panel, a physical button, etc. For example, the output device may include a display device for outputting visual information, such as a display, an audio device for outputting auditory information, such as a speaker, etc.

[0146] The controller 740 may control the overall operation of the external device 700. The controller 740 may be connected to each component included in the external device 700 and may transmit and / or receive signals to each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0147] The control unit 740 may include at least one processor, and may use the processor included therein to control the overall operation of the external device 700. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC, or a processor based on other hardware.

[0148] FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0149] 8, in operation S810, the aerosol generation device 10 may check whether a communication link with the external device 700 is formed through the communication interface 11. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 may check whether a communication link with the external device 700 is formed through a communication module corresponding to Bluetooth (registered trademark) among the communication modules included in the communication interface 11.

[0150] Meanwhile, a user can check whether a communication link is formed between the aerosol generating device 10 and the external device 700 based on a screen output through a display included in the aerosol generating device 10. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can output a screen including an indicator corresponding to the communication link through the display. This will be described with reference to Figs. 9A and 9B.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 9A, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an insertion space in which a cigarette 20 is placed may be formed at the upper end of a housing 201 of an aerosol generating device 10.

[0152] The insertion space may be formed by recessing a predetermined depth toward the inside of the housing 201 so that at least a portion of the cigarette 20 can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the region of the cigarette 20 that contains the aerosol-generating material. For example, in the case where the aerosol generating device 10 is an apparatus capable of using the cigarette 20 of FIG. 5, the depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the tobacco rod 21 of the cigarette 20.

[0153] A battery 16, a printed circuit board 910, and a heater may be arranged inside the housing 201 of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0154] Each component included in the aerosol generation device 10 may be mounted on one side and / or the other side of the printed circuit board 910. The components mounted on the printed circuit board 910 may transmit or receive signals to each other via the wiring layer of the printed circuit board 910. For example, at least one communication module included in the communication interface 11, at least one sensor included in the sensor module 15, and the control unit 17 may be mounted on the printed circuit board 910.

[0155] The printed circuit board 910 may be disposed adjacent to the battery 16. For example, the printed circuit board 910 may be disposed so that one surface faces the battery 16.

[0156] A temperature sensor may be mounted on one side of the printed circuit board 910. The temperature sensor may be implemented using a thermistor, which is an element that changes resistance depending on temperature. For example, the temperature sensor may include a negative temperature coefficient thermistor (NTC thermistor) that has a property that the resistance decreases as the temperature increases.

[0157] The control unit 17 can determine the temperature of the battery 16 based on the detection value of the temperature sensor. For example, the control unit 17 can determine the detection value of the temperature sensor as the temperature of the battery 16. For example, the control unit 17 can determine the result of compensating the detection value of the temperature sensor according to a predetermined criterion as the temperature of the battery 16.

[0158] A display 920 may be disposed on one side of the housing 201. The display 920 may display a screen in response to a signal transmitted from the control unit 17.

[0159] A power terminal 930 may be disposed on one side of the housing 201 of the aerosol generating device 10. The power terminal 930 may be a wired terminal for wired communication such as USB.

[0160] A power supply circuit (not shown) may be disposed between the battery 16 and the power terminal 930. The power supply circuit may transmit power supplied from an external source to the battery 16 via the power terminal 930.

[0161] A power line 935 for supplying power may be connected to the power terminal 930. For example, the power terminal 930 may be coupled to a connector 565 of the power line 935.

[0162] The control unit 17 may determine whether the power line 935 is connected to the power terminal 930. For example, the control unit 17 may determine whether the power line 935 is connected to the power terminal 930 based on a signal generated in response to the connection between the power terminal 930 and the power line 935.

[0163] When the power line 935 is connected to the power terminal 930, the control unit 17 can start charging the battery 16. When the power line 935 is connected to the power terminal 930, the control unit 17 can control the operation of each component provided in the aerosol generation device 10 so that power supplied through the power line 935 is transmitted to the battery 16. For example, when the power line 935 is connected to the power terminal 930 with the cigarette 20 inserted in the housing 201, the control unit 17 can cut off the power supply to the aerosol generation module 130 and start charging the battery 16.

[0164] At least one motor 940 that generates vibrations for a haptic effect may be disposed inside the housing 101. The motor 940 may be mounted on another surface of the printed circuit board 910. For example, the motor 940 may be embodied by, but is not limited to, a linear actuator.

