Aerosol generation system and its operating method

Abstract

This invention provides an aerosol generation system and its operating method that can distinguish between regular cigarettes and over-moistened cigarettes. [Solution] An aerosol generating system 600 according to one embodiment includes a cigarette 2 having a first color band formed thereon that changes hue in response to humidity, a main body 601 including a storage passage 603 into which the cigarette is inserted, a heater for heating the cigarette, a color sensor 528 disposed on one side of the storage passage for detecting the color of the first color band, and a control unit that determines the humidity state of the cigarette based on the detected color of the first color band.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generation system and an operating method thereof, and more particularly, to an aerosol generation system and an operating method therefor that can provide an operating mode corresponding to the type and / or humidity of a cigarette sensed using a color sensor.

Background Art

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

[0003] A cigarette may include an aerosol generating section, a tobacco filling section, a cooling section, and a filter section. The tobacco filling section can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco filling section can be manufactured by any one of shredded tobacco, granules, and liquid. Despite the variety of types of tobacco filling sections, when applying a uniform heating profile, it may not be possible to provide a suitable atomization amount and flavor sensation.

[0004] On the other hand, moisture has a larger specific heat than air and an even larger heat capacity than air at the same temperature. Accordingly, when a user inhales an aerosol with a high moisture content, there is a problem in that the user feels a higher heat sensation than when inhaling air at the same temperature.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an aerosol generation system and an operating method thereof that can distinguish the type of cigarette (i.e., the type of tobacco filling section).

[0006] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide an aerosol generation system and a method of operating the same that can distinguish between ordinary cigarettes and over-moistened cigarettes.

[0007] The problems that the embodiments seek to solve are not limited to those described above, and any problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art in which the embodiments pertain from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment includes an aerosol generator that includes a cigarette having a first color band formed thereon whose hue changes in response to humidity, a main body including a storage passage into which the cigarette is inserted, a heater for heating the cigarette, a color sensor disposed on one side of the storage passage for detecting the color of the first color band, and a control unit that determines the humidity state of the cigarette based on the detected color of the first color band.

[0009] The first color band may contain litmus that changes from the first color to the second color when exposed to moisture.

[0010] The control unit determines that the cigarette is a regular cigarette if the color of the first color band is the first color, and determines that the cigarette is a damp cigarette if the color of the first color band is the second color.

[0011] The control unit may operate the heater with a first temperature profile if the cigarette is determined to be a regular cigarette, and may operate the heater with a second temperature profile if the cigarette is determined to be a humid cigarette.

[0012] The preheating interval of the second temperature profile is longer than the preheating interval of the first temperature profile.

[0013] The cigarette includes an aerosol generating unit, a tobacco filling unit, a cooling unit, and a mouthpiece, wherein the aerosol generating unit, the tobacco filling unit, the cooling unit, and the mouthpiece are packaged by a packaging material, and the first color band may be formed on the packaging material corresponding to the tobacco filling unit.

[0014] The cigarette may further include a second color band having different colors depending on the type of cigarette.

[0015] The types of cigarettes may include a first cigarette in which the tobacco filling portion is filled with shredded tobacco, a second cigarette in which the tobacco filling portion is filled with tobacco granules, and a third cigarette in which the tobacco filling portion is filled with liquid nicotine.

[0016] The second color band is the third color in the case of the first cigarette, the fourth color in the case of the second cigarette, and the fifth color in the case of the third cigarette.

[0017] The control unit can operate the heater with a temperature profile corresponding to the colors of the first and second color bands.

[0018] The second color band is formed on the packaging material corresponding to the tobacco filling section and may be positioned between the first color band and the boundary line between the tobacco filling section and the cooling section.

[0019] The first color band is formed so as to overlap the second color band in the thickness direction and has a mesh-like structure.

[0020] The color sensor can detect a mixed color resulting from the mixing of the colors in the first color band and the second color band.

[0021] An operating method for an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment includes the steps of: inserting a cigarette with a color band formed on it into a storage passage of the main body; detecting the color of the color band using a color sensor; and determining the humidity state of the cigarette based on the detected color of the color band.

[0022] The ribbon may include litmus that changes from a first color to a second color when exposed to moisture.

[0023] In the step of determining the humidity state of the cigarette, when the color of the ribbon is the first color, the cigarette is determined to be a general cigarette, and when the color of the ribbon is the second color, the cigarette is determined to be an over-moist cigarette.

Advantages of the Invention

[0024] An aerosol generation system and an operation method thereof according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can distinguish the type of cigarette (i.e., the type of tobacco filling part) by using a ribbon and a color sensor displayed on the cigarette.

[0025] Also, an aerosol generation system and an operation method thereof according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can distinguish a general cigarette and an over-moist cigarette by using a ribbon and a color sensor displayed on the cigarette.

[0026] The effects according to the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and the effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the embodiments belong from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027] [Figure 1] A drawing showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generation device. [Figure 2] A drawing showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generation device. [Figure 3] A drawing showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generation device. [Figure 4A] A drawing showing an example of a cigarette. [Figure 4B] A drawing showing an example of a cigarette. [Figure 4C] A drawing showing an example of a cigarette. [Figure 5] This block diagram shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. [Figure 6A] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the aerosol generation system. [Figure 6B] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a part of the aerosol generation system. [Figure 7A] This is a diagram illustrating a cigarette according to one embodiment. [Figure 7B] This is a diagram illustrating a cigarette according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a graph used to explain the temperature profile. [Figure 9A] These are drawings illustrating a cigarette according to another embodiment. [Figure 9B] These are drawings illustrating a cigarette according to another embodiment. [Figure 10A] This is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system used to illustrate the position of the color sensor. [Figure 10B] This is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system used to illustrate the position of the color sensor. [Figure 11A] These are drawings illustrating cigarettes according to other embodiments. [Figure 11B] These are drawings illustrating cigarettes according to other embodiments. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] The terminology used in the embodiments has been selected, as far as possible, to be common and widely used terms, taking into account the function of the present invention, although this may vary depending on the intent of the articulators, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In certain cases, the applicant has also arbitrarily selected some terms, in which case their meaning will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention are not merely names of terms, but must be defined based on the meaning of the term and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0029] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a component, it means, unless otherwise specified, that it does not exclude other components, but rather that it may include other components. Furthermore, terms such as "...part" and "...module" used in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be embodied by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that they can be easily implemented by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. However, the present invention can be embodied in a variety of different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0032] Figures 1 through 3 show examples of a cigarette being inserted into an aerosol generator.

