Aerosol generating device for sensing insertion of aerosol generating article and operating method thereof

Abstract

Provided is an aerosol generating device that detects insertion of an aerosol generating article in one mode and performs a heating operation to generate aerosol in another mode by switching a control mode for an induction coil.SOLUTION: An aerosol generation device may include a susceptor configured to heat an aerosol generation product 15 inserted into an accommodation space of the aerosol generation device, an induction coil 140 disposed around the susceptor and configured to heat the susceptor by induction heating, a switching module configured to switch an electrical path of the induction coil, and a controller electrically connected to the switching module and configured to set a control mode of the induction coil to a reception mode, detect insertion of the aerosol generation product based on a change in inductance of the induction coil, and switch the control mode to a transmission mode through the switching module when the insertion of the aerosol generation product is detected.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device that senses the insertion of an aerosol producing article via an induction coil. The present invention relates to a device and a method of operation thereof. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, aerosol generating devices that do not generate aerosols by burning cigarettes. and heating the cigarette or aerosol-forming substance with Demands on systems are increasing.

[0003] In addition, if the insertion of a cigarette into the aerosol generating device is detected, the device will automatically turn off. Research into the application of aerosols is currently underway. To detect the insertion of a cigarette, a separate sensor (e.g., pressure sensor, film sensor) is used. The sensor may include a sensor, optical sensor, or infrared sensor.

[0004] In order to realize a method for automatically turning on the device, the aerosol generating device is provided with a separate sensor. Including a sensor can increase the complexity and manufacturing costs of the hardware. In order to provide space for installing a separate sensor in the aerosol generating device, which is an electronic device, To do this, the design of the aerosol generator must be modified. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a separate sensor for detecting the insertion of a cigarette. Even without this, by switching the control mode for the induction coil, In one mode, the device senses the insertion of an aerosol-generating product, and in the other mode, the device senses the insertion of an aerosol-generating product. The object of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating device that performs a heating operation.

[0006] The problems to be solved through the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and The above-mentioned problems will be understood by those skilled in the art from the present specification and the accompanying drawings. This will be clearly understood by those who understand it. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device includes an air filter inserted into the accommodation space of the aerosol generating device. A susceptor for heating the sol product, which is arranged around the susceptor and heated by induction heating. an induction coil configured to heat the susceptor by switching an electrical path of the induction coil; a switching module electrically connected to the switching module; The control mode for the coil is set to receive mode, and the control mode is based on the inductance change of the induction coil. The insertion of the aerosol generating product is detected by the sensor. A control device configured to switch a control mode to a transmission mode through a switching module. It may include the following:

[0008] In one embodiment, the method of operating the aerosol generating device includes receiving a control mode for the induction coil. The aerosol generator operates in a set mode, based on the inductance change of the induction coil. and if the insertion of the aerosol generating article is detected, the switching motor Switch the control mode through the module to the transmitting mode, which activates induction heating by the induction coil. This may include the act of replacing the [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a separate sensor is provided to detect the insertion of a cigarette. The insertion of the cigarette is sensed by the induction coil, and the heating operation is based on the sensed Therefore, a separate space for the sensor is not required in the aerosol generating device. do not have.

[0010] In addition, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, when determining whether or not an aerosol product is inserted, Therefore, by consuming a minimum amount of power, the battery power consumption of the aerosol generating device is reduced. It can reduce. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1A] 1 is a diagram for explaining elements constituting an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 1B] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control mode for an induction coil in an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4A] 3 is a diagram illustrating a first state of the switching module 200 shown in FIG. 2; [Figure 4B] 3 is a diagram illustrating a second state of the switching module 200 shown in FIG. 2; [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control mode for an induction coil in an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The terms used in the examples are currently widely used as much as possible while taking into consideration the functions of the examples. The invention has been selected from general terms that are easily understood by a person skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. It also depends on the intention or precedent of the patent owner, the emergence of new technology, etc. Some terms are chosen arbitrarily by humans, and in such cases their meanings are detailed in the relevant explanation section. Therefore, the terms used in the description of the embodiments are not merely names of terms, but are The term "term" must be defined based on its meaning and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0013] Throughout the specification, when a part is said to "comprise" a certain element, it is Unless stated to the contrary, it does not exclude other elements and may further include other elements. In addition, terms such as "... section" and "... module" used in the specification may be used. The term refers to a unit that performs at least one function or operation, which is hardware. may be realized by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software. This is also embodied in

[0014] Throughout the specification, the aerosol generating device is referred to as a device that is inhaled directly through the user's mouth into the user's lungs. To generate aerosols that can be used, an aerosol-generating substance is used to generate aerosols. For example, an aerosol generating device is also a holder.

[0015] Throughout the specification, "puff" refers to the user's inhalation, and inhalation is the user's mouth or nose. This refers to a situation where the substance is inhaled into the user's mouth, nasal cavity, or lungs.

[0016] The following description of the embodiments will be made to those skilled in the art with ordinary skill in the art based on the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments may be implemented in various different forms. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein, but may be embodied in various other forms.

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1A is a diagram illustrating components constituting an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. be.

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1A, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a susceptor 130, an induction coil 14, and a 1. The power supply 100 may include a power supply 110, a battery 110, and a control unit 120. However, the power supply 100 may include, but is not limited to, the power supply 110 shown in FIG. In addition to the elements shown, other general-purpose elements may also be included in the aerosol generating device 100.