[0165] At least one antenna 950 corresponding to a communication module of the communication interface 11 may be disposed inside the housing 101. The antenna 950 may be mounted on the other side of the printed circuit board 910.

[0166] 9A , the battery 16, the printed circuit board 910, the display 920, the power terminal 930, the motor 940, the antenna 950, and the like may be arranged in different positions depending on the embodiment. For example, the motor 940 may be mounted on the substrate on which the display 920 is arranged.

[0167] Referring to FIG. 9B, the display 920 can include a cover glass 821, a display panel 823, and / or a touch panel 925.

[0168] The cover glass 921 may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device 10 together with the housing 201. The cover glass 921 may come into contact with a part of the user's body. The cover glass 921 may protect the display panel 923 and / or the touch panel 825 from external impact.

[0169] The display panel 923 may be disposed in a direction from the cover glass 921 toward the inside of the housing 201. For example, the display panel 923 may be disposed parallel to the cover glass 921.

[0170] The display panel 923 may output an image. The display panel 923 may output an image in response to a signal transmitted from the control unit 17. For example, the display panel 923 may be implemented by a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) panel, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0171] The touch panel 925 may be disposed in a direction from the cover glass 921 toward the inside of the housing 201. For example, the touch panel 925 may be disposed parallel to the cover glass 821 and the display panel 923.

[0172] The touch panel 925 may sense a touch corresponding to contact with an object. For example, the touch panel 925 may sense a touch corresponding to contact with a part of a user's body.

[0173] The touch panel 925 may include at least one touch sensor for detecting a touch, for example, the touch sensor may include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, and an infrared touch sensor.

[0174] A plurality of touch sensors included in the touch panel 925 may receive a driving signal at a predetermined period. For example, a plurality of touch sensors included in the touch panel 925 may receive a driving signal at a predetermined period. Here, each touch sensor may output an electrical signal corresponding to a state (e.g., pressure, magnetic field, capacitance, light amount) according to the driving signal.

[0175] The controller 17 may determine whether a touch input is received by monitoring a signal output from the touch panel 925. The controller 17 may execute a determination on the touch input based on the signal output from the touch panel 925. For example, the controller 17 may execute a determination on the coordinates, touch area, single touch, multi-touch, touch strength, etc. of the touch input. For example, the controller 17 may execute a determination on a long touch input in which a touch is sensed for a predetermined time or more, a short touch input in which a touch is sensed for less than a predetermined time, a sweeping touch input in which the position of the touch input is continuously changed in a specific direction, etc.

[0176] Alternatively, the display panel 923 and the touch panel 925 may be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel 925 may be inserted (on-cell type or in-cell type) into the display panel 923. For example, the touch panel 925 may be an add-on type on the display panel 923.

[0177] Also, referring to Figure 8, in operation S820, when a communication link with an external device 700 is formed via the communication interface 11, the aerosol generating device 10 can check whether user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device 700 has been completed.

[0178] The aerosol generating device 10 can receive an identifier of the external device 700 from the external device 700 based on the formation of the communication link. Here, the identifier of the external device 700 can correspond to a serial number, a MAC address, etc. of the external device 700.

[0179] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generation device 10 can receive an identifier of the external device 700 from the external device 700 while forming a communication link with the external device 700 via the communication interface 11. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generation device 10 can receive an identifier of the external device 700 from the external device 700 via the communication link formed with the external device 700.

[0180] The aerosol generating device 10 can receive data regarding authentication from the external device 700 via a communication link formed with the external device 700. Here, the data regarding authentication can include data indicating completion of user authentication for a user corresponding to the external device 700. When the aerosol generating device 10 receives data regarding authentication from the external device 700 via the communication link, the aerosol generating device 10 can store data corresponding to an identifier of the external device 700 in the memory 14.

[0181] Meanwhile, a user can perform user authentication through the external device 700. For example, the external device 700 can transmit data corresponding to the user to an external server through the communication interface 710. Here, the data corresponding to the user can include the user's birthday, a unique number indicating the user, etc.

[0182] When the data corresponding to the user is valid data for authentication, the external device 700 can receive data regarding the usage authority for the aerosol generation device 10 from the external server. Based on the reception of the data regarding the usage authority, the external device 700 can transmit data indicating the completion of user authentication to the aerosol generation device 10 via the communication link.

