Aerosol generating apparatus and control method for aerosol generating apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides an aerosol generator and a control method thereof that can accurately measure the remaining amount of liquid cartridge installed in the aerosol generator. [Solution] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment includes a liquid storage section for storing aerosol generating material, a removable cartridge including a heater for vaporizing the aerosol generating material, an electrode member arranged on one side of the main body so as to face one side of the cartridge, a capacitive sensor that applies a predetermined measurement signal to the electrode member and receives a sensing signal received from the electrode member, and a processor that calculates a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor and calculates the remaining amount of aerosol generating material stored in the liquid storage section based on the calculated capacitance value and a predetermined gain value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and a control method for an aerosol generating device.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is an increasing demand for a system that generates an aerosol by heating a cigarette or an aerosol generating substance using an aerosol generating device, rather than by burning a cigarette to generate an aerosol.

[0003] An aerosol generating device can generate an aerosol by heating a liquid aerosol generating substance stored in a cartridge. In order for the aerosol generating device to operate normally, it is required to accurately detect the amount of the aerosol generating substance remaining in the cartridge.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] If the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance cannot be detected, it cannot be confirmed whether the aerosol generating device can be used, which causes inconvenience to the user. Also, if the remaining amount cannot be detected and the degree of heating of the aerosol generating substance is required to be different depending on the remaining amount, the provision of the aerosol may become non-uniform.

[0005]

[0006] Therefore, in order to provide the aerosol more uniformly, a technique for accurately measuring the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance is required.

[0006] One embodiment according to the present invention is the remaining amount of a liquid cartridge attached to an aerosol generating device. This invention aims to provide an aerosol generator and a control method thereof that can accurately measure aerosols. .

[0007] The problems that the embodiments of this invention aim to solve are not limited to the problems described above. No issues are mentioned or addressed in this specification and the accompanying drawings in the technical field to which the embodiments belong. It will be clearly understood by anyone with ordinary knowledge. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment includes a liquid storage section for storing aerosol generating material and A removable cartridge containing a heater for vaporizing the aerosol-generating substance; the cart An electrode member positioned on one side of the main body so as to be opposite one side of the ridge; the electrode member has a predetermined Capacity to apply a measurement signal and receive a sensing signal received from the electrode member. Capacitive sensor; and based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor, The capacitance value is calculated, and the capacitance value and the predetermined gain value are used to determine the Includes a processor that calculates the remaining amount of aerosol-generating material stored in a liquid storage section.

[0009] The processor determines the capacitor based on the charging and discharging time of the electrode member. The 'sance' value can be calculated.

[0010] The aforementioned predetermined gain value is determined during the manufacturing of the aerosol generator through calibration work. This can be set differently for each sol generation device.

[0011] The predetermined gain value is determined by the main body of the cartridge filled with the aerosol generating substance. The capacitance value measured while attached to the device is set to have a constant capacitance value. It is also a coefficient to be multiplied by the measured capacitance value.

[0012] The processor multiplies the calculated capacitance value by a predetermined gain value, adds a predetermined offset value to correct the capacitance value, and may output the remaining amount of the aerosol product substance corresponding to the corrected capacitance value.

[0013] The aerosol generating device may further include a memory for storing at least one of the predetermined gain value and the predetermined offset value.

[0014] The processor may set a predetermined difference between levels of the remaining amount of the aerosol product substance in reflection of noise due to external interference and a hysteresis <00000​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​When this occurs, the remaining amount of the aerosol product substance is calculated, and an icon corresponding to the calculated remaining amount is output to the display. It can be controlled.

[0018] The display can output the remaining amount of the aerosol product substance as at least four corresponding icons: a lot / medium / little / none. It can be output.

[0019] The electrode member may have an area corresponding to the area of the liquid storage portion of the cartridge.

[0020] The electrode member may be separated from the liquid storage portion of the cartridge by about 0.55 mm to 1.55 mm. It can be separated.

[0021] The electrode member and the capacitive sensor may be connected by a connector including a C clip. It can be.

[0022] A method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment includes applying a predetermined measurement signal to an electrode member disposed on one surface of a main body so as to face one surface of a detachable cartridge; receiving a sensing signal received from the electrode member; calculating a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor; and calculating the remaining amount of the aerosol product substance stored in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge based on the calculated capacitance value and a predetermined gain value. And a step of receiving a sensing signal received from the electrode member; a step of calculating a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor; and a step of calculating the remaining amount of the aerosol product substance stored in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge based on the calculated capacitance value and a predetermined gain value. Receiving a sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor; calculating a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor; and calculating the remaining amount of the aerosol product substance stored in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge based on the calculated capacitance value and a predetermined gain value. Based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor; calculating a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor; and calculating the remaining amount of the aerosol product substance stored in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge based on the calculated capacitance value and a predetermined gain value. Based on the calculated capacitance value and a predetermined gain value; calculating the remaining amount of the aerosol product substance stored in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge based on the calculated capacitance value and a predetermined gain value. Stored aerosol product substance; calculating the remaining amount of the aerosol product substance stored in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge based on the calculated capacitance value and a predetermined gain value.

Advantages of the Invention

[0023] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the remaining amount of a liquid cartridge attached to an aerosol generating device can be accurately measured. It can be accurately measured.

[0024] Furthermore, in measuring the remaining capacitance of the substrate, the same threshold is used to reduce device deviation. It is not based on a numerical standard, but on the amount of change relative to the standard value set for each device during manufacturing. By measuring the remaining amount of allosol-generating material, the remaining amount can be measured in a way that is optimized for each device. It is possible to determine this.

[0025] However, the effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned may also be present. The effects described herein and in the accompanying drawings are for the benefit of a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong. This will be clearly understood. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0026] [Figure 1] This is a drawing showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a drawing showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view showing the combined body, cartridge, and cap of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of the combined body, cartridge, and cap of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is an exploded perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10]This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11A] This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 11B] This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 11C] This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 12A] This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 12B] This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an aerosol generator according to another embodiment. [Figure 14] Furthermore, this is a flowchart illustrating the control method of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. [Figure 15] Furthermore, this is a flowchart illustrating the control method of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. [Figure 16] This is an illustrative diagram showing how to measure the remaining amount in a cartridge according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] This is an illustrative diagram showing the remaining amount of a cartridge according to one embodiment. [Figure 18] This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] The embodiments disclosed herein will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings, Regardless of the drawing reference numeral, identical or similar components shall be assigned the same reference numeral. I will omit any redundant explanations regarding this matter.

