Aerosol generating device and method of operation thereof

Abstract

According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device includes a heater for heating a cigarette, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater, and a control unit for calculating a heating time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor, comparing the calculated heating time of the cigarette with a preset threshold value, and determining a humidity state of the cigarette. If the heating time is less than the threshold value, the control unit supplies power to the heater with a basic temperature profile, and if the heating time is equal to or greater than the threshold value, supplies power to the heater with a first correction profile.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus and an operating method thereof, and more particularly to an aerosol generating apparatus and an operating method thereof that can distinguish between normal cigarettes and overhumid cigarettes based on a temperature rise rate and provide a temperature profile corresponding to the state of the cigarette. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for smoking methods that can replace conventional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for methods that generate aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating substance in a cigarette, rather than a method that generates aerosol by burning a cigarette. As a result, research on heated cigarettes or heated aerosol generating devices has been actively conducted.

[0003] On the other hand, moisture has a higher specific heat than air and a higher heat capacity than air at the same temperature. Therefore, when a user inhales an aerosol with a high moisture content, the user may feel a higher heat sensation than if the user inhaled air at the same temperature. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device and method for distinguishing between regular cigarettes and over-moist cigarettes.

[0005] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device and method of operation that includes temperature profiles corresponding to regular cigarettes and over-moisture cigarettes, respectively.

[0006] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device and method of operation that includes a temperature profile that supports continuous use.

[0007] The problems to be solved through the embodiments are not limited to the problems described above, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device includes a heater for heating a cigarette, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater, and a control unit for calculating a heating time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor, comparing the calculated heating time of the cigarette with a preset threshold value, and determining a humidity state of the cigarette. The control unit supplies power to the heater with a basic temperature profile when the heating time is less than the threshold value, and supplies power to the heater with a first correction profile when the heating time is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

[0009] According to an embodiment, a method for operating an aerosol generating device includes the steps of heating a cigarette with a heater, measuring a temperature of the heater with a temperature sensor, calculating a heating time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor, comparing the calculated heating time of the cigarette with a preset threshold value to determine a humidity state of the cigarette, and operating the heater with a temperature profile corresponding to the determined cigarette. The step of determining the humidity state of the cigarette determines the cigarette as a normal cigarette if the heating time is less than the threshold value, and determines the cigarette as an overhumid cigarette if the heating time is equal to or greater than the threshold value, and the step of operating the heater supplies power to the heater with a basic temperature profile if the heating time is less than the threshold value, and supplies power to the heater with a first correction profile if the heating time is equal to or greater than the threshold value. Effect of the Invention

[0010] The aerosol generating device and its operating method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can distinguish between normal cigarettes and over-humid cigarettes based on the heating time of the cigarettes.

[0011] In addition, the aerosol generating device and its operating method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide temperature profiles corresponding to both regular cigarettes and over-humidified cigarettes.

[0012] Additionally, the aerosol generating device and method of operation according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a temperature profile that supports continuous use.

[0013] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cigarette being inserted into an aerosol generating device. [Diagram 2] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cigarette being inserted into an aerosol generating device. [Diagram 3] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cigarette being inserted into an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] 1 is a drawing showing an example of a cigarette. [Diagram 5] 1 is a drawing showing an example of a cigarette. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. [Figure 7A] 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 7B] 7B is a perspective view showing an operating state of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A with some components separated. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is an illustrative diagram for explaining a basic temperature profile of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 9A] FIG. 13 is an exemplary diagram for explaining a first correction profile of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 9B] FIG. 11 is an exemplary diagram for explaining a second correction profile of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 10A] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment that takes into account the humidity conditions of a cigarette. [Figure 10B] 11 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment that takes into account the humidity state of the cigarette. [Figure 11] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device for determining whether a cigarette has been used continuously. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] The terms used in the embodiments are currently widely used and common terms as much as possible while considering the functions of the present invention, but this may vary depending on the intentions or precedents of engineers in the field, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, the meanings are described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based on the meanings that the terms have and the overall content of this disclosure, not just the names of the terms.

[0016] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a certain component, it does not mean excluding other components, but may further include other components, unless otherwise specified to the contrary. In addition, the terms "... unit" and "... module" in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and may be realized by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0017] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a semiconductor device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0019] 1 to 3 are diagrams showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0020] 1, the aerosol generation device 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. 2 and 3, the aerosol generation device 1 further includes a vaporizer 14. In addition, a cigarette 2 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generation device 1.

[0021] The components related to the present embodiment are illustrated in the aerosol generating device 1 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. Therefore, a person having ordinary skill in the art related to the present embodiment would understand that the aerosol generating device 1 further includes other general components in addition to the components illustrated in Figures 1 to 3.

[0022] In addition, although the aerosol generating device 1 includes the heater 13 in FIGS. 2 and 3, the heater 13 may be omitted if necessary.

[0023] In Fig. 1, the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the heater 13 are arranged in a row. Also, in Fig. 2, the battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14, and the heater 13 are arranged in a row. Also, in Fig. 3, the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generation device 1 is not limited to that shown in Figs. 1 to 3. That is, depending on the design of the aerosol generation device 1, the arrangement of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14 may be changed.

[0024] When the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generation device 1, the aerosol generation device 1 may activate the heater 13 and / or the vaporizer 14 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and / or the vaporizer 14 passes through the cigarette 2 and is delivered to the user.

[0025] If necessary, the aerosol generation device 1 can heat the heater 13 even when the cigarette 2 is not inserted in the aerosol generation device 1 .

[0026] The battery 11 supplies power used for the operation of the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the battery 11 can supply power to heat the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14, and can supply power necessary for the operation of the control unit 12. The battery 11 can also supply power necessary for the operation of a display, a sensor, a motor, and the like provided in the aerosol generation device 1.

[0027] The control unit 12 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generation device 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the operation of not only the battery 11, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, but also other components included in the aerosol generation device 1. The control unit 12 can also check the state of each component of the aerosol generation device 1 and determine whether the aerosol generation device 1 is in an operable state.

[0028] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be realized by an array of a number of logic gates, or may be realized by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. Those skilled in the art will understand that the controller 12 may also be realized by other types of hardware.

[0029] The heater 13 may be heated by power supplied from the battery 11. For example, when a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 13 may be located outside the cigarette. Thus, the heated heater 13 may increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material within the cigarette.

[0030] The heater 13 may also be an electrically resistive heater. For example, the heater 13 may include a conductive track, and the heater 13 may be heated by passing a current through the conductive track. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above example, and may correspond to any heater that can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device 1, or may be set to a desired temperature by a user.

[0031] Meanwhile, as another example, the heater 13 may be an induction heater. Specifically, the heater 13 may include a conductive coil for heating the cigarette in an induction heating manner, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that may be heated by the induction heater.

