Aerosol generating device and method of operation thereof

Abstract

An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a heater for heating a cigarette, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater, a timer for counting the current date, and a control unit for controlling power supplied to the heater through a control signal, wherein the control unit calculates a heating time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor, sets a threshold based on the current date, and supplies power to the heater according to a basic temperature profile if the heating time is less than the threshold, and supplies power to the heater according to a first correction profile if the heating time is greater than or equal to the threshold.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and a method of operation thereof. [Background technology]

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

[0003] On the other hand, moisture has a higher specific heat than air and a higher heat capacity than air at the same temperature. This can cause a problem in that when a user inhales an aerosol with a high moisture content, they may feel hotter than when inhaling air at the same temperature. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In an aerosol generating device, heater temperature control is very important.

[0005] On the other hand, the temperature control of the heater in the aerosol generating device must take into account the surrounding environment. Specifically, in the case of hot and humid summers and cold and dry winters, the need to reflect such seasonal factors in the heater temperature control becomes even greater.

[0006] The present invention aims to distinguish between summer and other seasons by utilizing an internal timer included in an aerosol generating device, and to precisely control the temperature of the heater of the aerosol generating device in accordance with the seasonal characteristics.

[0007] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that can distinguish between regular cigarettes and over-moistened cigarettes.

[0008] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device and method of operation that includes temperature profiles corresponding to regular cigarettes and over-moistened cigarettes, respectively. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above problem includes a heater for heating a cigarette, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater, a timer for counting the current date, and a control unit for controlling the power supplied to the heater through a control signal, wherein the control unit calculates the heating time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor, sets a threshold based on the current date, and if the heating time is less than the threshold, supplies power to the heater according to a basic temperature profile, and if the heating time is equal to or greater than the threshold, supplies power to the heater according to a first correction profile.

[0010] An operating method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes the steps of heating a cigarette with a heater, measuring the temperature of the heater with a temperature sensor, counting the current date with a timer, and controlling power supplied to the heater through a control signal, wherein the power controlling step calculates a heating time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor, sets a threshold based on the current date, and supplies power to the heater according to a basic temperature profile if the heating time is less than the threshold, and supplies power to the heater according to a first correction profile if the heating time is greater than or equal to the threshold. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] The aerosol generating apparatus and its operating method according to various embodiments of the present invention can distinguish between regular cigarettes and over-humidified cigarettes based on the heating time of the cigarettes.

[0012] Additionally, various embodiments of the present invention can provide temperature profiles corresponding to both regular cigarettes and over-moistened cigarettes.

[0013] Furthermore, various embodiments of the present invention can distinguish between summer and other seasons and precisely control the temperature of the heater of the aerosol generating device in accordance with the seasonal characteristics.

[0014] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and any unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments pertain from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] 1 is a drawing showing an example of a cigarette. [Figure 5] 1 is a drawing showing an example of a cigarette. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. [Figure 7A] 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] 7B is a perspective view showing the operating state of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A with some components separated. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an exemplary diagram for explaining a basic temperature profile of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 9A] FIG. 10 is an exemplary diagram for explaining a first correction profile of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 9B] FIG. 10 is an exemplary diagram for explaining a second correction profile of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating device includes a heater for heating a cigarette, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater, a timer for counting the current date, and a control unit for controlling the power supplied to the heater through a control signal, wherein the control unit calculates the heating time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor, sets a threshold value based on the current date, and if the heating time is less than the threshold value, supplies power to the heater according to a basic temperature profile, and if the heating time is greater than or equal to the threshold value, supplies power to the heater according to a first correction profile.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present invention, the control unit distinguishes between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date, and sets the threshold to a first threshold corresponding to the first season and a second threshold corresponding to the second season.

[0018] According to one aspect of the present invention, the basic temperature profile includes a first preheating section and a first smoking section, and the first correction profile includes a second preheating section and a second smoking section, and the second preheating section is longer than the first preheating section.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first preheating section includes a first preheating ascending section, a first preheating holding section, and a first preheating descending section, and the second preheating section includes a second preheating ascending section, a 2-1 preheating holding section, a second preheating descending section, and a 2-2 preheating holding section, and the first preheating ascending section is shorter than the second preheating ascending section.

[0020] According to one aspect of the present invention, the 2-1 preheating holding section is longer than the first preheating holding section, and a temperature change in the second preheating descending section is greater than a temperature change in the first preheating descending section.

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first smoking section includes a first smoking descending section and a first smoking holding section, and the second smoking section includes a second smoking holding section.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present invention, the control unit distinguishes between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date, and if the current date corresponds to the first season, supplies power to the heater according to the first correction profile, and if the current date corresponds to the second season, supplies power to the heater according to the second correction profile different from the first correction profile.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first correction profile includes a second preheating section and a second smoking section, the second correction profile includes a third preheating section and a third smoking section, the second preheating section includes a second preheating rise section, a 2-1 preheating hold section, a second preheating fall section, and a 2-2 preheating hold section, the third preheating section includes a third preheating rise section, a 3-1 preheating hold section, a third preheating fall section, and a 3-2 preheating hold section, and the sum of the time of the 2-1 preheating hold section, the second preheating fall section, and the 2-2 preheating hold section is longer than the sum of the time of the 3-1 preheating hold section, the third preheating fall section, and the 3-2 preheating hold section.

[0024] The terms used in the embodiments are currently commonly used terms, and are selected as much as possible while taking into consideration the functions of the present invention. However, this may vary depending on the intentions or precedents of engineers in the field, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply the names of the terms.

[0025] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a certain component, it does not mean that it excludes other components and may further include other components, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, terms such as "... unit" and "... module" used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and may be realized by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0026] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present invention. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0028] 1 to 3 are diagrams showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0029] 1, the aerosol generator 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. 2 and 3, the aerosol generator 1 further includes a vaporizer 14. A cigarette 2 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generator 1.

[0030] The components according to this embodiment are shown in the aerosol generating device 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3. Therefore, it will be understood by a person skilled in the art that this embodiment may further include other general-purpose components in addition to the components shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0031] 2 and 3 show that the aerosol generating device 1 includes the heater 13, but the heater 13 can be omitted as necessary.