[0183] The aerosol generation device 10 can confirm whether user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device 700 has been completed based on whether data corresponding to the identifier of the external device 700 with which a communication link has been formed is stored in the memory 14. For example, when data corresponding to the identifier of the external device 700 is stored in the memory 14, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device 700 has been completed.

[0184] The aerosol generating device 10 may lift the restriction on the use of at least one function when user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device 700 is completed in operation S830. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may lift the restriction on the use of a heating function that supplies power to a heater when user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device 700 is completed. Here, the aerosol generating device 10 may supply power to the heater based on the lifting of the restriction on the use of the heating function.

[0185] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 10 may restrict the use of at least one function when a communication link with the external device 700 is not established or when user authentication for a user corresponding to the external device 700 is not completed in operation S840. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may cut off the supply of power to the heater when user authentication for a user corresponding to the external device 700 is not completed.

[0186] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may limit the use of at least one function based on the disconnection of the communication link. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may disconnect the communication link when the strength of the signal received from the external device 700 is less than a predetermined strength.

[0187] 10A and 10B, the aerosol generating device 10 may output a home screen 1000 via the display 920. For example, when the display 920 is turned on from an off state, the home screen 1000 may be displayed via the display 920.

[0188] The home screen 1000 may include at least one indicator. For example, the home screen 1000 may include an indicator 1010 indicating an operation mode of the aerosol generating device 10, an indicator 1020 indicating a communication status, an indicator 1030 indicating the remaining power of the battery 16, an indicator 1040 indicating the current time, etc.

[0189] The indicator 1020 indicating the communication status may be changed depending on the communication link between the aerosol generating device 10 and the external device 700.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 10A, when a communication link between the aerosol generating device 10 and the external device 700 is formed, an indicator 1020 indicating the communication status may be displayed as a type corresponding to the communication link.

[0191] Referring to FIG. 10B, when a communication link between the aerosol generating device 10 and the external device 700 is not formed, the indicator 1020 indicating the communication status may be displayed as a type corresponding to communication not possible.

[0192] 11A and 11B, the aerosol generating device 10 can receive user input via the touch panel 925 while a home screen 1000 is displayed on the display 920.

[0193] The aerosol generating device 10 may change the screen outputted through the display 920 according to a user input. For example, when user authentication is completed, the aerosol generating device 10 may change the screen outputted through the display 920 according to a user input.

[0194] According to an embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 10 receives a leftward sweeping touch input 1101 while the home screen 1000 is displayed, the aerosol generating device 10 can convert the home screen 1000 displayed through the display 920 to an application screen 1100. According to an embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 10 receives a touch input 1102 touching the left edge region of the home screen 1000 while the home screen 1000 is displayed, the aerosol generating device 10 can convert the home screen 1000 displayed through the display 920 to an application screen 1100.

[0195] The application screen 1100 may include at least one object corresponding to an application installed in the aerosol generating device 10. Here, when a user selects one of the objects included in the application screen 1100 through a touch input, the aerosol generating device 10 may execute the application corresponding to the selected object.

[0196] 11C, when the aerosol generation device 10 receives a user input in a state where user authentication has not been completed, the aerosol generation device 10 may output a message prompting user authentication via the display 920. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 may output a screen including a message prompting user authentication as a pop-up screen 1110.

[0197] 12, the external device 700 may include a display 735. The external device 700 may output a screen via the display 735. When a communication link with the aerosol generation device 10 is formed, the external device 700 may output various screens corresponding to functions related to the aerosol generation device 10 via the display 735. When user authentication is completed, the external device 700 may output various screens corresponding to functions related to the aerosol generation device 10 via the display 735.

[0198] Referring to Figures 13A and 13B, the external device 700 can output a setting screen 1300 via the display 735 for determining settings related to the operating mode, functions, status, etc. of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0199] The setting screen 1300 may include a preview object 1310 indicating the screen type of the currently set home screen of the aerosol generating device 10, an object 1320 corresponding to a screen type that can be set as the home screen of the aerosol generating device 10, an object 1330 corresponding to an operating mode of the aerosol generating device 10, and the like.

[0200] When the external device 700 receives a touch input 1301 that selects an object 1321 corresponding to a first screen type among objects 1320 corresponding to screen types included in the setting screen 1300, the external device 700 can output an image corresponding to the first screen type as a preview object 1310.