[0033] Referring to Figure 1, the aerosol generation system 100 may include an aerosol generating device and a cigarette (or aerosol product) for use with it.

[0034] The aerosol generator 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the aerosol generator 1 further includes a vaporizer 14. A cigarette 2 can also be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generator 1.

[0035] The aerosol generator 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3 illustrates the components related to this embodiment. Therefore, a person with ordinary skill in the technical field related to this embodiment will understand that the aerosol generator 1 also includes other general-purpose components in addition to those shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0036] Furthermore, although Figures 2 and 3 show that the aerosol generator 1 includes a heater 13, the heater 13 may be omitted if necessary.

[0037] Figure 1 shows the battery 11, control unit 12, and heater 13 arranged in a row. Figure 2 shows the battery 11, control unit 12, vaporizer 14, and heater 13 arranged in a row. Figure 3 shows the vaporizer 14 and heater 13 arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to what is shown in Figures 1 to 3. That is, the arrangement of the battery 11, control unit 12, heater 13, and vaporizer 14 can be changed depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1.

[0038] When a cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generator 1, the aerosol generator 1 can activate the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 is transmitted to the user through the cigarette 2.

[0039] If necessary, the aerosol generator 1 can heat the heater 13 even when the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generator 1.

[0040] The battery 11 supplies power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. For example, the battery 11 can supply power to heat the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14, and can also supply power necessary for the operation of the control unit 12. In addition, the battery 11 can supply power necessary for the operation of the display, sensors, motors, etc., provided in the aerosol generator 1.

[0041] The control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the operation of not only the battery 11, heater 13, and vaporizer 14, but also other components included in the aerosol generator 1. Furthermore, the control unit 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether or not the aerosol generator 1 is in an operational state.

[0042] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor can also be embodied by an array of numerous logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. Furthermore, as anyone with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs will understand, it can also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0043] The heater 13 can be heated by power supplied from the battery 11. For example, if a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generator 1, the heater 13 may be located outside the cigarette. Therefore, the heated heater 13 can raise the temperature of the aerosol-generating material inside the cigarette.

[0044] The heater 13 is also an electrical resistance heater. For example, the heater 13 may include a conductive track, and the heater 13 may be heated by the flow of current through the conductive track. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above example, and can be any heater that heats up to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be pre-set in the aerosol generator 1, or it may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0045] On the other hand, as another example, heater 13 is also an induction heater. Specifically, heater 13 includes a conductive coil for heating a cigarette by induction heating, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heater.

[0046] For example, the heater 13 includes a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and can heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0047] Furthermore, the aerosol generator 1 may have multiple heaters 13. In this case, the multiple heaters 13 may be positioned to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, or to be positioned outside the cigarette 2. Also, some of the multiple heaters 13 may be positioned to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, while the rest are positioned outside the cigarette 2. In addition, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes shown in Figures 1 to 3, but can be manufactured in a variety of shapes.

[0048] The vaporizer 14 heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, which can then be transmitted to the user through the cigarette 2. That is, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 moves along the airflow passage of the aerosol generator 1, and the airflow passage may be configured so that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 is transmitted to the user through the cigarette.

[0049] 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 instance, the liquid storage unit, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generator 1 as independent modules.

[0050] The liquid storage section can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances, including volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. The liquid storage section is manufactured to detach from / adhere to the vaporizer 14 and may be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0051] For example, a liquid composition may include water, solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrances, flavoring agents, or vitamin mixtures. Fragrances may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, or various fruit fragrance components. Flavoring agents may include components that provide users with a variety of flavors or aromas. Vitamin mixtures may also be mixtures of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E, but are not limited to these. Furthermore, a liquid composition may include aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0052] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition of the liquid storage section to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means may be, but is not limited to, a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramics.

[0053] A heating element is an element for heating a liquid composition that is transmitted by a liquid transfer means. For example, a heating element may be a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited to these. Alternatively, a heating element may be composed of a conductive filament, such as a nichrome wire, and arranged in a structure that is wound around the liquid transfer means. The heating element is heated by an electric current supply, and heat is transferred to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated.

[0054] For example, the steam generator 14 is also called a cartomizer or atomizer, but is not limited to these terms.

[0055] On the other hand, the aerosol generator 1 may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 11, control unit 12, heater 13, and 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.

[0056] Furthermore, the aerosol generator 1 may include at least one sensor (such as a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, a cigarette insertion detection sensor, and a color sensor). In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 may use the color sensor to identify the type of cigarette 2 and / or the humidity state of the cigarette 2, and based on the identification result, select a suitable heating profile appropriate for each cigarette 2 and operate the heater 13.

[0057] Furthermore, the aerosol generator 1 can also be manufactured with a structure that allows external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out even when the cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0058] Although not shown in Figures 1 to 3, the aerosol generator 1 may be configured with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generator 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 may be heated when the cradle and the aerosol generator 1 are coupled together.

[0059] A cigarette according to one embodiment includes at least one of an aerosol generating section, a tobacco filling section, a cooling section, and a filter section (mouthpiece or mouthpiece section). For example, the filter section is usually an acetate filter, and the cooling section and the filter section may contain a capsule and a flavoring agent.

[0060] On the other hand, the materials, order, and length of the aerosol generation section and the tobacco filling section are not limited to specific examples, nor are the materials and length of the cooling section and the filter section limited to specific examples.

[0061] The aerosol generator generates a nicotine-containing aerosol by heating the aerosol generation section and the tobacco filling section, and the aerosol is discharged to the outside after passing through the cooling section and the filter section.

[0062] For example, an aerosol generator may generate an aerosol by heating at least one of the aerosol generating section and the tobacco filling section of a cigarette. Alternatively, the aerosol generator may selectively or entirely heat the inside or outside of the cigarette.

[0063] The following will explain an example of cigarette 2 with reference to Figures 4A to 4C.

[0064] Figures 4A to 4C are diagrams showing examples of cigarettes.

[0065] Referring to Figures 4A to 4C, the cigarette 2 includes an aerosol generating unit 210, a tobacco filling unit 220, a cooling unit 230, and a mouthpiece 240. For example, the mouthpiece 240 may also be a filter made of cellulose acetate, and the cooling unit 230 and mouthpiece 240 may contain capsules and flavoring agents. The materials, order, and length of the aerosol generating unit 210 and the tobacco filling unit 220 are not limited to specific examples, nor are the materials and length of the cooling unit 230 and mouthpiece 240. Furthermore, depending on how the cigarette 2 is heated, the cigarette 2 may or may not contain a heat conductor.