[0028] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for the components in the following description refer to the specification. They are either given or mixed together solely for the sake of ease of creation, and are not mutually exclusive in themselves. It does not have a distinct meaning or role.

[0029] Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed herein, the relevant prior art will be discussed. If a specific description of such a description is deemed to obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed herein, Detailed explanations are omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein. This is intended to allow for the following, and the technical ideas disclosed herein are not limited by the attached drawings. This includes all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of the present invention. It must be done.

[0030] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as "1st," "2nd," etc., are used to describe diverse components. However, the aforementioned components are not limited by the aforementioned terms. The aforementioned terms refer to one component as other It is used solely for the purpose of distinguishing it from other components.

[0031] When one component is described as being "linked" or "connected" to another component, When this happens, it is directly connected to or connected to other components, but in It must be understood that there is a possibility of other components existing in between. On the other hand, if one component is other When a component is "directly connected" to or referred to as "directly connected" to It must be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0032] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0033] Figures 1 and 2 show an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Referring to Figure 1, the aerosol generator 1 consists of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and It may include at least one of the following: 18 and 19. Power supply 11, control unit 12 At least one of the sensor 13 and heater 18 is located inside the main body 10 of the aerosol generator. It can be placed in the section. The main body 10 into which the aerosol product, the stick S, is inserted. It can provide a space that opens upwards. This space that opens upwards is called the insertion space. The insertion space is directed towards the inside of the main body 10 so that at least a portion of the stick S can be inserted. It can be formed by being indented to a predetermined depth. The depth of the insertion space is determined by the aerozoic of the stick S. This can correspond to the length of the region containing the compound and / or medium. The lower end of stick S is The stick S is inserted into the main body 10, and its upper end may protrude from the main body 10. The user can inhale air by putting the upper end of the stick S, which is exposed to the outside, into their mouth.

[0035] Heater 18 can heat stick S. Heater 18 is inserted into stick S. It extends upwards from the periphery of the space. For example, the heater 18 is tubular, containing a hollow interior. Also, the heater 18 can be positioned around the insertion space. Even if not present, it can be arranged to surround a part of it. The heater 18 is in the insertion space or in the insertion space The inserted stick S can be heated. The heater 18 is an electrically resistive heater and / or induction heater. This may include induction heating types.

[0036] For example, heater 18 is also a resistive heater. For example, heater 18 has a conductive transistor The heater 18 is heated by current flowing through the conductive track, which includes the track. The heater 18 can be electrically connected to the power supply 11. The heater 18 is electrically connected to the power supply 11. It can be directly heated by being supplied with a flow.

[0037] For example, the aerosol generator 1 may include induction coils surrounding the heater 18. The coil can generate heat in the heater 18. The heater 18 is a susceptor, The heater 18 is heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field can penetrate the heater 18 and generate eddy currents within the heater 18. The current is Heater 18 may generate heat.

[0038] On the other hand, the stick S contains a susceptor, and the susceptor inside the stick S is an induction co It can generate heat due to the magnetic field created by the AC current flowing through the wire.

[0039] Cartridge 19 contains liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel-like substances inside. It can contain aerosol-generating material having any one of the following states. The resulting substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may contain volatile tobacco flavor components. It is a liquid that contains tobacco-containing substances, and also a liquid that contains non-tobacco substances.

[0040] The cartridge 19 is either integrally formed with the main body 10 or detachably attached to the main body 10. Shut up.

[0041] For example, referring to Figure 1, the cartridge 19 is integrally formed with the main body 10, and the airflow channel It can communicate with the insertion space via the channel CN.

[0042] For example, referring to Figure 2, a space is formed on one side of the main body 10, and the cartridge 19 Even if not, a part of it is inserted into a space formed on one side of the main body 10 and the cartridge 19 is inserted into the main body 1 It can be installed in 0. The airflow channel CN ​​is part of the cartridge and / or part of the main body 10. Defined by the section, the cartridge 19 communicates with the insertion space via the airflow channel CN. It is possible.

[0043] With the cartridge 19 inserted, outside air flows into the main unit 10. It consists of a structure. In this case, outside air that flows into the main body 10 passes through the cartridge 19 and It can flow into the mouth of the patient.

[0044] Cartridge 19 contains a storage section C0 and / or storage section containing aerosol-generating material. It may include a heater 24 for heating the aerosol-generating material in the remaining C0. A liquid transmission means for impregnation (containment) may be arranged inside the storage section C0. Here, the liquid transmission means The layers include a core (wick) made of cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, porous ceramics, etc. It may include. The conductive track of the heater 24 has a coil-like structure that winds up the liquid transmission means and This can be formed by a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transmission means. The heater 24 is cartridge It could be called a 24-inch heater.

[0045] Cartridge 19 can generate an aerosol. The cartridge heater 24 generates a liquid. Heating of the transmission means can generate an aerosol. Heater 18 Aerosols can be generated by heating the wick S. Cartridge heater 24 and heater 18 As the aerosol generated by passes through stick S, tobacco substances are added to the aerosol. Flavored and tobacco-infused aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth via one end of stick S. It can be inhaled.

[0046] The aerosol generator 1 is equipped only with a cartridge heater 24, and the main body 10 has a heater 18 is not provided. In this case, the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 As it passes through Stick S, tobacco substances may be added and then inhaled into the user's mouth.

[0047] The aerosol generator 1 may include a cap (not shown). The cap is attached to the main body 10. The combined cartridge 19 is detachably attached to the main body 10 so as to cover at least a portion of it. The stick S can be inserted into the main body 10 by passing through the cap.

[0048] Power supply 11 can supply power to operate the components of the aerosol generator. 11 is referred to as the battery. Power supply 11 is connected to the control unit 12, sensor 13, and cartridge heater. 24. Power can be supplied to at least one of the heaters 18. Aerosol generating device If component 1 includes an induction coil, the power supply 11 can supply power to the induction coil.

[0049] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device. The control unit is a printed circuit board. It can be mounted on a PCB. The control unit 12 includes a power supply 11, a sensor 13, a heater 18, and a cart. The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the ridges 19. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the display, motor, etc., provided in the light generation device. Check the status of each component of the aerosol generator to ensure that the aerosol generator is operational. It is possible to determine whether or not a state exists.

[0050] The control unit 12 analyzes the results sensed by the sensor 13 and controls the processing to be performed thereafter. It can be controlled. For example, the control unit 12 controls the cart based on the results sensed by the sensor 13. The cartridge heater starts or stops the operation of the ridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The power supplied to the heater 24 and / or heater 18 can be controlled. For example, the control unit 12 Based on the results sensed by sensor 13, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater The cartridge heater 18 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature. Control the amount of power supplied to the terminal 24 and / or heater 18 and the duration for which power is supplied. Shut up.

