An aerosol generating device including a heater module

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device including a detachable heater module, and includes a main body including a control unit and a battery, a heater module detachably coupled to the main body and including a heater for heating an aerosol generating substance, and a cartridge detachably coupled to the heater module and holding the aerosol generating substance transmitted to the heater. The heater module includes a first terminal that electrically connects the cartridge and the heater module when the cartridge is coupled to the heater module, and a second terminal and a third terminal that electrically connect the heater module and the control unit when the heater module is coupled to the main body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device including a detachable heater module.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, as an alternative method to overcome the disadvantages of general cigarettes, there has been an increasing demand for a method of generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substance, rather than burning the cigarette to generate an aerosol. For example, a liquid storage unit holding the aerosol generating substance and a cartridge including a heater are detachably configured with an aerosol generating device, and power is transmitted from the aerosol generating device to the cartridge, so that the aerosol generating substance held in the cartridge is heated by the heater.

[0003] When all of the aerosol generating substances stored in the liquid storage unit of the cartridge are exhausted, the cartridge is replaced. However, generally, since the period during which the durability of the heater is maintained is longer than the cycle in which the aerosol generating substance is exhausted, the heater can be unnecessarily replaced even though it can still be used. As a result, unnecessary waste can occur, and a technique for individually considering the durability or exhaustion time of each component inside the aerosol generating device may be required.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Various embodiments may provide an aerosol generating device in which a cartridge and a heater module are detachably configured with each other. The technical problems that the present disclosure aims to solve are not limited to the technical problems as described above, and other technical problems can be inferred from the following embodiments.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes a main body including a control unit and a battery, a heater module detachably coupled to the main body and including a heater for heating the aerosol generating substance, and a cartridge detachably coupled to the heater module and holding the aerosol generating substance transmitted to the heater. The heater module includes a first terminal for electrically connecting the cartridge and the heater module, and second and third terminals for electrically connecting the heater module and the control unit.

Advantages of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure provides an aerosol generating device in which a cartridge and a heater module are detachably configured with respect to each other, so that they can be individually replaced depending on the durability or depletion of each component inside the aerosol generating device.

[0007] Also, an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can identify an aerosol generating device in which a cartridge, a heater module, and a main body are all coupled.

[0008] Also, an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can simplify a user input interface because it operates differently from each other in response to the same user input depending on how the cartridge is coupled.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0010] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes a main body including a control unit and a battery, a heater module detachably coupled to the main body and including a heater for heating the aerosol generating substance, and a cartridge detachably coupled to the heater module and holding the aerosol generating substance transmitted to the heater. When the cartridge is coupled to the heater module, the heater module includes a first terminal for electrically connecting the cartridge and the heater module, and when the heater module is coupled to the main body, the heater module includes a second terminal and a third terminal for electrically connecting the heater module and the control unit.

[0011] The heater module according to an embodiment further includes a printed circuit board for electrically connecting the first terminal and the third terminal.

[0012] The heater module according to an embodiment further includes an integrated circuit mounted on the printed circuit board, and the integrated circuit is electrically connected to the control unit via the third terminal.

[0013] According to one embodiment, each time performance is sensed, the integrated circuit counts the number of performance times based on a signal transmitted from the control unit and stores the counted number of times.

[0014] The integrated circuit according to one embodiment includes a non-volatile memory for storing the number of times.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the heater is supplied with power from the battery via the second terminal.

[0016] The cartridge according to one embodiment further includes an energizing portion that is electrically connected to the first terminal when coupled to the heater module.

[0017] According to one embodiment, when the energizing portion is electrically connected to the first terminal, the energizing portion generates an energizing signal, and the control unit receives the energizing signal via the third terminal.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the energizing signal is characterized by a current flow for a predetermined time or more or a current amount equal to or greater than a reference value.

[0019] The aerosol generating device according to one embodiment further includes a user input unit that receives a user input, and the control unit responds to the user input via the user input unit and outputs a first control signal when the energizing signal is less than a reference value, and outputs a second control signal different from the first control signal when the energizing signal is equal to or greater than the reference value.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the first control signal is a signal for cutting off the power supplied to the heater.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the first terminal, the second terminal, and the third terminal are each configured as a pair.

[0022] The terms used in this embodiment are, as much as possible, general terms that are currently widely used while taking into account the functions in the present invention. However, they may also vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, case law, or the emergence of new technologies. In addition, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant. In this case, the meaning thereof is described in detail in the description part of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should not be mere term names, but should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention.

[0023] 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, but may also further include other components. In addition, terms such as "~ part" and "~ module" described in the specification mean units that process at least one function or operation, which may be implemented by hardware or software, or may also be implemented by a combination of hardware and software.

[0024] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those with 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 different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0025] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0026] First, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6, an aerosol generating device according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0027] FIGS. 1 to 3 are drawings illustrating an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0028] 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.

[0029] In the aerosol generating device 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the components related to the present embodiment are illustrated. Therefore, it will be understandable to those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to the present embodiment that other general-purpose components may be further included in the aerosol generating device 1 in addition to the components illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0030] Also, FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate that the heater 13 is included in the aerosol generating device 1, but the heater 13 may be omitted if necessary.

[0031] In FIG. 1, the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the heater 13 are illustrated as being arranged in a row. Also, in FIG. 2, the battery 11, the control unit 12, the atomizer 14, and the heater 13 are illustrated as being arranged in a row. Also, in FIG. 3, the atomizer 14 and the heater 13 are illustrated as being arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to that illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3. In other words, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1, the arrangement of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the atomizer 14 can be changed.

[0032] 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 atomizer 14 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and / or the atomizer 14 passes through the cigarette 2 and is transmitted to the user.

[0033] 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.