[0201] Meanwhile, the external device 700 can transmit data corresponding to the type of the home screen to the aerosol generation device 10 via a communication link based on a touch input 1301 selecting an object 1321 corresponding to the first screen type.

[0202] The aerosol generating device 10 can update the setting information for the home screen based on the data corresponding to the type of the home screen received via the communication link from the external device 700. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can receive data corresponding to the type of the home screen received from the external device 700 via the communication link when user authentication is completed.

[0203] The aerosol generation device 10 may update the screen type of the home screen to the first screen type based on the data corresponding to the type of the home screen. Here, the aerosol generation device 10 may output the home screen 1325 of the first screen type via the display 920.

[0204] Referring to Figures 14A and 14B, the external device 700 can output a setting screen 1300 via the display 735 for determining settings related to the operating mode, functions, status, etc. of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0205] The external device 700 can determine the operation mode of the aerosol generating device 10 based on a user input selecting at least one of the objects 1330 corresponding to the operation modes included in the setting screen 1300. For example, when the external device 700 receives a touch input 1401 for further selecting an object corresponding to an operation mode not currently set among the objects 1330 corresponding to the operation modes included in the setting screen 1300, the external device 700 can add the operation mode selected by the touch input 1401 to the operation modes of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0206] Meanwhile, the external device 700 can transmit data corresponding to the operation mode to the aerosol generating device 10 via a communication link based on a touch input 1401 selecting the operation mode.

[0207] The aerosol generation device 10 can update the operation mode of the aerosol generation device 10 based on data corresponding to the operation mode received from the external device 700 via the communication link. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can receive data corresponding to the operation mode from the external device 700 via the communication link when user authentication is completed.

[0208] The aerosol generating device 10 can output a screen 1400 indicating the currently set operation mode via the display 920. For example, when two operation modes are set, the aerosol generating device 10 can update the operation mode to three operation modes based on data corresponding to the operation mode received from the external device 700.

[0209] 15A and 15B, the external device 700 can output a screen 1500 displaying the status of the aerosol generation device 10 via the display 735. For example, when user authentication is completed, the aerosol generation device 10 can transmit data regarding the status to the external device 700 via the communication link. Here, the external device 700 can display the remaining capacity, operation mode, etc. of the battery 16 of the aerosol generation device 10 via the display 735 based on the data regarding the status received from the aerosol generation device 10 via the communication link.

[0210] The aerosol generating device 10 can determine the occurrence of an event related to its operation. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine that an event has occurred when at least a portion of the configuration (e.g., the power terminal 930) is exposed to moisture. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine that an event has occurred when the remaining capacity of the battery 16 is less than a predetermined standard.

[0211] The aerosol generating device 10 can transmit data about an event that occurs in relation to the operation to the external device 700. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can transmit data about the event to the external device 700 via a communication link when user authentication is completed.

[0212] Here, the external device 700 can output a screen corresponding to the occurrence of an event through the display 735 based on data about the event received from the aerosol generation device 10 via the communication link. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can output a screen including a message notifying that at least a part of the configuration (e.g., the power terminal 930) is exposed to moisture as a pop-up screen 1510. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can output a screen including a message notifying that the remaining capacity of the battery 16 is below a predetermined standard as a pop-up screen 1520.

[0213] 16A and 16B, the external device 700 can perform a function of searching for the location of the aerosol generation device 10. The external device 700 can output a screen 1600 for searching for the location of the aerosol generation device 10 via the display 735. For example, the external device 700 can output the search screen 1600 for searching for the location of the aerosol generation device 10 in a state where a communication link with the aerosol generation device 10 is formed. The search screen 1600 can include an object 1605 for starting a search for the location of the aerosol generation device 10.

[0214] The external device 700 can transmit a search request for location to the aerosol generation device 10 via a communication link based on a touch input 1601 that selects an object 1605 that initiates a search for the location of the aerosol generation device 10.

[0215] The aerosol generation device 10 may perform an operation corresponding to a location search of the aerosol generation device 10 based on the search request received from the external device 700. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 may receive a search request from the external device 700 via a communication link when user authentication is completed.

[0216] The aerosol generating device 10 may perform an operation corresponding to the location search via at least one of the output devices based on a search request received from the external device 700.

[0217] A screen 1610 corresponding to the location search can be output via the display 920. The screen 1610 corresponding to the location search can include an object 1615 corresponding to the end of the search. The aerosol generating device 10 can end the execution of an operation corresponding to the search for the location of the aerosol generating device 10 based on a touch input selecting the object 1615 corresponding to the end of the search.