[0019] The aerosol generating device 100 is an induction heating type. The aerosol product 15 contained in the aerosol generating device 100 is heated by the The induction heating method generates aerosol by periodically heating the susceptor 130, which is heated by an external magnetic field. Alternating magnetic field This means a method in which a voltage is applied to the susceptor 130 to heat it.

[0020] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to the susceptor 130, eddy current loss occurs in the susceptor 130. current loss and hysteresis loss The lost energy is converted into heat energy and is transferred to the susceptor 130 When the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field applied to the susceptor 130 is large, the particles can be emitted from the The more heat energy can be released from the susceptor 130, the more heat energy can be released. By applying an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor 130, thermal energy is released from the susceptor 130. The heat energy emitted from the susceptor 130 is transferred to the aerosol generating product 15. In one embodiment, the susceptor 130 may be a section, slice, or strip. The aerosol generating device 100 may be provided with any shape.

[0021] At least a portion of the susceptor 130 is made of a ferromagnetic material. For example, the susceptor 130 may include metal or carbon. The susceptor 130 is made of a material such as ferrite, a ferromagnetic alloy, or the like. tic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum The susceptor 130 may contain at least one of graphite (g) and aluminum (Al). raphite), molybdenum, silicon carbide icon carbide), niobium, nickel alloy alloy), metal film, zirconia a) ceramics, transition metals such as nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co), boron The element may contain at least one of metalloids such as boron (B) and phosphorus (P).

[0022] The aerosol generating device 100 can accommodate the aerosol product 15. The aerosol generating device 100 may have a space formed therein for accommodating the aerosol product 15. A susceptor 130 may be disposed in the space for containing the aerosol product 15. .

[0023] The susceptor 130 is a device for generating aerosols. For example, the susceptor 130 may surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol product 1. 5. This allows heat from the susceptor 130 to the tobacco medium. The transmission can be done efficiently.

[0024] The induction coil 140 may be provided in the aerosol generating device 100. The induction coil 140 , an alternating magnetic field can be applied to the susceptor 130. When power is supplied to induction coil 140, a magnetic field may be formed within induction coil 140. When an alternating current is applied to the induction coil 140, the direction of the magnetic field formed inside the induction coil 140 is The susceptor 130 is positioned inside the induction coil 140 and the direction of the susceptor 130 can be changed periodically. When exposed to an alternating magnetic field with changing direction, the susceptor 130 generates heat, and the aerosol generating device 1 The aerosol product 15 contained in the containment space of the 00 can be heated.

[0025] The induction coil 140 may be wound along the outer surface of the susceptor 130. The coil 140 may be wound along the inner surface of the outer housing of the aerosol generating device 100 . The susceptor 130 may be located in an internal space formed by winding the induction coil 140. Therefore, when the induction coil 140 is powered, the An alternating magnetic field can be applied to the susceptor 130 .

[0026] The induction coil 140 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the induction coil 140 may extend along the susceptor to any suitable length. The length of the susceptor 130 corresponds to the length of the susceptor 130, or the length of the susceptor 130 is longer than the length of the susceptor 130. It can be extended.

[0027] The induction coil 140 may be positioned in a suitable position to apply an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor 130 . For example, the induction coil 140 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the susceptor 130. The alternating magnetic field of the induction coil 140 is applied to the susceptor 1 by the size and arrangement of the induction coil 140. The efficiency applied to 30 can be improved.

[0028] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a control motor for the induction coil 140. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 can set the induction coil 140 to The inductive coil 140 is set to receive mode to sense the insertion of a cigarette through the In one embodiment, the control The control unit 120 sets the control mode for the induction coil 140 to a reception mode, and the induction coil The control unit 1 can detect the insertion of the aerosol product 15 based on the change in inductance. 20 detects the insertion of the aerosol product 15 through the switching module. The control mode for the induction coil 140 is then switched to the transmission mode.

[0029] When the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil 140 is changed The degree to which the susceptor 130 heats the aerosol product 15 may also be varied. The amplitude or frequency of the magnetic field generated by 140 is controlled by the power applied to the induction coil 140. The aerosol generating device 100 can change the power applied to the induction coil 140. By adjusting the temperature, the heating of the aerosol generating article 15 can be controlled. The apparatus 100 controls the amplitude and frequency of the alternating current applied to the induction coil 140. can be done.

[0030] As an example, the induction coil 140 is embodied by a solenoid. In this case, the induction coil 140 may be disposed in the outer housing of the aerosol generating device 100. It is also a solenoid wound along the inner surface, and the susceptor 130 and The material of the conductor constituting the solenoid is copper (Cu However, it is not limited to this, and silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al) tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni), or The conductive wire constituting the solenoid may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of tungsten, tungsten alloy, tungsten fluoride ...

[0031] The battery 110 may provide power to the aerosol generating device 100. , can power the induction coil 140. The battery 110 can A battery supplies direct current to the device 100 and the direct current supplied from the battery is supplied to the induction coil 14. 0 to convert the AC supplied to the power supply.

[0032] The battery 110 supplies direct current to the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 110 Also includes, but is not limited to, Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries For example, the battery may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium There are also tantalum salt batteries, lithium polymer (LiPoly) batteries, etc.