[0032] In Fig. 1, the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the heater 13 are shown arranged in a row. In Fig. 2, the battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14, and the heater 13 are shown arranged in a row. In Fig. 3, the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are shown arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generation device 1 is not limited to that shown in Figs. 1 to 3. That is, the arrangement of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14 can be changed depending on the design of the aerosol generation device 1.

[0033] When the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 activates the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 to generate aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 passes through the cigarette 2 and is delivered to the user.

[0034] If necessary, the aerosol generating device 1 can heat the heater 13 even when no cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0035] The battery 11 supplies power used to operate the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the battery 11 can supply power to heat the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14, and can supply power necessary for the operation of the control unit 12. The battery 11 can also supply power necessary for the operation of a display, a sensor, a motor, and the like provided in the aerosol generation device 1.

[0036] The control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generation device 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the operation of not only the battery 11, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, but also other components included in the aerosol generation device 1. The control unit 12 can also check the state of each component of the aerosol generation device 1 and determine whether the aerosol generation device 1 is in an operable state.

[0037] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Those skilled in the art will understand that the controller 12 may also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0038] The heater 13 can be heated by power supplied from the battery 11. For example, when a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 13 can be located outside the cigarette. Thus, the heated heater 13 can increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material inside the cigarette.

[0039] The heater 13 may also be an electrical resistance heater. For example, the heater 13 may include a conductive track, and the heater 13 may be heated when a current flows through the conductive track. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above example, and may be any heater capable of heating to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generation device 1, or may be set to a desired temperature by a user.

[0040] On the other hand, as another example, the heater 13 may be an induction heater. Specifically, the heater 13 may include a conductive coil for heating the cigarette by induction heating, and the cigarette may include a susceptor heated by the induction heater.

[0041] For example, the heater 13 may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0042] Furthermore, a plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged in the aerosol generation device 1. In this case, the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged so as to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, or may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Furthermore, some of the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged so as to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, and the rest may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Furthermore, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes shown in Figs. 1 to 3, and various shapes can be produced.

[0043] The vaporizer 14 heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, which is then transmitted to the user through the cigarette 2. That is, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 travels along an airflow passage in the aerosol generating device 1, and the airflow passage may be configured to allow the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 to pass through the cigarette and be transmitted to the user.

[0044] For example, the vaporizer 14 may include, but is not limited to, a liquid storage unit, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generation device 1 as independent modules.

[0045] 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 be configured to be detachable from / attachable to the vaporizer 14, or may be configured integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0046] For example, the liquid composition may contain water, solvent, ethanol, plant extract, fragrance, flavoring, or vitamin mixture. Flavorings include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit fragrance components. Flavorings may include components capable of providing the user with a variety of flavors or tastes. The vitamin mixture may be, but is not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. The liquid composition may also contain an aerosol-forming agent, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0047] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition in the liquid reservoir to the heating element, for example, but not limited to, a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0048] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition delivered by the liquid delivery means. For example, the heating element may be, but is not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, or the like. The heating element may also be made of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire and arranged by being wound around the liquid delivery means. The heating element is heated by supplying an electric current and transfers heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol is generated.

[0049] For example, the vaporizer 14 may also be referred to as, but is not limited to, a cartomizer or an atomizer.

[0050] Meanwhile, the aerosol generator 1 may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14. For example, the aerosol generator 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. The aerosol generator 1 may also include at least one sensor (such as a puff sensor, a temperature sensor, or a cigarette insertion sensor). The aerosol generator 1 may also be constructed so that external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out even when a cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0051] 1 to 3, the aerosol generation device 1 can also be used to configure a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle is used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generation device 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 may be heated while the cradle and the aerosol generation device 1 are coupled together.

[0052] The cigarette 2 is similar to a typical combustion cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 is divided into a first portion containing an aerosol-generating material and a second portion containing a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second portion of the cigarette 2 also contains an aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material in granular or capsule form may be inserted into the second portion.

[0053] The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generation device 1, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generation device 1, or the entire first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. A user inhales the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol passes through the second part and is delivered to the user's mouth.

[0054] As one example, external air may be introduced through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the opening and / or closing and / or size of the air passage formed in the aerosol generation device 1 may be adjusted by the user. This allows the user to adjust the amount of atomization, smoking sensation, etc. As another example, external air may be introduced into the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed in the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0055] An example of the cigarette 2 will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0056] 4 and 5 are drawings showing examples of cigarettes.

[0057] Referring to Figure 4, the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. Although Figure 4 shows the filter rod 22 as a single segment, this is not limiting. That is, the filter rod 22 may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment that cools the aerosol and a segment that filters predetermined components contained in the aerosol. Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment that performs another function, as needed.

[0058] The cigarette 2 has a diameter ranging from 5 mm to 9 mm and a length of approximately 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, but not limited to, the tobacco rod 21 has a length of approximately 12 mm, the first segment of the filter rod 22 has a length of approximately 10 mm, the second segment of the filter rod 22 has a length of approximately 14 mm, and the third segment of the filter rod 22 has a length of approximately 12 mm.

[0059] The cigarette 2 may be wrapped using at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may have at least one hole formed therein through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out. As an example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped using one wrapper 24. As another example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped by two or more wrappers 24 stacked one on top of the other. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped using a first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 may be wrapped using wrappers 242, 243, and 244. The entire cigarette 2 may then be re-wrapped using a single fifth wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, each segment may be wrapped using one of the wrappers 242, 243, and 244.

[0060] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of common filter wrapping paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be porous or non-porous wrapping paper. The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may also be made of oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum-clad wrapping material.

[0061] The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is 88 g / m 2 ~96g / m 2 and preferably 90 g / m 2 ~94g / m 2 The thickness of the third wrapper 243 is within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably 125 μm.

[0062] The fourth wrapper 244 may be made of oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 is 88 g / m 2 ~96g / m 2 and preferably 90 g / m 2 ~94g / m 2 The thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 is within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably 125 μm.

[0063] The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 is 57 g / m 2 ~63g / m 2 and preferably 60 g / m 2 The thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 is in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably 67 μm.

[0064] A predetermined substance may be added to the fifth wrapper 245. An example of the predetermined substance is, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance (i.e., small changes due to temperature), oxidation resistance (i.e., resistance to various chemicals), water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, any substance other than silicon that has the above properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

[0065] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the cigarette 2 from being burned. For example, if the tobacco rod 210 is heated by the heater 13, the cigarette 2 may be burned. Specifically, if the temperature of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 310 rises above the ignition point, the cigarette 2 may be burned. Even in this case, the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-combustible substance, so the cigarette 2 is prevented from being burned.

