Aerosol generation device and its operating method

Abstract

An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes a case including an accommodation passage into which a cigarette is inserted, a cover coupled to the case, a heater for heating the cigarette, a humidity sensing sensor disposed on an upper surface of the cover, and a control unit that compares the amount of moisture sensed by the humidity sensing sensor with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that can provide an operating mode corresponding to the humidity of a cigarette sensed by a humidity sensing sensor.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, the demand for smoking methods that replace conventional cigarettes has been increasing. For example, there is an increasing demand for a method of generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substance in a cigarette, rather than a method of generating an aerosol by burning a cigarette. Accordingly, research related to heated cigarettes or heated aerosol generating devices has been actively conducted.

[0003] On the other hand, moisture has a larger specific heat than air and a larger heat capacity than air at the same temperature. Accordingly, when a user inhales an aerosol with a high moisture content, a problem may occur in that the user feels higher heat than when inhaling air at the same temperature.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that distinguish between a general cigarette and an over-wet cigarette.

[0005] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that include operating modes corresponding to a general cigarette and an over-wet cigarette, respectively.

[0006] The problems to be solved through the embodiments are not limited to the above-described problems, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the embodiments belong from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes a case including a receiving passage into which a cigarette is inserted, a cover coupled to the case, a heater for heating the cigarette, a humidity sensing sensor disposed on an upper surface of the cover, and a control unit that compares the amount of moisture sensed by the humidity sensing sensor with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette.

[0008] A method of operating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes heating a cigarette by a heater, comparing the amount of moisture sensed by a humidity sensing sensor with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette, and operating the heater according to a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette. The aerosol generating device includes a case including a receiving passage into which the cigarette is inserted and a cover coupled to the case and including an external hole that overlaps the receiving passage in a thickness direction, and the humidity sensing sensor is disposed on an upper surface of the cover.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] The aerosol generating device and its operating method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can distinguish between a general cigarette and an over-wet cigarette using a humidity sensing sensor.

[0010] In addition, the aerosol generating device and its operating method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide operating modes corresponding to a general cigarette and an over-wet cigarette, respectively.

[0011] The effects according to the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the embodiments belong from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

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Figure 7B

Figure 8A

Figure 8B

Figure 9A

Figure 9B

Figure 9C

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Figure 11

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0013] The terms used in the embodiments are, to the extent possible while taking into account the functions of the present invention, general terms that are currently widely used. However, this may also vary depending on the intentions or precedents of those skilled in the art, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, the meaning thereof will be described in detail in the description part of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention are not mere term names and must be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present disclosure.

[0014] Throughout the specification, when a certain part "includes" a certain component, it means that, unless there is a special contrary description, it does not exclude other components and may further include other components. Also, terms such as "··· part" and "··· module" described in the specification mean units that process at least one function or operation, which may be embodied by hardware or software, or may also be embodied by a combination of hardware and software.

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the accompanying drawings so that those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can easily implement it. However, the present invention can be embodied in various mutually different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0017] FIGS. 1 to 3 are drawings showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes an atomizer 14. Also, a cigarette 2 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0019] In the aerosol generating device 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the components according to this embodiment are illustrated. Therefore, those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment will understand that the aerosol generating device 1 further includes other general-purpose components in addition to the components illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0020] Also, in FIGS. 2 and 3, the heater 13 is illustrated as being included in the aerosol generating device 1, but the heater 13 may be omitted if necessary.

[0021] 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 generating device 1 is not limited to what is illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3. That is, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1, the arrangements of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14 can be changed.

[0022] When the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 can operate 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 transmitted to the user.

[0023] If necessary, even when the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 can heat the heater 13.

[0024] The battery 11 supplies the electric power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 11 can supply electric power so that the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14 is heated, and can supply the electric power necessary for the operation of the control unit 12. Also, the battery 11 can supply the electric power necessary for the operation of a display, a sensor, a motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0025] The control unit 12 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls not only the battery 11, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, but also the operations of other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. Further, the control unit 12 can check the states of the respective components of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

[0026] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor can be embodied by an array of a large number of logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. Also, those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs will understand that it can also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0027] The heater 13 can be heated by the electric power supplied from the battery 11. For example, if a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 13 can be located outside the cigarette. Therefore, the heated heater 13 can raise the temperature of the aerosol generating substance in the cigarette.

[0028] The heater 13 is also an electric resistance heater. For example, the heater 13 includes a conductive track, and when an electric current flows through the conductive track, the heater 13 can be heated. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above-described example, and can be applicable without limitation as long as it can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device 1, or can be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0029] On the other hand, as another example, the heater 13 is also an induction heating type heater. Specifically, the heater 13 includes a conductive coil for heating the cigarette by an induction heating method, and the cigarette can include a susceptor that is heated by the induction heating type heater.

[0030] For example, the heater 13 includes a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and can heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2 according to the shape of the heating element.

[0031] Also, a plurality of heaters 13 can be arranged in the aerosol generating device 1. At this time, the plurality of heaters 13 can be arranged so as to be inserted into the cigarette 2 or arranged outside the cigarette 2. Also, some of the plurality of heaters 13 can be arranged so as to be inserted into the cigarette 2, and the rest can be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Also, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, and can also be manufactured in various shapes.

[0032] The vaporizer 14 heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be transmitted to the user through the cigarette 2. That is, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 moves along the air flow path of the aerosol generating device 1, and the air flow path can be configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 passes through the cigarette and is transmitted to the user.

[0033] For example, the vaporizer 14 can include, but is not limited to, a liquid storage part, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid storage part, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element can be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0034] The liquid storage part can store the liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition is also a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance containing a volatile tobacco flavor component or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage part is manufactured so as to be detached from / attached to the vaporizer 14 and can be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0035] For example, the liquid composition may contain water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The fragrance may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and aroma components of various fruits. The flavoring agent may contain components that provide diverse fragrances or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture may also be a mixture in which at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E is mixed, but is not limited thereto. Further, the liquid composition may contain an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0036] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition in the liquid storage unit to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means can also be a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, but is not limited thereto.