[0034] The battery 11 supplies the power used for the aerosol generating device 1 to operate. For example, the battery 11 can supply power so that the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14 can be heated, and can supply the power necessary for the control unit 12 to operate. Further, the battery 11 can supply the power necessary for a display, a sensor, a motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 1 to operate.

[0035] The control unit 12 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generating 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 generating device 1. Further, the control unit 12 can check the state of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

[0036] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor can also be implemented by an array of a large number of logic gates, and can also be implemented by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executable by the microprocessor is stored. Also, the fact that it can be implemented by other forms of hardware will be understandable to those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs.

[0037] The heater 13 can be heated by the 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. Accordingly, the heated heater 13 can raise the temperature of the aerosol generating substance in the cigarette.

[0038] 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 example, and it can be applicable without limitation as long as it can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature is either the one preset in the aerosol generating device 1 or can also be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0039] As another example, the heater 13 is also an induction heating heater. Specifically, the heater 13 includes a conductive coil for heating the cigarette by induction heating, and the cigarette also includes a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heating heater.

[0040] For example, the heater 13 can also include a tubular heating element, a plate - type heating element, a needle - type heating element, or a rod - type heating element, and depending on the form of the heating element, it can heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2.

[0041] 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 to be inserted inside the cigarette 2 and can also be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Also, a part of the plurality of heaters 13 can be arranged to be inserted inside 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 be made in various shapes.

[0042] The vaporizer 14 heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can pass through the cigarette 2 and be transmitted to the user. In other words, 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.

[0043] 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 also be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0044] The liquid storage unit can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage unit may also be fabricated to be detachable from / to the vaporizer 14, or may be fabricated integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0045] For example, the liquid composition may also include 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 include components that can provide various fragrances or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture may also include at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E, but is not limited thereto. Further, the liquid composition may also include an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0046] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition of the liquid storage unit to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means may be a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramics, but is not limited thereto.

[0047] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition transmitted by the liquid transmission means. For example, the heating element can be, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc. Further, the heating element can also be constituted by a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire and can be arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transmission means. The heating element is heated by current supply, 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.

[0048] For example, the vaporizer 14 can also be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0049] In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes a general-purpose 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.). Further, the aerosol generating device 1 can be manufactured in a structure in which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out even when the cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0050] Although not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the aerosol generating device 1 can also constitute a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle can be used for charging the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 is also heated when the cradle and the aerosol generating device 1 are coupled.

[0051] The cigarette 2 is also similar to a general combustible cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 can be divided into a first part containing aerosol product substances and a second part containing a filter or the like. Or, the second part of the cigarette 2 may also contain aerosol product substances. For example, aerosol product substances made in the form of granules or capsules may also be inserted into the second part.

[0052] Inside the aerosol generating device 1, the whole of the first part can be inserted, and the second part can be exposed to the outside. Or, only a part of the first part is inserted inside the aerosol generating device 1, and also the whole of the first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. The user can inhale the aerosol with the second part in the mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by the outside air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol passes through the second part and is transmitted to the user's mouth.

[0053] As an example, the outside air can flow in through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1. 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 amount of atomization, the smoking feeling, etc. can be adjusted by the user. As another example, the outside air also flows into the inside of the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0054] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, an example of the cigarette 2 will be described.

[0055] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings illustrating examples of cigarettes.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 4, the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. The first part described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 includes the tobacco rod 21, and the second part includes the filter rod 22.

[0057] In FIG. 4, the filter rod 22 is illustrated as a single segment, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 22 may also be composed of a plurality of segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may also 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 may further include at least one segment for performing other functions.

[0058] The diameter of the cigarette 2 is within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length is about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 may be about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0059] The cigarette 2 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 24. At least one hole through which external air flows in or internal gas flows out may be formed in the wrapper 24. As an example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped by one wrapper 24. As another example, the cigarette 2 may also be wrapped in a superimposed manner by two or more wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped by the first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 may be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, 244. Then, the entire cigarette 2 may be further wrapped by the fifth wrapper 245 which is a single wrapper. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, 244.

[0060] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made of a general filter paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can also be a porous paper or a non-porous paper. Further, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made of oil-resistant papers and / or aluminum laminated paper packaging agents.

[0061] The third wrapper 243 can be made of a hard paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is also included within the range of 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 and desirably is also included within the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 is also included within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm and desirably is also 125 μm.

[0062] The fourth wrapper 244 can be made of an oil-resistant hard paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 is also included within the range of 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 and desirably the first is also included within the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 is also included within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm and desirably is also 125 μm.

[0063] The fifth wrapper 245 can be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) means a paper specially manufactured so that the tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are enhanced compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 is also included within the range of 57 g / m 2 ~63 g / m 2 and desirably is also 60 g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 is also included within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm and desirably is also 67 μm.

[0064] The fifth wrapper 245 can have a predetermined substance inserted therein. Here, examples of the predetermined substance may include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, the silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance without being 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.

[0065] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the phenomenon of the cigarette 2 from burning. For example, if the tobacco rod 21 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 21, 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.

[0066] In addition, 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, the liquid substance generated inside the cigarette 2 can be prevented from leaking outside the cigarette 2.

[0067] The tobacco rod 21 contains aerosol generating substances. For example, the aerosol generating substances 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 may also contain other additive substances such as flavoring agents, wetting agents, and / or organic acids. Also, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying it onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0068] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be made by a sheet or by strands. Also, the tobacco rod 21 can be made by shredded tobacco in which the tobacco sheet is finely cut. Further, the tobacco rod 21 is also surrounded by a heat conductive material. For example, the heat conductive material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the heat conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can uniformly disperse the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 and improve the heat conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the tobacco flavor. Also, the heat conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. At this time, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may further include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat conductive material surrounding the outside.