[0066] Furthermore, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the aerosol generation device 1 from being contaminated by a substance generated in the cigarette 2. A liquid substance can be generated in the cigarette 2 when the user puffs. For example, the aerosol generated in the cigarette 2 is cooled by external air, generating a liquid substance (e.g., moisture). The fifth wrapper 245 wraps the cigarette 2, thereby preventing the liquid substance generated in the cigarette 2 from leaking out of the cigarette 2.

[0067] The tobacco rod 21 contains an aerosol-forming material. For example, the aerosol-forming material may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The tobacco rod 21 may also contain other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. A flavoring liquid, such as menthol or a humectant, may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by 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 manufactured in the form of a sheet or a strand. Alternatively, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from shredded tobacco, which is a tobacco sheet cut into small pieces. The tobacco rod 21 can also be surrounded by a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited to this. For example, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can uniformly distribute heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21, improving the thermal conductivity of the tobacco rod and thereby improving the tobacco flavor. The thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can also function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. Although not shown, the tobacco rod 21 may further include a susceptor in addition to the thermally conductive material surrounding the exterior.

[0069] The filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. However, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical rod or a tubular rod with a hollow interior. The filter rod 22 may also be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may be manufactured 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 a tubular structure having a hollow interior. The first segment prevents the internal material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed backward when the heater 13 is inserted, and also produces a cooling effect on the aerosol. The diameter of the hollow interior of the first segment may be, but is not limited to, a suitable diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm.

[0071] The length of the first segment may be an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the first segment is 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0072] The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by adjusting the amount of plasticizer used during manufacturing of the first segment. The first segment can also be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or tube made of the same or different material into the interior (e.g., hollow) of the first segment.

[0073] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 13 heating the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol that has been cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0074] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways depending on the form of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the second segment is suitably set within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment is about 14 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0075] The second segment can be made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a fragrance liquid can be applied to the polymer fibers. Alternatively, the second segment can be made by weaving a separate fiber coated with a fragrance liquid and a polymer fiber together. Alternatively, the second segment can be formed from a crimped polymer sheet.

[0076] For example, the polymer may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0077] The second segment is formed from woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, such that the second segment includes one or more longitudinally extending channels, where a channel refers to a passageway through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0078] For example, the second segment made of a crimped polymer sheet is formed from a material having a thickness of about 5 μm to about 300 μm, for example, about 10 μm to about 250 μm. The total surface area of ​​the second segment is about 300 mm 2 / mm ~ approx. 1000mm 2 / mm. The aerosol cooling element has a specific surface area of ​​approximately 10 mm 2 / mg ~ approx. 100mm 2 / mg of material.

[0079] The second segment, on the other hand, includes a thread containing a volatile flavor component, such as, but not limited to, menthol. For example, the thread may be loaded with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0080] The third segment of the filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be appropriately selected within a range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be approximately 12 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0081] During the manufacturing process of the third segment, the third segment may be manufactured so that a flavor is generated by spraying a flavoring liquid onto the third segment. Alternatively, separate fibers coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted into the third segment. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 is cooled as it passes through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is delivered to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the effect of enhancing the persistence of the flavor delivered to the user may be achieved.

[0082] The filter rod 22 also includes at least one capsule 23. The capsule 23 may function to generate a flavor or aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is surrounded by a coating. The capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0083] 5, the cigarette 3 may further include a front-end plug 33. The front-end plug 33 may be located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 facing the filter rod 32. The front-end plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching to the outside and can prevent aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generating device 1 (FIGS. 1 to 3).

[0084] The filter rod 32 includes a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 corresponds to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4, and the second segment 322 corresponds to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG.

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

[0086] The cigarette 3 may be wrapped using at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole formed therein through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out. For example, the front end plug 33 may be wrapped using a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 may be wrapped using a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 may be wrapped using a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 may be wrapped using a fourth wrapper 354. The entire cigarette 3 may then be repackaged using a fifth wrapper 355.

[0087] In addition, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, but not limited to, the perforation 36 may be formed in a region surrounding the tobacco rod 31. The perforation 36 may serve to transfer heat generated by the heater 13 shown in Figures 2 and 3 to the interior of the tobacco rod 31.

[0088] The second segment 322 also includes at least one capsule 34. The capsule 34 may function to generate a flavor or may function to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a coating surrounds a liquid containing a flavoring agent. The capsule 34 may have, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0089] The first wrapper 351 may be a general filter wrapper with a metal foil such as aluminum foil bonded to it. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 is within the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, and preferably 50.3 μm. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 is within the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, and preferably 6.3 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 50 g / m 2 ~55g / m 2 and preferably 53 g / m 2 is.

[0090] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be made of common filter wrapping paper, for example, porous or non-porous wrapping paper.

[0091] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 is 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. The thickness of the second wrapper 352 is within the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, and preferably 78 μm. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 20 g / m 2 ~25g / m 2 and preferably 23.5 g / m 2 is.

[0092] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 is 24000 CU, but is not limited thereto. The thickness of the third wrapper 353 is within the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and preferably 68 μm. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 is 20 g / m 2 ~25g / m 2 and preferably 21 g / m 2 is.

[0093] The fourth wrapper 354 may be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper refers to a three-layer paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and another paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 is within the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and preferably 110 μm. The basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is 80 g / m 2 ~100g / m 2 and preferably 88 g / m 2 is.

[0094] The fifth wrapper 355 may be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is 57 g / m 2 ~63g / m 2 and preferably 60 g / m 2The thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 is within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably 67 μm.

[0095] A predetermined substance may be added to the fifth wrapper 355. An example of the predetermined substance is, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance (i.e., small changes due to temperature), oxidation resistance (i.e., resistance to various chemicals), water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, any substance other than silicon that has the above properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

[0096] The front end plug 33 may be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the front end plug 33 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono-denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow is within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably within the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono-denier of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 is 5.0. The cross section of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the front end plug 33 is within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably within the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the front end plug 33 is 28,000.