[0218] According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may output vibrations corresponding to a search request through the motor 940 based on a search request received from the external device 700. According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may output audio corresponding to the search request through a speaker based on a search request received from the external device 700.

[0219] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 10 may receive data regarding a notification received from the external device 700. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may receive data regarding a notification from the external device 700 via a communication link when user authentication is completed. Here, the data regarding the notification may correspond to a function such as a call connection or a message reception for providing a notification to a user.

[0220] 17A and 17B, the aerosol generating device 10 can output a screen 1710 corresponding to the call connection via the display 920 based on data about the call connection received from the external device 700. The screen 1710 corresponding to the call connection can include an object 1711 for rejecting a response to the call connection, an object 1713 for determining a response to the call connection, and the like.

[0221] The aerosol generating device 10 can output a screen 1720 for responding to the call connection via the display 920 based on a touch input 1701 that selects an object 1713 that determines a response to the call connection.

[0222] The screen 1720 for responding to the call connection may include at least one object 1725 corresponding to the response to the call connection. The aerosol generating device 10 may transmit a response corresponding to the selected object to the external device 700 via a communication link based on a touch input for selecting one of the objects 1725 corresponding to the response to the call connection.

[0223] 18A to 18C, the aerosol generation device 10 can output a screen 1810 corresponding to the message reception via the display 920 based on data regarding the message reception received from the external device 700. The screen 1810 corresponding to the message reception can include an object 1811 for refusing to respond to the message, an object 1813 for confirming the message, and the like.

[0224] The aerosol generating device 10 can output a screen 1820 confirming the contents of the message via the display 920 based on a touch input 1801 selecting an object 1813 confirming the message.

[0225] A screen 1820 for checking the contents of a message may include an object 1821 for deleting the contents of the message, an object 1823 for determining a response to the message, an object 1825 corresponding to the contents of the message, and the like.

[0226] The aerosol generating device 10 can output a screen 1830 for responding to the message via the display 920 based on a touch input 1803 that selects an object 1823 that determines a response to the message.

[0227] The screen 1830 for responding to the message may include at least one object 1835 corresponding to the response to the message. The aerosol generating device 10 may transmit a response corresponding to the selected object to the external device 700 via the communication link based on a touch input for selecting one of the objects 1835 corresponding to the response to the message.

[0228] 19A to 19C, the aerosol generating device 10 may change the screen outputted through the display 920 according to a user input. For example, when user authentication is completed, the aerosol generating device 10 may change the screen outputted through the display 920 according to a user input.

[0229] According to an embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 10 receives a rightward sweeping touch input 1901 while the home screen 1000 is displayed, the aerosol generating device 10 can convert the home screen 1000 displayed through the display 920 to the setting screen 1900. According to an embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 10 receives a touch input 1902 touching the right edge region of the home screen 1000 while the home screen 1000 is displayed, the aerosol generating device 10 can convert the home screen 1000 displayed through the display 920 to the setting screen 1900.

[0230] The setting screen 1900 may include at least one object (hereinafter referred to as a "setting object") corresponding to a setting item related to the operation, function, status, etc. of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0231] When the aerosol generating device 10 receives a touch input 1903 selecting a setting object corresponding to a notification setting while the setting screen 1900 is displayed, the aerosol generating device 10 can output a screen 1920 for determining settings related to notifications via the display 920.

[0232] The notification-related setting screen 1920 may include a user interface for changing the notification-related setting. For example, the notification-related setting screen 1920 may include an object 1921 corresponding to deactivation of a notification function, an object 1923 corresponding to deactivation of vibration generation corresponding to a notification, etc.

[0233] The aerosol generating device 10 can change the notification-related settings based on a touch input to an object included in the screen 1920 that determines the notification-related settings.

[0234] 20A to 20C, the aerosol generating device 10 can execute an application corresponding to a selected object based on a touch input for selecting one of the objects included in the application screen 1100. Here, the aerosol generating device 10 can execute the application corresponding to the selected object in a state where user authentication is completed.

[0235] According to one embodiment, when the aerosol generating device 10 receives a touch input 2001 selecting a calendar object 2010, the aerosol generating device 10 can execute an application corresponding to the calendar object 2010 (hereinafter referred to as a "calendar application").