[0069] The filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. Note that 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 tube rod containing 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 may be made in a different shape.

[0070] The first segment of the filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment is also a tubular structure containing a cavity inside. When the heater 13 is inserted along the first segment, it is possible to prevent the phenomenon that the internal substance of the tobacco rod 21 is pushed later, and a cooling effect of the aerosol may also occur. The hollow diameter included in the first segment can adopt an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0071] 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 is 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0072] During the manufacture of the first segment, by adjusting the content of the plasticizer, 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, hollow).

[0073] 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.

[0074] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined variously depending on 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 is about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0075] The second segment can be produced by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a perfume liquid can also be applied to the fibers produced from the polymer. Alternatively, the perfume liquid can be woven together with separately applied fibers and the fibers produced from the polymer to produce the second segment. Alternatively, the second segment is also formed by a crimped polymer sheet.

[0076] 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.

[0077] Since the second segment is formed by woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment also includes 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.

[0078] 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, for example, between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. Also, the total surface area of the second segment is about 300 mm 2 / mm to about 1,000 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.

[0079] Note that the second segment also includes 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 to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0080] 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.

[0081] In the process of manufacturing the third segment, flavor may be generated by injecting a flavoring liquid into the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with the flavoring liquid can also be inserted inside 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 is transmitted to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a hometown element is added to the third segment, the effect of enhancing the persistence of the flavor transmitted to the user may occur.

[0082] Also, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 can perform a function of generating flavor and can also perform a function of generating aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 has a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is covered with a film. The capsule 23 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0083] 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 being detached externally and can prevent the liquefied aerosol from flowing out from the tobacco rod 31 to the aerosol generating device 1 (FIGS. 1 to 3) during smoking.

[0084] The filter rod 32 may also 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.

[0085] The diameter and overall length of cigarette 3 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of cigarette 2 in FIG. 4. For example, the length of the front plug 33 is also about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 is also about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is also about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is also about 14 mm, but it is not limited thereto.

[0086] Cigarette 3 can be wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. At least one hole through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out can be formed in the wrapper 35. 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 entire cigarette 3 can be further wrapped by the fifth wrapper 355.

[0087] 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 it is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 can serve to transfer the heat generated by the heater 13 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 to the inside of the tobacco rod 31.

[0088] Also, the second segment 322 also contains at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 can also perform the function of generating a fragrance and can also perform the function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 is also a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is covered and wrapped with a film. The capsule 34 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but it is not limited thereto.

[0089] The first wrapper 351 is also a general filter paper roll to which a metal foil such as aluminum foil is bonded. For example, the overall thickness of the first wrapper 351 is also within the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, and preferably, it is also 50.3 μm. Also, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 is also within the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, and preferably, it is also 6.3 μm. Also, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 2 ~55 g / m 2 and is also within the range, and preferably, it is also 2 53 g / m.

[0090] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be made of a general filter paper roll. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 are also porous paper rolls or non-porous paper rolls.

[0091] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 is also 35,000 CU, but it is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 is also within the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, and preferably, it is also 78 μm. Also, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 2 ~25 g / m 2 and is also within the range, and preferably, it is also 2 23.5 g / m.

[0092] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 is also 24,000 CU, but it is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 is also within the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and preferably, it is also 68 μm. Also, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 is 2 ~25 g / m 2 and is also within the range, and preferably, it is also 2 21 g / m.

[0093] The fourth wrapper 354 can be made of PLA (polylactic acid) laminated paper. Here, the PLA laminated paper means triple-layered paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 is also included within the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and desirably, it is also 110 μm. Also, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is also included within the range of 2 80 g / m 2 to 100 g / m 2 and desirably, it is also 88 g / m

[0094] The fifth wrapper 355 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 general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is also included within the range of 2 57 g / m 2 to 63 g / m 2 and desirably, it is also 60 g / m. Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 is also included within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and desirably, it is also 67 μm.

[0095] A predetermined substance can be inserted into the fifth wrapper 355. Here, as an example of the predetermined substance, silicon can be applicable, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the silicon has characteristics 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 the silicon, if it is a substance having the above-mentioned characteristics, it can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

[0096] The front plug 33 can be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the front plug 33 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow is also included within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and preferably, is also included within the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier 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 also included within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and preferably, is also included within the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the front plug 33 is also 28,000.

[0097] Also, if necessary, the front plug 33 may also include at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel can be made in various ways.

[0098] The tobacco rod 31 can correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described with reference to FIG. 4. Therefore, in the following, the specific description related to the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted.

[0099] The first segment 321 can be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment is also a tubular structure including a hollow inside. The first segment 321 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the mono denier and total denier of the first segment 321 are also the same as those of the front plug 33.

[0100] The second segment 322 can be made of cellulose acetate. The monodenier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 is also included within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and preferably is also included within the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, 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 also included within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and preferably is also 25,000.

[0101] Figure 6 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0102] Referring to Figure 6, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment also includes a main body 610, a heater module 620, and a cartridge 630.

[0103] The main body 610 is located at the lower end of the heater module 620, supports the heater module 620, and components for the operation of the aerosol generating device 10 can be arranged inside the main body 610. For example, a battery (not shown) and a control unit (not shown) can be arranged inside the main body 610. However, the battery and the control unit are merely examples of the components arranged inside the main body 610, and other components (e.g., user interface, sensor light) may be further arranged inside the main body 610 in addition to the aforementioned components.

[0104] The heater module 620 is located between the cartridge 630 and the main body 610 and can perform the function of converting the phase of the aerosol generating substance into the gas phase to generate an aerosol. The heater module 620 can heat the aerosol generating substance supplied from the cartridge 630 to generate an aerosol.