[0097] Optionally, the front end plug 33 also includes at least one channel, the cross-sectional shape of which can be varied.

[0098] The tobacco rod 31 corresponds to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to Figure 4. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0099] The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure having a hollow interior. The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate tow with a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin). For example, the mono-denier and total denier of the first segment 321 are the same as those of the front end plug 33.

[0100] The second segment 322 may be made of cellulose acetate. The mono-denier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 is within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably within the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the mono-denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 is 9.0. The cross section of the filaments of the second segment 322 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 is within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably 25,000.

[0101] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0102] The aerosol generating device 600 includes 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, a communication unit 680, and a timer 690. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 600 is not limited to that shown in Fig. 6. That is, a person skilled in the art of this embodiment can understand that some of the components shown in Fig. 6 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 600.

[0103] 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 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the heater 650, restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol product (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.) is inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0104] The sensing unit 620 includes at least one of a temperature sensor 622, an insertion sensor 624, a puff sensor 626, and a humidity sensor 628, but is not limited thereto.

[0105] The temperature sensor 622 can sense the temperature to which the heater 650 (or the aerosol-generating substance) is heated. The aerosol-generating device 600 can include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the heater 650, or the heater 650 itself can function as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 622 can be disposed around the battery 640 to monitor the temperature of the battery 640.

[0106] Temperature sensor 622 can measure the temperature to which heater 650 (or the aerosol-generating substance) is heated and provide the measured temperature to control unit 610. Control unit 610 can use temperature sensor 622 to calculate the time (or temperature rise time) required for the measured temperature to reach the temperature at which the aerosol-generating substance volatilizes, and can compare the calculated temperature rise time with a preset threshold to determine the humidity state of cigarette 2 (FIG. 2). Control unit 610 can control the power supplied to heater 650 in accordance with the determined humidity state of the cigarette.

[0107] The insertion detection sensor 624 can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol product article. For example, the insertion detection sensor 624 can include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can detect a signal change due to the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol product article.

[0108] The puff sensor 626 can sense a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or channel, such as a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, or a pressure change.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can directly measure the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2 (FIG. 2) and provide the measured humidity information to the control unit 610. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be disposed in the receiving passage 1004h (FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600. According to another embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can measure the amount of moisture condensed around the cigarette 2 (FIG. 2) after heating the cigarette. Over-humidified cigarettes evaporate more moisture when heated than regular cigarettes. Therefore, when over-humidified cigarettes are heated, more condensation may occur than when regular cigarettes are heated. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be disposed around the outer hole 1002p (FIG. 7A) that overlaps the receiving passage 1004h (FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600 in the thickness direction, or on the door 1003 (FIG. 7A).

[0110] The humidity sensor 628 may be any one of an electrical resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, and an optical sensor, but this is merely an example and the humidity sensor 628 is not limited thereto.

[0111] The sensing unit 620 may further include at least one of an air pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (illuminance) sensor, in addition to the temperature sensor 622, the insertion sensor 624, the puff sensor 626, and the humidity sensor 628. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0112] The output unit 630 can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device 600 to provide it to a user. The output unit 630 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of a display unit 632, a haptic unit 634, and an audio output unit 636. When the display unit 632 and the touchpad are layered to form a touch screen, the display unit 632 is used as an input device in addition to being an output device.

[0113] The display unit 632 can visually provide a user with information about the aerosol generating device 600. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 600 refers to various information such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 640 of the aerosol generating device 600, the preheating status of the heater 650, the insertion / removal status of an aerosol product, or a status in which use of the aerosol generating device 600 is restricted (e.g., abnormal item detection), and the display unit 632 can output the information to the outside. The display unit 632 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. The display unit 632 can also be in the form of an LED light emitting element.

[0114] The haptic unit 634 can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus and provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generating device 600. For example, the haptic unit 634 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0115] The acoustic output unit 636 can audibly provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 600. For example, the acoustic output unit 636 can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0116] The battery 640 can supply power used for operating the aerosol generating device 600. The battery 640 can supply power to heat the heater 650. The battery 640 can also supply power necessary for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 600 (e.g., the sensing unit 620, the output unit 630, the user input unit 660, the memory 670, and the communication unit 680). The battery 640 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 640 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0117] The heater 650 is supplied with power from the battery 640 and can heat the aerosol-generating material. Although not shown in Fig. 6, the aerosol-generating device 600 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 640 and supplies it to the heater 650. Furthermore, when the aerosol-generating device 600 generates an aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol-generating device 600 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power of the battery 640 into AC power.

[0118] 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 function by receiving power from the battery 640. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the device may further include a power conversion circuit, for example, an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the battery 640 and supplies it to each component.

[0119] In one embodiment, heater 650 may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material, such as, but not limited to, 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. Additionally, heater 650 may be embodied as, but not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate with a conductive track disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0120] In other embodiments, heater 650 is an induction heater. For example, heater 650 may include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0121] In one embodiment, heater 650 includes multiple heaters. For example, heater 650 may include a first heater for heating the cigarette and a second heater for heating the liquid.

[0122] The user input unit 660 can receive information input by a user or output information to a user. For example, the user input unit 660 can be, but is not limited to, a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (e.g., a contact-type capacitance type, a pressure-type resistive film type, an infrared sensing type, a surface ultrasonic conduction type, an integral tension measurement type, a piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Although not shown in FIG. 6 , the aerosol generating device 600 can further include a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface to connect to another external device through the connection interface such as the USB interface to transmit and receive information or charge the battery 640.

[0123] The memory 670 is hardware that stores various data (e.g., a temperature profile) processed within the aerosol generating device 600 and can store data that has been processed by the control unit 610 and data to be processed by the control unit 610. The memory 670 includes at least one type of recording medium selected from the group consisting of a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a micro multimedia card type, a card-type memory (e.g., an SD or XD memory), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The memory 670 can store data related to the operating time of the aerosol generating device 600, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0124] The communication unit 680 includes 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.

[0125] The short-range wireless communication unit 682 includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an IrDA (infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0126] The wireless communication unit 684 includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 684 can also identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 600 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)).