[0032] For example, the heater 13 may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0033] In addition, a plurality of heaters 13 may be disposed in the aerosol generating device 1. In this case, the plurality of heaters 13 may be disposed so as to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, or may be disposed outside the cigarette 2. In addition, some of the plurality of heaters 13 may be disposed so as to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, and the remaining may be disposed outside the cigarette 2. In addition, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes illustrated in Figs. 1 to 3, and various shapes may be produced.

[0034] The vaporizer 14 heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, which may be transmitted to the user through the cigarette 2. That is, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 travels along an airflow passage of the aerosol generating device 1, which may be configured to allow the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 to be transmitted to the user through the cigarette 2.

[0035] For example, the vaporizer 14 may include, but is not limited to, a liquid storage unit, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generation device 1 as separate modules.

[0036] The liquid storage portion can store a liquid composition, for example a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage portion can be made to be detached from / attached to the vaporizer 14, or can be made integral with the vaporizer 14.

[0037] For example, the liquid composition may include water, solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, flavors, flavorings, or vitamin mixtures. The flavors may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruit scents, and the like. The flavorings may include ingredients that provide a variety of flavors or tastes to the user. The vitamin mixture may include, but is not limited to, at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. The liquid composition may also include an aerosol forming agent, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0038] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition of the liquid reservoir to the heating element, for example, but not limited to, a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0039] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition transferred by the liquid transfer means. For example, the heating element can be, but is not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc. Also, the heating element can be configured with a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire and arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transfer means. The heating element can be heated by current supply and transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0040] For example, the vaporizer 14 may also be referred to as, but is not limited to, a cartomizer or an atomizer.

[0041] Meanwhile, the aerosol generation device 1 may further include a general-purpose component in addition to the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14. For example, the aerosol generation device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. The aerosol generation device 1 may also include at least one sensor (such as a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, or a cigarette insertion detection sensor). The aerosol generation device 1 may also be manufactured with a structure that allows external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out even when the cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0042] 1 to 3, the aerosol generation device 1 may form a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle is used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generation device 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 may heat the aerosol generation device 1 in a state where the cradle and the aerosol generation device 1 are combined.

[0043] The cigarette 2 may be similar to a typical combustion cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 may be divided into a first portion including an aerosol-generating material and a second portion including a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second portion of the cigarette 2 may also include an aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

[0044] The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generation device 1, 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 1, or the entire first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. A user may inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. In this case, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth by passing through the second part.

[0045] As an example, external air may flow in through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the opening and / or closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generation device 1 and / or the size of the air passage may be adjusted by a user. This allows the user to adjust the amount of atomization, smoking sensation, etc. As another example, external air may flow into the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed in the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0046] An example of the cigarette 2 will now be described with reference to FIGS.

[0047] 4 and 5 are drawings showing examples of cigarettes.

[0048] Referring to Fig. 4, the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. Although Fig. 4 illustrates the filter rod 22 as a single segment, the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, the filter rod 22 may be configured with a plurality of segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering a predetermined component contained in the aerosol. Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment for performing another function, if necessary.

[0049] The cigarette 2 has a diameter within 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 has a length of about 12 mm, the first segment of the filter rod 22 has a length of about 10 mm, the second segment of the filter rod 22 has a length of about 14 mm, and the third segment of the filter rod 22 has a length of about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0050] The cigarette 2 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 cigarette 2 may be wrapped by one wrapper 24. As another example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped by two or more wrappers 24 in a superimposed manner. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped by a first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 may be wrapped by wrappers 242, 243, and 244. Then, the entire cigarette 2 may be rewrapped by a single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 is made up of a plurality of segments, each of the segments may be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, and 244.

[0051] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made of a general filter wrapping paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be a porous wrapping paper or a non-porous wrapping paper. The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made of oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum laminated paper wrapping material.

[0052] The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is 88 g / m 2 ~96g / m 2 and preferably within the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94g / m 2 The thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be within a range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and may be preferably 125 μm.

[0053] The fourth wrapper 244 may be made of oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 is 88 g / m 2 ~96g / m 2 and preferably within the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94g / m 2 The thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be within a range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and may be preferably 125 μm.

[0054] The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) refers to 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 and preferably within the range of 60 g / m 2 The thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 is in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and is preferably 67 μm.

[0055] A predetermined substance may be added to the fifth wrapper 245. Here, an example of the predetermined substance may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without any restrictions.

[0056] The fifth trumpet 245 may prevent the cigarette 2 from being burned. For example, if the tobacco rod 210 is heated by the heater 13, the cigarette 2 may be burned. Specifically, if the temperature of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 310 is raised above the ignition point, the cigarette 2 may be burned. Even in this case, the fifth trumpet 245 may prevent the cigarette 2 from being burned because it contains a non-flammable substance.

[0057] Furthermore, the fifth trumpet 245 may prevent the aerosol generation device 1 from being contaminated by a substance generated in the cigarette 2. A liquid substance may be generated in the cigarette 2 by a user's puff. For example, a liquid substance (e.g., moisture) may be generated as the aerosol generated in the cigarette 2 is cooled by external air. The fifth trumpet 245 may wrap the cigarette 2, thereby preventing the liquid substance generated in the cigarette 2 from leaking to the outside.

[0058] The tobacco rod 21 includes an aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but is not limited thereto. 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 also be added to the tobacco rod 21 by being sprayed onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0059] The tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured in the form of a sheet or a strand. The tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured from tobacco shreds obtained by cutting a tobacco sheet into small pieces. The tobacco rod 21 may be surrounded by a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 may uniformly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 to improve the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the tobacco taste. The thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 may function as a susceptor that is heated by an induction heater. In this case, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may further include an additional susceptor in addition to the thermally conductive material surrounding the outside.

[0060] The filter rod 22 is also 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 rod or a tubular rod having a hollow inside. The filter rod 22 may also be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may be made to have a different shape.

[0061] The first segment of the filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment is a tubular structure having a hollow inside. When the heater 13 is inserted through the first segment, it prevents the inner material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed backward, and may also have a cooling effect on 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.

[0062] The length of the first segment may be within a range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the first segment is 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0063] The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by adjusting the content of the plasticizer during the manufacturing of the first segment. Also, the first segment can be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or tube made of the same or different material inside (e.g., hollow).

[0064] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 13 heating the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol that has been cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0065] The length or diameter of the second segment may be determined in various ways depending on the shape of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the second segment may be appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Desirably, the length of the second segment is about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0066] The second segment may be made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, the scented liquid may be applied to the fibers made of the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment may be made by weaving together a separate fiber to which the scented liquid is applied and a fiber made of the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment may be formed by a crimped polymer sheet.

[0067] For example, the polymer may be made of 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.

[0068] Because the second segment is formed from woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment may include one or more longitudinally extending channels, where channel refers to a passageway through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) may pass.

[0069] 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 The aerosol cooling element has a surface area of ​​approximately 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100mm 2 / mg of material.