[0236] When the aerosol generating device 10 executes a calendar application, the aerosol generating device 10 can request the external device 700 to transmit data corresponding to a schedule via the communication link. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can request the external device 700 to transmit data regarding a one-month schedule corresponding to a current date via the communication link.

[0237] The aerosol generating device 10 can output a screen 2020 corresponding to a calendar application via the display 920 based on data about a schedule received from the external device 700 via a communication link.

[0238] A screen 2020 corresponding to a calendar application may include an object 2021 showing a particular month and year, an object 2023 showing a calendar for a particular month and year, and so on.

[0239] When a schedule for a specific month is included in the data received from the external device 700 via the communication link, the aerosol generating device 10 can include at least one indicator corresponding to the schedule for the specific month on the screen 2020 corresponding to the calendar application. For example, the indicator corresponding to the schedule for the specific month can include an indicator 2025 indicating the number of schedules registered for the specific month, indicators 2027 and 2029 indicating the dates on which the schedules were registered, and the like.

[0240] Meanwhile, when a user selects one of the dates included in the object 2023 showing a calendar of a specific year and month by touch input, the aerosol generating device 10 may output a screen including a schedule registered for the selected date through the display 920. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may convert the screen 2020 corresponding to a calendar application into a screen including a schedule registered for the selected date. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may output a screen including a schedule registered for the selected date as a pop-up screen while the screen 2020 corresponding to the calendar application is output.

[0241] 21A to 21E, the external device 700 can output a screen 2100 corresponding to updating the firmware of the aerosol generation device 10 via the display 735.

[0242] According to one embodiment, the screen 2100 corresponding to a firmware update may include an object 2110 for downloading data corresponding to a new version of the firmware of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0243] The external device 700 can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the external device 700 can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generation device 10 based on a history of updating the firmware of the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the external device 700 can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generation device 10 based on data received from the aerosol generation device 10 via the communication interface 710.

[0244] Based on data received from an external server via the communication interface 710, the external device 700 can determine whether there is a new version of the firmware of the aerosol generating device 10 that is different from the current version.

[0245] When the external device 700 receives a touch input 2101 selecting an object 2110 for data download, the external device 700 may receive data corresponding to a new version of firmware via the communication interface 710. For example, the external device 700 may request an external server to transmit data corresponding to the new version via the communication interface 710 based on receiving the touch input 2101 selecting an object 2110 for data download.

[0246] Based on the reception of the data corresponding to the new version of the firmware, the external device 700 can change the object included in the screen 2100 corresponding to the firmware update. For example, the screen 2100 corresponding to the firmware update can include a message indicating that the reception of the data corresponding to the new version of the firmware is completed, an object 2120 for starting the firmware update of the aerosol generation device 10, etc.

[0247] Based on receiving a touch input 2102 selecting an object 2120 that initiates a firmware update of the aerosol generation device 10, the external device 700 can transmit data corresponding to a new version of the firmware to the aerosol generation device 10 via a communication link.

[0248] According to an embodiment, while the aerosol generating device 10 is performing an operation of heating the heater, the firmware update of the aerosol generating device 10 may be interrupted. For example, the external device 700 may check the currently performed operation of the aerosol generating device 10 via the communication link. Here, when the aerosol generating device 10 is performing an operation of heating the heater, the external device 700 may interrupt the transmission of data corresponding to the new version of the firmware.

[0249] When the aerosol generating device 10 performs an operation of heating the heater, the external device 700 can output a message notifying that the firmware update is not possible. For example, the external device 700 can output a pop-up screen 2130 including a message notifying that the firmware update is not possible. The pop-up screen 2130 can include an object 2131 for terminating the output of the pop-up screen 2130, and the like.

[0250] Meanwhile, the external device 700 may change the object included in the screen 2100 corresponding to the firmware update based on the completion of the firmware update of the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the screen 2100 corresponding to the firmware update may include a message indicating the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generation device 10, a message indicating that the firmware update has been completed, an object for terminating the output of the screen 2100 corresponding to the firmware update, and the like.

[0251] According to one embodiment, the external device 700 can output the screen 2140 for the new version of firmware via the display 735 while outputting the screen 1500 displaying the status of the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the external device 700 can output the screen 2140 for the new version of firmware as a pop-up screen.

[0252] A screen 2140 for a new version of firmware may include an object 2141 to postpone the firmware update, an object 2143 to perform the firmware update, and the like.