[0127] The timer 690 can output time information measured from a reference time. The timer 690 can generate and output time data according to the current time by multiplying a clock signal of a predetermined frequency. The timer 690 can count the current date. For example, if the reference time is January 1, 1970, at midnight, the timer 690 can measure the passage of time from January 1, 1970, at midnight. Assuming that the reference time of the timer 690 is January 1, 1970, at midnight, and one year has passed since the timer 690 began measuring the time information, the timer 690 can output time information of January 1, 1971, at midnight.

[0128] During the manufacturing process of the aerosol generating device 600, the reference time of the timer 690 may be synchronized to the time point at which the aerosol generating device 600 is manufactured. In this case, during the manufacturing process of the aerosol generating device 600, an initial synchronization time may be determined by the supplier, and the reference time of the timer 690 may be synchronized to the initial synchronization time.

[0129] The memory 670 can store time information output from the timer 690. After being initialized at the time of manufacturing or shipping the aerosol generating device 600, the memory 670 can receive and store the time information output from the timer 690 when the timer 690 starts measuring the time information.

[0130] The memory 670 stores time information output from the timer 690 periodically at an arbitrary cycle, but is not limited to this. The memory 670 can also store time information when a preset operation is performed. The preset operation includes at least one of resetting or booting the control unit 610, canceling a shipping mode, ending a smoking operation (e.g., a heating operation of a heater), starting a charging operation, and receiving a user input (e.g., a touch or button input), but is not necessarily limited to these. The control unit 610 can store the time information output from the timer 690 in the memory 670 when it determines that a preset operation has been performed.

[0131] The control unit 610 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 600. In one embodiment, the control unit 610 includes at least one processor. The processor may be embodied as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be embodied by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Those skilled in the art will understand that the processor may also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0132] The control unit 610 can control the temperature of the heater 650 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 640 to the heater 650. For example, the control unit 610 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 640 and the heater 650. As another example, a heating direct circuit can control the power supply to the heater 650 according to a control command from the control unit 610.

[0133] The control unit 610 may analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 620 and control subsequent processing. For example, the control unit 610 may control the power supplied to the heater 650 to start or stop operation of the heater 650 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 620. As another example, the control unit 610 may control the amount of power and the power supply time supplied to the heater 650 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 620 to heat the heater 650 to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature.

[0134] The control unit 610 may control the output unit 630 based on the result 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 may notify the user through at least one of the display unit 632, the haptic unit 634, and the audio output unit 636 that the aerosol generating device 600 will soon be shut down.

[0135] The control unit 610 can determine the humidity state of the cigarette using the temperature sensor 622. The control unit 610 can operate the heater 650 according to a temperature profile that corresponds to the determined humidity state of the cigarette.

[0136] The control unit 610 can distinguish between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date counted by the timer 690. The first season is a season other than summer, and the second season is summer. For example, the control unit 610 classifies the current date as the second season if it is between June and August, and classifies other dates as the first season. However, this is merely an example, and if the aerosol generating device is expected to be sold and used in a region of the Southern Hemisphere (e.g., Australia), it may be possible to classify the current date as the second season if it is between December and February, and classify other dates as the first season.

[0137] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 7A to 11, an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that distinguish between normal cigarettes and over-humid cigarettes based on the temperature rise time of cigarette 2 (FIG. 2) and apply a compensation profile to the over-humid cigarette will be described in detail.

[0138] Fig. 7A is a perspective view showing the appearance of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 7B is a perspective view showing the operating state of the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 7A, with some components separated.

[0139] 7A, the aerosol generating device 1000 includes a case 1100 and a cover 1002. The cover 1002 is coupled to one end of the case 1100, and the case 1100 and the cover 1002 together form the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1000.

[0140] The case 1100 forms part of the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1000 and functions to house and protect various components therein.

[0141] The cover 1002 and the case 1100 may be made of a plastic material that does not conduct heat well or a metal material coated with a heat-blocking material. The cover 1002 and the case 1100 may be made by, for example, injection molding, 3D printing, or assembling small accessories made by injection molding.

[0142] A holding device (not shown) for maintaining the coupled state of cover 1002 and case 1100 may be provided between cover 1002 and case 1100. The holding device may include, for example, a protrusion and a groove. A structure may be used in which the coupled state of cover 1002 and case 1100 is maintained by maintaining the protrusion inserted into the groove, and the protrusion is moved by an operation button that can be pressed by a user, causing the protrusion to separate from the groove.

[0143] The holding device may include, for example, a magnet and a metal member that sticks to the magnet. When a magnet is used in the holding device, the magnet may be installed in either the case 1100 or the cover 1002, and the metal member that sticks to the magnet may be installed in the other, or magnets may be installed in both the case 1100 and the cover 1002.

[0144] An outer hole 1002p, into which the cigarette 2000 is inserted, is formed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 coupled to the case 1100. A rail 1003r is also formed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 at a position adjacent to the outer hole 1002p. A door 1003, which is slidable along the upper surface of the cover 1002, is installed on the rail 1003r. The door 1003 is slidable linearly along the rail 1003r.

[0145] 7A along the rail 1003r, the door 1003 functions to expose to the outside the external hole 1002p and the insertion hole 1004p, which allow the cigarette 2000 to pass through the cover 1002 and be inserted into the case 1100. The external hole 1002p of the cover 1002 functions to expose to the outside the insertion hole 1004p of the receiving passage 1004h that receives the cigarette 2000.

[0146] 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 storage passage 1004h formed inside the cover 1002.

[0147] 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 may have a convex shape, and may extend in a curved shape instead of a straight shape.

[0148] 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.

[0149] When the cover 1002 is coupled to the case 1100, an external air inflow gap 1002g that allows air to flow into the inside of the cover 1002 is formed at the portion where the cover 1002 and the case 1100 are coupled.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 7B, with the cigarette 2000 inserted into the aerosol generating device 1000, the user can inhale the aerosol by holding the cigarette 2000 in their mouth.

[0151] The case 1100 may be composed of an upper case 1100a into which the cigarette 2000 is inserted and heated, and a lower case 1100b that supports and protects various components installed inside. Hereinafter, the case 1100 is meant to include both the upper case 1100a and the lower case 1100b.

[0152] The cover 1002 can be coupled to the case 1100 so as to cover the cigarette supporting portion 4 coupled to the case 1100. Furthermore, the cover 1002 can be separated from the case 1100 as needed.

[0153] FIG. 8 is an exemplary diagram for explaining the basic temperature profile of the aerosol generating device.