[0033] The converter filters the DC supplied from the battery and converts it into an induction coil. A low-pass filter is used to output the AC supplied to 140. The converter may include an amplifier for amplifying the direct current supplied from the battery. For example, the converter may further include a class-D amplifier. It can be realized through a low-pass filter that configures the load network of the amplifier. do.

[0034] The control unit 120 may control the power supplied to the induction coil 140. The battery 110 may be controlled so that the power supplied to the induction coil 140 is adjusted. For example, the control unit 120 determines whether the susceptor 130 generates aerosols based on the temperature of the susceptor 130. Control can be exercised to maintain a constant temperature to which the product 15 is heated.

[0035] In one embodiment, the control unit 120 controls the induction coil 140 to For example, the control unit 120 may control the power supplied to the induction coil 140. In the receiving mode, the power applied to the induction coil 140 is set to a first power, and the control When the mode is a transmission mode, the power applied to the induction coil 140 is set to a value higher than the first power. It can be set to second power.

[0036] FIG. 1B is a block diagram showing the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 1B, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a battery 110, a heater 135, The sensor 145, the user interface 150, the memory 160, and the control unit 120 However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to that shown in FIG. The design of the aerosol generating device 100 eliminates some of the components shown in FIG. It is understood that the technical field related to this embodiment may be omitted or a new configuration may be further added. A person of ordinary skill in the art would understand this.

[0038] The battery 110 supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device 100. That is, the battery 110 can provide power so that the heater 135 can be heated. The battery 110 can be used with other components provided in the aerosol generating device 100. That is, the sensor 145, the user interface 150, the memory 160, and the control unit 12 The battery 110 is a rechargeable battery. It's also a disposable battery.

[0039] In one embodiment, the heater 135 is connected to a susceptor (e.g., the susceptor 130 in FIG. 1A) and For example, the aerosol generator may include an inductive coil (e.g., inductive coil 140 in FIG. 1A). When the heater 135 of the forming apparatus 100 is an induction heating type, the control unit 120 An alternating current can be applied to the induction coil 140 to generate an alternating magnetic field. By applying an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor 130, the susceptor 130 is heated and the air The aerosol product (eg, aerosol product 15 in FIG. 1A) can be heated.

[0040] In one embodiment, the susceptor 130 is formed on at least one of the outer surfaces of the aerosol production article 15. It may be disposed so as to surround a portion of the aerosol-producing article 15 or may be disposed inside the aerosol-producing article 15. For example, the susceptor 130 may surround the tobacco medium contained in the aerosol-producing article 15. As another example, the susceptor 130 may be used for aerosol production products containing tobacco media. In one embodiment, the control unit 120 may be located in the medium portion of the susceptor 130. The control mode for the induction coil 140 can be set regardless of the position. A septum 130 is positioned to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol-producing article 15. When the aerosol generating article 15 is attached to the susceptor 120 or disposed inside the aerosol generating article 15, the control section 120 Regardless of the arrangement of 130, the control mode for the induction coil 140 can be set to a receiving mode or a transmitting mode. It can be set to the mode.

[0041] The aerosol generating device 100 may include at least one sensor 145. The sensing result of one sensor 145 is transmitted to the control unit 120. As a result, the control unit 120 controls various functions such as heater operation control, smoking restriction, and notification display. The aerosol generating device 100 can be controlled to perform various functions.

[0042] For example, the at least one sensor 145 may include a puff sensor. Based on one of the following: temperature change, flow change, voltage change, and pressure change The user's puff can be sensed.

[0043] Also, at least one sensor 145 may be provided to the heater 135 (or the aerosol product). The aerosol generating device 100 may include a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the aerosol. Optionally, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the aerosol generating device 10. 0 does not include a separate temperature sensor, and the heater 135 itself serves as a temperature sensor. In an embodiment, the heater 135 serves as a temperature sensor and also serves as an aero The sol generating device 100 may further include a separate temperature sensor.

[0044] At least one sensor 145 also measures the ambient temperature of the aerosol generating device 100. The ambient temperature is the temperature outside the aerosol generating device 100. The ambient temperature is the temperature at which the aerosol is generated from the aerosol product 15 in the aerosol generating device 100. The temperature of the atmosphere into which the aerosol is released. The temperature sensor is designed to measure the ambient temperature. It can be placed outside the housing or on the path through which external air flows in. The sensor transmits the measured ambient temperature value to the control unit 120, and the control unit 120 determines the temperature based on the ambient temperature. The heating profile for heating the aerosol product 15 can be determined using the .

[0045] The at least one sensor may also include a humidity sensor. The ambient humidity of the aerosol generating device 100 can be measured. The ambient humidity is the humidity outside the aerosol generating device 100. The humidity sensor measures the humidity of the atmosphere into which the aerosol generated from the product 15 is emitted. To measure ambient humidity, it must be placed outside the housing or have a path through which external air can flow. The humidity sensor transmits the measured ambient humidity value to the control unit 120, and The unit 120 determines a heating profile for the heater for the aerosol product 15 based on the ambient humidity. The file can be determined.

[0046] When the insertion of the aerosol product 15 is detected, the control unit 120 receives an additional external input. The aerosol generating device 100 can be controlled so that heating starts automatically without the need for a manual operation. For example, the control unit 120 may be configured to The battery 110 can be controlled to supply power to the induction coil. However, the control unit 120 may not necessarily be limited to this. The aerosol generating device 100 can be controlled so that heating is initiated.