[0070] Meanwhile, the second segment may include a thread containing a volatile flavor component, which may be, but is not limited to, menthol. For example, the thread may be loaded with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0071] The third segment of the filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be suitably within the 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.

[0072] In the process of manufacturing the third segment, the third segment may be manufactured so that a flavor is generated by spraying a flavoring liquid onto the third segment. Alternatively, separate fibers coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted into the third segment. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 is cooled by passing through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol may be delivered to the user via the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the effect of enhancing the persistence of the flavor delivered to the user may be achieved.

[0073] The filter rod 22 may also include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may perform a function of generating flavor and a function of generating aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may be a structure that encases a liquid containing a flavoring agent with a coating. The capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0074] 5, the cigarette 3 may further include a front end plug 33. The front end plug 33 may be located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite the filter rod 32. The front end plug 33 may prevent the tobacco rod 31 from coming off to the outside, and may prevent aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generating device (1 in FIGS. 1 to 3).

[0075] Filter rod 32 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322, where first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of filter rod 22 of FIG. 4, and second segment 322 may correspond to the third segment of filter rod 22 of FIG.

[0076] The diameter and overall length of the cigarette 3 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the cigarette 2 of Figure 4. For example, but not limited to, the length of the front end plug 33 may be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be about 14 mm.

[0077] The cigarette 3 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole through which external air may flow in or internal gas may 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 cigarette 3 may be repackaged by a fifth wrapper 355.

[0078] 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. The perforation 36 may serve to transfer heat generated by the heater 13 shown in Figures 2 and 3 to the inside of the tobacco rod 31.

[0079] The second segment 322 may also include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may perform a function of generating a flavor and may perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may be a structure that encases a liquid containing a flavoring agent with a coating. The capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0080] The first wrapper 351 is a typical filter wrapper with a metal foil such as an aluminum foil bonded thereto. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 is within a range of 45 μm to 55 μm, and preferably 50.3 μm. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 is within a range of 6 μm to 7 μm, and preferably 6.3 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 50 g / m2 ~55g / m 2 and preferably within the range of 53 g / m 2 It is also.

[0081] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be made of a common filter wrapping paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be a porous wrapping paper or a non-porous wrapping paper.

[0082] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 is 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. The thickness of the second wrapper 352 is within the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, and preferably 78 μm. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 20 g / m 2 ~25g / m 2 and preferably 23.5 g / m 2 It is also.

[0083] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 is 24000 CU, but is not limited thereto. The thickness of the third wrapper 353 is within a range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and is preferably 68 μm. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 is 20 g / m 2 ~25g / m 2 and preferably within the range of 21 g / m 2 It is also.

[0084] The fourth wrapper 354 may be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, the PLA laminated paper refers to a triple layer of paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 is in the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and preferably 110 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is 80 g / m 2 ~100g / m 2 and preferably within the range of 88 g / m 2 It is also.

[0085] The fifth wrapper 355 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) refers to 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 and preferably within the range of 60 g / m 2 The thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 is in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and is preferably 67 μm.

[0086] A predetermined substance may be added to the fifth wrapper 355. Here, an example of the predetermined substance may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without any restrictions.

[0087] The front end plug 33 may be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the front end plug 33 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and preferably within the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the front end plug 33 may be 5.0. 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 within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and preferably within the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the front end plug 33 may be 28,000.

[0088] Also, if desired, the front end plug 33 may include at least one channel, the cross-sectional shape of which may be made to vary.

[0089] The tobacco rod 31 may correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to Figure 4. Therefore, in the following, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted.

[0090] The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure having a hollow interior. The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate tow with a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin). For example, the mono-denier and total denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the mono-denier and total denier of the front end plug 33.

[0091] The second segment 322 may be made of cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 may be within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and preferably within the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 is 9.0. 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 within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and preferably 25,000.

[0092] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0093] The aerosol generating device 600 may include a control unit 610, a sensing unit 620, an output unit 630, a battery 640, a heater 650, a user input unit 660, a memory 670, and a communication unit 680. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 600 is not limited to that shown in Fig. 6. That is, a person having ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment would understand that some of the components shown in Fig. 6 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 600.

[0094] The sensing unit 620 may sense the state of the aerosol generating device 600 or the state around the aerosol generating device 600, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 610. The control unit 610 may control the aerosol generating device 600 based on the sensed information to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the heater 650, restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol product (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.) is inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0095] The sensing unit 620 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 622, an insertion sensor 624, a puff sensor 626, and a humidity sensor 628, but is not limited thereto.

[0096] The temperature sensor 622 may sense the temperature to which the heater 650 (or the aerosol generating material) is heated. The aerosol generating device 600 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the heater 650, or the heater 650 itself may function as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 622 may be disposed around the battery 640 to monitor the temperature of the battery 640.

[0097] Temperature sensor 622 may measure the temperature to which heater 650 (or the aerosol generating material) is heated, and provide the measured temperature to controller 610. Controller 610 may use temperature sensor 622 to calculate the time (or temperature rise time) for the measured temperature to reach the temperature at which the aerosol generating material is volatilized, and may compare the calculated temperature rise time with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette (2 in FIG. 2). Controller 610 may control the power supplied to heater 650 based on the determined humidity state of the cigarette.

[0098] The insertion detection sensor 624 may detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol product article. For example, the insertion detection sensor 624 may include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and may detect a signal change due to the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol product article.

[0099] The puff sensor 626 may sense a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or channel, for example, the puff sensor 626 may sense a user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0100] According to an embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can directly measure the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette (2 in FIG. 2) and provide the measured humidity information to the control unit 610. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be disposed in the receiving passage (1004h in FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600. According to another embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can measure the amount of moisture condensed around the cigarette (2 in FIG. 2) after heating the cigarette. The overhumid cigarette evaporates more moisture when heated than the normal cigarette. Thus, when the overhumid cigarette is heated, the condensation phenomenon may occur more than when the normal cigarette is heated. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be disposed around the external hole (1002p in FIG. 7A) overlapping with the receiving passage (1004h in FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600 or in the door (1003 in FIG. 7A).

[0101] The humidity sensor 628 may be any one of an electrical resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, and an optical sensor, but this is merely an example and the humidity sensor 628 is not limited thereto.

[0102] The sensing unit 620 may further include at least one of an air pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (illuminance) sensor in addition to the above-mentioned sensors (temperature sensor 622, insertion sensor 624, puff sensor 626, and humidity sensor 628). A person skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, so a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0103] The output unit 630 may output information related to the state of the aerosol generating device 600 to provide it to a user. The output unit 630 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a display unit 632, a haptic unit 634, and an audio output unit 636. When the display unit 632 and the touchpad are configured as a touch screen by forming a layered structure, the display unit 632 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0104] The display unit 632 visually provides a user with information related to the aerosol generating device 600. For example, the information related to the aerosol generating device 600 means various information such as a charge / discharge state of the battery 640 of the aerosol generating device 600, a preheat state of the heater 650, an insertion / removal state of an aerosol product, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 600 is restricted (e.g., abnormal item detection), and the display unit 632 can output the information to the outside. The display unit 632 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), etc. Also, the display unit 632 may be in the form of an LED light emitting element.