[0037] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition transferred by the liquid transfer means. For example, the heating element can also be a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited thereto. Further, the heating element is composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire and can be arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transfer means. The heating element is heated by the supply of an electric current, transfers heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, and can heat the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0038] For example, the vaporizer 14 is also referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0039] On the one hand, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a general configuration in addition to the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Further, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor (such as a puff sensing sensor, a temperature sensing sensor, a cigarette insertion sensing sensor, etc.). Also, the aerosol generating device 1 may be manufactured by a structure in which external air can flow in even when the cigarette 2 is inserted, or internal gas can flow out.

[0040] Although not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the aerosol generating device 1 may form a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle is used for charging the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 can be heated with the cradle and the aerosol generating device 1 coupled together.

[0041] The cigarette 2 is also similar to a general combustible cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 can be divided into a first part containing an aerosol generating substance and a second part containing a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second part of the cigarette 2 may also contain an aerosol generating substance. For example, an aerosol generating substance made in a granular or capsule shape can be inserted into the second part.

[0042] Inside the aerosol generating device 1, the entire first part can be inserted and the second part can be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first part can be inserted inside the aerosol generating device 1, and the entire first part and a part of the second part can be inserted. The user inhales the aerosol with the second part in the mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by the external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol is transmitted to the user's mouth through the second part.

[0043] As an example, outside air can flow into the aerosol generating device 1 through at least one air passage formed therein. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1 and / or the size of the air passage can be adjusted by the user. Thereby, the atomization amount, smoking feeling, etc. can be adjusted by the user. As another example, outside air can flow into the inside of the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0044] Hereinafter, an example of the cigarette 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0045] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings showing an example of a cigarette.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 4, the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. In FIG. 4, the filter rod 22 is illustrated as a single segment, but is not limited thereto. That is, the filter rod 22 can be composed of a plurality of segments. For example, the filter rod 22 can include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering a predetermined component contained in the aerosol. Further, if necessary, the filter rod 22 can further include at least one segment for performing other functions.

[0047] The diameter of the cigarette 2 is within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length is also about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 is about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 is about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 is about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 is about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0048] The cigarette 2 can be wrapped by at least one wrapper 24. At least one hole can be formed in the wrapper 24 through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out. As an example, the cigarette 2 can be wrapped by one wrapper 24. As another example, the cigarette 2 can be wrapped in a superimposed manner by two or more wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be wrapped by the first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 can be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, and 244. Then, the whole cigarette 2 can be repackaged by a single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 consists of a plurality of segments, each segment can be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, and 244.

[0049] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made as general filter wrapping papers. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can also be porous wrapping papers or non-porous wrapping papers. Also, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made of oil-resistant papers and / or aluminum composite paper packaging materials.

[0050] The third wrapper 243 can be made of hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is included in the range of 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 and preferably included in the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2 . Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 is included in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm and preferably is also 125 μm.

[0051] The fourth wrapper 244 can be made of oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 is included in the range of 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 and preferably included in the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2 . Also, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 is included in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm and preferably is also 125 μm.

[0052] The fifth wrapper 245 can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) means paper specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are enhanced compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 is within the range of 57 g / m 2 ~63 g / m 2 and desirably is also 60 g / m 2 . Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 is within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm and desirably is also 67 μm.

[0053] A predetermined substance can be added to the fifth wrapper 245. Here, examples of the predetermined substance can include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that is not oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, as long as it is a substance having the above-described properties, it can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

[0054] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the phenomenon of the cigarette 2 from burning. For example, if the tobacco rod 210 is heated by the heater 13, the cigarette 2 may burn. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 310, the cigarette 2 can burn. Even in such a case, since the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-combustible substance, the phenomenon of the cigarette 2 burning can be prevented.

[0055] Also, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the aerosol generation device 1 from being contaminated by the substances generated by the cigarette 2. Depending on the user's puff, a liquid substance can be generated inside the cigarette 2. For example, when the aerosol generated by the cigarette 2 is cooled by the external air, a liquid substance (such as moisture, etc.) can be generated. By the fifth wrapper 245 packaging the cigarette 2, it can be prevented that the liquid substance generated inside the cigarette 2 leaks to the outside of the cigarette 2.

[0056] The tobacco rod 21 contains aerosol generating substances. For example, the aerosol generating substances can include, but are not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. Further, the tobacco rod 21 can contain other additive substances such as flavoring agents, wetting agents, and / or organic acids. Also, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant can be added to the tobacco rod 21 by being sprayed onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0057] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in the form of a sheet or a strand. Also, the tobacco rod 21 can be made of shredded tobacco in which the tobacco sheet is finely cut. Further, the tobacco rod 21 is surrounded by a heat conductive substance. For example, the heat conductive substance can be a metal foil such as an aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the heat conductive substance surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can evenly disperse the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 and improve the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the tobacco flavor. Also, the heat conductive substance surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor that is heated by an induction heating type heater. At this time, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 can further include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat conductive substance surrounding the outside.

[0058] The filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 can be a cylindrical rod or a tubular rod having a hollow inside. Also, the filter rod 22 can be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments is also manufactured in a different shape.

[0059] The first segment of the filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment is also a tubular structure with a hollow inside. When the heater 13 is inserted by the first segment, it can prevent the phenomenon that the internal substance of the tobacco rod 21 is pushed later, and a cooling effect of the aerosol can also be generated. The diameter of the hollow contained in the first segment can adopt an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0060] The length of the first segment can adopt an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Desirably, the length of the first segment can be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0061] By adjusting the content of the plasticizer during the manufacture of the first segment, the hardness of the first segment can be adjusted. Also, the first segment can be manufactured by inserting structures such as films and tubes of the same or different materials inside (for example, the hollow).