[0066] The outer casing of the cigarette 2 is covered and wrapped with packaging material (trumpet). In addition, a heat conductor may be placed in part or all of the space between the packaging material (trumpet) and the aerosol generating section 210 and the tobacco filling section 220.

[0067] The aerosol generating unit 210 does not contain nicotine. Furthermore, the aerosol generating unit 210 may contain nicotine-free aerosol-generating substances. For example, the aerosol generating unit 210 may contain, 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. For example, the aerosol generating unit 210 may contain a substance in which glycerin and propylene glycol are mixed in a ratio of approximately 8:2, but is not limited to the above-mentioned mixing ratio. The aerosol generating unit 210 may also contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, the aerosol generating unit 210 may contain a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant.

[0068] The aerosol generating unit 210 includes a rolled sheet, and the aerosol generating substance may be contained in the aerosol generating unit 210 in a state impregnated with the rolled sheet. In addition, other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants and / or organic acids, and flavoring liquids may be contained in the aerosol generating unit 210 in a state absorbed with the rolled sheet.

[0069] A rolled sheet is also a sheet composed of polymer materials. For example, the polymer material may include at least one of the following: paper, cellulose acetate, lyocell, or polylactic acid. For example, a rolled sheet is also a paper sheet that does not produce an unpleasant odor when heated to high temperatures. However, it is not limited to this.

[0070] The length of the aerosol generating section 210 can be set to an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 12 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the aerosol generating section 210 is approximately 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0071] The tobacco filling section 220 may contain nicotine. The tobacco filling section 220 may also contain aerosol-generating substances such as glycerin and propylene glycol. Furthermore, the tobacco filling section 220 may contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Additionally, flavoring liquids such as menthol or humectants may be added to the tobacco filling section 220 by spraying them into the tobacco filling section 220.

[0072] As an example, aerosol-producing substances may include shredded tobacco or reconstituted tobacco. Specifically, aerosol-producing substances may contain nicotine, which can be obtained by shaping or reconstituting tobacco leaves. As another example, aerosol-producing substances may include free-base nicotine, nicotine salt, or a combination thereof. Specifically, nicotine can be naturally occurring nicotine or synthetic nicotine.

[0073] For example, the tobacco filling section 220 may contain a blend of different types of tobacco leaves. Furthermore, the blend can be processed through a variety of processing steps, but is not limited to these.

[0074] Nicotine salts can be formed by adding a suitable acid, including organic or inorganic acids, to nicotine. The acid for forming the nicotine salt may be, but is not limited to, a single acid selected from the group consisting of benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharic acid, malonic acid, or malic acid, or a mixture of two or more acids selected from the group.

[0075] The tobacco filling section 220 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco filling section 220 may be made from shredded tobacco, where the tobacco sheet is finely cut. Alternatively, the tobacco filling section 220 may be made in a granular form, including a rolled sheet, with multiple tobacco granules dispersed within the rolled sheet. Furthermore, the tobacco filling section 220 may be made in a vapor liquid form, including a rolled sheet, with liquid nicotine impregnated into the rolled sheet.

[0076] The length of the tobacco filling section 220 may be an appropriate length within the range of 6 mm to 18 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the tobacco filling section 220 is approximately 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0077] The cooling unit 230 can generate a cooling effect on the aerosol. Therefore, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0078] For example, the cooling section 230 is made of cellulose acetate and is a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. For example, the cooling section 230 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the monodenier of the cooling section 230 is 5.0 and the total denier is 28,000, but is not limited to these.

[0079] For example, the cooling section 230 is made of paper and is a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. Furthermore, the cooling section 230 may have at least one hole through which external air can flow in.

[0080] The cooling section 230 may be made of laminated paper consisting of multiple sheets of paper. For example, the cooling section 230 may be made of laminated paper composed of an outer sheet, an intermediate sheet, and an inner sheet, but is not limited to this. On the other hand, the inner surface of the inner sheet constituting the laminated paper may be coated with a predetermined substance (e.g., polylactic acid).

[0081] On the other hand, if the cooling section 230 is made of paper, the overall thickness of the cooling section 230 may be within the range of 330 μm to 340 μm. Preferably, the overall thickness of the cooling section 230 is approximately 333 μm, but is not limited thereto.

[0082] Furthermore, if the cooling section 230 is made of paper, the total basis weight of the cooling section 230 is 230 g / m². 2 or 250g / m 2 It may fall within this range. Preferably, the total basis weight of the cooling section 230 is approximately 240 g / m². 2 However, it is not limited by that.

[0083] The diameter of the hollow portion of the cooling section 230 may be within the range of 4 mm to 8 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the diameter of the hollow portion of the cooling section 230 may be within the range of 7.0 mm to 7.5 mm, but is not limited thereto. The length of the cooling section 230 may be within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the cooling section 230 may be approximately 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0084] The cooling unit 230 is not limited to the examples described above, and can be any unit capable of performing the function of cooling an aerosol.

[0085] Mouthpiece 240 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The length of mouthpiece 240 may be an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of mouthpiece 240 is also approximately 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0086] The mouthpiece 240 may be manufactured to generate flavor. For example, a flavoring liquid may be sprayed onto the mouthpiece 240, and a separate fiber coated with the flavoring liquid may be inserted into the mouthpiece 240.

[0087] Furthermore, the mouthpiece 240 may contain at least one capsule. For example, the capsule may contain a flavoring liquid, and flavor may be produced by the release of the flavoring liquid when the capsule is crushed. For example, the capsule may contain an aerosol-generating substance, and an aerosol may be produced by the release of the substance when the capsule is crushed. The capsule is also a structure that encloses the flavoring liquid or aerosol-generating substance with a coating. The capsule may be spherical or cylindrical, but is not limited to these shapes.

[0088] Referring to Figure 4B, the tobacco filling section 220 may include cooling holes 250. For example, by perforating holes in the tobacco filling section 220, primary cooling of the aerosol is promoted, and secondary cooling is promoted as the primary cooled aerosol passes through the cooling section 230. Therefore, the cooling effect of the aerosol can be maximized. On the other hand, depending on the material of the cooling section 230, the cooling holes 250 may not be provided.

[0089] Referring to Figure 4C, the aerosol generating unit 210 is located downstream of the tobacco filling unit 220. In other words, the cigarette 2 in Figure 4A and the cigarette 2 in Figure 4C have different arrangements of the aerosol generating unit 210 and the tobacco filling unit 220.