[0105] For example, the heater module 620 heats the aerosol product substance supplied from the cartridge 630, generates vapor from the aerosol product substance, and the generated vapor is mixed with the outside air flowing into the heater module 620 from the outside of the heater module 620, and an aerosol can be generated. In the present disclosure, "aerosol" means particles generated by mixing the vapor generated by heating the aerosol product substance and air, and this expression can also be used with the same meaning hereinafter.

[0106] An aerosol product substance is stored inside the cartridge 630, and the aerosol product substance stored in the cartridge 630 can be supplied to the heater module 620 arranged at the lower end (e.g., -z direction in FIG. 6) of the cartridge 630.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 630 also includes a mouthpiece 630m for supplying an aerosol to the user. For example, the mouthpiece 630m connects or fluidly connects the inside of the heater module 620 and the outside of the aerosol generating device 10, and the aerosol generated inside the heater module 620 can be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 10 through the mouthpiece 630m. At this time, the user can bring the mouth into contact with the mouthpiece 630m and inhale the aerosol discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 also further includes a cover 611 for protecting the components of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0109] The cover 611 is arranged to surround at least one region of the main body 610, the heater module 620, and the cartridge 630, fixes the positions of the main body 610, the heater module 620, and the cartridge 630, and can protect the main body 610, the heater module 620, and the cartridge 630 from external impacts or the inflow of foreign objects.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the cover 611 can be integrally formed with the main body 610, but is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the cover 611 can also be detachably coupled to the main body 610.

[0111] In the following, with reference to FIG. 7, the coupling relationship between the main body 610, the heater module 620, and the cartridge 630 will be specifically described.

[0112] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the aerosol generating device illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 7, the aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment also includes a main body 610, a cover 611, a heater module 620, and a cartridge 630. At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 10 is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 10 illustrated in FIG. 6. In the following, duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0114] In addition, the components of the aerosol generating device 10 are not limited thereto. According to one embodiment, at least one component (e.g., the cover 611) among the foregoing components may be omitted, or other components may be added.

[0115] The main body 610 is detachably coupled to the lower end surface (e.g., the surface facing the -z direction in FIG. 7) of the heater module 620 and can support the heater module 620. For example, the main body 610 can be detachably coupled to the heater module 620 in such a manner that at least one region is inserted into an insertion groove (not shown) formed on the lower end surface of the heater module 620 or separated from the insertion groove. However, the coupling method between the heater module 620 and the main body 610 is not limited thereto.

[0116] According to one embodiment, components for the operation of the aerosol generating device 10 may be arranged inside the main body 610. For example, inside the main body 610, a battery (not shown) for power supply and a control unit (not shown) for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device 10 may be arranged.

[0117] The battery may supply the power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 10. For example, the battery may be electrically connected to the heater module 620 and supply power so that the heater of the heater module 620 can be heated. As another example, the battery may also supply the power required for the operation of other components (e.g., control unit, etc.) of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0118] The control unit may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 10. The control unit may also be implemented by an array of a large number of logic gates, and may also be implemented by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executable by the microprocessor is stored, but is not limited thereto.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the control unit may control the power supplied from the battery to the heater of the heater module 620. For example, the control unit may control the amount of power supplied from the battery to the heater and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater of the heater module 620 can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintain a specified temperature.

[0120] The heater module 620 is detachably coupled to the lower end surface of the cartridge 630 (e.g., the surface facing the -z direction in FIG. 7), and may heat the aerosol generating substance supplied from the storage tank 631 of the cartridge 630 to generate an aerosol.

[0121] For example, a first coupling member (not shown) disposed in a region toward the cartridge 630 of the heater module 620 is coupled or separated from a second coupling member (not shown) disposed on the lower end surface of the cartridge 630, so that the heater module 620 can be detachably coupled to the cartridge 630. However, the coupling method between the cartridge 630 and the heater module 620 is not limited thereto.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the heater module 620 also includes an aerosol product material inlet 621 that connects the inside of the heater module 620 and the inside of the storage tank 631 of the cartridge 630, an air inlet 622 for allowing external air to flow into the heater module 620, and an air outlet 623 for discharging the aerosol generated inside the heater module 620 to the outside.

[0123] The aerosol product material stored in the storage tank 631 of the cartridge 630 flows into the heater module 620 through the aerosol product material inlet 621, and a heater (not shown) disposed inside the heater module 620 can heat the aerosol product material supplied from the storage tank 631.

[0124] External air flows into the heater module 620 through the air inlet 622. Inside the heater module 620, the external air flowing into the heater module 620 is mixed with the vapor generated by heating the aerosol product material, and aerosol can be generated.

[0125] The aerosol generated inside the heater module 620 can flow from the heater module 620 into the cartridge 630 through an air outlet 623 arranged in a region towards the cartridge 630 of the heater module 620, and then be discharged outside the aerosol generating device 10 through the mouthpiece 630m. For example, when the user inhales through the mouthpiece 630m, the pressure inside the cartridge 630 decreases, causing the air and / or aerosol inside the heater module 620 to move from the heater module 620 into the inside of the cartridge 630, and the user can inhale the air and / or aerosol that has moved into the inside of the cartridge 630.

[0126] The cartridge 630 also includes a storage tank 631 for storing the aerosol generating substance and a mouthpiece 630m (e.g., mouthpiece 630m (Fig. 6)) for supplying the aerosol generated by the heater module 620 to the user.

[0127] When the cartridge 630 and the heater module 620 are coupled, the storage tank 631 is connected or fluidly connected to the internal space of the heater module 620. As a result, the aerosol generating substance stored in the storage tank 631 can flow into the internal space of the heater module 620.