[0051] Sensor 13 includes a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a color sensor, and a cartridge sensor. It may include at least one of the following: a sensor that detects water, a sensor that detects caps. For example, sensor 1 3 is at least one of the following: the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the temperature inside and outside the main unit 10. It can sense the following. For example, sensor 13 can sense the user's puff. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether or not the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether a cartridge is installed or not. 13 can sense whether or not the cap is attached.

[0052] Figure 3 is a forward perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 4 is The main body, cartridge and cap of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention Figure 5 is a combined perspective view, and Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. be.

[0053] Referring to Figure 3, the aerosol generating apparatus A100 according to one embodiment of the present invention is the main body A3 may be included. The aerosol generator A100 may include cap A30. The cartridge generator A100 may include cartridge A40. Cartridge A40 is located in the main unit A It can be detachably coupled to one side of 3. Cap A30 covers cartridge A40. The main body A3 can be detachably attached to it. The stick S passes through the cap A30 and connects to the main body. It can be inserted into A3.

[0054] Referring to Figure 4, the main body A3 may include the lower main body A1 and the upper main body A2. Inside A1 are components of the aerosol generator A100, such as a battery and a control unit. The upper body A2 can be coupled to the upper side of the lower body A1.

[0055] The upper body A2 may include column A10 and mounting section A20. Column A10 is vertical It can extend for a long distance. Column A10 comprises an outer wall A11, an inner wall A12, and an upper wall A13. It is possible.

[0056] The mounting portion A20 may protrude from the lower part of the inner wall A12 of column A10. , facing upward. The cartridge area A24 is the inner wall A12 of column A10 and the mounting area A2 It can be formed between 0. The cartridge region A24 is on one side of the inner wall A12 of column A10. It may be located above the mounting section A20.

[0057] Column A10 may have an insertion space A142. Insertion space A142 is a color It extends vertically from the interior of the A10 and may open upwards so that the upper wall A13 is open. .

[0058] The main inlet A141 may be formed on one side of column A10. The main inlet A141 is The inner wall A12 may be open and formed. The main inlet A141 is outside the column A10. It can be opened. The main inlet A141 can communicate with the insertion space A142. Main inlet A 141 may be positioned to face cartridge area A24. The main inlet A141 is It can be connected to cartridge area A24.

[0059] Cartridge A40 is detachably coupled from cartridge area A24 to upper body A2. Cartridge A40 is coupled to the inner wall A12 of column A10 and the mounting section A20. It can be placed on and its bottom supported. Cartridge A40 is placed in the first container A41 and the second container It can be equipped with container A42. The first container A41 is above the second container A42. It can be placed there. Container A41 can store liquids.

[0060] Cap A30 can cover the upper body A2 and be detachably attached to body A3. Part A30 can cover the upper body A2 and the cartridge A40 which is coupled to the upper body A2. The cap A30 has a space formed inside into which the upper body A2 and cartridge A40 are inserted. It is possible. The space inside cap A30 may be opened to the bottom. Side wall A of cap A30 31 may surround the side of the space inside cap A30. Upper wall A33 of cap A30 This can cover the upper part of the space inside cap A30. The insertion opening A34 is open at the top wall A33. It can be formed by being attached to the main body A3. When the cap A30 is attached to the main body A3, the insertion opening A34 is an insertion opening. The upper side of the space A142 may communicate with the insertion space A142. The cover A35 is on the upper wall A33. It can be provided in a movable manner. Cover A35 can slide on the upper wall A33. Cover A35 The insertion slot A34 can be opened and closed.

[0061] Referring to Figure 5, the first chamber C1 may be formed inside the first container A41. The liquid can be stored in the first chamber AC1. The second chamber AC2 is in the second container A4. It can be formed inside 2.

[0062] The cartridge inlet A441 can be formed by opening up cartridge A40. The cartridge outlet A442 may be formed by opening up cartridge A40. The flow path A443 can connect the cartridge inlet A441 and the second chamber AC2. The cartridge outlet A442 may be connected to the second chamber AC2.

[0063] The cartridge outlet A442 may be formed by opening one side of the second container A42. Discharge port A422 may surround cartridge discharge port A442. Discharge port A4 22 may protrude from one side of the second container A42. Cartridge A40 is on the upper body A2 When coupled, the discharge port A422 is inserted into the main inlet A141, and the cartridge The outlet A442 and the main inlet A141 can be connected.

[0064] Core A45 may be provided in the second chamber AC2. Core A45 is provided in the first chamber AC1 and They can be connected. Core A45 can be supplied with liquid from the first chamber AC1. Heater A46 Heater A46 is located in the second chamber AC2. Heater A46 can wind the core A45. When heater A46 heats the core A45, In the second chamber AC2, an aerosol may be generated around the core A45.

[0065] The heater terminal A47 may be exposed on the bottom of the cartridge A40. , may be formed at the bottom of the second container A42. Heater terminal A47 is electrically connected to heater A46. It can be connected to the heater terminal A47. When cartridge A40 is connected to the upper body A2, the heater terminal A47 It can be electrically connected by contacting the first pin A50.

[0066] The first pin A50 may protrude to the outside of the mounting portion A20. The first pin A50 is connected to connector A Power is supplied from the battery located inside the lower body A1 via 97 to the heater terminals A47 and heater A46 can be supplied. Heater A46 can be heated when power is supplied. .

[0067] External air from cartridge A40 enters the cartridge via cartridge inlet A441. Air can flow into the interior of A40. Air enters the cartridge inlet A441 and the cartridge channel. A443, the second chamber AC2, and the cartridge outlet A442 can flow sequentially. Air inside cartridge A40 enters cartridge A4 through cartridge outlet A442. It can be discharged to the outside of 0. The air that flows into the inside of cartridge A40 is in the second chamber The aerosol generated by AC2 is released through the cartridge outlet A442. It may be discharged to the outside of the A40.

[0068] The first pin A50 is located inside the main body A3, but may protrude outside the main body A3. Body A3 may include mounting section A20.

[0069] The mounting portion A20 may be provided with an outer groove A25. The outer groove A25 is located on the mounting portion A The upper surface A21 of 20 may be formed by being recessed downwards. The outer groove A25 is the cartridge area It may be located below area A24. The upper surface A21 of the mounting section A20 is also referred to as the outer surface of the main body A3. The outer groove A25 may be formed on the outer surface of the main body A3.