[0154] 6 and 8, the control unit 610 of the aerosol generating device 600 can calculate the temperature rise time t1 of the cigarette 2000 (FIG. 7A) using the temperature sensor 622, and compare the calculated temperature rise time t1 of the cigarette 2000 with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000. If the temperature rise time t1 is less than the threshold value, the control unit 610 can supply power to the heater 650 according to the basic temperature profile TP.

[0155] In this case, the preset threshold is the time it takes for the over-moistened cigarette to reach the first target temperature T1, and is determined experimentally and statistically. If the heater 650 is operated according to the basic temperature profile TP even though the time it takes to reach the first target temperature T1 is equal to or greater than the threshold, the user may feel hot due to moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000.

[0156] In one embodiment, the control unit 610 may set the threshold value based on the current date. Specifically, the control unit 610 may distinguish between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date counted by the timer 690. The first season is a season other than summer, and the second season is summer. The control unit 610 may set the threshold value to a first threshold value corresponding to the first season and a second threshold value corresponding to the second season. The second season is a season that is relatively hot and humid compared to the first season, and to reflect such seasonal factors, the control unit may set the second threshold value to a value smaller than the first threshold value. For example, the first threshold value may be set to 22 seconds, and the second threshold value may be set to 20 seconds, which is smaller than the first threshold value.

[0157] As shown in FIG. 8, the basic temperature profile TP includes a first pre-heating section P1 and a first smoking section P2, and the first pre-heating section P1 and the first smoking section P2 can be further divided into smaller sections.

[0158] The first preheating section P1 includes a first preheating rising section P11 (or temperature rising time t1) for rising to the first target temperature T1, a first preheating holding section P12 for maintaining the first target temperature T1, and a first preheating falling section P13 for lowering the temperature to the second target temperature t2. The first smoking section P2 includes a first-first smoking falling section P21a for lowering the temperature to the third target temperature T3, a first-second smoking falling section P21b for lowering the temperature to the fourth target temperature T4, a first-third smoking falling section P21c for lowering the temperature to the fifth target temperature T5, and a first smoking holding section P22 for maintaining the fifth target temperature T5. Here, the first preheating section P1 is described as including a first preheating ascending section P11, a first preheating holding section P12, and a first preheating descending section P13, and the first smoking section P2 is described as including a 1-1 smoking descending section P21a, a 1-2 smoking descending section P21b, a 1-3 smoking descending section P21c, and a first smoking holding section P22, but it goes without saying that this is not limited to this and various modifications are possible depending on the shape and type of cigarette or heater.

[0159] FIG. 9A is an exemplary diagram for explaining the first correction profile of the aerosol generating device.

[0160] 6, 8 and 9A, when the aerosol generating device 600 determines that the inserted cigarette 2000 (FIG. 7A) is an over-moistened cigarette, it can operate the heater 650 by applying the first correction profile CP1 described below.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the control unit 610 may use the temperature sensor 622 to calculate the temperature rise time t2 of the cigarette 2000, and compare the calculated temperature rise time t2 of the cigarette 2000 with a preset threshold value to determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000. If the temperature rise time t2 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the control unit 610 may supply power to the heater 650 according to the first correction profile CP1.

[0162] However, the method of determining the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment, the control unit 610 may determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 using the humidity sensor 628.

[0163] According to one embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can directly measure the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000 and provide the measured humidity information to the control unit 610. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be disposed in the receiving passage 1004h (FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600. According to another embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can measure the amount of moisture condensed around the cigarette 2 (FIG. 2) after heating the cigarette. Over-humidified cigarettes evaporate more moisture when heated than regular cigarettes. Therefore, when over-humidified cigarettes are heated, more condensation may occur than when regular cigarettes are heated. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be disposed around the outer hole 1002p (FIG. 7A) that overlaps the receiving passage 1004h (FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600 in the thickness direction, or on the door 1003 (FIG. 7A).

[0164] The humidity sensor 628 may be any one of an electrical resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, and an optical sensor, but this is merely an example and the humidity sensor 628 is not limited thereto.

[0165] As shown in FIG. 9A, the first correction profile CP1 includes a second pre-heating section P3 and a second smoking section P4, and the second pre-heating section P3 and the second smoking section P4 may be further divided into smaller sections.

[0166] The second pre-heating section P3 includes a second pre-heating rising section P31 (or temperature rise time t2) that rises to the first target temperature T1, a second-first pre-heating holding section P32 that maintains the first target temperature T1, a second pre-heating falling section P33 that lowers the temperature to the fifth target temperature T5, and a second-second pre-heating holding section P34 that maintains the fifth target temperature T5. The second smoking section P4 includes a second smoking holding section P41 that maintains the fifth target temperature T5. Here, the second pre-heating section P3 includes the second pre-heating rising section P31, the second-first pre-heating holding section P32, the second pre-heating falling section P33, and the second-second pre-heating holding section P34, and the second smoking section P4 includes the second smoking holding section P41, but this is not limited thereto, and various modifications are possible depending on the shape and type of cigarette or heater.

[0167] 8 and 9A, the second preheating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first preheating section P1 of the basic temperature profile TP.

[0168] Specifically, the second preheating rise section P31 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first preheating rise section P11 of the basic temperature profile TP. For example, there may be a difference of about 3 to 4 seconds between the time t2 at which the first target temperature T1 of the first correction profile CP1 is reached and the time t1 at which the first target temperature T1 of the basic temperature profile TP is reached. In other words, because overhumid cigarettes contain more moisture than regular cigarettes, a phenomenon may occur in which the temperature rise rate of the cigarettes is slower.

[0169] The 2-1 pre-heating holding section P32 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first pre-heating holding section P12 of the basic temperature profile TP, which allows more moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 to evaporate, thereby reducing the initial heat sensation.

[0170] Furthermore, the temperature change within the second preheating decline section P33 of the first correction profile CP1 is greater than the temperature change within the first preheating decline section P13 of the basic temperature profile TP. For example, the first preheating decline section P13 changes from the first target temperature T1 to the second target temperature T2, while the second preheating decline section P33 changes from the first target temperature T1 to the fifth target temperature T5. Because regular cigarettes contain less moisture than overhumid cigarettes, the likelihood of the user feeling hot due to the moisture contained within is relatively lower than with overhumid cigarettes. Therefore, smoking is possible from the second target temperature T2, which is higher than the fifth target temperature T5. However, because overhumid cigarettes contain more moisture than regular cigarettes, the initial heat sensation can be alleviated by setting a larger temperature change within the second preheating decline section P33.