[0253] When the external device 700 receives a touch input 2103 selecting an object 2143 for performing a firmware update, the external device 700 can output a screen 2100 corresponding to updating the firmware of the aerosol generation device 10 via the display 735.

[0254] 22A and 22B, the external device 700 can output, via the display 735, a screen 2200 indicating the position of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0255] The screen 2200 showing the location of the aerosol generation device 10 may include a map 2210 corresponding to the location of the aerosol generation device 10, an indicator 2215 containing information about the location of the aerosol generation device 10, an object 2220 corresponding to detailed information about the location of the aerosol generation device 10, and the like.

[0256] According to an embodiment, the external device 700 may store data corresponding to the location of the external device 700 in the memory 720 based on the disconnection of the communication link with the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the data corresponding to the location of the external device 700 may include the time when the communication link was disconnected, the location of the external device 700 at the time when the communication link was disconnected, etc. Here, the location of the external device 700 may be determined based on a signal received via an antenna 715 corresponding to GPS.

[0257] When the external device 700 receives a touch input 2201 for selecting an object 2220 corresponding to detailed content about the location of the aerosol generation device 10, the external device 700 may expand and display an area corresponding to the object 2220 corresponding to detailed content about the location of the aerosol generation device 10. Here, an area corresponding to the map 2210 according to the location of the aerosol generation device 10 may be displayed in a reduced size.

[0258] The external device 700 can include detailed content about the location of the aerosol generation device 10 in the screen 2200 showing the location of the aerosol generation device 10 based on the expansion of the area corresponding to the object 2220 corresponding to the detailed content about the location of the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the detailed content about the location of the aerosol generation device 10 can include content 2221 corresponding to a recent disconnection of a communication link and / or content 2223 corresponding to a past disconnection of a communication link.

[0259] The external device 700 can determine details about the location of the aerosol generation device 10 based on the data corresponding to the location of the external device 700 stored in the memory 720.

[0260] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the use of the aerosol generating device 10 by unauthorized third parties can be restricted.

[0261] Furthermore, at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a user with a variety of convenient functions in addition to the function of generating aerosol.

[0262] In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a user can be provided with a convenient function of using a communication link formed between the aerosol generating device 10 and the external device 700.

[0263] 1 to 22B, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a heater that heats an aerosol generating material, a communication interface 11 that communicates with an external device 700, and a control unit 17. The control unit 17 checks whether authentication of a user has been completed in a state in which a communication link with the external device 700 has been formed via the communication interface 11, and if the authentication has not been completed, may restrict the use of at least one function including a heating function that supplies power to the heater, and may lift the restriction on the use of the at least one function if the authentication has been completed.

[0264] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 can restrict use of the at least one function based on the disconnection of the communication link.

[0265] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a memory 14 for storing data regarding the authentication. The control unit 17 may receive an identifier corresponding to the external device 700 from the external device 700 via the communication interface 11, and may check whether the authentication has been completed based on whether data corresponding to the identifier is stored in the memory 14.

[0266] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 can store data corresponding to the identifier in the memory 14 based on data about the authentication received from the external device 700 via the communications link.

[0267] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a motor 940 that generates vibrations. When the authentication is completed, the control unit 17 may output vibrations corresponding to a search request through the motor 940 based on a search request received from the external device 700 via the communication link.

[0268] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the authentication is complete, the control unit 17 can update setting information for the aerosol generating device 10 based on data about settings received from the external device 700 via the communication link.

[0269] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the authentication is complete, the control unit 17 may transmit data about an event related to an operation to the external device 700 via the communication link based on the occurrence of the event.

[0270] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a display panel 923 for outputting a screen, and a touch panel 925 for receiving a user input. When the control unit 17 receives a user input for executing a specific function among the at least one function in a state where the authentication is completed, the control unit 17 may request the external device 700 to transmit data corresponding to the specific function via the communication link, and may output a screen corresponding to the specific function via the display panel 923 based on the data corresponding to the specific function received from the external device 700 via the communication link.

[0271] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a display 920. When the authentication is completed, the control unit 17 may output, via the display 920, a screen corresponding to the notification based on data regarding the notification received from the external device 700 via the communication link.