[0062] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 13 heating the tobacco rod 21. Therefore, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0063] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined variously according to the form of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the second segment can be appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Desirably, the length of the second segment can be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0064] The second segment can also be produced by weaving polymer fibers. In that case, a flavoring liquid may be applied to the fibers produced by the polymer. Or, the second segment may be produced by weaving together fibers produced by the polymer and separately fibers coated with the flavoring liquid. Or, the second segment can be formed by a crimped polymer sheet.

[0065] For example, the polymer can 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.

[0066] By forming the second segment from woven polymer fibers or crimped polymer sheets, the second segment can include one or more channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Here, the channel means a passage through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0067] For example, the second segment made of a crimped polymer sheet can be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, e.g., between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. Also, the total surface area of the second segment is between about 300 mm 2 / mm and about 1000 mm 2 / mm. Also, the aerosol cooling element can be formed from a material having a specific surface area between about 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100 mm 2 / mg.

[0068] On the other hand, the second segment can include a thread containing a volatile fragrance component. Here, the volatile fragrance component is menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thread can be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol so that 1.5 mg or more of menthol is provided to the second segment.

[0069] The third segment of the filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment can be appropriately adopted within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment can be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0070] In the process of manufacturing the third segment, it can be made to generate a fragrance by injecting a flavoring liquid into the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with the flavoring liquid can be inserted into the interior of the third segment. The aerosol generated by the tobacco rod 21 is cooled by passing through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol can be transmitted to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, an effect of enhancing the persistence of the fragrance transmitted to the user can occur.

[0071] Also, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may perform a function of generating a fragrance and may also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 is also a structure that covers and wraps a liquid containing a fragrance with a film. The capsule 23 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 5, the cigarette 3 may further include a front plug 33. The front plug 33 can be located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite to the filter rod 32. The front plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching externally and can prevent the liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 31 into the aerosol generating device (1 in FIGS. 1 to 3) during smoking.

[0073] The filter rod 32 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4, and the second segment 322 may correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4.

[0074] The diameter and the total length of the cigarette 3 may correspond to the diameter and the total length of the cigarette 2 in FIG. 4. For example, the length of the front plug 33 is about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 is about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0075] The cigarette 3 can be wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. At least one hole can be formed in the wrapper 35 through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out. For example, the front plug 33 can be wrapped by the first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 can be wrapped by the second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 can be wrapped by the third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 can be wrapped by the fourth wrapper 354. Then, the whole cigarette 3 can be re-wrapped by the fifth wrapper 355.

[0076] Also, at least one perforation 36 can be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, the perforation 36 can be formed in the region surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 can serve to transfer the heat generated by the heater 13 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 into the interior of the tobacco rod 31.

[0077] Also, at least one capsule 34 can be included in the second segment 322. Here, the capsule 34 can perform a function of generating a fragrance and may also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 is also a structure that covers and wraps a liquid containing a fragrance with a film. The capsule 34 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0078] The first wrapper 351 is also one in which a metal foil such as aluminum foil is bonded to a general filter paper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 is included in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, and preferably is also 50.3 μm. Also, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 is included in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, and preferably is also 6.3 μm. Also, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 2 ~55 g / m 2 and is included in the range of, and preferably is also 2 53 g / m.

[0079] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be made of a general filter paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can also be porous paper or non-porous paper.

[0080] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 is also 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 is included in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, and preferably is also 78 μm. Further, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and is included in the range of, and preferably is also 23.5 g / m 2 as well.

[0081] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 is also 24000 CU, but is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 is included in the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and preferably is also 68 μm. Further, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 is 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and is included in the range of, and preferably is also 21 g / m 2 as well.

[0082] The fourth wrapper 354 can be made of a PLA laminated paper. Here, the PLA laminated paper means a triple-layer paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 is included in the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and preferably is also 110 μm. Further, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is 80 g / m 2 ~100 g / m 2 and is included in the range of, and preferably is also 88 g / m 2 as well.

[0083] The fifth wrapper 355 can be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) means a paper specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are enhanced compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is 57 g / m 2 ~63 g / m 2 and is included in the range of, and preferably is also 60 g / m 2It is also so. Further, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 is included within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and desirably, it is also 67 μm.

[0084] The fifth wrapper 355 can have a predetermined substance added thereto. Here, as an example of the predetermined substance, silicon may be applicable, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that is not oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above-described properties can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

[0085] The front plug 33 can be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the front plug 33 can be made by adding a plasticizer (for example, triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The monodenier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow is included within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and desirably, it can be included within the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More desirably, the monodenier of the filaments of the front plug 33 is also 5.0. Also, the cross-section of the filaments constituting the front plug 33 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the front plug 33 is included within the range of 20000 to 30000, and desirably, it can be included within the range of 25000 to 30000. More desirably, the total denier of the front plug 33 is also 28000.

[0086] Also, if necessary, the front plug 33 includes at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel can be made in various ways.

[0087] The tobacco rod 31 can correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to FIG. 4. Therefore, specific descriptions regarding the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0088] The first segment 321 can be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment is also a tubular structure that includes a hollow inside. The first segment 321 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the monodenier and total denier of the first segment 321 are the same as those of the front plug 33.

[0089] The second segment 322 can be made of cellulose acetate. The monodenier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 is included in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and desirably can be included in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More desirably, the monodenier of the filaments of the second segment 322 is also 9.0. Also, the cross-section of the filaments of the second segment 322 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 is included in the range of 20000 to 30000, and desirably is also 25000.

[0090] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0091] The aerosol generating device 600 can 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 what is shown in FIG. 6. That is, those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment will understand that depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 600, some of the configurations shown in FIG. 6 may be omitted or new configurations may be further added.

[0092] The sensing unit 620 can 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. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 610 can control the aerosol generating device 600 so that various functions such as operation control of the heater 650, smoking restriction, determination of the presence or absence of insertion of an aerosol generating article (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.), and notification display are performed.