[0090] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0091] The aerosol generator 500 may include a control unit 510, a sensing unit 520, an output unit 530, a battery 540, a heater 550, a user input unit 560, a memory 570, and a communication unit 580. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 500 is not limited to that shown in Figure 5. In other words, a person with ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment will understand that depending on the design of the aerosol generator 500, some of the components shown in Figure 5 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0092] The sensing unit 520 can sense the state of the aerosol generator 500 or the state of the area around the aerosol generator 500 and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 510. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 510 can control the aerosol generator 500 so that various functions are performed, such as controlling the operation of the heater 550, restricting smoking, determining whether or not an aerosol product (e.g., cigarettes, cartridges, etc.) has been inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0093] The sensing unit 520 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the temperature sensor 522, insertion sensing sensor 524, puff sensor 526, and color sensor 528.

[0094] The temperature sensor 522 may sense the temperature at which the heater 550 (or the aerosol-generating material) is heated. The aerosol generator 500 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the heater 550, or the heater 550 itself may perform the role of a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 522 may also be positioned around the battery 540 to monitor its temperature.

[0095] The insertion sensing sensor 524 can detect the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 524 includes at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can detect a signal change due to the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products.

[0096] The puff sensor 526 can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 526 can detect a user's puff based on any one of the following: temperature changes, flow rate changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0097] The color sensor 528 can detect light reflected by a cigarette (Figure 4A, part 2). The color sensor 528 can obtain information related to hue from the detected light.

[0098] The color sensor 528 may include a light-emitting unit 528a and a light-receiving unit 622. The light-emitting unit 528a can emit light toward the cigarette 2. For example, the light-emitting unit 528a may include a first light-gathering unit that focuses light generated from a light source toward an object. Here, the first light-gathering unit may consist of an imaging lens, a diffractive optical element (DOE), or the like.

[0099] Light emitted from the light-emitting unit 528a may be reflected from the cigarette 2. The reflected light can reach the light-receiving unit 622. For example, the light-receiving unit 528b may include a photodiode that responds to light. The light-receiving unit 528b can output an electrical signal corresponding to the light incident on the photodiode.

[0100] The light-receiving unit 528b may include a second light-gathering unit that collects light reflected from an object (hereinafter referred to as reflected light). For example, the reflected light collected by the second light-gathering unit may be transmitted to a photodiode included in the light-receiving unit 528b. In this case, the second light-gathering unit may include a lens that receives reflected light incident from a predetermined direction.

[0101] The control unit 510 can receive signals related to color information from the color sensor 528. The control unit 51 can determine information based on the color information acquired by the color sensor 528. The control unit 51 can determine information related to the cigarette 2 by analyzing the values ​​output by the color information acquired by the color sensor 528. For example, information related to the cigarette 2 may include the type of cigarette 2 and / or the humidity state of the cigarette 2.

[0102] In addition to the aforementioned sensors (temperature sensor 522, insertion sensor 524, puff sensor 526, and color sensor 528), the sensing unit 520 may further include at least one of the following: a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (illuminance) sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an average engineer from its name, so a detailed explanation may be omitted.

[0103] The output unit 530 can output and provide to the user information relating to the status of the aerosol generator 500. The output unit 530 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the display unit 532, the haptic unit 534, and the acoustic output unit 536. When the display unit 532 and the touchpad are configured as a touchscreen in a layered structure, the display unit 532 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0104] The display unit 532 visually provides the user with information related to the aerosol generator 500. For example, information related to the aerosol generator 500 can include various types of information such as the charging / discharging status of the battery 540 of the aerosol generator 500, the preheating status of the heater 550, the insertion / removal status of aerosol products, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 500 is restricted (e.g., detection of abnormal items), and the display unit 532 can output this information to the outside. The display unit 532 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or an LED light-emitting element.

[0105] The haptic unit 534 converts electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli to provide the user with tactile information related to the aerosol generator 500. For example, the haptic unit 534 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0106] The acoustic output unit 536 provides the user with auditory information related to the aerosol generator 500. For example, the acoustic output unit 536 can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0107] The battery 540 may supply power used to operate the aerosol generator 500. The battery 540 may supply power to heat the heater 550. The battery 540 may also supply power necessary for the operation of other components within the aerosol generator 500 (e.g., the sensing unit 520, the output unit 530, the user input unit 560, the memory 570, and the communication unit 580). The battery 540 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 540 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to that.

[0108] The heater 550 can be powered by the battery 540 to heat the aerosol-generating material. Although not shown in Figure 5, the aerosol generator 500 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the battery 540 and supplies it to the heater 550. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 500 generates aerosols using an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 500 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the battery 540 into an AC power supply.

[0109] The control unit 510, sensing unit 520, output unit 530, user input unit 560, memory 570, and communication unit 580 can perform their functions by being powered by the battery 540. Although not shown in Figure 5, the system may further include power conversion circuits, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that convert the power from the battery 540 and supply it to each component.

[0110] In one embodiment, the heater 550 may consist of any suitable electrical-resistant material. For example, suitable electrical-resistant materials may include, but are 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, and nichrome. The heater 550 may also be embodied by, but are not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which conductive tracks are arranged, or a ceramic heating element.

[0111] In other embodiments, the heater 550 is also an induction heating heater. For example, the heater 550 may include a susceptor that generates heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0112] In one embodiment, the heater 550 may include a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater 550 may include a first heater for heating a cigarette and a second heater for heating a liquid.

[0113] The user input unit 560 receives information input from the user or outputs information to the user. For example, the user input unit 560 may be a keypad, dome switch, touchpad (using contact-type capacitive, pressure-type resistive, infrared sensing, surface ultrasonic conduction, integral tension measurement, piezoelectric effect, etc.), jog wheel, jog switch, etc., but is not limited to these. Although not shown in Figure 5, the aerosol generator 500 also includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can connect to other external devices via the connection interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 540.

[0114] Memory 570 is hardware that stores various data (e.g., temperature profiles) processed within the aerosol generator 500, and can store data processed by the control unit 510 and data being processed. Memory 570 may include at least one type of recording medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 570 can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 500, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data related to the user's smoking pattern.

[0115] The communication unit 580 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 580 may include a short-range communication unit 582 and a wireless communication unit 584.

[0116] The short-range wireless communication unit 582 may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth® communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee® communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0117] The wireless communication unit 584 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit. The wireless communication unit 584 may verify and authenticate the aerosol generator 500 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0118] The control unit 510 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 500. In one embodiment, the control unit 510 may include at least one processor. The processor may also be embodied by an array of numerous logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. It will be understood by those ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0119] The control unit 510 can control the temperature of the heater 550 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 540 to the heater 550. For example, the control unit 510 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 540 and the heater 550. In another example, the direct heating circuit may control the power supply to the heater 550 by a control command from the control unit 510.