[0272] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a display panel 923 for outputting a screen and a touch panel 925 for receiving a user input. When the authentication is completed, the control unit 17 may output, via the display panel 923, a screen corresponding to at least one response set for the notification based on data regarding the notification received from the external device 700 via the communication link, and may transmit data regarding the selected response to the external device 700 via the communication link based on a user input for selecting one of the at least one response via the touch panel 925.

[0273] Meanwhile, a system according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include an aerosol generating device 10 and an external device 700. The aerosol generating device 10 may include a first communication interface 11 for communicating with the external device 700, and the external device 700 may include a second communication interface 710 for communicating with the aerosol generating device 10 and a memory 720. The aerosol generating device 10 may check whether authentication of a user has been completed in a state in which a communication link with the external device 700 has been formed via the first communication interface 11, and may restrict the use of at least one function if the authentication has not been completed, and may lift the restriction on the use of the at least one function if the authentication has been completed.

[0274] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the external device 700 may store data corresponding to the location of the external device 700 in the memory 720 upon disconnection of the communication link with the aerosol generation device 10.

[0275] The specific embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct, and the structure or function of any or all of the elements of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be combined with other elements or combined with each other.

[0276] For example, configuration A described in one embodiment of this disclosure and the drawings and configuration B described in another embodiment of this disclosure and the drawings can be combined with each other. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible unless it is described that the combination is not possible.

[0277] Although the embodiments have been described above according to a number of exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that many other variations and embodiments are possible for those skilled in the art that fall within the scope of the principles of the present disclosure. More specifically, various modifications and variations are possible in the components and / or arrangements of the subject combinations within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to the modifications and variations of the components and / or arrangements, other applications will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. a heater that heats the aerosol generating material by the supplied power; A communication interface; A control unit, The control unit is determining whether authentication of a user has been completed in a state where a communication link with an external device has been established via the communication interface; If the authentication is not completed, restricting the use of at least one function including a heating function that supplies power to the heater; An aerosol generating device characterized in that, when the authentication is completed, restrictions on the use of at least one of the functions are lifted.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit further restricts use of the at least one function based on the disconnection of the communication link.

3. and a memory for storing data regarding said authentication. The control unit further includes: receiving an identifier corresponding to the external device from the external device via the communication interface; The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , further comprising: a step of confirming whether the authentication has been completed based on whether data corresponding to the identifier is stored in the memory.

4. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , further characterized in that the control unit stores data corresponding to the identifier in the memory based on data regarding the authentication received from the external device via the communication link.

5. Further comprising a motor for generating vibrations; The aerosol generating device of claim 1, further characterized in that, when the authentication is completed, the control unit generates vibrations corresponding to the search request through the motor based on a search request received from the external device via the communication link.

6. The aerosol generating device described in claim 1, characterized in that the control unit further updates setting information for the aerosol generating device based on data regarding settings received from the external device via the communication link when the authentication is completed.

7. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , further characterized in that, when the authentication is completed, the control unit transmits data about the event to the external device via the communication interface based on the occurrence of an operation-related event.

8. A display and a touch panel for receiving user input; The control unit further includes: when receiving a user input for executing a specific function among the at least one function in a state where the authentication is completed, controlling the communication interface to request the external device to transmit data corresponding to the specific function; The aerosol generating device described in claim 1, characterized in that a screen corresponding to the specific function is displayed via the display based on data corresponding to the specific function received from the external device via the communication link.

9. Further comprising a display; The aerosol generating device of claim 1, further characterized in that, when the authentication is completed, the control unit displays a screen corresponding to the notification on the display based on data regarding the notification received from the external device via the communication link.

10. A display and a touch panel for receiving user input; The control unit further includes: When the authentication is completed, a screen corresponding to at least one response set for the notification is displayed on the display based on data regarding the notification received from the external device via the communication link; The aerosol generating device of claim 1, characterized in that the communication interface is controlled to transmit data regarding the selected response to the external device based on a user input selecting any one of the at least one response via the touch panel.

11. An aerosol generating device; an external device; The aerosol generating device includes a first communication interface for performing communication with the external device, The external device is A second communication interface for communicating with the aerosol generation device; A memory, The aerosol generating device comprises: checking whether authentication of a user has been completed in a state in which a communication link with the external device has been established via the first communication interface; If the authentication is not completed, the use of at least one function is restricted; When the authentication is completed, the system releases restrictions on the use of the at least one function.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the external device stores data corresponding to the location of the external device in the memory upon disconnection of the communication link to the aerosol generating device.

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