[0171] Furthermore, the second pre-heating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1 may further include a 2-2 pre-heating holding section P34 in which the fifth target temperature T5 is held in order to alleviate the initial hot feeling.

[0172] FIG. 9B is an exemplary diagram for explaining the second correction profile of the aerosol generating device.

[0173] 6, 8, 9A, and 9B, the control unit 610 of the aerosol generating device 600 can distinguish between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date counted by the timer. The first season is a season other than summer, and the second season is summer. The control unit can supply power to the heater according to a first correction profile CP1 in the first season and a second correction profile CP2 in the second season.

[0174] As shown in FIG. 9B, the second correction profile CP2 includes a third pre-heating section P5 and a third smoking section P6, and the third pre-heating section P5 and the third smoking section P6 can be further divided into smaller sections.

[0175] The third preheating section P5 of the second correction profile CP2 includes a third preheating rising section P51 (or temperature rise time t3) for rising to the first target temperature T1, a third-first preheating hold section P52 for maintaining the first target temperature T1, a third preheating falling section P53 for falling to the fifth target temperature T5, and a third-second preheating hold section P54 for maintaining the fifth target temperature T5. The third smoking section P6 includes a third smoking hold section P61 for maintaining the fifth target temperature T5. Here, the third preheating section P3 includes the third preheating rising section P51, the third-first preheating hold section P52, the third preheating falling section P53, and the third-second preheating hold section P54, and the third smoking section P6 includes the third smoking hold section P61, but this is not limited thereto, and various modifications are possible depending on the shape and type of cigarette or heater.

[0176] The third preheating section P5 of the second correction profile CP2 is longer than the first preheating section P1 of the basic temperature profile TP and shorter than the second preheating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1.

[0177] Specifically, the 3-1 preheating holding section P52 of the second correction profile CP2 is longer than the first preheating holding section P12 of the basic temperature profile TP, which allows more moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 to evaporate, thereby reducing the initial heat sensation.

[0178] Furthermore, the temperature change within the third preheating decline section P53 of the second correction profile CP2 is greater than the temperature change within the first preheating decline section P13 of the basic temperature profile TP. For example, the first preheating decline section P13 changes from the first target temperature T1 to the second target temperature T2, while the third preheating decline section P53 changes from the first target temperature T1 to the fifth target temperature T5. Regular cigarettes are less likely to feel hot due to the moisture contained within them, so they can be smoked from the second target temperature T2, which is higher than the fifth target temperature T5. However, because over-humidified cigarettes contain more moisture than regular cigarettes, the initial heat sensation can be alleviated by setting a larger temperature change within the second preheating decline section P33.

[0179] Furthermore, the third pre-heating section P5 of the second correction profile CP2 may further include a 3-2 pre-heating holding section P54 in which the fifth target temperature T5 is held in order to alleviate the initial hot feeling.

[0180] Because the second correction profile CP2 is used in the second season, the start temperature of the second correction profile CP2 is higher than the start temperature of the first correction profile CP1. Therefore, the heating time t3 required for the second correction profile CP2 to reach the first target temperature T1 is shorter than the heating time t2 of the first correction profile CP1. In this case, the aerosol generating device 600 initially maintains a high temperature, which may cause the user to feel hot.

[0181] The second correction profile CP2 can alleviate the initial feeling of heat by making the preheating time after the first target temperature T1 is reached longer than that of the first correction profile CP1.

[0182] 9A and 9B, the preheating time after the first target temperature T1 of the second correction profile CP2 is reached corresponds to the sum of the 3-1 preheating hold interval P52, the 3-2 preheating decline interval P53, and the 3-2 preheating hold interval P54, and the preheating time after the first target temperature T1 of the first correction profile CP1 is reached corresponds to the sum of the 2-1 preheating hold interval P32, the 2-3 preheating decline interval P33, and the 2-4 preheating hold interval P34. Here, the sum of the 3-1 preheating hold interval P52, the 3-2 preheating decline interval P53, and the 3-3 preheating hold interval P54 is longer than the sum of the 2-1 preheating hold interval P32, the 2-3 preheating decline interval P33, and the 2-4 preheating hold interval P34. That is, the third smoking section P6 of the second corrected profile CP2 is substantially identical to the second smoking section P4 of the first corrected profile CP1.

[0183] In addition, the time for which the first target temperature T1 of the second correction profile CP2 is maintained (i.e., the 3-1 preheating hold section P52) can also be made shorter than the time for which the first target temperature T1 of the first correction profile CP1 is maintained (i.e., the 2-1 preheating hold section P32).

[0184] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0185] 6 to 10, the method of operating the aerosol generating device includes step S100 of heating the cigarette 2000 with the heater 650, step S200 of measuring the temperature of the heater 650 with the temperature sensor 622 and calculating the heating time of the cigarette 2000, step S300 of comparing the calculated heating time of the cigarette 2000 with a preset threshold value and determining the humidity state of the cigarette 2000, steps S410 and S420 of selecting a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000, and step S500 of operating the heater 650 according to the selected temperature profile.

[0186] Specifically, in step S100 of heating the cigarette 2000 by the heater 650, since the over-moistened cigarette contains more moisture than the regular cigarette, the evaporation of the moisture to be heated becomes slower, and the temperature rise rate of the cigarette may become slower.

[0187] In step S200 of measuring the temperature of the heater 650 using the temperature sensor 622 and calculating the heating time of the cigarette 2000, the control unit 610 can determine the time it takes for the temperature of the heater 650 to reach the preset first target temperature T1 as the heating time of the cigarette 2000.

[0188] In step S300 of comparing the calculated heating time of the cigarette 2000 with a preset threshold value and determining the humidity state of the cigarette 2000, the control unit 610 can determine that the cigarette 2000 is a normal cigarette if the heating time is less than the threshold value, and can determine that the cigarette 2000 is an over-humid cigarette if the heating time is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

[0189] In this case, the preset threshold is the time it takes for the over-moistened cigarette to reach the first target temperature T1, and is determined experimentally and statistically. If the heater 650 is operated according to the basic temperature profile TP even though the time it takes to reach the first target temperature T1 is equal to or greater than the threshold, the user may feel hot due to moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000.