[0047] The user interface 150 allows the user to control the status of the aerosol generating device 100. The user interface 150 may provide visual information. Or lamps, motors that output tactile information, speakers that output sound information, and Input / Output (I / O) interface that receives input information or outputs information to the user data communication with the device (e.g., buttons or touch screen) or charging power Terminals for supplying wireless communication with external devices (e.g., Wi-Fi, Direct, Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near-Field C Various communication interfaces for carrying out It may include interfacing means.

[0048] However, the aerosol generating device 100 does not have the various user interfaces exemplified above. Of the 150 examples, only a portion may be selected and implemented.

[0049] The user interface 150 outputs visual information related to the aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 may include a display that displays visual information such as: It contains all information related to the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the display may include: Information relating to the status of the aerosol generating device 100 (for example, whether the aerosol generating device is usable or not) etc.), information related to the heater 135 (for example, preheating start, preheating progress, preheating completion, etc.), Information related to the battery 110 (for example, remaining capacity of the battery 110, usability, etc.), Information related to the reset of the rule generating device 100 (for example, reset time, reset progress, reset information related to cleaning of the aerosol generating device 100 (for example, cleaning time, cleaning cleaning required, cleaning progress, cleaning completion, etc.), information related to charging of the aerosol generating device 100 (e.g. For example, charging required, charging progress, charging complete, etc.), puff-related information (for example, number of puffs, Outputs information related to safety (e.g., elapsed usage time, etc.) It is possible.

[0050] The communication interface may be communicatively coupled to an external device, an external server, etc. The communication interface is various types of digital interface, AP-based Wi-Fi -Fi (Wireless LAN network), Bluetooth (registered trademark) Bluetooth (registered trademark), Zigbee (registered trademark), wired / wireless LA N (Local Area Network), WAN, Ethernet t), IEEE 1394, HDMI (registered trademark), USB, MHL, AES / EBU, At least one of Optical and Coaxial The communication interface can be implemented in a form that supports two communication methods. TMDS (Transition Minimized Data Transfer Protocol) for transmitting audio signals Differential Signaling (DSS) channels, device information, and video Or audio-related information (e.g., E-EDID (Enhanced Extension Data) Display Identification Data) DDC (Display Data Channel) for transmitting and receiving control signals It may include a Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) for However, the present invention is not limited to this and may be implemented in various interfaces.

[0051] The memory 160 is a hardware device for storing various data processed in the aerosol generating device 100. The hardware is configured to store data processed by the control unit 120 and data to be processed. The memory 160 is a dynamic random access memory (DRAM). memory), SRAM (static random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory) RAM (random access memory), ROM (read -only memory), EEPROM(electrically erasable various types of memory, such as programmable read-only memory (PLC). It can be embodied by a type.

[0052] The memory 160 stores the operation time of the aerosol generating device 100, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, and the like. the number of cigarettes, at least one temperature profile, and data relating to the user's smoking patterns, etc. It can be preserved.

[0053] The control unit 120 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 100. The processor includes at least one processor, which is implemented by an array of logic gates. It can also be implemented using a general-purpose microprocessor and can be executed by the microprocessor. It may be realized by a combination of a memory in which a program is stored. The present invention is embodied by hardware. If you do, you will understand.

[0054] On the other hand, although not shown in FIG. 1B, the aerosol generating device 100 is a separate clay. For example, the cradle can be used in conjunction with the aerosol generating system. It can be used to charge the battery 110 of the aerosol generating device 100. The sol generating device 100 is accommodated in the accommodation space inside the cradle. Charging the battery 110 of the aerosol generating device 100 by receiving power from the battery can be done.

[0055] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device 100 includes an induction coil 140, a switching motor 142, and a The device may include a module 200 and a control unit 120.

[0057] In one embodiment, the control unit 120 controls the heating control unit 210 and the cigarette recognition unit 220. In one embodiment, the heating control unit 210 and the cigarette recognition unit 220 each include For example, the heating control The unit 210 includes a heating IC (integrated circuit) that controls the overall heating operation. The cigarette recognition unit 220 is implemented by an MC independent of the heating control unit 210. This can be implemented by a microcontroller unit (U). In the above, the heating control unit 210 and the cigarette recognition unit 220 are controlled by their respective software ( For example, the control unit 120 may be configured to control at least one program. In the case where the heating control unit 210 includes a processor, the heating control unit 210 is implemented by a program that controls the heating operation. The cigarette recognition unit 220 is configured to detect the insertion of a cigarette by a program that controls the detection of the insertion of a cigarette. The at least one processor may be configured to implement the method and store the method.

[0058] In one embodiment, the control unit 120 can set a control mode for the induction coil 140. For example, the control modes for the induction coil 140 are a receiving mode Rx and a transmitting mode T In this case, the receiving mode may include the aerosol product 1 through the induction coil 140. The transmission mode is a mode in which the aerosol is transmitted through the induction coil 140. It can refer to a mode of heating the product 15.

[0059] In one embodiment, when the control mode for the induction coil 140 is a receive mode, the control The control unit 120 controls the amount of aerosol produced based on the change in inductance of the induction coil 140. In one embodiment, the control mode for the induction coil 140 is the transmit mode. If the heating mode is selected, the control unit 120 controls the induction coil 140 to rotate the susceptor (for example, the A variable magnetic field can be generated in the induction coil 140. As a result, the aerosol generating material of the aerosol generating product 15 is heated and the aerosol A rule can be generated.