[0105] The haptic unit 634 converts an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus and tactilely provides the user with information related to the aerosol generating device 600. For example, the haptic unit 634 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0106] The acoustic output unit 636 audibly provides the user with information related to the aerosol generating device 600. For example, the acoustic output unit 636 can convert an electric signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0107] The battery 640 may supply power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 600. The battery 640 may supply power so that the heater 650 is heated. The battery 640 may also supply power necessary for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generating device 600 (e.g., the sensing unit 620, the output unit 630, the user input unit 660, the memory 670, and the communication unit 680). The battery 640 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 640 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0108] The heater 650 can heat the aerosol-generating material by receiving power from the battery 640. Although not shown in Fig. 6, the aerosol generating device 600 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 640 and supplies the converted power to the heater 650. In addition, when the aerosol generating device 600 generates an aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generating device 600 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power of the battery 640 into an AC power.

[0109] The control unit 610, the sensing unit 620, the output unit 630, the user input unit 660, the memory 670, and the communication unit 680 may perform their functions by receiving power from a battery 640. Although not shown in FIG 6, the device may further include a power conversion circuit, for example, a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the battery 640 and supplies it to each component.

[0110] In one embodiment, the heater 650 may be made of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. The heater 650 may also be embodied by, but not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate having a conductive track disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0111] In another embodiment, heater 650 is an inductive heater. For example, heater 650 can include a susceptor that generates heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol generating material.

[0112] In one embodiment, the heater 650 may include multiple heaters. For example, the heater 650 may include a first heater for heating the cigarette and a second heater for heating the liquid.

[0113] The user input unit 660 receives information input by a user or outputs information to a user. For example, the user input unit 660 may be, but is not limited to, a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (a touch pad using a contact type capacitance type, a pressure type resistive film type, an infrared sensing type, a surface ultrasonic conduction type, an integral type tension measurement type, a piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. In addition, although not shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 600 may further include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to another external device through the connection interface such as a USB interface to transmit and receive information or charge the battery 640.

[0114] The memory 670 is hardware that stores various data (e.g., a temperature profile) processed in the aerosol generating device 600, and can store data processed by the control unit 610 and data to be processed. The memory 670 can include at least one type of recording medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The memory 670 can store the operation time of the aerosol generating device 600, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data related to the smoking pattern of the user.

[0115] The communication unit 680 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 680 may include a short-range communication unit 682 and a wireless communication unit 684.

[0116] The short-range wireless communication unit 682 may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee (registered trademark) communication unit, an IrDA (infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, and the like.

[0117] The wireless communication unit 684 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 684 may identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 600 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)).

[0118] The control unit 610 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 600. In one embodiment, the control unit 610 can include at least one processor. The processor can be realized by an array of a number of logic gates, and can be realized by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. In addition, a person skilled in the art to which the present embodiment belongs will understand that the processor can also be realized by other types of hardware.

[0119] The control unit 610 can control the temperature of the heater 650 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 640 to the heater 650. For example, the control unit 610 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 640 and the heater 650. In another example, a heating direct circuit may control the power supply to the heater 650 according to a control command from the control unit 610.

[0120] The control unit 610 may analyze the result sensed by the sensing unit 620 and control subsequent processing. For example, the control unit 610 may control the power supplied to the heater 650 so that the operation of the heater 650 is started or ended based on the result sensed by the sensing unit 620. As another example, the control unit 610 may control the amount of power and the power supply time supplied to the heater 650 so that the heater 650 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the result sensed by the sensing unit 620.

[0121] The control unit 610 can control the output unit 630 based on the result sensed by the sensing unit 620. For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 626 reaches a preset number, the control unit 610 notifies the user through at least one of the display unit 632, the haptic unit 634, and the audio output unit 636 that the aerosol generating device 600 will soon be shut down.

[0122] The control unit 610 may determine the humidity state of the cigarette using the temperature sensor 622. The control unit 610 may operate the heater 950 with a temperature profile that corresponds to the determined humidity state of the cigarette.

[0123] Hereinafter, with reference to Figures 7A to 11, a detailed description will be given of an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that distinguishes between normal cigarettes and overhumid cigarettes based on the temperature rise time of the cigarette (see 2 in Figure 2) and applies a compensation profile to the overhumid cigarette.

[0124] Fig. 7A is a perspective view showing the appearance of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 7B is a perspective view showing an operating state of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 7A with some components separated.

[0125] 7A, the aerosol generating device 1000 may include a case 1100 and a cover 1002. The cover 1002 is coupled to one end of the case 1100, so that the case 1100 and the cover 1002 together form the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1000.

[0126] The case 1100 forms part of the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1000 and serves the function of housing and protecting various components therein.

[0127] The cover 1002 and the case 1100 may be made of a plastic material that does not transmit heat well, or a metal material coated with a heat insulating material on the surface. The cover 1002 and the case 1100 may be made by, for example, an injection molding method, a 3D printing method, or a method of assembling small parts made by injection molding.

[0128] A holding device (not shown) for holding the cover 1002 and the case 1100 in a coupled state may be provided between the cover 1002 and the case 1100. The holding device may include, for example, a protrusion and a groove. A structure may be used in which the coupled state of the cover 1002 and the case 1100 is held by holding the protrusion inserted into the groove, and the protrusion is moved by an operation button that can be pressed by the user, and the protrusion is separated from the groove.

[0129] Furthermore, the holding device may include, for example, a magnet and a metal member attached to the magnet. When a magnet is used for the holding device, a magnet may be provided on one of the case 1100 and the cover 1002, and a metal member attached to the other magnet may be provided, or a magnet may be provided on both the case 1100 and the cover 1002.

[0130] An external hole 1002p into which the cigarette 2000 is inserted is formed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 coupled to the case 1100. A rail 1003r is formed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 at a position adjacent to the external hole 1002p. A door 1003 that is slidable along the upper surface of the cover 1002 is provided on the rail 1003r. The door 1003 can slide linearly along the rail 1003r.

[0131] 7A along the rail 1003r, the door 1003 functions to expose to the outside the external hole 1002p through which the cigarette 2000 passes through the cover 1002 and is inserted into the case 1100, and the insertion hole 1004p. The external hole 1002p of the cover 1002 functions to expose to the outside the insertion hole 1004p of the storage passage 1004h that stores the cigarette 2000.

[0132] When the external hole 1002p is exposed to the outside by the door 1003, a user can insert the end 2000b of the cigarette 2000 into the external hole 1002p and the insertion hole 1004p, and place the cigarette 2000 in the receiving passage 1004h formed inside the cover 1002.