[0128] At this time, the aerosol generating substance stored in the storage tank 631 may contain a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavor component or a liquid composition containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the liquid composition is one of the components of water, solvent, ethanol, plant extract, fragrance, flavoring agent, and vitamin mixture, or a mixture of these components. The fragrance may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and aroma components of various fruits. The flavoring agent includes components that can provide various fragrances or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E, but is not limited thereto. Further, the liquid composition may include an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0130] For example, the liquid composition may include a solution of glycerin and propylene glycol in any weight ratio with a nicotine salt added thereto. The liquid composition may also contain two or more types of nicotine salts. The nicotine salt can be formed by adding a suitable acid containing an organic acid or an inorganic acid to the nicotine. The nicotine may be natural nicotine or synthetic nicotine and may have any suitable weight concentration with respect to the total solution weight of the liquid composition.

[0131] The acid for forming the nicotine salt can be appropriately selected in consideration of the blood nicotine absorption rate, the operating temperature of the aerosol generating device 10, fragrance or flavor, solubility, etc. For example, if it is an acid for forming a nicotine salt, it can be a single acid selected from the group consisting of benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharic acid, malonic acid, or malic acid, or a mixture of two or more acids selected from the above group, but is not limited thereto.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 is configured such that the cartridge 630 and the heater module 620 are detachably coupled, and the heater module 620 and the main body 610 are detachably coupled, enabling the replacement of the cartridge 630 and / or the heater module 620.

[0133] For example, when the aerosol generating substance stored in the storage tank 631 of the cartridge 630 is depleted, the user can replace the existing cartridge 630 with a new one and continue smoking. As another example, when the performance of the components (e.g., heater or wick) of the heater module 620 deteriorates and an insufficient amount of aerosol is generated, the user can replace the existing heater module 620 with a new one to generate a sufficient amount of aerosol.

[0134] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 8, the aerosol generating device 10 also includes a main body 810, a heater module 820, and a cartridge 830. The components related to this embodiment are shown in FIG. 8. Therefore, it will be understandable to those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment that the aerosol generating device 10 may further include other general components in addition to the components shown in FIG. 8. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may further include at least one of at least one sensor (not shown), a user interface (not shown), and a memory (not shown).

[0136] At least one sensor may also include a puff sensing sensor, a temperature sensing sensor, etc. The result sensed by at least one sensor is transmitted to the control unit 811 within the main body 810. Based on the sensing result, the control unit 811 can control the operation of the heater 823 within the heater module 820, restrict smoking, determine whether the cartridge 830 or the heater module 820 is coupled or not, and control the aerosol generating device 10 so as to perform various functions such as notification display.

[0137] The user interface can provide the user with information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device 10. The user interface includes various interfacing means such as a display or lamp that outputs visual information, a motor that outputs tactile information, a speaker that outputs sound information, an input / output (I / O) interfacing means (e.g., buttons or touch screen) that receives information input by the user or outputs information to the user and performs data communication, a terminal for being supplied with charging power, and a communication interfacing module for performing wireless communication with an external device (e.g., Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity), WI-FI Direct, Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (near-field communication), etc.). However, only some of the various user interface examples illustrated above may be selectively implemented in the aerosol generating device 10.

[0138] The memory is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device 10, and the memory can store the data processed by the control unit 811 and the data to be processed. The memory can be embodied by various types such as RAM (random access memory) like DRAM (dynamic random access memory) and SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), and EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory). Data related to the operation time, maximum puff count, current puff count, at least one temperature profile, and the smoking pattern of the user of the aerosol generating device 10 can be stored in the memory.

[0139] The main body 810 also includes a control unit 811 and a battery 812, and the heater module 820 also includes a heater 823, an integrated circuit 824, and a printed circuit board 825 on which the integrated circuit 824 is mounted. Note that the heater module 820 is detachably coupled to the main body 810, and the cartridge 830 can be detachably coupled to the heater module 820. Therefore, the heater module 820 and the cartridge 830 can be individually replaced, and the exhaustion time of the aerosol generating substance held in the cartridge 830 and the durability of the heater module 820 can be individually considered.

[0140] The control unit 811 is hardware that controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 10. The control unit 811 can also be embodied by an array of a large number of logic gates, and can also be embodied by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program that can be executed by the microprocessor is stored. Also, those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs will be able to understand that the control unit 811 can also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0141] The control unit 811 analyzes the results sensed by at least one sensor and controls the subsequent processes. Based on the results sensed by at least one sensor, the control unit 811 can control the power supplied to the heater 823 so that the operation of the heater 823 is started or terminated. For example, if puff is sensed by the puff sensing sensor, the control unit 811 can control the battery 812 to supply power to the heater 823.

[0142] The battery 812 supplies the power used for the aerosol generating device 10 to operate. For example, the battery 812 can supply power so that the heater 823 can be heated. Also, the battery 812 can supply the power required for the operation of other hardware components provided in the aerosol generating device 10, such as sensors, user interfaces, memories, and the control unit 811. The battery 812 is a rechargeable battery and also a single-use battery. For example, the battery 812 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0143] The heater 823 can mean a device for heating the aerosol generating substance. In one example, the heater 823 can be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials include metals or metal alloys including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc., but are not limited thereto. For example, the heater 823 also includes at least one of a coil heater combined with a silica wick and a porous ceramic heater.

[0144] Integrated circuit 824 may refer to a control circuit implemented within heater module 820, separate from control unit 811 implemented on main body 810. Integrated circuit 824 may be implemented on printed circuit board 825 disposed within heater module 820. Integrated circuit 824 may also be embodied by an array of a number of logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor.