[0190] In steps S410 and S420 of selecting a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000, the control unit 610 can select the basic temperature profile TP if the temperature rise time is less than a threshold (S410), and can select the first correction profile CP1 if the temperature rise time is equal to or greater than the threshold (S420).

[0191] In step S500 of operating the heater 650 according to the selected temperature profile, the control unit 610 can supply power to the heater 650 according to the basic temperature profile TP if the temperature rise time is less than a threshold, and can supply power to the heater 650 according to the first correction profile CP1 if the temperature rise time is greater than or equal to the threshold.

[0192] The basic temperature profile TP includes a first pre-heating zone P1 and a first smoking zone P2, which may be further divided into smaller zones. The first correction profile CP1 includes a second pre-heating zone P3 and a second smoking zone P4, which may be further divided into smaller zones.

[0193] The second preheating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first preheating section P1 of the basic temperature profile TP.

[0194] Specifically, the second pre-heating rising section P31 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first pre-heating rising section P11 of the basic temperature profile TP.

[0195] The 2-1st preheating holding section P32 is longer than the first preheating holding section P12, which allows more moisture contained in the cigarette 2000 to evaporate, thereby reducing the initial heat sensation.

[0196] In addition, the temperature change in the second preheating decline section P33 is greater than the temperature change in the first preheating decline section P13. Regular cigarettes are unlikely to cause a user to feel hot due to the moisture contained therein, so they can be smoked from the second target temperature T2, which is higher than the fifth target temperature T5. However, over-moistened cigarettes contain more moisture than regular cigarettes, so the initial heat sensation can be alleviated by setting the temperature change in the second preheating decline section P33 to be even greater.

[0197] The second pre-heating section P3 may further include a 2-2 pre-heating holding section P34 in which the fifth target temperature T5 is held in order to reduce the initial feeling of heat.

[0198] Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be embodied in various modified forms without departing from the essential characteristics of the above description. Therefore, the disclosed method should be considered in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not the foregoing description, and all variations within the scope of the claims should be construed as being within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. a heater for heating the cigarette; a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater; A timer that counts the current date, a control unit; The control unit Calculating the temperature rise time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor; setting a threshold based on the current date; If the temperature rise time is less than the threshold, supplying power to the heater according to a basic temperature profile; An aerosol generating device that supplies power to the heater according to a first correction profile when the temperature rise time is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

2. The control unit The aerosol generating device described in claim 1, which distinguishes between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date, and sets the threshold to a first threshold corresponding to the first season or a second threshold corresponding to the second season.

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

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

5. The 2-1 preheating holding section is longer than the 1st preheating holding section, The aerosol generating device according to claim 4 , wherein a temperature change in the second pre-heating descending section is greater than a temperature change in the first pre-heating descending section.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3 , wherein the first smoking section includes a first smoking descending section and a first smoking holding section, and the second smoking section includes a second smoking holding section.

7. The control unit Based on the current date, classify the first season and a second season different from the first season; powering the heater according to the first correction profile if the current date corresponds to the first season; The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein if the current date corresponds to the second season, the heater is powered according to a second correction profile different from the first correction profile.

8. the first correction profile includes a second preheating section and a second smoking section; the second correction profile includes a third preheating section and a third smoking section; The second preheating section includes a second preheating increasing section, a second-first preheating holding section, a second preheating decreasing section, and a second-second preheating holding section, The third preheating section includes a third preheating increasing section, a third-1 preheating holding section, a third preheating decreasing section, and a third-2 preheating holding section, The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein the sum of the time of the second-first preheating holding section, the second preheating decline section, and the second-second preheating holding section is longer than the sum of the time of the third-first preheating holding section, the third preheating decline section, and the third-second preheating holding section.

9. 1. A method of operating an aerosol generating device, comprising: heating the cigarette with a heater; measuring the temperature of the heater with a temperature sensor; counting the current date by a timer; and controlling power supplied to the heater via a control signal; The step of controlling the power comprises: Calculating the temperature rise time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor; setting a threshold based on the current date; If the temperature rise time is less than the threshold, supplying power to the heater according to a basic temperature profile; A method for operating an aerosol generating device, comprising: supplying power to the heater according to a first correction profile when the temperature rise time is equal to or greater than the threshold value.

10. The step of controlling the power comprises:

10. The method for operating an aerosol generating device according to claim 9, further comprising: dividing the season into a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date; and setting the threshold to a first threshold corresponding to the first season or a second threshold corresponding to the second season.

11. the basic temperature profile includes a first preheating zone and a first smoking zone; the first correction profile includes a second preheating section and a second smoking section; The method for operating an aerosol generating device according to claim 9 , wherein the second preheating interval is longer than the first preheating interval.

12. the first preheating section includes a first preheating increasing section, a first preheating maintaining section, and a first preheating decreasing section; The second preheating section includes a second preheating increasing section, a second-first preheating holding section, a second preheating decreasing section, and a second-second preheating holding section, The method of claim 11 , wherein the first pre-heating ramp-up interval is shorter than the second pre-heating ramp-up interval.

13. The 2-1 preheating holding section is longer than the 1st preheating holding section, The method of claim 12, wherein a temperature change in the second pre-heating decrease section is greater than a temperature change in the first pre-heating decrease section.

14. The step of controlling the power comprises: Based on the current date, classify the first season and a second season different from the first season; powering the heater according to the first correction profile if the current date corresponds to the first season; 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: powering the heater with a second correction profile different from the first correction profile if the current date corresponds to the second season.

15. the first correction profile includes a second preheating section and a second smoking section; the second correction profile includes a third preheating section and a third smoking section; The second preheating section includes a second preheating increasing section, a second-first preheating holding section, a second preheating decreasing section, and a second-second preheating holding section, The third preheating section includes a third preheating increasing section, a third-1 preheating holding section, a third preheating decreasing section, and a third-2 preheating holding section, The method for operating an aerosol generating device described in claim 14, wherein the sum of the time of the second-first preheating holding section, the second preheating decline section, and the second-second preheating holding section is longer than the sum of the time of the third-first preheating holding section, the third preheating decline section, and the third-second preheating holding section.

Images