[0060] In one embodiment, the switching module 200 is configured by the control unit 120. The electrical path of the induction coil 140 is switched depending on the control mode. The control module 200 controls the control unit 120 based on the control mode set by the control unit 120. 120 components (for example, the heating control unit 210 and the cigarette recognition unit 220) and the induction coil The terminal connected to the terminal 140 can be selected.

[0061] For example, if the insertion of the aerosol product is not detected, the switching module 200 is electrically connected to the induction coil 140 and the cigarette recognition unit 220 of the control unit 120. The first terminal of the switching module 200 is selected. As a result, the induction coil 140 can be connected to the cigarette recognition unit 220 via a first path. The induction coil 140 is connected to the cigarette recognition unit 220 through the first path, The control unit 120 obtains the inductance change of the induction coil 140 and controls the aerosol product. It can sense the insertion of 15.

[0062] As another example, if the insertion of an aerosol product is detected, the switching module 200 is electrically connected to the induction coil 140 and the heating control unit 210 of the control unit 120. The second terminal of the switching module 200 can be selected. By this, the induction coil 140 can be connected to the heating control unit 210 via a second path. The induction coil 140 is connected to the heating control unit 210 through a second path, 120 causes an induction coil 140 to generate a variable magnetic field to heat the susceptor 130. do.

[0063] In one embodiment, the switching module 200 is connected to the induction coil 140 and the control unit 1 20 components (for example, the heating control unit 210, the cigarette recognition unit 220) It is also a hardware component for changing a path (e.g., a first path, a second path). For example, the switching module 200 may be a MOSFET (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Device) Uses an EMI Field Effect Transistor The circuit may include, but is not limited to, a switch circuit for switching between the first and second inputs.

[0064] In one embodiment, when the control mode for the induction coil 140 is a receive mode, the control The control unit 120 can sense the insertion of the aerosol product. For example, an external input ( For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may be activated via a user input to turn the device on. If it is turned on, the control unit 120 instructs the switching module 200 to recognize the cigarette. The switch 220 can be controlled to select a terminal connected to the switch 220. The induction coil 140 and the cigarette recognition unit 220 are electrically Therefore, the control unit 120 controls the inductance of the induction coil 140. The insertion of the aerosol product can be sensed based on the activation of the aerosol.

[0065] In one embodiment, the induction coil 140 and the cigar are connected through the switching module 200. When the cigarette recognition unit 220 is connected, the cigarette recognition unit 220 detects the first 1. Controlling a battery (e.g., battery 110 in FIG. 1A) so that power is supplied. In this case, the first power is generated by the induction coil 140 when the metal material is inserted. This refers to the minimum amount of power that can detect an inductance change.

[0066] In one embodiment, the cigarette recognition unit 220 detects the inductance of the induction coil 140. Based on the frequency change corresponding to the aerosol generation, the aerosol product (e.g., the aerosol in Figure 1A) It can be determined whether the product 15) is inserted into the receiving space. The frequency change corresponding to the change can be calculated using Equation 1.

[0067]

number

[0068] For example, the cigarette recognition unit 220 calculates the inductance of the induction coil 140 according to Equation 1. The resonance frequency (f0) of the sensor L is calculated. That is, when the aerosol product 15 is inserted into the induction coil 140, the induction coil The inductance L value of the coil 140 increases, and the frequency measured by the cigarette recognition unit 220 The f0 value decreases.

[0069] In one embodiment, the resonant frequency ( Here, if the change in "frequency" increases to or exceeds a predetermined value, the cigarette recognition unit 220 It is determined that an aerosol generating product 15 has been inserted. For example, an aerosol generating product containing a metal substance When the item 15 is inserted inside the induction coil 140, the inductance of the induction coil 140 The inductance value decreases from 3 μH to 2.5 μH. It detects that the frequency change corresponding to the 0.5μH change is greater than the preset value, and It is determined that the aerosol product 15 has been inserted into the aerosol generating device 100.

[0070] In another embodiment, the cigarette recognition unit 220 is an oscillation circuit including the induction coil 140. Based on the amplitude of the oscillation voltage in the path, the aerosol generating product 15 is inserted into the receiving space. For example, it is determined whether the aerosol product 15 is inserted into the induction coil 140. When the resistance of the oscillation circuit is reduced, the amplitude of the oscillation voltage decreases. If the amplitude of the oscillation voltage decreases below the preset amplitude, the cigarette recognition unit 220 It is determined that the sol product 15 has been inserted.

[0071] In one embodiment, when the insertion of the aerosol product 15 is sensed, the control unit 120 The control mode for the induction coil 140 is changed to the receiving mode through the switching module 200. That is, the control unit 120 switches the mode from the transmission mode to the transmission mode. By switching the control mode to the transmission mode, the susceptor is oriented relative to the induction coil 140. For example, a variable magnetic field may be generated that penetrates the aerosol product 15. As a result, the control unit 120 controls the switching module 200 to control the heating control unit 210. That is, the control unit 120 may control the induction coil 110 to select a terminal connected to the induction coil 110. The electrical path 140 is connected to the first path connected to the cigarette recognition unit 220, It can be changed to a second pathway connected to 210.