[0145] When heater module 820 is coupled to main body 810, integrated circuit 824 may be electrically connected to control unit 811. Integrated circuit 824 may be electrically connected to control unit 811 and used for authentication of non-defective products for heater module 820 or prevention of overuse of heater module 820.

[0146] Each time an operation related to user smoking (e.g., user puff) is sensed by control unit 811, integrated circuit 824 may perform counting based on a signal transmitted from control unit 811 and store the number of times corresponding to the result of the counting. Since the number of times stored in integrated circuit 824 is proportional to the time during which heater module 820 performs a heating operation, the replacement time of heater module 820 can be accurately determined by comparing a preset threshold value with the number of times stored in integrated circuit 824, taking into account the durability of heater module 820.

[0147] It should be noted that integrated circuit 824 also includes a counter for counting the number of puffs. In addition, integrated circuit 824 includes a non-volatile memory for storing the counted number of times. Since integrated circuit 824 includes a non-volatile memory for storing the counted number of times, even if the power supply to integrated circuit 824 is cut off due to heater module 820 being separated from the main body, the counted number of times can be continuously maintained. Therefore, after heater module 820 is separated from main body 810 and then re-coupled to the main body or coupled to another main body, overuse beyond the durability of heater module 820 can be prevented.

[0148] FIG. 9 is a drawing related to identifying an aerosol generating device in which an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment identifies a combined aerosol generating device based on the connection state of a cartridge and a heater module.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the heater module 920 also includes first terminals 921-1, 921-2, second terminals 922-1, 922-2, and third terminals 923-1, 923-2. The first terminals 921-1, 921-2, the second terminals 922-1, 922-2, and the third terminals 923-1, 923-2 can each be configured as a pair.

[0150] When the cartridge 930 is coupled to the heater module 920, the first terminals 921-1, 921-2 can electrically connect the cartridge 930 and the heater module 920. Specifically, when the cartridge 930 is coupled to the heater module 920, the first terminals 921-1, 921-2 are electrically connected to the energization portion 931 disposed on the cartridge 930 to form a closed circuit.

[0151] When the heater module 920 is coupled to the main body 910, the second terminals 922-1, 922-2 and the third terminals 923-1, 923-2 of the heater module 920 can electrically connect the heater module 920 and the main body 910. Specifically, the second terminals 922-1, 922-2 can be electrically connected to the first terminals 911-1, 911-2 disposed on the main body 910, and the third terminals 923-1, 923-2 can be electrically connected to the second terminals 912-1, 912-2 disposed on the main body 910.

[0152] The main body 910 also includes first terminals 911-1, 911-2 and second terminals 912-1, 912-2. The first terminals 911-1, 911-2 and the second terminals 912-1, 912-2 can each be configured as a pair. The first terminals 911-1, 911-2 and the second terminals 912-1, 912-2 can be electrically connected to the control unit 811 disposed on the main body 910.

[0153] The first terminals 921-1, 921-2 and the third terminals 923-1, 923-2 arranged on the heater module 920 can be electrically connected via the printed circuit board 825 arranged on the heater module 920. The integrated circuit 824 mounted on the printed circuit board 825 can be electrically connected to the third terminals 923-1, 923-2 and can be electrically connected to the control unit 811 arranged on the main body 910.

[0154] The energizing unit 931 arranged on the cartridge 930 can be electrically connected to the first terminals 921-1, 921-2 of the heater module 920 and can generate an energizing signal when the cartridge 930 is coupled to the heater module 920. The energizing unit 931 can be constituted by a conductive substance. The control unit 811 can receive an energizing signal via the third terminals 923-1, 923-2 of the heater module 920 when the heater module 920 to which the cartridge 930 is coupled is coupled to the main body 910. The energizing signal is a signal applied via the third terminals 923-1, 923-2 and the first terminals 921-1, 921-2, and is an electrical signal mediated by the energizing unit 931. The energizing signal can be supplied from the battery under the control of the control unit 811. Specifically, the control unit 811 can receive an energizing signal via the second terminals 912-1, 912-2 of the main body 910 connected to the third terminals 923-1, 923-2 of the heater module 920.

[0155] The control unit 811 can identify the aerosol generating device 10 to which the cartridge 930, the heater module 920, and the main body 910 are all coupled based on the intensity of the energizing signal.

[0156] FIG. 10 is a flowchart relating to a method for determining the manner of coupling of a cartridge according to an embodiment.

[0157] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, step S10 is a step in which the control unit 811 measures an energization signal. The energization signal can be generated when the energization unit 931 of the cartridge 930 is electrically connected to the first terminals 921-1 and 921-2 of the heater modules 820 and 920. The energization signal is also a current flow for a predetermined time or more or a current amount equal to or greater than a reference value. As an example, when the energization signal is preset for a current flow for a predetermined time or more, the current flow for a predetermined time or more is classified as the energization signal, and the current flow for a predetermined time or less (including 0) can be classified as a noise signal. As another example, when the energization signal is preset for a current amount equal to or greater than a reference value, the current amount equal to or greater than the reference value is classified as the energization signal, and the current amount equal to or less than the reference value (including 0) can be classified as a noise signal. The classification between the energization signal and the noise signal includes the above examples and can be classified according to a plurality of criteria.

[0158] The control unit 811 compares the energization signal with a preset reference value (S1020), and if it is equal to or greater than the reference value, it can recognize the cartridge 930 as being in a coupled state. Specifically, the control unit 811 can recognize that the aerosol generating device 10 is in a state where the cartridges 830 and 930, the heater modules 820 and 920, and the main body 910 are all coupled (S1030).

[0159] The control unit 811 compares the energization signal with a preset reference value (S1020), and if it is less than the reference value, it can recognize the cartridges 830 and 930 as being in an uncoupled state. Specifically, the control unit 811 can recognize that the aerosol generating device is in a state where any one of the cartridges 830 and 930, the heater modules 820 and 920, and the main body 910 is uncoupled (S1040).