[0093] The sensing unit 620 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 622, an insertion sensing sensor 624, a puff sensor 626, and a humidity sensing sensor 628, but is not limited thereto.

[0094] The temperature sensor 622 can sense the temperature at which the heater 650 (or the aerosol generating substance) 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 serve as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 622 may be arranged around the battery 640 to monitor the temperature of the battery 640.

[0095] The insertion sensing sensor 624 can sense the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol generating article. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 624 includes at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can sense a signal change due to the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol generating article.

[0096] The puff sensor 626 can sense the user's puff based on various physical changes in the air flow path or air flow channel. For example, the puff sensor 626 can sense the user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0097] The humidity sensor 628 can sense the amount of moisture contained in a cigarette (refer to 2 in FIG. 2). Compared with a general cigarette, a super-moist cigarette has a larger amount of moisture evaporation during heating. As a result, a condensation phenomenon may occur in the vicinity where the super-moist cigarette is placed. According to one embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can be arranged at a position where a condensation phenomenon is likely to occur in the aerosol generating device 600. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be arranged around an external hole (1002p in FIG. 7A) that overlaps with the accommodation passage (1004h in FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600 in the thickness direction, or on a door (1003 in FIG. 7A). The humidity sensor 628 can detect the amount of moisture on the above-mentioned door. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be any one of an electric resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, and an optical sensor. However, this is only an example, and the humidity sensor 628 is not limited thereto.

[0098] In addition to the sensors described above (temperature sensor 622, insertion sensor 624, puff sensor 626, and humidity sensor 628), the sensing unit 620 may further include at least one of a barometric pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor. Since the functions of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an ordinary technician from its name, specific descriptions can be omitted.

[0099] The output unit 630 can output information related to the state of the aerosol generating device 600 and provide it to the user. The output unit 630 may include at least one of a display unit 632, a haptic unit 634, and an acoustic output unit 636, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 632 and the touch pad form a layer structure and are configured as a touch screen, the display unit 632 can also be used as an input device in addition to the output device.

[0100] The display unit 632 visually provides information related to the aerosol generating device 600 to the user. For example, the information related to the aerosol generating device 600 means various information such as the charge / discharge state of the battery 640 of the aerosol generating device 600, the preheating state of the heater 650, the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article, or the state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 600 is restricted (for example, abnormal article detection), and the display unit 632 can output the above information to the outside. The display unit 632 is, for example, also a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), etc. Further, the display unit 632 is also in the form of an LED light emitting element.

[0101] The haptic unit 634 converts an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus to tactually provide information related to the aerosol generating device 600 to the user. For example, the haptic unit 634 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0102] The acoustic output unit 636 aurally provides information related to the aerosol generating device 600 to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit 636 can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0103] The battery 640 can supply electric power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 600. The battery 640 can supply electric power so that the heater 650 is heated. Further, the battery 640 can supply the electric power necessary for the operation of other components (for example, the sensing unit 620, the output unit 630, the user input unit 660, the memory 670, and the communication unit 680) provided in the aerosol generating device 600. The battery 640 is a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 640 is also a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0104] The heater 650 can be powered by the battery 640 to heat the aerosol generating substance. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 600 may further include a power conversion circuit (for example, a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 640 and supplies it to the heater 650. Further, when the aerosol generating device 600 generates aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generating device 600 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the battery 640 into an AC power supply.

[0105] 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 can be powered by the battery 640 to perform their functions. Although not shown in FIG. 6, it may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the battery 640 and supplies it to each component.

[0106] In one embodiment, the heater 650 can be made of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Further, the heater 650 can be embodied by a metal wire, a metal hot plate with conductive tracks arranged thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0107] In other embodiments, the heater 650 is also an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 650 may include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil and heats the aerosol generating substance.

[0108] In one embodiment, the heater 650 may include a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater 650 may include a first heater for heating a cigarette and a second heater for heating a liquid.

[0109] The user input unit 660 receives information input by the user or outputs information to the user. For example, the user input unit 660 includes a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (a touch pad using, for example, a capacitive touch method, a piezoresistive film method, an infrared sensing method, a surface acoustic wave conduction method, an integral tension measurement method, a piezo effect method, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc., but is not limited thereto. Also, although not shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 600 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can be connected to other external devices via a connection interface such as a USB interface to transmit and receive information, or charge the battery 640.

[0110] The memory 670 is hardware that stores various data (for example, temperature profiles) processed within 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 (for example, an SD or XD memory, etc.), a RAM (Random Access Memory), an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The memory 670 can store data related to the operating time of the aerosol generating device 600, the maximum puff count, the current puff count, at least one temperature profile, and the smoking pattern of the user.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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 infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0113] 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., 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., the International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0114] The control unit 610 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 600. In one embodiment, the control unit 610 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented by an array of a large number of logic gates and may be implemented by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. Also, those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs will understand that it may also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0115] 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 the switching element between the battery 640 and the heater 650. In another example, the heating direct circuit can control the power supply to the heater 650 according to the control command of the control unit 610.

[0116] The control unit 610 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 620 and control subsequent processing. For example, the control unit 610 can control the power supplied to the heater 650 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 620 so that the operation of the heater 650 is started or terminated. As another example, the control unit 610 can control the amount of power and the power supply time supplied to the heater 650 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 620 so that the heater 650 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0117] The control unit 610 can control the output unit 630 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 620. For example, if the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 626 reaches a preset number, the control unit 610 notifies the user that the aerosol generating device 600 is about to end via at least one of the display unit 632, the haptic unit 634, and the acoustic output unit 636.

[0118] The control unit 610 can compare the moisture content sensed by the humidity sensing sensor 628 with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette. The control unit 610 can operate the heater 650 according to the temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette. Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 7A to 10, a specific method for determining the humidity state of the cigarette by the humidity sensing sensor 628 will be described in detail.