[0133] Although the rail 1003r has a concave groove shape, the embodiment is not limited by the shape of the rail 1003r. For example, the rail 1003r may have a convex shape and extend in a line rather than a straight line.

[0134] The case 1100 is provided with a button 1009. By operating the button 1009, the operation of the aerosol generating device 1000 can be controlled.

[0135] When the cover 1002 is coupled to the case 1100, an external air inflow gap 1002g that allows air to flow into the inside of the cover 1002 is formed at a portion where the cover 1002 and the case 1100 are coupled.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 7B, with the cigarette 2000 inserted into the aerosol generating device 1000, a user can place the cigarette 2000 in their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0137] The case 1100 may be composed of an upper case 1100a into which the cigarette 2000 is inserted and into which the cigarette 2000 is heated, and a lower case 1100b that supports and protects various components installed inside. Hereinafter, the case 1100 is meant to include both the upper case 1100a and the lower case 1100b.

[0138] The cover 1002 can be coupled to the case 1100 so as to cover the cigarette supporting portion 4 coupled to the case 1100. Also, the cover 1002 can be separated from the case 1100 as necessary.

[0139] FIG. 8 is an exemplary diagram for explaining a basic temperature profile of the aerosol generating device.

[0140] 6 and 8, the control unit 610 of the aerosol generating device 600 can calculate the temperature rise time T1 of the cigarette (2000 in FIG. 7A) using the temperature sensor 622, and compare the calculated temperature rise time T1 of the cigarette 2000 with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000. If the temperature rise time T1 is less than the threshold value, the control unit 610 can supply power to the heater 650 according to the basic temperature profile TP.

[0141] In this case, the preset threshold value is the time for the over-moist cigarette to reach the first target temperature T1, and may be determined experimentally and statistically. Even if the time for reaching the first target temperature T1 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the user may feel a heat sensation due to moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 when the heater 650 is operated according to the basic temperature profile TP.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 8, the basic temperature profile TP includes a first pre-heating section P1 and a first smoking section P2, and the first pre-heating section P1 and the first smoking section P2 are further divided into smaller sections.

[0143] The first pre-heating section P1 may include a first pre-heating rising section P11 (or a temperature rise time T1) for rising to a first target temperature T1, a first pre-heating holding section P12 for holding the first target temperature T1, and a first pre-heating falling section P13 for lowering to a second target temperature T2. The first smoking section P2 may include a first smoking falling section P21a for lowering to a third target temperature T3, a second smoking falling section P21b for lowering to a fourth target temperature T4, a third smoking falling section P21c for lowering to a fifth target temperature T5, and a first smoking holding section P22 for holding the fifth target temperature T5. Here, the first pre-heating section P1 includes the first pre-heating ascending section P11, the first pre-heating holding section P12, and the first pre-heating descending section P13, and the first smoking section P2 includes the first smoking descending section P21a, the second smoking descending section P21b, the third smoking descending section P21c, and the first smoking holding section P22. However, this is not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that various modifications are possible depending on the shape and type of the cigarette or heater.

[0144] FIG. 9A is an exemplary diagram for explaining a first correction profile of the aerosol generating device.

[0145] 6, 8, and 9A, when the aerosol generating device 600 determines that the inserted cigarette (2000 in FIG. 7A) is an overly moist cigarette, it may operate the heater 650 by applying a first correction profile CP1 described below.

[0146] According to an embodiment, the control unit 610 may calculate the temperature rise time T2 of the cigarette 2000 using the temperature sensor 622, and may compare the calculated temperature rise time T2 of the cigarette 2000 with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000. When the temperature rise time T2 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the control unit 610 may supply power to the heater 650 according to the first correction profile CP1.

[0147] However, the method of determining the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment, the control unit 610 may determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 using the humidity sensor 628.

[0148] According to an embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 may directly measure the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000 and provide the measured humidity information to the control unit 610. For example, the humidity sensor 628 may be disposed in the receiving passage (1004h in FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600. According to another embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 may measure the amount of moisture condensed around the cigarette (2 in FIG. 2) after heating the cigarette. The overhumid cigarette evaporates more moisture when heated than the normal cigarette. Thus, when the overhumid cigarette is heated, the condensation phenomenon may occur more than when the normal cigarette is heated. For example, the humidity sensor 628 may be disposed around the external hole (1002p in FIG. 7A) overlapping with the receiving passage (1004h in FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600 or in the door (1003 in FIG. 7A).

[0149] The humidity sensor 628 may be any one of an electrical resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, and an optical sensor, but this is merely an example and the humidity sensor 628 is not limited thereto.

[0150] As shown in FIG. 9A, the first correction profile CP1 includes a second pre-heating section P3 and a second smoking section P4, and the second pre-heating section P3 and the second smoking section P4 are further divided into smaller sections.

[0151] The second pre-heating section P3 may include a second pre-heating rising section P31 (or a temperature rise time T2) for rising to the first target temperature T1, a second pre-heating holding section P32 for holding the first target temperature T1, a second pre-heating falling section P33 for falling to the fifth target temperature T5, and a third pre-heating holding section P34 for holding the fifth target temperature T5. The second smoking section P4 may include a second smoking holding section P41 for holding the fifth target temperature T5. Here, the second pre-heating section P2 includes the second pre-heating rising section P31, the second pre-heating holding section P32, the second pre-heating falling section P33, and the third pre-heating holding section P34, and the second smoking section P4 includes the second smoking holding section P41, but is not limited thereto and may be modified in various ways depending on the shape and type of the cigarette or heater.

[0152] 8 and 9A, the second pre-heating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first pre-heating section P1 of the basic temperature profile TP.

[0153] Specifically, the second pre-heating rising section P31 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first pre-heating rising section P11 of the basic temperature profile TP. For example, there may be a difference of about 3 to 4 seconds between the time T2 when the first target temperature T1 of the first correction profile CP1 is reached and the time T1 when the first target temperature T1 of the basic temperature profile TP is reached. That is, since an overly moist cigarette contains more moisture than an ordinary cigarette, the evaporation of moisture that should be heated is slowed down, and a phenomenon that the temperature rise speed of the cigarette is slowed down may occur.

[0154] The second pre-heating holding section P32 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first pre-heating holding section P12 of the basic temperature profile TP, so that the moisture contained in the cigarette 2000 can be evaporated more, thereby reducing the initial heat sensation.

[0155] Also, the temperature change in the second pre-heating descending section P33 of the first correction profile CP1 is larger than the temperature change in the first pre-heating descending section P13 of the basic temperature profile TP. For example, the first pre-heating descending section P13 may change from the first target temperature T1 to the second target temperature T2, while the second pre-heating descending section P33 may change from the first target temperature T1 to the fifth target temperature T5. A regular cigarette is less likely to cause a user to feel hot due to moisture contained therein, so it can be smoked from the second target temperature T2, which is higher than the fifth target temperature T5. However, an over-humid cigarette contains more moisture than a regular cigarette, so the temperature change in the second pre-heating descending section P33 can be set to be larger to alleviate the initial feeling of heat.