[0070] The lower part of the outer groove A25 is covered by the bottom A251, and the sides are covered by the surrounding part A252. The upper side of the outer groove A25 can be left open. One side of the outer groove A25 is connected to the surrounding part A252 It can be left open without being covered. If we define the x-direction as forward in the coordinate system, then the outer groove A The front of 25 may be open. The upper end of the first pin A50 is at the bottom A251 of the outer groove A25. It may protrude upward toward the outer groove A25 or be exposed.

[0071] The bottom of cartridge A40 has a shape that corresponds to the mounting section A20 and the outer groove A25. When cartridge A40 is attached to the upper body A2, the bottom of cartridge A40 is mounted. It is mounted on the mounting part A20, and the first pin A50 and the second pin A47 are electrically connected to each other. ru.

[0072] Multiple guide sections A253 may be provided. Guide section A253 extends long from front to rear. The guide section A253 is inclined so that it gradually becomes higher from front to back. It can be formed. Each of the multiple guide sections A253 is in front of each of the multiple first pins A50. It can be positioned in the direction. The height of the rear end of the guide portion A253 adjacent to the first pin A50 is the height of the first pin It is the same height as, or similar to, the A50.

[0073] As a result, when cartridge A40 is connected to the upper body A2, guide section A253 The arrangement of cartridge A40 is designed so that the first pin A50 and the second pin A47 are in contact. It can be done inside.

[0074] Figure 6 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 7 This refers to the main body, cartridge, and cap of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 is a combined perspective view of the P, and Figure 8 shows the C of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the cartridge, and Figure 9 shows aerosol generation according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the device's cartridge, and Figure 10 shows an aerozo according to another embodiment of the present invention. This is a cross-sectional view of the lubricant production device.

[0075] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention is Body B100 may comprise an upper body B120 and a lower body B110. Upper body B 120 may be located above the lower body B110. The lower body B110 extends long vertically. The main body B100 can house the components for driving the device inside. Body B120 may provide an insertion space B134 that opens on the upper side. The insertion space B134 is It may be located inside the upper body B120. The insertion space B134 may extend long vertically. Space B134 may be formed in pipe B130 located inside the upper body B120.

[0076] The upper case B200 may have a hollow shape with an open bottom. The upper body B120 is upper It can be inserted into the hollow of the part case B200. The upper case B200 is separable from the main body B100. It can be coupled. The upper case B200 can cover the upper body B120 so as to surround it. The lateral portion B211 of the upper case B200 is the side wall B of the upper body B120. It can surround and cover 121. The upper part B212 of the upper case B200 is the upper body B12 The upper B180 or outer cover B180 of 0 may cover the main body. The upper case B200 is the main body. When combined with B100, the upper case B200 will be the main unit B100 and the cartridge B300. They can be covered together. The cartridge B300 can be placed inside the upper case B200.

[0077] The insertion port B214 can be formed by opening the upper part B212 of the upper case B200. The entrance B214 can correspond to the opening of the insertion space B134. The cap B215 is the upper case The upper part B212 of the B200 can be movably provided. The sliding hole B213 is the upper case In the upper part B212 of S200, it may be formed extending to one side from the insertion opening B214. Cap B215 can move along the sliding hole B213. Cap B215 is inserted The opening B214 and insertion space B134 can be opened and closed. The stick S enters through the insertion opening B214. It can be inserted into insertion space B134. For example, stick S is also a cigarette.

[0078] The outer wall B121 and the partition wall B125 form the lateral portion of the upper body B120. The outer wall B121 and the partition wall B125 can be connected. The outer wall B121 is the upper case. It is covered by the inner surface of B200. The partition B125 is connected to the cartridge coupling space B124a and The insertion space B134 can be separated.

[0079] The upper body B120 may include a mounting section B122. The mounting section B122 is located on the partition wall B125. It may extend from the bottom to one side. The mounting portion B122 may be formed on the upper side of the lower body B110. The mounting section B122 may cover the lower part of the coupling space B124a. Bottom surface of cartridge B300 It can be placed and supported on mounting section B122.

[0080] The upper body B120 may include an extension B140. The extension B140 is part of the bulkhead B125. It may extend from the top to one side. The extension B140 extends in the direction in which the mounting portion B122 is formed. The extension B140 may cover the upper part of the cartridge coupling space B124a. 40 can cover the upper end surface of cartridge B300. Extension B140 covers cartridge B The cartridge inlet portion B301 formed at 300 can be covered. The extension portion B140 and the cartridge A gap may be formed between the ridge inlet B301 and the structure, allowing air to flow through it.

[0081] The cartridge coupling space B124a may be formed on one side of the upper body B120. The ridge coupling space B124a consists of the mounting portion B122 of the upper body B120, the partition wall B125 and the extension The long portion B140 can be defined. The bottom of the cartridge coupling space B124a is the mounting portion B It may be covered by 122. One side of the cartridge coupling space B124a is the upper body B12 It may be covered by partition B125. The upper part of the cartridge coupling space B124a is extended. It may be covered by part B140. The cartridge coupling space B124a is connected to the mounting part B122. It can be opened outwards between the extension B140.

[0082] Cartridge B300 is inserted into coupling space B124a and coupled to main body B100. Cartridge B300 can be detachably attached to the main unit B100. One side (lateral surface) B311 of 300 may face the bulkhead B125. The upper end surface B312 of the B300 is covered by the extension B140. Cartridge B30 The bottom surface B322 of 0 can be placed on the mounting section B122. The cartridge terminal B128 is It is connected to cartridge B300 and powers the heater B342 inside cartridge B300. Can be given.

[0083] The connecting hook B125a may be formed on the upper body B120. The pusher B125b is , may be formed on the upper body B120. The connecting hook B125a and pusher B125b are A pair may be formed on each side and positioned opposite each other. Cartridge B300 is It may include a hook coupling groove B315. The hook coupling groove B315 corresponds to the coupling hook B125a. It may be formed in the position where it is inserted. When cartridge B300 is inserted into coupling space B124a, The coupling hook B125a is coupled to the hook coupling groove B315 and the cartridge B300. Body B100 can be joined. Pusher B125b and connecting hook B125a are connected to each other. It can be moved. When pusher B125b is pressed, coupling hook B125a moves The cartridge B300 is moved in a direction that separates it from the hook coupling groove B315, and the main body B1 It can be separated from 00.

[0084] The connecting channel B133 may be formed at the bottom of the partition wall B125. The connecting channel B133 is inserted It can communicate with space B134. The connecting channel B133 is open on one side of the upper body B120. Yes. When cartridge B300 is connected to main unit B100, the discharge port B323 is connected. It is inserted into the flow path B133, and the connecting flow path B133 and the cartridge outlet B304 are connected to each other. It may be allowed.