[0160] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 1100 according to another embodiment.

[0161] The aerosol generating device 1100 also includes a control unit 1110, a sensing unit 1120, an output unit 1130, a battery 1140, a heater 1150, a user input unit 1160, a memory 1170, and a communication unit 1180. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1100 is not limited to what is shown in FIG. 11. That is, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1100, some of the components shown in FIG. 11 may be omitted, or new components may be further added. This should be understandable to those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment.

[0162] The sensing unit 1120 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1100 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1100, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 1110. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 1110 can control the aerosol generating device 1100 so that various functions such as operation control of the heater 1150, restriction of smoking, determination of whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.) is inserted, and notification display are performed.

[0163] The sensing unit 1120 includes at least one of a temperature sensor 1122, an insertion sensing sensor 1124, and a puff sensor 1126, but is not limited thereto.

[0164] The temperature sensor 1122 can sense the temperature at which the heater 1150 (or the aerosol generating substance) is heated. The aerosol generating device 1100 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the heater 1150, or the heater 1150 itself may perform the role of a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 1122 may be arranged around the battery 1140 to monitor the temperature of the battery 1140.

[0165] The insertion detection sensor 1124 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article. For example, the insertion detection sensor 1124 may include 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 detect a signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article.

[0166] The puff sensor 1126 can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the air flow path or air flow channel. For example, the puff sensor 1126 can detect the user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0167] In addition to the aforementioned sensors (the temperature sensor 1122, the insertion detection sensor 1124, and the puff sensor 1126), the sensing unit 1120 may further include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS (global positioning system)), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (red-green-blue) illuminance sensor. Since the functions of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an ordinary technician from its name, specific descriptions are omitted.

[0168] The output unit 1130 can output information related to the state of the aerosol generating device 1100 and provide it to the user. The output unit 1130 may include at least one of a display unit 1132, a haptic unit 1134, and an acoustic output unit 1136, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 1132 and the touch pad form a layer structure and are configured as a touch screen, the display unit 1132 can also be used as an input device in addition to the output device.

[0169] The display unit 1132 can visually provide information related to the aerosol generating device 1100 to the user. For example, the information related to the aerosol generating device 1100 means various information such as the charging / discharging state of the battery 1140 of the aerosol generating device 1100, the preheating state of the heater 1150, the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article, or the state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 1100 is restricted (e.g., abnormal article detection), and the display unit 1132 can output the information to the outside. The display unit 1132 is, for example, also a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), etc. Further, the display unit 1132 is also in the form of an LED (light-emitting diode) light emitting element.

[0170] The haptic unit 1134 can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus and tactually provide information related to the aerosol generating device 1100 to the user. For example, the haptic unit 1134 includes a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0171] The acoustic output unit 1136 can aurally provide information related to the aerosol generating device 1100 to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit 1136 can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0172] The battery 1140 can supply the power used for the aerosol generating device 1100 to operate. The battery 1140 can supply power so that the heater 1150 can be heated. Further, the battery 1140 can supply the power required for the operation of other components (e.g., the sensing unit 1120, the output unit 1130, the user input unit 1160, the memory 1170, and the communication unit 1180) provided in the aerosol generating device 1100. The battery 1140 is a rechargeable battery and also a single-use battery. For example, the battery 1140 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0173] The heater 1150 is powered by the battery 1140 and can heat the aerosol generating substance. Although not shown in FIG. 11, the aerosol generating device 1100 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC (direct current) / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 1140 and supplies it to the heater 1150. Also, when the aerosol generating device 1100 generates aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generating device 1100 may further include a DC / AC (alternating current) converter that converts the DC power source of the battery 1140 into an AC power source.

[0174] The control unit 1110, the sensing unit 1120, the output unit 1130, the user input unit 1160, the memory 1170, and the communication unit 1180 are powered by the battery 1140 and can perform their functions. Although not shown in FIG. 11, 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 1140 and supplies it to each component.

[0175] In one embodiment, the heater 1150 is also formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, the suitable electrically resistive material may be a metal or metal alloy including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc., but is not limited thereto. Also, the heater 1150 may be embodied by a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate with conductive tracks disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0176] In other embodiments, the heater 1150 is also an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 1150 includes a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil and heats the aerosol generating substance.

[0177] The user input unit 1160 can receive information input by the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 1160 may include a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (capacitive touch type, piezoresistive type, infrared sensing type, surface acoustic wave conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc., but is not limited thereto. Although not shown in FIG. 11, the aerosol generating device 1100 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can be connected to other external devices through the connection interface such as the USB interface to transmit and receive information, or can charge the battery 1140.

[0178] The memory 1170 is hardware for storing various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1100, and can store the data processed by the control unit 1110 and the data to be processed. The memory 1170 also includes at least one type of recording medium such as a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD (secure digital) memory or XD (extreme digital) 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 1170 can store data related to the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1100, the maximum puff count, the current puff count, at least one temperature profile, and the smoking pattern of the user.

[0179] The communication unit 1180 also includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 1180 may include a short-range wireless communication unit 1182 and a wireless communication unit 1184.

[0180] The short-range wireless communication unit 1182 may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (wireless local area network) (Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity)) 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.

[0181] The wireless communication unit 1184 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN (local area network) or WAN (wide area network)) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 1184 can also use subscriber information (e.g., the international mobile subscriber identifier (IMSI)) to identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 1100 within the communication network.

[0182] The control unit 1110 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1100. In one embodiment, the control unit 1110 also includes at least one processor. The processor can also be implemented by an array of a large number of logic gates, and can also be implemented by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program that can be executed by the microprocessor is stored. Also, the fact that it can be implemented by other forms of hardware should be understandable to those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs.