[0119] FIG. 7A is a perspective view showing the appearance of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7B is a perspective view showing an operating state in which some components are separated in the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7A.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 7A, the aerosol generating device 1000 may include a case 1100 and a cover 1002. By coupling the cover 1002 to one end portion of the case 1100, both the case 1100 and the cover 1002 together form the appearance of the aerosol generating device 1000.

[0121] The case 1100 forms a part of the appearance of the aerosol generating device 1000 and performs a function of accommodating and protecting various components inside.

[0122] 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 substance on the surface. The cover 1002 and the case 1100 may be made, for example, by an injection molding method, a 3D printing method, or a method of assembling small parts made by injection molding.

[0123] A holding device (not shown) for maintaining the coupled state of the cover 1002 and the case 1100 may be provided between the cover 1002 and the case 1100. The holding device may include, for example, a protrusion and a groove. By maintaining the state in which the protrusion is inserted into the groove, the coupled state of the cover 1002 and the case 1100 is maintained, and a structure may be used in which the protrusion moves by an operation button that the user can press, and the protrusion is separated from the groove.

[0124] Also, the holding device may include, for example, a magnet and a metal member attached to the magnet. When using a magnet for the holding device, a magnet may be provided on either one of the case 1100 and the cover 1002, and a metal member attached to the magnet may be provided on the other one, or alternatively, magnets may be provided on both the case 1100 and the cover 1002.

[0125] On the upper surface of the cover 1002 coupled to the case 1100, an external hole 1002p into which the cigarette 2000 can be inserted is formed. Further, a rail 1003r is formed at a position adjacent to the external hole 1002p on the upper surface of the cover 1002. A door 1003 that is slidable along the upper surface of the cover 1002 is provided on the rail 1003r. The door 1003 slides linearly along the rail 1003r.

[0126] When the door 1003 moves along the rail 1003r in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 7A, it functions to expose the external hole 1002p through which the cigarette 2000 is inserted into the case 1100 through the cover 1002 and the insertion hole 1004p to the outside. The external hole 1002p of the cover 1002 functions to expose the insertion hole 1004p of the accommodation passage 1004h that accommodates the cigarette 2000 to the outside.

[0127] When the external hole 1002p is exposed to the outside by the door 1003, the user can insert the end 2000b of the cigarette 2000 into the external hole 1002p and the insertion hole 1004p, and attach the cigarette 2000 to the accommodation passage 1004h formed inside the cover 1002.

[0128] The rail 1003r has a concave groove shape, but the embodiment is not limited by the shape of the rail 1003r. For example, the rail 1003r can have a convex shape and extend in a curved shape rather than a linear shape.

[0129] A button 1009 is provided on the case 1100. By operating the button 1009, the operation of the aerosol generating device 1000 can be controlled.

[0130] In a state where the cover 1002 is coupled to the case 1100, an external air inflow gap 1002g is formed at the portion where the cover 1002 and the case 1100 are coupled to allow air to flow into the inside of the cover 1002.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 7B, with the cigarette 2000 inserted into the aerosol generating device 1000, the user can put the cigarette 2000 in the mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0132] The case 1100 is composed of an upper case 1100a into which the cigarette 2000 is inserted and the cigarette 2000 is heated, and a lower case 1100b that supports and protects various components provided inside. Hereinafter, the description of the case 1100 means including both the upper case 1100a and the lower case 1100b.

[0133] The cover 1002 can be coupled to the case 1100 so as to cover the cigarette support portion 4 coupled to the case 1100. Further, if necessary, the cover 1002 can be separated from the case 1100.

[0134] FIGS. 8A and 8B are top views of the cover shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B.

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 7A, 8A, and 8B, the humidity sensors HS1 and HS2 can sense the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000. The humidity sensors HS1 and HS2 can measure the above moisture amount based on the moisture (WT in FIG. 9A) condensed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 by the heating of the cigarette 2000.

[0136] When moisture is contained in the cigarette 2000, during the heating of the cigarette 2000, the moisture can evaporate and condense on the upper surface of the cover 1002. When there is more moisture contained in the cigarette 2000, compared with a dry general cigarette, more moisture evaporates, so more condensation phenomena can occur on the upper surface of the cover 1002. That is, the amount of moisture condensed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 is proportional to the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000.

[0137] According to an embodiment, the humidity sensors HS1 and HS2 can be arranged at positions where condensation is likely to occur in the aerosol generating device 1000.

[0138] For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the cover 1002 may include an external hole 1002p that overlaps with the accommodation passage 1004h in the thickness direction. The humidity sensing sensor HS1 may be arranged along the outer contour line of the external hole 1002p. At this time, the outer contour line of the external hole 1002p has a circular shape, and the humidity sensing sensor HS1 has a ring shape.

[0139] However, the shape of the outer contour line of the external hole 1002p is exemplary and not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the outer contour line of the external hole 1002p can be any one of an ellipse, a triangle, a quadrilateral, and a polygon.

[0140] The shape and arrangement of the humidity sensing sensor HS1 are exemplary and not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the humidity sensing sensor HS1 can also be an ellipse, a triangle, a quadrilateral, or a polygon with a cavity formed in the center so as to correspond to the shape of the outer contour line of the external hole 1002p. Also, the humidity sensing sensor HS1 can be arranged in at least one area on the upper surface of the cover 1002. That is, the humidity sensing sensor HS1 can be arranged over the entire upper surface of the cover 1002 or arbitrarily arranged in a part of the upper surface of the cover 1002.

[0141] As another example, as shown in FIG. 8B, the cover 1002 may include a slidable door 1003 along the upper surface. The humidity sensing sensor HS2 can be arranged on the upper surface of the door 1003. At this time, the upper surface of the door 1003 has a circular shape, and the humidity sensing sensor HS2 can be formed over the entire upper surface of the door 1003.

[0142] However, the shape of the upper surface of the door 1003 is exemplary and not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the upper surface of the door 1003 can be any one of an ellipse, a triangle, a quadrilateral, and a polygon.