[0156] In addition, the second pre-heating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1 may further include a third pre-heating holding section P34 in which the fifth target temperature T5 is held in order to reduce the initial hot sensation.

[0157] FIG. 9B is an exemplary diagram for explaining the second correction profile of the aerosol generating device.

[0158] 6, 8, 9A, and 9B, the control unit 610 of the aerosol generating device 600 may detect the insertion of a cigarette (2000 in FIG. 7A) using the insertion detection sensor 624. When the insertion of the cigarette 2000 is detected, the control unit 610 may check whether the first correction profile CP1 was used during the previous heating of the heater 650. For example, the control unit 610 may check whether the first correction profile CP1 was used during the previous heating of the heater 650 based on the temperature profile usage history stored in the memory 670.

[0159] If it is determined that the first correction profile CP1 was used during the previous heating of the heater 650, the control unit 610 may determine whether the heater 650 was used continuously or repeatedly.

[0160] According to an embodiment, the controller 610 can use the temperature sensor 622 to determine whether the heater 650 has been used continuously or repeatedly.

[0161] If the measured temperature of the heater 650 is lower than the reference temperature, the control unit 610 determines that the cigarette 2000 is not being used continuously and re-determines the humidity state of the cigarette 2000. For example, the control unit 610 determines the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 using the temperature sensor 622 or the humidity sensor 628. If the control unit 610 determines that the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 is a normal cigarette, it may supply power to the heater 650 according to the basic temperature profile TP, and if the control unit 610 determines that the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 is an overhumid cigarette, it may supply power to the heater 650 according to the first correction profile CP1.

[0162] Meanwhile, when the measured temperature of the heater 650 is equal to or higher than the reference temperature, the control unit 610 may determine that the heater 650 is in continuous use, select the second correction profile CP2, and supply power to the heater 650 according to the second correction profile CP2. If the first correction profile CP1 was selected during the immediately preceding smoking event and the heater 650 is in continuous use, the cigarettes 2000 are generally packed in units of a specific number (e.g., 20), and therefore the humidity state of the inserted cigarettes 2000 is likely to be an over-humid cigarette.

[0163] In another embodiment, the control unit 610 may determine whether the heater 650 has been used continuously or repeatedly by comparing the interval between the end point of the previous smoking event and the time of the current smoking event with a preset time.

[0164] If the preset time is exceeded, the control unit 610 may determine that continuous use is not occurring and may reassess the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (selecting the basic temperature profile or the first correction profile). On the other hand, if the preset time is not exceeded, the control unit 610 may determine that continuous use is occurring (selecting the second correction profile).

[0165] As shown in FIG. 9B, the second correction profile CP2 includes a third pre-heating section P5 and a third smoking section P6, and the third pre-heating section P5 and the third smoking section P6 are further divided into smaller sections.

[0166] The third pre-heating section P5 of the second correction profile CP2 may include a third pre-heating rising section P51 (or a temperature rise time T3) for rising to the first target temperature T1, a fourth pre-heating holding section P52 for holding the first target temperature T1, a third pre-heating falling section P53 for falling to the fifth target temperature T5, and a fifth pre-heating holding section P54 for holding the fifth target temperature T5. The third smoking section P6 may include a third smoking holding section P61 for holding the fifth target temperature T5. Here, the third pre-heating section P3 includes the third pre-heating rising section P51, the fourth pre-heating holding section P52, the third pre-heating falling section P53, and the fifth pre-heating holding section P54, and the third smoking section P6 includes the third smoking holding section P61, but is not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that various modifications are possible depending on the shape and type of the cigarette or heater.

[0167] The third pre-heating section P5 of the second correction profile CP2 is longer than the first pre-heating section P1 of the basic temperature profile TP and shorter than the second pre-heating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1.

[0168] Specifically, the fourth pre-heating holding section P52 of the second correction profile CP2 is longer than the first pre-heating holding section P12 of the basic temperature profile TP, so that the moisture contained in the cigarette 2000 can be evaporated more, thereby reducing the initial heat sensation.

[0169] Also, the temperature change in the third pre-heating decline section P53 of the second correction profile CP2 may be greater than the temperature change in the first pre-heating decline section P13 of the basic temperature profile TP. For example, the first pre-heating decline section P13 may change from the first target temperature T1 to the second target temperature T2, while the third pre-heating decline section P53 may change from the first target temperature T1 to the fifth target temperature T5. Regular cigarettes are less likely to cause a user to feel hot due to moisture contained therein, so they can be smoked from the second target temperature T2, which is higher than the fifth target temperature T5. However, over-humid cigarettes contain more moisture than regular cigarettes, so the temperature change in the second pre-heating decline section P33 may be set to be greater to alleviate the initial feeling of heat.

[0170] Furthermore, the third pre-heating section P5 of the second correction profile CP2 may further include a fifth pre-heating holding section P54 in which the fifth target temperature T5 is held in order to reduce the initial hot sensation.

[0171] The start temperature T0 of the second correction profile CP2 is also higher than the start temperature (room temperature of about 15°) of the first correction profile CP1. Therefore, the temperature rise time T3 of the second correction profile CP2 to reach the first target temperature T1 is shorter than the temperature rise time T2 of the first correction profile CP1. In that case, the aerosol generating device 600 initially maintains a high temperature, which may cause a user to feel hot.

[0172] The second correction profile CP2 may reduce the initial heat sensation by making the pre-heating time after the first target temperature T1 is reached longer than that of the first correction profile CP1.

[0173] 9A and 9B, the pre-heating time after the first target temperature T1 of the second correction profile CP2 corresponds to the combined period of the fourth pre-heating holding section P52, the third pre-heating descending section P53, and the fifth pre-heating holding section P54, and the pre-heating time after the first target temperature T1 of the first correction profile CP1 corresponds to the combined period of the second pre-heating holding section P32, the second pre-heating descending section P33, and the third pre-heating holding section P34. Here, the combined period of the fourth pre-heating holding section P52, the third pre-heating descending section P53, and the fifth pre-heating holding section P54 is longer than the combined period of the second pre-heating holding section P32, the second pre-heating descending section P33, and the third pre-heating holding section P34. That is, the third smoking period P6 of the second correction profile CP2 is substantially the same as the second smoking section P4 of the first correction profile CP1.

[0174] In addition, the time during which the first target temperature T1 of the second correction profile CP2 is held (i.e., the fourth pre-heating holding section P52) may be made shorter than the time during which the first target temperature T1 of the first correction profile CP1 is held (i.e., the second pre-heating holding section P32).

[0175] FIG. 10A is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment that takes into account the humidity conditions of a cigarette.