[0085] Referring to Figure 8, Cartridge B300 is located in the first container B31 and the second container B It may include 32. The first container B31 may be coupled to the upper side of the second container B32. Rate B35 is between the first container B31 and the second container B32, or the first container It can be coupled between frame B31 and frame B33.

[0086] The first container B31 may include a first chamber C1 for storing liquid inside. The first container B31 surrounds the first chamber C1, and the bottom of the first chamber C1 is open. It is possible. The opening of the first chamber C1 may be covered by plate B35.

[0087] Referring to Figure 9, the first container B31 is equipped with an inflow channel B302 through which air passes. It is possible. The first chamber C1 and the inflow channel B302 are separated from each other. The inflow channel B302 may extend vertically along one side of the first container B31.

[0088] The first container B31 may be equipped with a cartridge inlet B301. The ditch inlet B301 is formed by opening the top of the first container B31, and the inflow channel B3 It can be connected to 02. The cartridge inlet B301 is connected to the upper end of the inflow channel B302. The lower end of the inflow channel B302 is connected to the connecting hole B351 and the chamber inlet B303. It may be allowed.

[0089] The second container B32 can be coupled to the bottom of the first container B31. Frame B may have a space B324 that is open at the top and covered at the bottom. 33 can be housed inside space B324 of the second container B32.

[0090] The second container B32 may be equipped with a cartridge outlet B304. The drain outlet B304 is formed on one side (lateral portion) B321 of the second container B32. It is possible. The cartridge outlet B304 protrudes in the thickness direction from the side of the second container B32. It can be formed inside the port that is ejected. The cartridge outlet B304 is connected to space B324. It may be allowed through. The second container B32 may include discharge port B323. Discharge port B32 3 may form a cartridge outlet B304 inside. The outlet port B323 is the second It may protrude to one side from one side B321 of the container B32. The discharge port B323 is a cartridge It may surround the cartridge outlet B304. The cartridge outlet B304 is also called outlet B304. To refer to.

[0091] Frame B33 is inserted into space B324 inside the second container B32 and into the second container Can be connected to B32. Fastening member protruding from the side wall of the second container B32 into space B324. B326 can be fastened to frame B33 to secure frame B33.

[0092] Frame B33 may have a second chamber C2 inside. , surrounds the second chamber C2, and the upper part of the second chamber C2 may be open. The top of C2 is covered by plate B35.

[0093] Frame B33 may be equipped with a chamber inlet B303. Chamber 303 may be formed by opening one side of the side wall surrounding the second chamber C2. The inlet B303 is bent upward from the second chamber C2 toward the inflow channel B302. It can extend. One end of the chamber inlet B303 is in communication with the second chamber C2, The other end of the inlet B303 can be connected to the inflow channel B302 and the connecting hole B351.

[0094] Frame B33 may be equipped with a chamber outlet B332. 332 may form a lateral portion of frame B33. Chamber outlet B 332 may be connected to the second chamber C2. The chamber outlet B332 is connected to frame B3 It may be formed inside the port that protrudes in the thickness direction from the side of 3. Chamber outlet B332 This can be connected to the second chamber C2. The chamber outlet B332 is the cartridge outlet. It may be formed in a position corresponding to B304. The chamber outlet B332 is located in the second chamber C2 It may be formed in a position opposite to the chamber inlet B303. Frame B33 is When combined with container B32, the chamber outlet B332 and cartridge outlet B30 4 can be connected to each other.

[0095] Frame B33 may have a core coupling groove B334 inside. Core coupling groove B334 The core coupling groove B334 is connected to the second chamber C2 on one side. They can be formed by depression. A pair of core coupling grooves B334 are formed. It may be formed to be located on the opposite side of the second chamber C2. Upper part of core coupling groove B334 It can be opened.

[0096] The core B341 may have a cylindrical shape that extends laterally into the second chamber C2. The ends can be inserted into and positioned in each of the pair of core coupling grooves B334. The center of core B341 is , may be located in the second chamber C2. Core B341 is connected to the first chamber BC1, A liquid can be supplied from chamber C1. Core B341 is connected to frame B in core coupling groove B334. It can be secured by plate 33 and plate B35.

[0097] Heater B342 can wind around the center of core B341. Heater B342 is heated The core B341 can be heated. For example, heater B342 is also a resistive heater. Heater B 342 may be located in the second chamber C2. The end of heater B342 is on frame B33 It can be electrically connected to electrodes located at the bottom of the second container B32, penetrating its bottom.

[0098] Plate B35 is between the first container B31 and the second container B32, or the first container It can be coupled between Tenor B31 and Frame B33. Plate B35 is connected to Frame B33 Plate B35 can cover and seal the opening of the first chamber C1. This can cover the top of frame B33. Plate B35 is the opening of the second chamber C2. It can be covered and sealed.

[0099] Plate B35 may have a connecting hole B351 on one side. Connecting hole B3 51 may be located between the inflow channel B302 and the chamber inlet B303. Connecting hole B 351 can connect the inflow channel B302 and the chamber inlet B303.

[0100] Plate B35 may be provided with a liquid inflow hole B354. 354 may be formed in pairs at positions corresponding to the core coupling groove B334. A pair of liquid inlet holes B354 may be located on the upper sides of both ends of core B341. The liquid inflow hole B354 is the first The canvas C1 and the core coupling groove B334 can be connected. Core B341 is connected to the liquid inflow hole B354. It can be connected to the first chamber C1 via this.

[0101] The hook groove B335 is located adjacent to the chamber outlet B332 and is connected to the chamber outlet B33 It may be formed on the upper side of 2. The hook B335 protrudes downward from one side of the plate B35. The hook B353 is inserted into the hook groove B335 formed on the upper part of the frame B33. It can be fastened. Plate B35 is fastened to frame B33 and to the second container B32. The combined first container B31 presses the edge of plate B35 toward frame B33. I will.

[0102] The user can put the stick S, which is inserted into insertion space B134, into their mouth and inhale air. With the upper case B200 connected to the main body B100, air enters the upper case B200. Air can flow into the cartridge inlet B301 through the formed opening B201. It flows into the interior of cartridge B300 via cartridge inlet B301, It can be discharged to the outside of cartridge B300 via cartridge outlet B304. The air that flows into the B300 flows through the inflow channel B302, the connecting hole B351, and the chamber flow. Inlet B303, second chamber C2, chamber outlet B332, and cartridge outlet B3 It can pass through 04 sequentially and be discharged to the outside.