[0143] The shape and arrangement of the humidity sensing sensor HS2 are exemplary and not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the humidity sensing sensor HS2 can also be an ellipse, a triangle, a quadrilateral, a polygon, etc., so as to correspond to the shape of the upper surface of the door 1003. Further, the humidity sensing sensor HS2 can be arranged in at least one area of the upper surface of the door 1003. That is, the humidity sensing sensor HS2 can be arbitrarily arranged in a part of the upper surface of the door 1003, rather than the entire upper surface of the door 1003.

[0144] When the humidity sensing sensors HS1 and HS2 are arranged on the cover 1002 in this way, a more advantageous effect in terms of space utilization can be expected as compared with the case where the humidity sensing sensor has to be arranged in the accommodation passage 1004h. When the humidity sensing sensor is arranged in the accommodation passage 1004h, a constraint occurs that it has to be arranged avoiding the heater (650 in FIG. 6). As a result, the humidity sensing sensor can be arranged in a region adjacent to the filter rod (22 in FIG. 4) rather than the tobacco rod (21 in FIG. 4) mainly containing moisture. On the other hand, the humidity sensing sensors HS1 and HS2 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be arranged relatively freely in at least one area on the cover 1002, in that they measure the amount of moisture condensed on the cover 1002 due to the evaporation of the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 when the cigarette 2000 is heated.

[0145] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view for explaining a capacitance type humidity sensing sensor. FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view for explaining an electric resistance type humidity sensing sensor. FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view for explaining an optical type humidity sensing sensor. At this time, since the operating principles of the humidity sensing sensor HS1 illustrated in FIG. 8A and the humidity sensing sensor HS2 illustrated in FIG. 8B are substantially the same, for convenience of explanation, hereinafter, the humidity sensing sensor will be described based on the humidity sensing sensor HS1 illustrated in FIG. 8A.

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 8A and 9A to 9C, the humidity sensing sensor HS1 can be any one of an electric resistance type, a capacitance type, and an optical type.

[0147] Referring to FIGS. 6, 8A, and 9A, one side of the humidity sensing sensor HS1 can form a continuous surface with the upper surface of the cover 1002. The humidity sensing sensor HS1 can include a plurality of electrodes E1, a substrate SUB1, and a coating layer CT.

[0148] The electrode E1 can be made of a conductive material. For example, the electrode E1 can be made of a metal material with high conductivity such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), or aluminum (Al).

[0149] The capacitance between the electrodes E1 can vary depending on the amount of moisture WT between the electrodes E1. For example, as the amount of moisture WT condensed on the coating layer CT increases, the capacitance can also increase.

[0150] The substrate SUB1 can mount the electrode E1. The coating layer CT can be made of a polymer composite surrounding the electrode E1 and the substrate SUB1.

[0151] The humidity sensing sensors HS1, HS2 can output an electrical signal corresponding to the capacitance between the electrodes E1 to an external component (e.g., the control unit 610). The humidity sensing sensor HS1 can detect a change in the capacitance between the electrodes E1 and output an electrical signal corresponding to the detection result to an external component (e.g., the control unit 610).

[0152] Based on the signal received from the moisture sensing sensor HS1, the control unit 610 can detect the amount of moisture condensed on the coating layer CT.

[0153] Referring to FIGS. 6, 8A, and 9B, one side of the humidity sensing sensor HS1 can form a continuous surface with the upper surface of the cover 1002. The humidity sensing sensor HS1 can include a plurality of electrodes E2, a substrate SUB2, and a desiccant DH.

[0154] The electrode E2 can be made of a conductive material. For example, the electrode E1 can be made of a metal material with high conductivity such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), or aluminum (Al). In FIG. 9B, although not explicitly shown, the electrode E2 also has a structure in which a pair of comb-shaped electrodes E2 are alternately arranged on a plane. Each of the comb-shaped electrodes E2 can include a first portion extending in a first direction and a plurality of second portions branched in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

[0155] The dehumidifying agent DH can be made of a material that absorbs ambient moisture WT. For example, the dehumidifying agent DH can be made of a conductive polymer material such as lithium chloride (LiCl) or aluminum 2 O 3 (Aluminum oxide).

[0156] The resistance between the electrodes E2 can vary depending on the amount of moisture WT absorbed by the dehumidifying agent DH. For example, as the amount of moisture WT absorbed by the dehumidifying agent DH increases, the resistance can decrease.

[0157] The substrate SUB2 can mount the electrode E2.

[0158] The humidity sensing sensor HS1 can output an electrical signal corresponding to the resistance between the electrodes E2 to an external component (e.g., the control unit 610). The humidity sensing sensor HS1 can detect a change in the resistance between the electrodes E2 and output an electrical signal corresponding to the detection result to an external component (e.g., the control unit 610).

[0159] Based on the signal received from the humidity sensing sensor HS1, the control unit 610 can detect the amount of moisture absorbed (or condensed) by the dehumidifying agent DH.

[0160] Referring to FIGS. 6, 8A, and 9C, one surface of the humidity sensing sensor HS1 can form a continuous surface with the upper surface of the cover 1002. The humidity sensing sensor HS1 can include a light emitting unit EM, a light receiving unit RC, a substrate SUB3, and a coating layer CT.

[0161] The light emitting unit EM may include at least one light source that generates light. For example, the light emitting unit EM may include a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a laser diode (LD), etc. as the light source. At this time, the plurality of light sources included in the light emitting unit EM may be arranged in a certain pattern.

[0162] The light emitting unit EM can irradiate light in a preset predetermined direction. For example, the light emitting unit EM may include a first condenser (not shown) that condenses the light generated from the light source toward the object. Here, the first condenser may be composed of an imaging lens, a diffractive optical element (DOE), etc.

[0163] The light receiving unit RC may include a photo diode that reacts to light. The light receiving unit RC can output an electrical signal corresponding to the light incident on the photo diode.