[0120] The control unit 510 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 520 and control subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 520, the control unit 510 can control the power supplied to the heater 550 so that the operation of the heater 550 is started or stopped. As another example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 520, the control unit 510 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 550 and the power supply time so that the heater 550 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0121] The control unit 510 can control the output unit 530 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 520. For example, if the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 526 reaches a pre-set number, the control unit 510 will notify the user via at least one of the display unit 532, the haptic unit 534, and the acoustic output unit 536 that the aerosol generator 500 will be shut off immediately.

[0122] The control unit 510 can determine the type of cigarette 2 and / or humidity state based on the color information sensed by the color sensor 528. The control unit 510 can operate the heater 550 according to the temperature profile corresponding to the determined type of cigarette 2 and / or humidity state.

[0123] Figures 6A and 6B are schematic cross-sectional views showing a part of the aerosol generation system.

[0124] Figure 6A is a side cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system 600, and Figure 6B is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system 600.

[0125] Referring to Figures 6A and 6B, the aerosol generation system 600 may include aerosol generators 601 and 602 and a cigarette 2. The aerosol generators 601 and 602 may include a main body 601 and a cover 602. On the other hand, the cigarette 2 and cover 602 may be detachably coupled to the main body 601.

[0126] In one embodiment, the cigarette 2 may include a colored band CB in a portion of the packaging material (trumpet). The colored band CB can indicate the type of cigarette 2 and / or humidity status information.

[0127] The main body 601 may have a storage passage 603 that can accommodate a cigarette 2. The cigarette 2 may be placed inside the storage passage 603 through a hole formed in the cover 602. After the cigarette 2 is placed in the storage passage 603, an aerosol may be generated when the cigarette 2 is heated by a heater (not shown) located in the storage passage 603.

[0128] In one embodiment, the main body 601 may have a color sensor 528 formed on the side of the storage passage 603. The color sensor 528 may include a light-emitting part 528a and a light-receiving part 528b. The color sensor 528 may be spaced 6 mm or more away from the heater so as not to be affected by the heater. The color sensor 528 may be positioned on the same line as the color band CB of the cigarette 2 housed in the storage passage 603.

[0129] According to one embodiment, when the insertion sensing sensor (524 in Figure 5) detects that the cigarette 2 has been inserted into the storage passage 603, the light-emitting unit 528a can irradiate light onto the cigarette 2. The light-receiving unit 528b can also receive the light reflected from the cigarette 2.

[0130] In this disclosure, the type and / or humidity level of the cigarette 2 stored in the storage passage 603 can be determined by sensing the light reflected from the color band CB of the cigarette 2 using the color band CB and the color sensor 528. A detailed explanation of this will be given later in Figures 7A to 10B.

[0131] Figures 7A and 7B are diagrams illustrating a cigarette according to one embodiment.

[0132] Referring to Figures 7A and 7B, the cigarette 2 may include an aerosol generating unit 210, a tobacco filling unit 220, a cooling unit 230, and a mouthpiece 240. The cigarette 2 may include a colored band CB in a part of the packaging material (trumpet). For example, the cigarette 2 may include a colored band CB on the packaging material (trumpet) corresponding to the tobacco filling unit 220. In this case, the colored band CB indicates the humidity state of the cigarette 2.

[0133] The color band CB may contain substances that change color in response to changes in the humidity of the surrounding environment. For example, the color band CB may contain litmus. Litmus is a pigment extracted from lichens. Litmus indicators are purple in neutral solutions, blue in basic solutions, and red in acidic solutions. Litmus paper, as it is commonly known, is made by dipping paper in a solution of litmus alcohol with hydrochloric acid or ammonia water, respectively, and then drying it. There are two types of litmus paper, blue and red. If blue litmus paper turns red, it indicates that the solution is acidic, and if red litmus paper turns blue, it indicates that the solution is basic.

[0134] In one embodiment, the color band CB is formed using a principle similar to blue litmus paper. When humidity is normal, it indicates blue, and when humidity is high, the moisture in the air generally becomes slightly acidic, so it indicates red. Therefore, in the case of a normal cigarette 2, as shown in Figure 7A, the color band CB indicates blue, and in the case of a humid cigarette 2', as shown in Figure 7B, the color band CB' indicates red.

[0135] By placing a colored band CB on the packaging material (trumpet) corresponding to the tobacco filling section 220, and using a color sensor 528 to sense the color of the colored band CB, the humidity state of the cigarette 2 can be easily detected.

[0136] Applying a uniform heating profile without considering the humidity conditions of the tobacco filling section 220 may not provide users with the best possible user satisfaction. Moisture has a higher specific heat than air, and at the same temperature, its heat capacity is even greater than that of air. This can lead to a problem where users who inhale aerosols with high moisture content feel a greater sensation of heat than when inhaling air at the same temperature. Below, using Figure 8, exemplary temperature profiles corresponding to a regular cigarette 2 and a humidified cigarette 2' will be explained.

[0137] Figure 8 is a graph illustrating the temperature profile. The solid line graph shows the first temperature profile for general cigarettes, while the dashed line graph shows the second temperature profile for over-humidified cigarettes.

[0138] Referring to Figure 8, the first temperature profile TP1 shows the time-dependent temperature values ​​optimized for a standard cigarette (Figure 7A, item 2). The first temperature profile TP1 can be divided into a first section P1, which is the preheating section, and a second section P2, which is the smoking section.

[0139] The first section P1 may include a section in which the temperature rises from the ambient temperature (first temperature T1) to the second temperature T2 at which the aerosol-generating substance volatilizes, and a section in which it falls to the third temperature T3 at which smoking begins. The second section P2 may include a section in which the temperature falls from the third temperature T3 to the fourth temperature T4, and a section in which the fourth temperature T4 is maintained. In this case, the second temperature T2, the third temperature T3, and the fourth temperature T4 are above the temperature at which the aerosol-generating substance volatilizes, and may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating substance.

[0140] On the other hand, the second temperature profile TP2 shows the time-dependent temperature values ​​optimized for over-humidified cigarettes (2' in Figure 7B). The second temperature profile TP2 can be divided into a third section P3, which is the preheating section, and a fourth section P4, which is the smoking section.

[0141] The third section P3 may include a section in which the temperature rises from the first temperature T1, which is the ambient temperature, to the second temperature T2, which is when the aerosol-generating substances volatilize; a section in which the temperature remains at the second temperature T2; and a section in which the temperature drops to the fourth temperature T4, which is the smoking initiation temperature. The fourth section P4 may include a section in which the temperature remains at the fourth temperature T4.