[0103] When heater B342 heats wick B341, air will be released from wick B341 into the second chamber C2. Rosols may form. Air passing through cartridge B300 comes from the second chamber B2. It may be discharged into cartridge outlet B304 along with an aerosol. Cartridge outlet B The air discharged through 304 passes through the connecting passage B133 to the insertion space B134 and the insertion space It can be supplied to the stick S inserted between B134.

[0104] Referring to Figure 10, the upper body B120 includes an outer wall B121 and a partition wall B125. This is possible. The outer wall B121 and the bulkhead B125 can be connected. Bulkhead B125 is connected to pipe B It may be formed extending vertically between 130 and the cartridge coupling space B124a.

[0105] The extension B140 may be formed extending from the upper part of the upper body B120 to one side. The upper end surface B312 of edge B300 is covered by extension B140. Extension B140 is The extension B140 and the cartridge can be covered by the cartridge inlet B301 and its surroundings. Between the inlet B301 and the lower part of the extension B140 and the upper end surface B3 of the cartridge B300 A gap may be formed between 12 and the outside. The gap connects the outside and the cartridge inlet B301. It can be allowed through.

[0106] Pipe B130 may be formed to be long in the vertical direction. Pipe B130 may be formed to be hollow. The insertion space B134 may be formed inside the pipe B130. It may open upwards. The insertion space B134 may extend vertically. The connecting channel B133 is The connecting channel B133 may be formed inside pipe B130. The connecting channel B133 is located below the insertion space B134. It can be formed. One end of the connecting channel B133 is in communication with the outside of pipe B130, and the other end is It can communicate with insertion space B134. The connecting channel B133 is located below insertion space B134. It can be folded to the side.

[0107] The first sensor B161 may be located inside the extension B140. , toward the upper end surface of cartridge B300 or cartridge inlet B301. Sensor B161 may be installed adjacent to the cartridge inlet B301. 1 may be located above the cartridge inlet B301. The first sensor B is located relative to the vertical direction. Point 161 may overlap with cartridge inlet B301.

[0108] The first sensor B161 can sense the surrounding airflow. The first sensor B161 is It is also an airflow sensor or pressure sensor. The first sensor B161 detects changes in ambient air pressure. It is possible to sense the airflow through this. At a location adjacent to the cartridge inlet B301, Extension B140 may be equipped with holes for sensing airflow. The sensor B161 is mounted on a circuit board located inside the extension B140, and controls the control unit B20 and power They can be electrically connected. The control unit B20 detects the airflow of the first sensor B161. Based on this, the operation of various connected components can be controlled.

[0109] The first sealing section B151 is between the first bulkhead section B1251 and the inner plate B171. It can be placed in between. The first sealing section B151 takes the upper end of the first bulkhead section B1251. It can be enclosed and tightly sealed. The first sealing part B151 is at the lower end of the inner plate B171 They could get very close.

[0110] The sensor housing section B156 of the second sealing section B152 is the first sensing hole B144 The area around it can be sealed. The sensor housing B156 is around the first sensing hole B144. It can be in close contact with the extension plate B141. The second sensing ho is formed in the sensor housing section B156. The first sensing hole B144 may be connected to the sensor housing B156. It can surround and be in close contact with the first sensor B161.

[0111] This will cause foreign matter or aerosols or first Foreign objects passing through the sensing hole B144 can prevent failure of the circuit board or sensor.

[0112] In this embodiment, a capacitance measurement method is used to measure the remaining liquid level in the cartridge. In one embodiment, the following three types of auxiliary fluids are used to measure the remaining liquid level in the cartridge. Compensation methods include: 1) Calibration and measurement methods (gain value compensation), 2) Temperature compensation, and 3) Degradation compensation. Here, compensation methods 1) through 3) can be applied individually, or two or more compensation methods can be selected. It goes without saying that they can be selectively combined and applied.

[0113] 1) Calibration and measurement method (gain value compensation) Conventionally, aerosol generators have had different liquid depletion rates for each user, resulting in inaccurate remaining volume displays. Is it certain that each time a new cartridge is inserted, it is not a fully filled cartridge? However, the remaining battery level display was inaccurate, sometimes showing the maximum remaining amount.

[0114] Furthermore, the inherent properties of the material used as an electrode in the capacitance substrate measurement method. Difference, deviation of internal circuit elements such as capacitors and resistors, length of connected connectors, Even when measuring the same dielectric material, there will be deviations due to mechanical tolerances during electrode assembly, etc. No.

[0115] In this embodiment, in order to resolve the aforementioned problems, during the manufacturing of the aerosol generating device, The proofreading process will be carried out using the following methods:

[0116] To adjust the charging current, the programmable internal current source is adjusted, and the external rod... Under these conditions, the measurement range is adjusted so that a consistent range is observed for each aerosol generation device, and the baseline (bas) is set. Calculate the ed) value.

[0117] In order to solve the problem that the aforementioned deviation causes differences in the range of change in liquid water level, Adjust the change sensitivity (gain value). This is for measuring the largest object that can be measured, for example, a fully filled container. A gain that can be produced by inserting a cartridge to create an expected fixed value, for example, 10,000. Set the coefficient or gain value. Also, if necessary, offset for fine tuning. Further values ​​can be set.

[0118] The aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiment has a gain value set through the calibration process described above. The offset value is stored in the memory of the aerosol generator, for example, in flash memory. Therefore, the gain value or offset value stored in memory for each aerosol generator. These are also different from each other. This is because they use the same threshold to determine the remaining amount in the cartridge. Instead, the gain value or offset value stored for each aerosol generator is used. Based on this, the amount of change relative to the standard value set at the manufacturing plant for each aerosol generator is determined. By doing so, it's possible to determine the remaining battery level and reduce device inconsistencies.

[0119] After the calibration process described above, the remaining cartridge volume can be calculated using the following formula 1. . [Mathematics 1] Capacitance value (or remaining liquid volume) = Measured capacitance value (or remaining liquid volume) (Remaining amount) * Gain value + Offset value In one embodiment, the determination is made based on the specified value, and the desired water level and its resolution are determined based on It can be measured accordingly. Here, interference with external objects and hysteresis during water level movement are taken into consideration. It can be set to a value of approximately 200. For example, if the noise level due to external interference is 200, the water level will be... If the hysteresis is also at level 200, then 800, which is twice the sum, will be stable for each level. They can be set differently. Here, the noise level or hysteresis value is an example. It must be understood. Also, by setting a difference between levels that is more than a multiple of the sum, an example can be provided. This must be understood. For example, when measuring in three stages, upper: 10500, middle: 9500 It is also possible to set a level difference of 1000 for each stage, such as 8500 for the lower level.