[0183] The control unit 1110 can control the temperature of the heater 1150 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 1140 to the heater 1150. For example, the control unit 1110 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery 1140 and the heater 1150. In another example, according to the control command of the control unit 1110, the heating direct circuit can also control the power supply to the heater 1150.

[0184] The control unit 1110 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 1120 and control the subsequent processing. For example, the control unit 1110 can control the power supplied to the heater 1150 so that the operation of the heater 1150 is started or ended based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1120. As another example, the control unit 1110 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 1150 and the time during which the power is supplied so that the heater 1150 can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1120.

[0185] The control unit 1110 can control the output unit 1130 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1120. For example, if the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 1126 reaches a preset number, the control unit 1110 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 1100 is about to end via at least one of the display unit 1132, the haptic unit 1134, and the acoustic output unit 1136.

[0186] The control unit 1110 outputs a control signal based on a user input via the user input unit 1160, and can output different control signals depending on whether the cartridge is coupled or not for the same user input.

[0187] Specifically, when the received power-on signal is less than the reference value, the control unit 1110 recognizes that the cartridge is in an uncoupled state and can output a first control signal for a user input via the user input unit 1160. On the other hand, when the received power-on signal is greater than or equal to the reference value, the control unit 1110 recognizes that the cartridge is in a coupled state and can output a second control signal for a user input via the user input unit 1160.

[0188] For example, for the same user input, when the control unit 1110 recognizes that the cartridge is in a coupled state, it outputs a first control signal to supply power to the heater 1150, but when it recognizes that the cartridge is in an uncoupled state, it can output a second control signal to cut off the power supplied to the heater 1150.

[0189] As another example, when the control unit 1110 recognizes that the cartridge is in the coupled state for the same user input, it outputs a first control signal for supplying a first power to the heater 1150. However, when the control unit 1110 recognizes that the cartridge is in the uncoupled state, it may output a second control signal for supplying a second power to the heater 1150. Here, the second power is also higher than the first power. The first power is the power supplied to the heater 1150 in the normal smoking mode, and the second power is also the power supplied to the heater 1150 in the cleaning mode for vaporizing the residue of the aerosol generating substance by heating the heater 1150 with a higher heat than the normal smoking mode. Therefore, the aerosol generating device 1100 according to one embodiment has an advantage that two types of operations are possible depending on the coupled state of the cartridge for one user input without separately configuring a user input unit 1160 for heating the heater 1150 in the smoking mode and a user input unit 1160 for operating the cleaning mode. That is, the aerosol generating device 1100 according to one embodiment operates differently for the same user input depending on the coupling state of the cartridge, so that the user input interface can be simplified.

[0190] In one embodiment, when the received energization signal is less than the reference value, the control unit 1110 recognizes that the cartridge is in the uncoupled state and may output a first UI (user interface) screen via the display unit 1132. On the other hand, when the received energization signal is equal to or greater than the reference value, the control unit 1110 recognizes that the cartridge is in the coupled state and may output a second UI screen different from the first UI via the display unit. For example, icons related to the cleaning mode may be arranged in the first UI, and icons related to the smoking mode may be arranged in the second UI.

[0191] One embodiment may also be embodied in the form of a recording medium including computer-executable instructions such as program modules executed by a computer. A computer-readable medium is also any available medium that can be accessed by a computer and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. Also, a computer-readable medium includes both computer storage media and communication media. The computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media embodied by any method or technology for the storage of information such as computer-executable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. The communication media typically includes modulated data signals such as computer-executable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data, or other transmission mechanisms, and includes any information delivery media.

[0192] The foregoing description of the embodiments is illustrative only, and those having ordinary knowledge in the relevant technical field will understand that various modifications and equivalent other embodiments are possible therefrom. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention is defined by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope equivalent to the content described in the claims must be construed as being included within the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A main body including a control unit and a battery, a heater module detachably coupled to the main body and including a heater for heating an aerosol generating substance, a cartridge detachably coupled to the heater module and holding the aerosol generating substance transmitted to the heater, and the heater module includes a first terminal that electrically connects the cartridge and the heater module when the cartridge is coupled to the heater module, a second terminal and a third terminal that electrically connect the heater module and the control unit when the heater module is coupled to the main body, an aerosol generating device.

2. The heater module further includes a printed circuit board that electrically connects the first terminal and the third terminal, the aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

3. The heater module further includes an integrated circuit mounted on the printed circuit board, the integrated circuit is electrically connected to the control unit via the third terminal, the aerosol generating device according to claim 2.

4. The integrated circuit counts the number of puffs based on a signal transmitted from the control unit each time a puff is sensed and stores the counted number, the aerosol generating device according to claim 3.

5. The integrated circuit includes a non-volatile memory for storing the number, the aerosol generating device according to claim 4.

6. The heater is supplied with power from the battery via the second terminal, the aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

7. The cartridge further includes an energizing portion that is electrically connected to the first terminal when coupled to the heater module, the aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

8. When the energizing portion is electrically connected to the first terminal, the energizing portion generates an energizing signal, the control unit receives the energizing signal via the third terminal, the aerosol generating device according to claim 7.

9. The energizing signal is a current flow for a predetermined time or more or an amount of current equal to or greater than a reference value, the aerosol generating device according to claim 8.

10. The aerosol generating device further includes a user input unit that receives a user input, the control unit in response to the user input, when the energizing signal is less than a reference value, outputs a first control signal, The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein when the energization signal is equal to or greater than a reference value, a second control signal different from the first control signal is output.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, wherein the first control signal is a signal for cutting off the power supplied to the heater.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the first terminal, the second terminal, and the third terminal are each configured in a pair.

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