[0164] The light receiving unit RC may include a second condenser (not shown) that condenses the light reflected from the object (hereinafter, reflected light). For example, the reflected light condensed by the second condenser can be transmitted to the photo diode included in the light receiving unit RC. At this time, the second condenser may include a lens that receives the reflected light incident from a predetermined direction.

[0165] The light receiving unit RC may further include an optical filter (not shown) that restrictively transmits light in a specific wavelength region. For example, the optical filter is also an infrared band pass filter that restrictively passes infrared rays with a wavelength of 780 nm to 1 mm.

[0166] The substrate SUB3 can mount the light emitting unit EM and the light receiving unit RC. The coating layer CT may be made of a polymer composite that surrounds the light emitting unit EM, the light receiving unit RC, and the substrate SUB3.

[0167] On one hand, the light irradiated from the light emitting unit EM in a preset direction can be reflected by the moisture WT condensed on the coating layer CT and transmitted to the light receiving unit RC. At this time, the light receiving unit RC can output an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of light incident on the photodiode.

[0168] Depending on the amount of moisture WT condensed on the coating layer CT, the time difference between the time when light is irradiated from the light emitting unit EM and the time when the reflected light is incident on the light receiving unit RC can be different.

[0169] For example, when the amount of moisture WT condensed on the coating layer CT is large, light reflection by the moisture WT can occur more easily than when the amount of moisture WT is small. At this time, the time difference between the time when light is irradiated from the light emitting unit EM and the time when the reflected light is incident on the light receiving unit RC can be shortened.

[0170] The humidity sensing sensor HS1 can output an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of light and / or the time difference of the light incident on the light receiving unit RC to an external component (for example, the control unit 610). The humidity sensing sensor HS1 can detect a change in the amount of light and / or a change in the time difference of the light incident on the light receiving unit RC, and output an electrical signal corresponding to the detection result to an external component (for example, the control unit 610).

[0171] Based on the signal received from the humidity sensing sensor HS1, the control unit 610 can detect the amount of moisture condensed on the coating layer CT.

[0172] Referring to FIGS. 7A to 9C, the control unit 610 can classify the cigarette 2000 as a general cigarette or an over-wet cigarette based on the amount of moisture sensed by the humidity sensing sensors HS1 and HS2.

[0173] According to one embodiment, the control unit 610 can compare the moisture content sensed by the humidity sensors HS1 and HS2 with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000. At this time, the preset threshold value is also the minimum moisture content at which the user feels a heat sensation due to the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 when the user inhales the aerosol. For example, when the moisture content is less than the threshold value, the control unit 610 can determine the cigarette 2000 as a normal cigarette, and when the moisture content is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the control unit 610 can determine the cigarette 2000 as an over-wet cigarette.

[0174] When the cigarette 2000 is determined to be a normal cigarette, the control unit 610 can operate the heater 650 according to the first temperature profile TP1, and when the cigarette 2000 is determined to be an over-wet cigarette, the control unit 610 can operate the heater 650 according to the second temperature profile TP2. Hereinafter, the first temperature profile TP1 and the second temperature profile TP2 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 10.

[0175] FIG. 10 is a graph for explaining the temperature profile. At this time, the graph displayed by the solid line indicates the first temperature profile for normal cigarettes, and the graph displayed by the alternate long and short dash line indicates the second temperature profile for over-wet cigarettes.

[0176] Referring to FIG. 10, the first temperature profile TP1 indicates the temperature values by time optimized for normal cigarettes. The first temperature profile TP1 can be divided into a first section P1 which is a preheating section and a second section P2 which is a smoking section.

[0177] The first section P1 can include a section that rises from the first temperature T1 which is the outside air temperature to the second temperature T2 at which the aerosol product substance volatilizes, and a section that descends to the third temperature T3 which is the smoking start temperature. The second section P2 can include a section that descends from the third temperature T3 to the fourth temperature T4 which is the holding temperature, and a section that holds the fourth temperature T4. At this time, the second temperature T2, the third temperature T3, and the fourth temperature T4 are equal to or higher than the temperature at which the aerosol product substance volatilizes, and may vary depending on the type of the aerosol product substance.

[0178] On the other hand, the second temperature profile TP2 shows temperature values over time optimized for over-wet cigarettes. The second temperature profile TP2 can be divided into a third section P3 which is a preheating section and a fourth section P4 which is a smoking section.

[0179] The third section P3 may include a section that rises from the first temperature T1 which is the outside air temperature to the second temperature T2 at which aerosol product substances volatilize, a section that holds the second temperature T2, and a section that drops to the fourth temperature T4 which is the smoking start temperature. The fourth section P4 may include a section that holds the fourth temperature T4.

[0180] At this time, the time taken to reach the second temperature T2 corresponding to the second temperature profile TP2 is longer than the time taken to reach the second temperature T2 corresponding to the first temperature profile TP1 due to the moisture contained in the cigarette 2000.

[0181] Also, after the second temperature profile TP2 reaches the second temperature T2, at least a part of the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 can evaporate while being constantly held at the second temperature T2. Thereby, the initial heat sensation can be alleviated. On the other hand, when the amount of moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 is less than the threshold value, since it is less likely for the user to feel the heat sensation due to the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000, the first temperature profile TP1 can omit the section for evaporating the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000. That is, the preheating section P3 of the second temperature profile TP2 is longer than the preheating section P1 of the first temperature profile TP1, and the third temperature T3 which is the smoking start temperature of a general cigarette is higher than the fourth temperature T4 which is the smoking start temperature of an over-wet cigarette.

[0182] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0183] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 11, the method of operating the aerosol generating device may include a step (S100) of heating the cigarette 2000 by the heater 650, a step (S200) of measuring the amount of moisture condensed on the cover 1002 using the humidity sensors HS1 and HS2, a step (S300) of comparing the measured amount of moisture with a preset threshold value, a step (S400) of determining the humidity state of the cigarette 2000, and a step (S500) of operating the heater 650 according to a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000.