[0142] In this case, the time required to reach the second temperature T2, corresponding to the second temperature profile TP2, is longer than the time required to reach the second temperature T2, corresponding to the first temperature profile TP1, due to the moisture contained in the cigarette 2000.

[0143] Furthermore, after the second temperature profile TP2 reaches the second temperature T2, at least some of the moisture contained inside the overheated cigarette 2' may evaporate while it is maintained at the second temperature T2. This can alleviate the initial feeling of heat. On the other hand, in the case of a regular cigarette 2, the user is less likely to feel heat due to the moisture contained inside, so the first temperature profile TP1 may omit the section for evaporating the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2. That is, the preheating section P3 of the second temperature profile TP2 is longer than the preheating section P1 of the first temperature profile TP1, and the third temperature T3, which is the smoking start temperature of a regular cigarette (2 in Figure 7A), is higher than the fourth temperature T4, which is the smoking start temperature of an overheated cigarette (2' in Figure 7B).

[0144] However, the first temperature profile TP1 and the second temperature profile TP2 shown in Figure 8 are merely examples, and the temperature profiles for general cigarettes (Figure 7A-2) and over-humidified cigarettes (Figure 7B-2') are not limited to these.

[0145] Figures 9A and 9B are diagrams illustrating a cigarette according to another embodiment.

[0146] The cigarettes 2_1a, 2_1b, and 2_1c shown in Figures 9A and 9B differ from cigarette 2 shown in Figures 7A and 7B, which contains only one color band CB, in that a portion of the packaging (trumpet) includes not only the first color band CB1 but also the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c. The remaining configuration is substantially the same. The following explanation will focus on the differences, omitting redundant explanations.

[0147] Cigarettes 2_1a, 2_1b, and 2_1c may include an aerosol generating unit 210, a tobacco filling unit 220, a cooling unit 230, and a mouthpiece 240. Cigarettes 2_1a, 2_1b, and 2_1c may include a first color band CB1 and second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c in a portion of the packaging material (trumpet). For example, cigarette 2 may include a first color band CB1 and second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c on the packaging material (trumpet) corresponding to the tobacco filling unit 220.

[0148] In this case, the first color band CB1 has substantially the same configuration as the color band CB in Figure 7A and indicates the humidity state of cigarettes 2_1a, 2_1b, and 2_1c. The first color band CB1 is formed on a principle similar to blue litmus paper, so that when the humidity is normal, it indicates blue, and when the humidity is high, the moisture in the air generally becomes slightly acidic, so it indicates red. Therefore, when the first cigarette 2_1a, the second cigarette 2_1b, and the third cigarette 2_1c are ordinary cigarettes, the first color band CB1 indicates blue, as shown in Figure 9A, and when the first cigarette 2_1a, the second cigarette 2_1b, and the third cigarette 2_1c are over-humidified cigarettes, the first color band CB1' indicates red, as shown in Figure 9B.

[0149] Furthermore, the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c indicate the type of cigarette 2_1a, 2_1b, and 2_1c. In Figures 9A and 9B, the first cigarette 2_1a may have its tobacco filling section 220 filled with shredded tobacco, the second cigarette 2_1b may have its tobacco filling section 220 filled with tobacco granules, and the third cigarette 2_1c may have its tobacco filling section 220 filled with liquid nicotine. For example, the second color band CB2a of the first cigarette 2_1a is red, the second color band CB2b of the second cigarette 2_1b is yellow, and the second color band CB2c of the third cigarette 2_1c is black. However, the colors of the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c, and the contents of the tobacco filling section that match each color, are merely examples and can be varied in many ways.

[0150] In one embodiment, the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c are formed on the packaging material (trumpet) corresponding to the cigarette filling section 220, and the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c may be arranged adjacent to the first color band CB1 in the longitudinal direction. For example, the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c may be arranged between the first color band CB1 and the boundary line between the cigarette filling section 220 and the cooling section 230.

[0151] Figures 10A and 10B are cross-sectional views of the aerosol generation system illustrating the location of the color sensor.

[0152] Referring to Figures 9A, 9B, 10A, and 10B, the color sensors 528a and 528b may be formed on the side of the housing passage 603 of the main body 601.

[0153] According to one embodiment, as shown in Figure 10A, multiple color sensors 528a and 528b may be formed on the side surface of the storage passage 603. For example, the first color sensor 528a may be positioned on the same line as the first color band CB1 of the first cigarette 2_1a housed in the storage passage 603, and the second color sensor 528b may be positioned on the same line as the second color band CB2a of the first cigarette 2_1a housed in the storage passage 603. In this case, the first color sensor 528a determines the color of the first color band CB1, and the second color sensor 528b determines the color of the second color band CB2a.

[0154] In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 10B, only one color sensor 528 may be formed on the side of the storage passage 603. For example, the color sensor 528 may be positioned collinear with the second color band CB2a of the first cigarette 2_1a stored in the storage passage 603. When a user places a cigarette in the storage passage 603, the first color band CB1 and the second color band CB2 may pass through the color sensor 528 in succession. In such a case, the color sensor 528 can determine the color of the first color band CB1 and the color of the second color band CB2a based on changes in sensing values ​​over time.

[0155] In this way, the first color band CB1 and the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c are arranged on the packaging material (trumpet) corresponding to the tobacco filling section 220, and the humidity state of the cigarette can be easily detected by sensing the color of the first color band CB1 using color sensors 528a and 528b, and the type of cigarette can be easily detected by sensing the colors of the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c.

[0156] The control unit (510 in Figure 5) can operate the heater (550 in Figure 5) according to temperature profiles corresponding to the colors of the first color band CB1 and the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c. For example, if there are three types of cigarettes 2, i.e., the substance filled in the tobacco filling unit 220 is of the form of shredded tobacco, granules, and liquid, the aerosol generator (500 in Figure 5) may have a general cigarette temperature profile and a humid cigarette temperature profile for each substance, and may contain a total of six temperature profiles in its memory (570 in Figure 5).

[0157] Figures 11A and 11B are drawings illustrating cigarettes according to yet another embodiment.

[0158] The cigarettes 2_2a, 2_2b, and 2_2c shown in Figures 11A and 11B differ from cigarette 2_1a shown in Figures 9A and 9B, in that the first color band CB1_1 is arranged to overlap the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c in the thickness direction. The only difference is that the first color band CB1_1 is arranged to overlap the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c in the longitudinal direction. Otherwise, the configuration is substantially the same. The following explanation will focus on the differences, omitting redundant explanations.