[0072] In one embodiment, the induction coil 140 and the heating element are connected through the switching module 200. If the control unit 210 is connected, the heating control unit 210 supplies the induction coil 140 with a first power or more. The battery 110 can be controlled so that a high second power is supplied. The power is supplied to the induction coil 140 by heating the susceptor 130, thereby increasing the aerosol production. The second power may refer to the amount of power that can generate aerosol from the induction coil. It can also refer to the amount of power used by the heater 140 to preheat the susceptor 130 .

[0073] FIG. 3 shows a control mode for an induction coil in an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. This is a flowchart showing the process of the present invention. Identical or similar content may be omitted.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 3, a control unit (e.g., the control unit 120 in FIG. 2) performs the following operation 301: To sense the insertion of an aerosol-producing article (e.g., aerosol-producing article 15 of FIG. 1A) The control mode for the induction coil (for example, induction coil 140 in FIG. 2) is set to the receive mode. For example, the control unit 120 may control the induction coil 140 and the cigarette recognition unit (e.g., 2) to be connected to a switching module (e.g., By controlling the switching module 200 in FIG. 2, the control for the induction coil 140 The control mode can be set to receive mode.

[0075] In one embodiment, the induction coil 140 is coupled to the cigarette recognition unit 220. The control unit 120 controls the battery (for example, , battery 110 in FIG. 1A).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the control unit 120 may determine in operation 303 that the aerosol product 15 is In one embodiment, the control unit 120 controls the induction coil 140 to detect whether the device is inserted. While the first power is supplied, the aerosol is generated based on the change in inductance of the induction coil 140. The insertion of the product 15 can be sensed. For example, the inductive capacitor 14 is A magnetic flux of about Φ1 can be generated in the coil 140. As shown in Equation 2, the inductance L of the induction coil 140 is proportional to the magnetic flux of the induction coil 140. It can be proportional to Φ and inversely proportional to the current i flowing through the induction coil 140.

[0077]

number

[0078] While the first power is supplied, an aerosol-producing article 15 containing at least a portion of a metal material is When the magnetic field is close to the induction coil 140, the inductance L of the induction coil 140 decreases. Specifically, the aerosol-producing article 15 is brought into close proximity with the induction coil 140. At this time, the magnetic flux in the induction coil 140 is maintained at about Φ1. Therefore, the control unit 120 supplies the induction coil 140 with power corresponding to a higher current i value. This causes the inductance L value of the induction coil 140 to decrease. For example, the control unit 120 may adjust the inductance of the induction coil 140 while the first power is being supplied. The inductance of the induction coil 140 is sensed to decrease from 3 μH to 2.5 μH. Based on the decrease in the value of about 0.5 μH, the control unit 120 adjusts the collection It is determined that an aerosol product 15 has been inserted into the container space.

[0079] In one embodiment, the control unit 120 controls the inductance of the induction coil 140 to change. Based on the frequency change, it is determined whether or not the aerosol-producing product 15 has been inserted into the storage space. For example, the control unit 120 may control a frequency corresponding to the change in inductance of the induction coil 140. The inductance of the induction coil 140 is detected to determine whether the change in frequency is greater than or equal to the preset frequency change. If it is determined that the frequency change corresponding to the change in the input impedance is greater than or equal to the preset frequency change, the control The unit 120 determines that the aerosol product 15 is inserted into the storage space of the aerosol generating device. At this time, the preset frequency change is determined by the amount of metal material contained in the aerosol product 15. The frequency change corresponding to the inductance change that occurs while being inserted inside the induction coil 140 means the minimum value of

[0080] In one embodiment, the aerosol product 15 is generated by changing the inductance of the induction coil 140. For example, metallic substances may be present in at least some of the aerosol-producing articles 15. In this case, the metal material may be aluminum (Al). However, it is not limited to this.

[0081] According to one embodiment, when the insertion of the aerosol product 15 is detected, the control unit 120 In operation 305, a variable magnetic field is applied to a susceptor (e.g., susceptor 130 of FIG. 1A). To generate the signal, the control mode for the induction coil 140 is switched to the transmission mode. For example, the control unit 120 controls the induction coil 140 and the heating control unit (for example, the heating control unit 2 in FIG. 2). 10) is connected by controlling the switching module 200. The control mode for the rule 140 may be set to the transmit mode.

[0082] In one embodiment, the induction coil 140 is coupled to the heating control unit 210 to control The control unit 120 controls the battery 110 so that the second power is supplied to the induction coil 140. For example, the control unit 120 controls the induction through the heating control unit 210 implemented by a heating IC. The battery 110 can be controlled so that the second power is supplied to the induction coil 140 . In this case, the second power is also higher than the first power.

[0083] According to one embodiment, if the insertion of the aerosol product 15 is not detected, the control unit 120 For example, the control unit 120 may return to operation 301 and perform the following steps again. It is determined that the frequency change corresponding to the inductance change of the filter 140 is less than the preset frequency. If so, the process returns to operation 301. That is, the control unit 120 controls the induction coil 140. The control mode can be held in a receive mode to sense the insertion of the aerosol producing article 15.

[0084] FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating a first state of the switching module 200 shown in FIG. This is a drawing.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 4A, when the power state of the aerosol generating device is turned on, the control unit 120 is switched so that the induction coil 140 and the cigarette recognition unit 220 are connected. In one embodiment, the switching module 200 The terminal 200 has terminals to which the induction coil 140 and the cigarette recognition unit 220 are electrically connected. You can choose.