[0176] 6 to 10A, the method of operating the aerosol generating device may include a step of heating the cigarette 2000 by the heater 650 (S100), a step of measuring the temperature of the heater 650 by the temperature sensor 622 and calculating a heating time of the cigarette 2000 (S200), a step of comparing the calculated heating time of the cigarette 2000 with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (S300), a step of selecting a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (S410, S420), and a step of operating the heater 650 with the selected temperature profile (S500).

[0177] Specifically, in the step of heating the cigarette 2000 by the heater 650 (S100), since the overhumid cigarette contains more moisture than a regular cigarette, the evaporation of the moisture that needs to be heated may be slower, resulting in a phenomenon in which the temperature rise rate of the cigarette is slower.

[0178] In the step of measuring the temperature of the heater 650 by the temperature sensor 622 and calculating the heating time of the cigarette 2000 (S200), the control unit 610 may determine the time for the temperature of the heater 650 to reach a preset first target temperature T1 as the heating time of the cigarette 2000.

[0179] In the step (S300) of comparing the calculated temperature rise time of the cigarette 2000 with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000, the control unit 610 determines that the cigarette 2000 is a normal cigarette if the temperature rise time is less than the threshold value, and determines that the cigarette 2000 is an overly moist cigarette if the temperature rise time is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

[0180] In this case, the preset threshold value is the time for the over-moist cigarette to reach the first target temperature T1, and may be determined experimentally and statistically. If the heater 650 is operated according to the basic temperature profile TP even if the time for reaching the first target temperature T1 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the user may feel a heat sensation due to moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000.

[0181] In the step of selecting a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (S410, S420), the control unit 610 may select the basic temperature profile TP if the temperature rise time is less than a threshold value, and may select the first correction profile CP1 if the temperature rise time is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

[0182] In the step of operating the heater 650 with the selected temperature profile (S500), the control unit 610 may supply power to the heater 650 with the basic temperature profile TP if the heating time is less than a threshold value, and may supply power to the heater 650 with the first correction profile CP1 if the heating time is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

[0183] The basic temperature profile TP includes a first pre-heating section P1 and a first smoking section P2, which are further divided into smaller sections. The first correction profile CP1 includes a second pre-heating section P3 and a second smoking section P4, which are further divided into smaller sections.

[0184] The second pre-heating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first pre-heating section P1 of the basic temperature profile TP.

[0185] Specifically, the second pre-heating rise section P31 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first pre-heating rise section P11 of the basic temperature profile TP.

[0186] The second pre-heating holding section P32 is longer than the first pre-heating holding section P12, so that the moisture contained in the cigarette 2000 can be evaporated more, thereby reducing the initial heat sensation.

[0187] Also, the temperature change in the second pre-heating descending section P33 may be greater than the temperature change in the first pre-heating descending section P13. A regular cigarette is less likely to cause a user to feel heat due to moisture contained therein, so it is possible to smoke it at the second target temperature T2, which is higher than the fifth target temperature T5, but an over-humid cigarette has more moisture contained therein than a regular cigarette, so the temperature change in the second pre-heating descending section P33 can be set greater to reduce the initial heat sensation.

[0188] In addition, the second pre-heating section P3 may further include a third pre-heating holding section P34 in which the fifth target temperature T5 is held in order to reduce the initial hot feeling.

[0189] FIG. 10B is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment that takes into account the humidity conditions of the cigarette.

[0190] The embodiment shown in Fig. 10B is different from the embodiment shown in Fig. 10A in that the humidity state of the cigarette is determined using a temperature sensor, but the remaining configurations are substantially the same. Hereinafter, a duplicated description of the same configurations will be omitted and the differences will be mainly described.

[0191] 6 to 10B, a method of operating the aerosol generating device may include a step of heating the cigarette 2000 by the heater 650 (S110), a step of measuring the humidity of the cigarette 2000 using the humidity detection sensor 628 (S210), a step of comparing the measured humidity of the cigarette 2000 with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (S310), a step of selecting a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (S411, S421), and a step of operating the heater 650 with the selected temperature profile (S510).

[0192] Specifically, in the step of measuring the humidity of the cigarette 2000 using the humidity sensor 628 (S210), the control unit 610 may determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 using the humidity sensor 628. According to an embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 may directly measure the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000 and provide the measured humidity information to the control unit 610. For example, the humidity sensor 628 may be disposed in the receiving passage (1004h in FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600. According to another embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 may measure the amount of moisture condensed around the cigarette (2 in FIG. 2) after heating the cigarette. The overhumid cigarette evaporates more moisture when heated than the general cigarette. Thus, when the overhumid cigarette is heated, the condensation phenomenon may occur more frequently than the general cigarette. For example, the humidity sensor 628 may be disposed around the exterior hole (1002p in FIG. 7A) that overlaps with the storage passage (1004h in FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600 or on the door (1003 in FIG. 7A).

[0193] The humidity sensor 628 may be any one of an electrical resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, and an optical sensor, but this is merely an example and the humidity sensor 628 is not limited thereto.

[0194] In the step (S310) of comparing the measured humidity of the cigarette 2000 with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000, the control unit 610 determines the cigarette 2000 as a normal cigarette if the measured humidity of the cigarette 2000 is less than the threshold value, and determines the cigarette 2000 as an overly humid cigarette if the measured humidity of the cigarette 2000 is equal to or greater than the threshold value. In this case, the preset threshold value is also the minimum humidity at which the user feels a sense of heat due to moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 when inhaling aerosol.

[0195] In the steps of selecting a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (S411, S421), the control unit 610 may select the basic temperature profile TP if the measured humidity of the cigarette 2000 is below a threshold value, and may select the first correction profile CP1 if the measured humidity of the cigarette 2000 is above the threshold value.

[0196] In the step of operating the heater 650 with the selected temperature profile (S510), the control unit 610 may supply power to the heater 650 with the basic temperature profile TP if the measured humidity of the cigarette 2000 is below a threshold value, and may supply power to the heater 650 with the first correction profile CP1 if the measured humidity of the cigarette 2000 is above the threshold value.

[0197] 11 is a flow chart for explaining a method for operating the aerosol generating device for determining whether or not a cigarette has been used continuously. Hereinafter, the contents described above in FIG. 8 to FIG. 10B will not be described again.

[0198] 6 to 11, a method of operating an aerosol generating device may include a step of detecting the insertion of a cigarette (2000 in FIG. 7A) (S1000), a step of checking whether the first correction profile CP1 was used when the heater 650 was last heated (S2000), a step of determining whether the heater 650 is to be used continuously (S3000), a step of selecting a temperature profile corresponding to the determined continuous use state of the heater 650 and / or the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (S4100, S4200), and a step of operating the heater 650 with the selected temperature profile (S5000).