[0184] At this time, the aerosol generating device 1000 may include a case 1100 including a receiving passage 1004h into which the cigarette 2000 is inserted therein, and a cover 1002 coupled to the case 1100 and including an external hole 1002p that overlaps with the receiving passage 1004h in the thickness direction.

[0185] Specifically, in the step (S100) of heating the cigarette 2000, when moisture is contained in the cigarette 2000, the moisture may evaporate during heating of the cigarette 2000 and condense on the upper surface of the cover 1002. When there is more moisture contained in the cigarette, more moisture will evaporate compared to a dry general cigarette, so more condensation may occur on the upper surface of the cover 1002. That is, the amount of moisture condensed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 is proportional to the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000.

[0186] In the step (S200) of measuring the amount of moisture condensed on the cover 1002 using the humidity sensors HS1 and HS2, the humidity sensors HS1 and HS2 may be disposed at positions where the possibility of condensation is high in the aerosol generating device (1000 in FIG. 7A).

[0187] For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the cover 1002 may include an external hole 1002p that overlaps with the receiving passage (1004h in FIG. 7A) in the thickness direction. The humidity sensor HS1 may be disposed along the outer contour of the external hole 1002p. At this time, the outer contour of the external hole 1002p has a circular shape, and the humidity sensor HS1 has a ring shape.

[0188] As another example, as shown in FIG. 8B, the cover 1002 may include a door 1003 that is slidable along the upper surface. The humidity sensing sensor HS2 may be disposed on the upper surface of the door 1003. At this time, the upper surface of the door 1003 has a circular shape, and the humidity sensing sensor HS2 may be formed over the entire upper surface of the door 1003.

[0189] At this time, the humidity sensing sensor HS1 is any one of an electric resistance type, a capacitance type, and an optical type.

[0190] In the step of comparing the measured moisture content with a preset threshold value (S300) and determining the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (S400), the control unit 610 can classify the cigarette 2000 as a general cigarette or an over-wet cigarette based on the moisture content sensed by the humidity sensing sensors HS1 and HS2. The control unit 610 can compare the moisture content sensed by the humidity sensing sensors HS1 and HS2 with a preset threshold value and determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000. At this time, the preset threshold value is also the minimum moisture content at which the user feels a heat sensation due to the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 when the user inhales the aerosol. For example, when the moisture content is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the control unit 610 determines that the cigarette 2000 is an over-wet cigarette (S410), and when the moisture content is less than the threshold value, the control unit 610 can determine that the cigarette 2000 is a general cigarette (S410).

[0191] In the step (S500) of operating the heater 650 according to the temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000, when the control unit 610 determines that the cigarette 2000 is a general cigarette, the heater 650 is operated with the first temperature profile TP1, and when the cigarette 2000 is determined to be an over-wet cigarette, the heater 650 can be operated with the second temperature profile TP2. The first temperature profile TP1 can be divided into a first section P1 which is a preheating section and a second section P2 which is a smoking section. The second temperature profile TP2 can be divided into a third section P3 which is a preheating section and a fourth section P4 which is a smoking section. At this time, the preheating section P3 of the second temperature profile TP2 is longer than the preheating section P1 of the first temperature profile TP1. Thereby, at least a part of the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 can be evaporated, and the initial heat feeling can be alleviated.

[0192] Those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment will understand that it can be embodied in a modified form within a range not deviating from the essential characteristics described above. Therefore, the disclosed method should be considered from an illustrative perspective rather than a limiting perspective. The scope of the present invention is shown not in the foregoing description but in the claims, and all differences within the equivalent scope thereof should be construed as being included in the present invention.

Claims

1. A case including a receiving passage into which a cigarette is inserted, a cover coupled to the case, a heater for heating the cigarette, a humidity sensing sensor disposed on an upper surface of the cover, and a control unit configured to compare a moisture amount sensed by the humidity sensing sensor with a preset threshold value to determine a humidity state of the cigarette. An aerosol generating device comprising the same.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the humidity sensing sensor measures the moisture amount based on moisture condensed on the cover by heating of the cigarette.

3. The cover includes an external hole that overlaps the receiving passage in a thickness direction, The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the humidity sensing sensor is disposed along an outer contour of the external hole.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein the outer contour of the external hole has a circular shape, and the humidity sensing sensor has a ring shape.

5. The cover includes a door slidable along an upper surface, The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the humidity sensing sensor is disposed on an upper surface of the door.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein the upper surface of the door has a circular shape, and the humidity sensing sensor is formed over the entire upper surface of the door.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the humidity sensing sensor is any one of an electric resistance type, a capacitance type, and an optical type.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heater is disposed in the receiving passage and heats the cigarette by an induction heating method.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines the cigarette as a general cigarette when the moisture amount is less than the threshold value, and determines the cigarette as an over-wet cigarette when the moisture amount is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit operates the heater according to a first temperature profile when the cigarette is determined to be the general cigarette, and operates the heater according to a second temperature profile when the cigarette is determined to be the over-wet cigarette.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, wherein a preheating section of the second temperature profile is longer than a preheating section of the first temperature profile.

12. In an operating method of an aerosol generating device, heating the cigarette by a heater; comparing the amount of moisture sensed by a humidity sensor with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette; operating the heater according to a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette, wherein the aerosol generating device includes a case having a receiving passage into which the cigarette is inserted and a cover coupled to the case and including an external hole that overlaps the receiving passage in a thickness direction, and the humidity sensor is disposed on an upper surface of the cover. A method of operating an aerosol generating device.

13. The step of determining the humidity state of the cigarette measures the amount of moisture based on moisture condensed on the cover by heating the cigarette. The method of operating an aerosol generating device according to claim 12.

14. The cover includes a door slidable along an upper surface, and the humidity sensor is disposed on an upper surface of the door. The method of operating an aerosol generating device according to claim 12.

15. The humidity sensor is any one of an electric resistance type, a capacitance type, and an optical type. The method of operating an aerosol generating device according to claim 12.

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