[0086] In one embodiment, when the induction coil 140 and the cigarette recognition unit 220 are connected, The gullet recognition unit 220 is configured to connect a battery (e.g., For example, it can control the battery 110 in FIG. 1A.

[0087] In one embodiment, the cigarette recognition unit 220 detects the inductance of the induction coil 140. For example, when the first power is supplied to the induction coil 140, data related to the amount of heat generated can be obtained. As a result, a magnetic field corresponding to the first power is generated inside and around the induction coil 140. If a metal object (or a magnetic object) is inserted into the generated magnetic field, the cigarette lighter The magnetic field recognition unit 220 detects an inductance change corresponding to the degree of magnetic field deformation caused by the metal material. This allows the cigarette recognition unit 220 to obtain data related to the amount of smoke. The data on the inductance change amount can be used to determine whether the aerosol product is aerosol generating equipment. It can be determined whether the device 100 has been inserted into the receiving space.

[0088] FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a second state of the switching module 200 shown in FIG. This is a drawing.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 4B, if it is determined that the aerosol product 15 has been inserted, the control unit 1 20 is a switching module for connecting the induction coil 140 and the heating control unit 210. In one embodiment, the switching module 200 In this case, the terminals to which the induction coil 140 and the heating control unit 210 are electrically connected can be selected. can.

[0090] In one embodiment, the induction coil 140 and the heating control unit 210 are connected to each other. The unit 210 controls the battery 110 so that the second power is supplied to the induction coil 140. In one embodiment, the induction coil 140 may be a combination of the induction coil 140 and the aerosol. A susceptor (e.g., susceptor 130 in FIG. 1A) disposed between the molded product 15 is heated. For example, a second power may be supplied to the induction coil 140 to generate a variable magnetic field. As a result, a magnetic field corresponding to the second power is generated inside and around the induction coil 140. In this case, the second power is higher than the first power, and the strength of the magnetic field corresponding to the second power is In one embodiment, the magnetic field generated by the induction coil 140 is When the susceptor 130 is heated via the variable magnetic field, the aerosol is released from the aerosol product 15. A sol can be produced.

[0091] FIG. 5 illustrates a control mode for an induction coil in an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. 1 is a flowchart showing the process of

[0092] Referring to FIG. 5, a control unit (for example, the control unit 120 in FIG. 2) performs the following operation 501: Set the control mode for the induction coil (for example, induction coil 140 in FIG. 2) to the transmission mode. and controls the heating operation of the aerosol generating device (for example, the aerosol generating device 100 in FIG. 2). It is possible.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the control unit 120 may, in operation 503, The control mode is switched to the reception mode. For example, the control unit 120 may , 3 seconds) periodically switch the control mode for the induction coil 140 to the receiving mode. As another example, the control unit 120 may determine at least one of the number of puffs and the smoking time. The control mode for the induction coil 140 is switched to the receiving mode based on the data. This can be done.

[0094] The control unit 120 determines in operation 505 whether the aerosol production item 15 is still inserted. That is, the control unit 120 can detect whether the aerosol product 15 is being used. It can detect whether the aerosol generating device has been removed from the storage space. Similar to the insertion of the induction coil 140, when the aerosol generating article 15 is removed, the induction coil 140 Therefore, for example, the control unit 120 may change the first current The frequency change corresponding to the change in inductance of the induction coil 140 through which the force flows is sensed, and the air The control unit 12 can detect whether the sol product 15 is inserted into the storage space. If the device does not sense that the aerosol-producing item 15 has been removed from the storage space, the device In operation 507, the control unit 120 changes the control mode for the induction coil 140 to a transmission mode. On the other hand, the control unit 120 can switch to the aerosol generator 120 and restart the heating operation. If it is detected that the item 15 has been removed from the storage space, the control unit 120 proceeds to operation 509. In this case, the receiving mode is maintained and no heating operation is performed.

[0095] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 600 includes an induction coil 140 and a control unit 120. may include:

[0097] In one embodiment, the control unit 120 sets a control mode for the induction coil 140. For example, the aerosol generating device 600 can be configured with a control unit 1 without a separate switching module. 20 to set the control mode for the induction coil 140. The control modes for 0 may include a receive mode Rx and a transmit mode Tx. , means a mode of sensing the insertion of an aerosol product via the induction coil 140, The mode may refer to a mode of heating the aerosol product via the induction coil 140. .

[0098] In one embodiment, the control unit 120 sets the control mode for the induction coil 140 to a receive mode. The receiver can be set to receive mode to detect changes in the inductance of the induction coil 140. In this mode, the control unit 120 detects a change in the inductance of the induction coil 140 and then In one embodiment, the control unit 12 0 sets the control mode for the induction coil 140 to the transmission mode, and In the transmitting mode, the induction coil 140 can be supplied with a predetermined power to generate a variable magnetic field. The variable magnetic field generates a susceptor, which heats the susceptor and generates an electron beam. The aerosol may be generated from an aerosol producing article.

[0099] One embodiment is a computer program such as a program module executed by a computer. The present invention may also be embodied in the form of a recording medium containing instructions executable by a computer. A readable medium is any available medium that can be accessed by a computer, including volatile and This includes both non-volatile media, detachable media, and non-detachable media. The computer storage medium may include both a computer storage medium and a communication medium. such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data Volatile and non-volatile, embodied by any method or technology for storing information, Communication media typically include computer readable instruction words, data data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal; Other transmission mechanisms include any information transmission medium.