[0120] 2) Temperature compensation Generally, capacitance is greatly affected by temperature, so the temperature Compensation is essential. A simple and efficient method for temperature compensation is to use a separate thermometer at the electrode site. This method involves placing the electrodes in a specific location, or using a reference electrode, or using a small aerosol-generating device. Due to factors such as insufficient mounting area for the molding equipment, characteristics of the molding method (insert injection), and rising unit costs, There are problems that make it difficult to apply. Also, the temperature of e-cigarettes rises rapidly when heating. Furthermore, it exhibits characteristics that differ from typical environmental changes, such as such rapid cooling.

[0121] Therefore, other use cases besides temperature compensation for the environment (chamber simulation) Additional compensation must be considered.

[0122] In the embodiment, the following two cases can be considered for temperature compensation.

[0123] When the aerosol generator is heating, the top of the device (i.e., the cigarette lighter) Heat is transferred from the heater side, and the heater is affected by very high temperatures, for example, over approximately 240°C. Furthermore, it cools down relatively quickly after smoking is finished.

[0124] When the aerosol generator is being charged, heat is transferred from the bottom of the device (where the battery is located). Reaching a relatively low temperature, for example, around 60°C, and affected by heat dissipation through internal sealing. Because the heat is weak, it cools down gradually.

[0125] In this embodiment, two types of temperature compensation formulas can be considered as follows.

[0126] First, heating and charging have opposite characteristics, so In some cases, a separate temperature compensation formula can be provided.

[0127] Next, as a temperature compensation that can reflect both types of characteristics, heating At that time, a temperature sensor attached to the heating element or heater, for example, an RTD (Real-Timed Temperature) sensor, is used. During charging, a temperature sensor attached to the battery pack, such as an NTC, is used in combination. Assuming compensation is required, temperature correction can be performed with a single temperature compensation formula. Here, each While RTD and NTC were used as examples of temperature sensors, they are not limited to these and can be used in a variety of ways. It goes without saying that the formula can sense the temperature of the heater or battery.

[0128] The higher the temperature characteristics of the electrode material used to measure the remaining amount in the cartridge, the higher the capacitance. If the temperature increases, temperature compensation is possible using equation 2 below. [Math 2] Capacitance value (or remaining liquid volume) = Measured capacitance value (or remaining liquid volume) (Remaining charge) - (a * Heater temperature) - (b * Battery temperature) Here, a and b are values ​​that can be arbitrarily set according to the characteristics of the aerosol generator. Generally, heater temperatures fluctuate greatly, so a is lower than b. Here, I explained this using the temperature of the device and the battery as examples, but it is not limited to these, and aerosol generating devices It goes without saying that the temperature characteristics of the heat-generating components can be taken into consideration. In the case where a cartridge is attached to the main body of the aerosol generator, or the cart When measuring the remaining battery level of the ridge, measure the heater temperature or battery temperature as described above. Furthermore, temperature compensation can be performed for the measured capacitance value.

[0129] 3) Degradation compensation The capacitance value of the liquid level in the cartridge changes over time due to prolonged use. This can occur. For example, deterioration of electrodes used for capacitance value measurement can lead to special characteristics. Possible causes include changes in properties, leakage due to aerosols, and contaminants in the connector or pathway. In such cases, the capacitance value compensated by 1) gain compensation and 2) temperature compensation is, It is variable and measurement errors may occur.

[0130] In the embodiment, compensation for electrode degradation for capacitance measurement is described in 1). The calibration process can be compensated using the minimum and maximum values ​​that can be measured. Here, the maximum The value is the capacitance value measured when a fully filled cartridge is installed. The minimum value is the capacitance measured when the cartridge is empty or not installed. It is the stance value.

[0131] In an embodiment, after installing a fully filled cartridge, if the measured capacitance value is greater than the pre-stored maximum value, that is, if it becomes excessively higher than the capacitance value during calibration, it can be compensated by subtracting that amount. Here, The subtraction level is also a ratio corresponding to that difference value. Also, selectively considering stability, a fixed ratio, for example, about 2%, can be selected and subtracted by that ratio. For example, during calibration , if the value of the fully filled cartridge is 10500 and a value of 11000 or more is measured , 220, which is the 2% level, is subtracted from the measured value, and the compensated capacitance value (or cartridge value) can be determined as 10780. Here, although the ratio and specific numerical values for deterioration compensation are described as examples, it is needless to say that it is not limited thereto and various modifications are possible in consideration of the characteristics of the aerosol generating device, or the usage time, etc.

[0132] Conversely, when the remaining amount value or capacitance value of the cartridge becomes low, since the lowest value in the state without a cartridge is pre-stored during the calibration process, when the cartridge is removed from the aerosol generating device, if the lowest value is measured and it becomes lower than during calibration, inverse correction is possible. When removing the cartridge, situations where protection from external noise by contacts cannot be received or external objects such as hands increase the capacitance value, so there is no problem in monitoring the lowest value.

[0133] ​​​​​In this embodiment, the maximum or minimum value during calibration is stored in the memory of the aerosol generator. Therefore, when using an aerosol generator for an extended period, it is necessary to measure the remaining amount in the cartridge. In addition, the capacitance value or remaining cartridge value measured as described above is used in relation to the capacitance value or remaining cartridge value. Deterioration compensation is possible.

[0134] Figures 11A to 11C are cross-sectional views of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0135] Referring to Figure 11A, the aerosol generator consists of a main unit 1100 and an attachment to the main unit 1100. Includes the cartridge 1120. The cartridge 1120 is detachable from the main unit 1100. The cartridge 1120 contains a liquid storage section (not shown) for storing aerosol-generating material. The system includes a heater (not shown) that vaporizes the aerosol-generating material. , Vegetable Glycerin (VG), Propylene Glycol May contain lene Glycol (PG). Aerosol-generating substance is a mixed liquid of VG and PG. It is composed of and generally has a dielectric constant higher than that of a vacuum. In an embodiment, cartridge The J1120 contains enough aerosol to be used with one box of disposable cigarettes (20 cigarettes). May contain chemical substances. Users use one pack of disposable cigarettes and one cartridge together. After that, replace one pack of cigarettes and a new cartridge, then use the aerosol generator. It is possible. Also, cartridge 1120 is the number of times a user smokes one disposable cigarette. For example, the amount of aerosol-generating material equivalent to 280 puffs, which is 20 times 14 puffs. It is possible. Therefore, in such a form of aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating substance It is essential to check the remaining amount of cartridge 1120 that is storing the aerosol generating device, and to accurately determine the amount of aerosol generated. A calculation of the remaining amount is required. In one embodiment, an aerosol inserted into the cigarette heater The product (cigarette) and the aerosol-generating substance (liquid) stored in cartridge 1120 This document describes an aerosol generating device that heats (and inhales) together, but is not limited to that, air An aerosol generator that heats only the aerosol-generating substance (liquid) and inhales the resulting aerosol. It goes without saying that this is equally applicable to e-vapers and e-vaping devices.