[0199] Specifically, in the step S1000 of detecting the insertion of a cigarette (2000 in FIG. 7A), the control unit 610 may detect the insertion of the cigarette 2000 using the insertion detection sensor 624.

[0200] In the step (S2000) of checking whether the first correction profile CP1 was used when the heater 650 was previously heated, the control unit 610 can check whether the first correction profile CP1 was used when the heater 650 was previously heated based on the temperature profile usage history stored in the memory 670.

[0201] In the step of determining whether the heater 650 is used continuously (S3000), if it is determined that the first correction profile CP1 was used when the heater 650 was previously heated, the control unit 610 may determine whether the heater 650 is used continuously or repeatedly. For example, the control unit 610 may determine whether the heater 650 is used continuously or repeatedly by using the temperature sensor 622 or by comparing the interval between the end point of the previous smoking event and the time point of the current smoking event with a preset time.

[0202] In the steps of selecting a temperature profile corresponding to the determined continuous use state of the heater 650 and / or the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (S4100, S4200) and operating the heater 650 with the selected temperature profile (S5000), the control unit 610 may re-determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 if it determines that the continuous use is not in progress. The control unit 610 may determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 using the temperature sensor 622 or the humidity detection sensor 628. If the control unit 610 determines that the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 is a normal cigarette, it may supply power to the heater 650 according to the basic temperature profile TP, and if it determines that the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 is an overhumid cigarette, it may supply power to the heater 650 according to the first correction profile CP1. On the other hand, if the control unit 610 determines that the heater 650 is to be used continuously, the control unit 610 may select the second correction profile CP2 and supply power to the heater 650 according to the second correction profile CP2.

[0203] In this way, the aerosol generating device 600 of the present application can select a corresponding temperature profile based on the humidity state and / or continuous use of the cigarette 2000, and operate the heater 650 with the selected temperature profile. As a result, the aerosol generating device 600 can reduce the heat sensation of the mainstream smoke and increase the amount of atomization.

[0204] Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be embodied in various modified forms without departing from the essential characteristics of the above description. Therefore, the disclosed method should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense. The scope of the present invention is defined in the claims, not the above description, and all differences within the scope of the claims should be interpreted as being included in the present invention.

Claims

1. a heater for heating the cigarette; A temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the heater; A control unit that uses the temperature sensor to calculate a temperature rise time of the cigarette, compares the calculated temperature rise time of the cigarette with a preset threshold value, and determines a humidity state of the cigarette, The control unit of the aerosol generating device supplies power to the heater with a basic temperature profile when the heating time is less than the threshold value, and supplies power to the heater with a first correction profile when the heating time is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

2. the basic temperature profile includes a first pre-heating zone and a first smoking zone; The first correction profile includes a second pre-heating section and a second smoking section; The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the second pre-heating section is longer than the first pre-heating section.

3. The first pre-heating section includes a first pre-heating increasing section, a first pre-heating maintaining section, and a first pre-heating decreasing section, The second pre-heating section includes a second pre-heating increasing section, a second pre-heating holding section, a second pre-heating decreasing section, and a third pre-heating holding section, The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , wherein the first pre-heating rising section is shorter than the second pre-heating rising section.

4. The second preheating holding section is longer than the first preheating holding section, The aerosol generating device according to claim 3 , wherein a temperature change in the second pre-heating descending section is greater than a temperature change in the first pre-heating descending section.

5. The first smoking section includes a first smoking lowering section and a first smoking holding section, The aerosol generating device of claim 2 , wherein the second smoking section comprises a second smoking holding section.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit, when detecting the insertion of the cigarette, determines whether or not the first correction profile was used during the immediately preceding heating of the heater.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6 , wherein the control unit measures a temperature of the heater when it is determined that the first correction profile was used at the time of immediately preceding heating of the heater.

8. The control unit is If the measured heater temperature is less than a reference temperature, re-determining the humidity state of the cigarette; The aerosol generating device according to claim 7 , further comprising: supplying power to the heater with a second correction profile when the measured heater temperature is equal to or greater than a reference temperature.

9. The first correction profile includes a second pre-heating section and a second smoking section; the second correction profile includes a third pre-heating section and a third smoking section; The second pre-heating section includes a second pre-heating increasing section, a second pre-heating holding section, a second pre-heating decreasing section, and a third pre-heating holding section, The third pre-heating section includes a third pre-heating increasing section, a fourth pre-heating holding section, a third pre-heating decreasing section, and a fifth pre-heating holding section, The aerosol generating device of claim 8, wherein the combined time of the second preheating holding section, the second preheating decline section, and the third preheating holding section is longer than the combined time of the fourth preheating holding section, the third preheating decline section, and the fifth preheating holding section.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6 , wherein the control unit re-evaluates the humidity state of the cigarette when it is determined that the first correction profile was not used at the time of immediately preceding heating of the heater.

11. 1. A method of operating an aerosol generating device, comprising: heating the cigarette with a heater; measuring a temperature of the heater with a temperature sensor; calculating a temperature rise time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor, and comparing the calculated temperature rise time of the cigarette with a preset threshold value; determining a moisture status of the cigarette based on a result of the comparison; and operating the heater with a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette; The step of determining the humidity state of the cigarette includes determining that the cigarette is a normal cigarette if the temperature rise time is less than the threshold value, and determining that the cigarette is an over-humid cigarette if the temperature rise time is equal to or greater than the threshold value; A method for operating an aerosol generating device, wherein the step of operating the heater includes supplying power to the heater with a basic temperature profile if the heating time is less than the threshold, and supplying power to the heater with a first correction profile if the heating time is greater than or equal to the threshold.

12. the basic temperature profile includes a first pre-heating zone and a first smoking zone; The first correction profile includes a second pre-heating section and a second smoking section; The method of claim 11 , wherein the second pre-heating interval is longer than the first pre-heating interval.

13. The method for operating the aerosol generating device according to claim 11, further comprising the step of determining whether the first correction profile was used when the heater was heated immediately before, when the insertion of the cigarette is detected.

14. measuring a temperature of the heater when it is determined that the first correction profile was used in the previous heating of the heater; If the measured heater temperature is less than a reference temperature, re-determining the humidity state of the cigarette; 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising powering the heater with a second correction profile if the measured heater temperature is equal to or greater than a reference temperature.

15. The first correction profile includes a second pre-heating section and a second smoking section; the second correction profile includes a third pre-heating section and a third smoking section; The second pre-heating section includes a second pre-heating increasing section, a second pre-heating holding section, a second pre-heating decreasing section, and a third pre-heating holding section, The third pre-heating section includes a third pre-heating increasing section, a fourth pre-heating holding section, a third pre-heating decreasing section, and a fifth pre-heating holding section, The method for operating an aerosol generating device described in claim 14, wherein the combined time of the second preheating hold section, the second preheating drop section, and the third preheating hold section is longer than the combined time of the fourth preheating hold section, the third preheating drop section, and the fifth preheating hold section.

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