[0159] Cigarettes 2_2a, 2_2b, and 2_2c may include an aerosol generating unit 210, a tobacco filling unit 220, a cooling unit 230, and a mouthpiece 240. Cigarettes 2_2a, 2_2b, and 2_2c may include a first color band CB1_1 and second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c in a portion of the packaging material (trumpet). For example, cigarette 2 may include a first color band CB1_1 and second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c on the packaging material (trumpet) corresponding to the tobacco filling unit 220.

[0160] The first color band CB1_1 contains litmus and indicates the humidity levels of cigarettes 2_2a, 2_2b, and 2_2c.

[0161] The first color band CB1_1 is formed on a principle similar to blue litmus paper, indicating blue when humidity is normal and red when humidity is high, as atmospheric moisture generally becomes slightly acidic. Therefore, when the cigarette is a regular cigarette 2_2a, 2_2b, or 2_2c, the first color band CB1_1 indicates blue, as shown in Figure 11A, and when the cigarette is a humidified cigarette 2_2a', 2_2b', or 2_2c', the first color band CB1_1' indicates red, as shown in Figure 11B.

[0162] Furthermore, the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c indicate the type of cigarette 2_2a, 2_2b, and 2_2c. The types of cigarettes 2_2a, 2_2b, and 2_2c are also the first cigarette 2_2a, in which the tobacco filling section 220 is filled with shredded tobacco; the second cigarette 2_2b, in which the tobacco filling section 220 is filled with tobacco granules; and the third cigarette 2_2c, in which the tobacco filling section 220 is filled with liquid nicotine. For example, the second color band CB2a of the first cigarette 2_2a is red, the second color band CB2b of the second cigarette 2_2b is yellow, and the second color band CB2c of the third cigarette 2_2c is black. However, the colors of the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c, and the contents of the tobacco filling section that match each color, are merely examples and can be varied in many ways.

[0163] In one embodiment, the first color band CB1_1 may be arranged to overlap the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c in the thickness direction. In this case, the first color band CB1_1 has a mesh-like structure. As a result, the first color band CB1_1 includes a plurality of rectangular mesh holes MH, through which the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c can be exposed to the outside. However, the shape of the first color band CB1_1 is not limited to this. For example, the shape of the first color band CB1_1 as viewed from one side is rectangular, but by forming the first color band CB1_1 as semi-transparent, the first color band CB1_1 may indicate a color mixed with the color of the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c arranged below it when viewed from the outside.

[0164] As described above, in the case of regular cigarettes 2_2a, 2_2b, and 2_2c, the first color band CB1_1 may indicate blue, and in the case of humid cigarettes 2_2a', 2_2b', and 2_2c', the first color band CB1_1' may indicate red. In such cases, the first cigarette 2_2a, which has a red second color band CB2a, will be displayed in purple if it is a regular cigarette, and in red if it is a humid cigarette. The second cigarette 2_2b, which has a yellow second color band CB2b, will be displayed in green if it is a regular cigarette, and in orange if it is a humid cigarette. The third cigarette 2_2c, which has a black second color band CB2c, will be displayed in indigo if it is a regular cigarette, and in brown if it is a humid cigarette.

[0165] Referring to Figure 6A, the color sensor 528 may be formed on the side of the housing passage 603 of the main body 601. For example, the color sensor 528 may be positioned on the same line as the color bands CB of the cigarette 2 housed in the housing passage 603 (i.e., the first color band CB1_1 and the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, CB2c), and the color sensor 528 may determine the color mixing of the first color band CB1_1 and the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, CB2c.

[0166] In this way, the first color band CB1_1 and the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c are arranged on the packaging material (trumpet) corresponding to the tobacco filling section 220 so as to overlap in the thickness direction, and the humidity and type of cigarette can be easily detected by sensing the color mixture of the first color band CB1_1 and the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c using the color sensor 528. For example, if the color mixture of the first color band CB1_1 and the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c is determined to be purple, green, and indigo, it can correspond to general first cigarette 2_2a, general second cigarette 2_2b, and general third cigarette 2_2c, respectively. On the other hand, if the mixing of the first color band CB1_1 and the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c is determined to be red, orange, and brown, these can correspond to the first humidified cigarette 2_2a', the second humidified cigarette 2_2b', and the third humidified cigarette 2_2c', respectively.

[0167] The control unit (510 in Figure 5) can operate the heater (550 in Figure 5) according to temperature profiles corresponding to the mixing of the first color band CB1_1 and the second color bands CB2a, CB2b, and CB2c. For example, if there are three types of cigarettes 2, i.e., the substance filled in the tobacco filling unit 220 is of the form of shredded tobacco, granules, and liquid, the aerosol generator (500 in Figure 5) may have a general cigarette temperature profile and a humid cigarette temperature profile for each substance, and may store a total of six temperature profiles in the memory (570 in Figure 5).

[0168] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment. It goes without saying that the contents described in Figures 1 to 11B apply not only to the embodiment shown in Figure 12, but also to the operation method of the aerosol generation system.

[0169] Referring to Figure 12, the operation method of the aerosol generation system 100 includes the steps of inserting a cigarette with a color band formed on it into the storage passage of the main body (S100), detecting the color of the color band with a color sensor (S200), and determining the humidity state of the cigarette based on the detected color of the color band (S300). The operation method of the aerosol generation system 100 may further include the step of operating a heater according to a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette (S400).

[0170] Specifically, referring to Figures 6A and 6B, in step (S100), a cigarette 2 according to one embodiment may include a color band CB in a portion of the packaging material (trumpet). The color band CB can indicate the type of cigarette 2 and / or humidity status information.

[0171] The color band CB may contain a substance that changes color in response to changes in the humidity of the surrounding environment. For example, the color band CB may contain litmus paper. In one embodiment, the color band CB is formed on a principle similar to blue litmus paper, so that it indicates blue when the humidity is normal, and indicates red when the humidity is high, because the moisture in the air is generally weakly acidic.

[0172] The main body 601 may have a storage passage 603 that can accommodate a cigarette 2. The cigarette 2 may be placed inside the storage passage 603 through a hole formed in the cover 602. After the cigarette 2 is placed in the storage passage 603, an aerosol may be generated when the cigarette 2 is heated by a heater (not shown) located in the storage passage 603.

[0173] In one embodiment, the main body 601 may have a color sensor 528 formed on the side of the storage passage 603. The color sensor 528 may include a light-emitting part 528a and a light-receiving part 528b. The color sensor 528 may be spaced 6 mm or more away from the heater so as not to be affected by the heater. The color sensor 528 may be positioned on the same line as the color band CB of the cigarette 2 housed in the storage passage 603.