[0100] The control unit 120, the heating control unit 210, and the cigarette recognition unit 220 shown in FIG. Components, elements or units (hereinafter referred to as "components") displayed as blocks on the surface At least one of the various hardware components (referred to as "hardware") performs the functions described above according to the embodiment. It may be embodied in hardware, software and / or firmware structures. For example, at least one of these components may include one or more microprocessors or other Memory, processing, logic, and lookup functions that are performed through the control of the controller Direct circuit structures such as tables can be used. At least one of the modules contains one or more executable instructions for performing a particular logical function. The present invention may be embodied in a module, program, or part of code. At least one of the components comprises a central processing unit (CPU) that performs the respective function; The functionalities of the exemplary embodiment may further include a processor, such as a microprocessor. Aspects may also be embodied by algorithms executed on one or more processors. The components represented by blocks or processing steps may include electronic configurations, signal processing and / or Any relevant technology can be used for control and data processing.

[0101] The above description of the embodiments is for illustrative purposes only and is within the skill of those in the art. Those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention should be determined by the claims. All differences within the scope of the claims are determined by the scope of the claims, regardless of whether they are within the scope of the claims. The scope of protection for the inventions and methods of manufacture of which the invention is based must be interpreted as falling within the scope of protection provided for in the inventions and methods of manufacture of which the invention is based.

Claims

1. A heater for heating an aerosol product inserted into the storage space of the aerosol generating device. Puta and The heating element is disposed around the susceptor and configured to heat the susceptor by induction heating. an induction coil; a switching module for switching an electrical path of the induction coil; a control module electrically connected to the switching module for controlling the induction coil; and setting the aerosol detector to a receiving mode, and detecting the aerosol based on the inductance change of the induction coil. The insertion of the product is sensed, and if the insertion of the aerosol product is sensed, the switch The control mode is switched to a transmitting mode via a switching module to activate the induction heating. and a control unit configured to switch between the aerosol generating device and the control unit.

2. further comprising a battery for powering the induction coil; The control unit When the control mode is the receiving mode, the battery supplies power to the induction coil. setting the power to be supplied to the power supply to a first power; When the control mode is the transmission mode, the battery supplies power to the induction coil.

2. The aerosol according to claim 1, wherein the power applied to the aerosol is set to a second power higher than the first power. generator.

3. The control unit a cigarette recognition unit that senses the insertion of the aerosol product; a heating control unit that applies an alternating current to the induction coil to generate a variable magnetic field; The control unit When the insertion of the aerosol product is detected, the switching module The electrical path of the induction coil is connected from a first path connected to the cigarette recognition unit to the By changing to the second path connected to the heating control unit, the control mode is changed to the transmission mode. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the aerosol generating device is switched.

4. The control unit If the change in resonant frequency corresponding to the change in inductance of the induction coil is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the control mode is switched to the transmission mode when Place.

5. The control unit periodically switching the control mode from the transmission mode to the reception mode; If the removal of the aerosol product is not sensed in the receive mode, the control mode The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to switch the aerosol generating device to the transmission mode again.

6. The control unit The control mode is set to the transmission mode based on either the number of puffs or the smoking time. switch from the mode to the receiving mode, If the insertion of the aerosol product is detected, the control mode is changed back to the transmission mode. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the aerosol generating device is switched to

7. The control unit In the receiving mode, the aerosol generating article containing a metal substance is inserted.

10. The aerosol generator of claim 1, wherein the change in inductance of the induction coil caused by the change in inductance is sensed. equipment.

8. an operation of setting a control mode for the induction coil to a receiving mode; Detecting insertion of the aerosol product based on a change in inductance of the induction coil. Action and When the insertion of the aerosol product is detected, the aerosol product is inserted through the switching module. switching the control mode to a transmission mode for activating induction heating by said induction coil; and a method of operating an aerosol generating device, comprising:

9. When the control mode is the receiving mode, the power supplied from the battery to the induction coil is setting the power to a first power; When the control mode is the transmission mode, the battery supplies power to the induction coil. and setting the power to be supplied to the power supply to a second power higher than the first power. A method for operating the above-described aerosol generating device.

10. When the insertion of the aerosol product is detected, the switching module The electrical path of the induction coil is controlled by heating from a first path connected to the cigarette recognition unit. By changing the control mode to the second path connected to the 9. A method for operating an aerosol generating device according to claim 8, comprising the steps of:

11. If the change in resonant frequency corresponding to the change in inductance of the induction coil is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, 9. The aerodynamic control method according to claim 8, further comprising: switching the control mode to the transmission mode when Method of operation of the sol generating device.

12. an operation of periodically switching the control mode from the transmission mode to the reception mode; If the removal of the aerosol product is not sensed in the receive mode, the control mode and switching the aerosol generating device according to claim 8 back to the transmitting mode. How the device works.

13. The control mode is determined based on either the number of puffs or the smoking time. an operation of switching from the mode to the reception mode; If the insertion of the aerosol product is detected, the control mode is changed back to the transmission mode. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of:

14. The sensing operation includes: The induction coil generated by inserting the aerosol product containing a metal substance The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, further comprising an operation of sensing a change in inductance of the aerosol generating device. How it works.

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