[0174] In step S200, if the insertion sensing sensor (524 in Figure 5) detects that the cigarette 2 has been inserted into the storage passage 603, the light-emitting unit 528a can irradiate light onto the cigarette 2. The light-receiving unit 528b can also receive the light reflected from the cigarette 2.

[0175] In step S300, the control unit (510 in Figure 5) determines that the cigarette is a regular cigarette if the color of the color band CB is the first color (for example, blue), and determines that the cigarette is a humidified cigarette if the color of the color band CB is the second color (for example, red).

[0176] In step S400, referring to Figure 8, the first temperature profile TP1 shows time-dependent temperature values ​​optimized for a regular cigarette (Figure 7A, section 2). The first temperature profile TP1 can be divided into a preheating section, section 1 P1, and a smoking section, section 2 P2. On the other hand, the second temperature profile TP2 shows time-dependent temperature values ​​optimized for a humid cigarette (Figure 7B, section 2'). The second temperature profile TP2 can be divided into a preheating section, section 3 P3, and a smoking section, section 4 P4.

[0177] In this case, the time required to reach the second temperature T2 corresponding to the second temperature profile TP2 is longer than the time required to reach the second temperature T2 corresponding to the first temperature profile TP1 due to the moisture contained in cigarette 2.

[0178] Furthermore, after the second temperature profile TP2 reaches the second temperature T2, at least some of the moisture contained inside the overheated cigarette 2' may evaporate while it is maintained at the second temperature T2. This can alleviate the initial feeling of heat. On the other hand, in the case of a regular cigarette 2, the user is less likely to feel heat due to the moisture contained inside, so the first temperature profile TP1 may omit the section for evaporating the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2. That is, the preheating section P3 of the second temperature profile TP2 is longer than the preheating section P1 of the first temperature profile TP1, and the third temperature T3, which is the smoking start temperature of a regular cigarette (2 in Figure 7A), is higher than the fourth temperature T4, which is the smoking start temperature of an overheated cigarette (2' in Figure 7B).

[0179] Those with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment will understand that it can be embodied in modified forms that do not deviate from the essential characteristics described above. Therefore, the disclosed method should be considered in an explanatory rather than restrictive view. The scope of the invention is shown in the claims, not in the foregoing description, and all differences within an equivalent scope should be interpreted as being included in the invention.

Claims

1. A main body including a storage passage into which a cigarette is inserted, having a first color band whose hue changes in response to humidity and a second color band which has different colors depending on the type of tobacco filling section, A heater for heating the cigarette, A color sensor is provided on one side of the storage passage and, when the cigarette is inserted, detects the color of the first color band and the color of the second color band provided on the cigarette. an aerosol generator comprising: a control unit that determines the humidity state of the cigarette and the type of the cigarette based on the detected color of the first color band and the detected color of the second color band.

2. When the first color band is exposed to moisture, it changes from the first color to the second color. The control unit, If the color of the first color band is the first color, the cigarette is determined to be a regular cigarette. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein if the color of the first color band is the second color, the cigarette is determined to be a humid cigarette.

3. The control unit, The heater is operated with a temperature profile corresponding to the humidity state of the cigarette and the type of cigarette, determined by the color of the detected first color band and the color of the detected second color band. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, wherein the temperature profile corresponding to the over-humidified cigarette has a longer preheating interval than the temperature profile corresponding to the general cigarette.

4. The cigarette includes an aerosol generating unit, a tobacco filling unit, a cooling unit, and a mouthpiece. The aerosol generating unit, the tobacco filling unit, the cooling unit, and the mouthpiece are packaged in packaging material. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the first color band and the second color band are formed adjacent to each other in the longitudinal direction of the cigarette in a portion of the packaging material corresponding to the tobacco filling portion.

5. The cigarettes include a first cigarette in which the tobacco filling portion is filled with shredded tobacco, a second cigarette in which the tobacco filling portion is filled with tobacco granules, and a third cigarette in which the tobacco filling portion is filled with liquid nicotine. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the second color band is the third color in the case of the first cigarette, the fourth color in the case of the second cigarette, and the fifth color in the case of the third cigarette.

6. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the colors of the second color band includes a color that does not overlap with the color of the first color band.

7. The aforementioned color sensor is When the cigarette is inserted, a first sensor is positioned on the same line as the first color band provided on the cigarette and detects the color of the first color band. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, further comprising: a second sensor positioned on the same line as the second color band provided on the cigarette when the cigarette is inserted, and which detects the color of the second color band.

8. The aforementioned color sensor is The second color band provided on the inserted cigarette is arranged on the same line as the above-mentioned color band, The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the color of the first color band and the color of the second color band are detected based on changes in sensing values ​​over time while the cigarette is inserted.

9. The system further includes a memory for storing a number of temperature profiles corresponding to the humidity state of the cigarette and the type of cigarette, for each combination of these conditions. The control unit, The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the heater is operated using one of the temperature profiles that corresponds to the humidity state of the cigarette and the type of cigarette.

10. A main body including a storage passage into which a cigarette is inserted, having a first color band whose hue changes in response to humidity and a second color band having different colors depending on the type of tobacco filling section, A heater for heating the cigarette, A color sensor is provided, which is located on one side of the storage passage and, when the cigarette is inserted, detects a mixed color obtained by mixing the colors of the first color band and the second color band provided on the cigarette; an aerosol generator comprising: a control unit that determines the humidity state and type of cigarette based on the detected mixed color.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the first color band is formed to overlap with the second color band in the thickness direction.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the first color band has a mesh-like structure.

13. The control unit, The colors of the first color band and the second color band are determined from the detected mixed color. The aerosol generator according to claim 10, wherein the humidity state of the cigarette and the type of the cigarette are determined based on the color of the first color band determined and the color of the second color band determined.

14. The control unit, The aerosol generator according to claim 13, wherein the heater is operated with a temperature profile corresponding to the humidity state of the cigarette and the type of cigarette, determined by the color of the first color band determined from the detected mixed color and the color of the second color band determined from the detected color.

15. In the operation method of an aerosol generator, The device detects whether a cigarette, which has a first color band whose hue changes in response to humidity and a second color band with different colors depending on the type of tobacco filling section, has been inserted into the storage passage of the main unit. A step of detecting the color of the first color band and the color of the second color band provided in the cigarette lighter using a color sensor, A method for operating an aerosol generator, comprising the steps of determining the humidity state of the cigarette and the type of the cigarette based on the color of the detected first color band and the color of the detected second color band.

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