[0136] Referring to Figure 11B, an electrode member 1110 is arranged on one side of the main body 1100. Thus, the electrode member 1110 has one surface of the cartridge 1120 and a surface that connects to the main body 1100. They can be arranged to face each other. Here, the electrode member 1110 is also the cartridge 1120 It may have an area corresponding to the area of ​​the liquid storage section (not shown) of cartridge 1120. In the configuration, the area of ​​the electrode member 1110 is such that even when the aerosol generating device is tilted, the liquid storage part To ensure the electric field reaches the very end, one surface of the liquid storage section is made to face the main body 1100, with a surface area equal to the area of ​​the main body 1100. It may have an area. Although not shown, the lower end of the electrode member 1110 is like a C-clip. It can be connected to a capacitive sensor or sensor IC via a connector. The sensor or sensor IC is placed on a separate sensor PCB or on the main MCU. It can be placed in a Micro Controller Unit (hereinafter referred to as MCU). In one embodiment, electrodes When measuring capacitance, component 1110 is an external object that has its own dielectric constant, like a human hand. It may have a contact (ground) to suppress noise.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 11C, the electrode member 1110 and the cartridge 1 120 or the liquid storage part to be sensed can be separated from each other by a certain distance (d). The certain distance (d) is also 0.55 mm to 1.55 mm. By maintaining the certain distance (d), interference by other conductors in the aerosol generation device is prevented, and the maximum sensing distance of the capacitive sensor can be maintained.

[0138] FIGS. 12A and 12B are block diagrams of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 12A, the aerosol generation device includes a processor 1200, a capacitive sensor 1201, an electrode member 1210, and a cartridge 1220. In an embodiment, the processor 1200 controls the capacitive sensor 1201 to apply a measurement signal to the electrode member 1210 and receive a sensing signal from the electrode member 1210. The processor 120 0 can calculate a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor 1201, and calculate the remaining amount of the aerosol generation substance stored in the liquid storage part of the cartridge 1220 based on the calculated capacitance value. Here, the processor 120 0 measures the charging time by the measurement signal applied to the electrode member 1210, for example, a current signal, and the discharging time by the sensing signal received from the electrode member 1210, for example, a current signal, and can calculate the capacitance value of the electrode member 1210 based on the charging and discharging times. The processor 1200 can calculate the remaining amount of the aerosol generation substance by referring to the absolute value of the calculated capacitance value or a matching table between the capacitance value and the remaining amount of the aerosol generation substance. 1200 can calculate the remaining amount of the aerosol generation substance by referring to the absolute value of the calculated capacitance value or a matching table between the capacitance value and the remaining amount of the aerosol generation substance. ​In this embodiment, the capacitance value is calculated by measuring the charge and discharge time of the electrode member, but This means that capacitance values ​​can be calculated using a variety of known techniques, without being limited to those methods. That goes without saying.

[0140] The capacitive sensor 1201 is a functional module within the processor 1200, It is also a separate sensor IC. The capacitive sensor 1201 has an electrode member 1210 and a C-c They can be connected with lip-like connectors, but are not limited to that.

[0141] Referring to Figure 12B, the aerosol generator consists of a processor 1200 and a memory 1250. , temperature sensor 1260, cartridge insertion / removal detection sensor 1270, display 1280 The processor 1200 includes a capacitance value calculation unit 1202 and a gain value calculation unit 1203. This includes a remaining amount calculation unit 1204, a temperature compensation unit 1205, and a degradation compensation unit 1206. Here, The allosol generating apparatus may exclude some components or functions from all of the illustrated components. It goes without saying that this is possible. As mentioned above, aerosol production according to the embodiment The device compensates for the remaining amount measurement of the capacitor on the capacitance measuring substrate by gain Value compensation, temperature compensation, and degradation compensation can all be applied, and each compensation method can be used independently. It goes without saying that this is applicable.

[0142] Referring to Figure 12B, the capacitance value calculation unit 1202 is a capacitive sensor or The charging and discharging time is calculated from the received sensing signal, thereby determining the capacitance. The value can be calculated.

[0143] The gain value calculation unit 1203 calculates the gain value stored in the memory 1250 or the gain value. Here, the gain value stored in memory or the gain value is calibrated during the manufacture of the aerosol generator. These are values ​​that have been saved in advance through the normal operation. Also, the gain value calculation unit 1203 has memory 125 It is also possible to calculate the offset value stored in 0.

[0144] The remaining amount calculation unit 1204 calculates the capacitance value calculated by the capacitance value calculation unit 1202 The value is multiplied by the gain value calculated by the gain value calculation unit 1203 to obtain the compensated capacitance value. Therefore, the remaining amount in the cartridge can be calculated. Here, the remaining amount in the cartridge is the measured amount of cartridges. A matching table of the remaining amount corresponding to the absolute value of the capacitance value or the capacitance value. It can be calculated by referencing. Also, if the offset value is stored in memory 1250, the offset The capacitance value can be compensated for by summing the T values.

[0145] The temperature compensation unit 1205 adjusts the heater temperature or battery temperature sensed from the temperature sensor 1260. Taking the temperature into consideration, the remaining amount of the cartridge calculated by the remaining amount calculation unit 1204 is compared with the temperature Compensation can be performed. Here, temperature compensation is performed on the remaining cartridge capacity after gain compensation. Alternatively, the capacitance value calculated by the capacitance value calculation unit 1202 may be subject to temperature adjustment. Compensation can be carried out. The temperature sensor 1260 is a heater temperature sensor, a battery temperature sensor, etc. This may include, for example, the temperature compensation unit 1205 controls the operating conditions of the aerosol generator, for example. This applies when calculating the remaining amount in the cartridge immediately after heating or filling. It is possible.

[0146] The degradation compensation unit 1206, with respect to the capacitance value calculated by the remaining amount calculation unit 1204, Compensation for the deterioration of electrode components is performed. The deterioration compensation unit 1206 is stored in the memory 1250. The maximum value (capacitance value of a fully filled cartridge) and minimum value during the calibration process ( Based on the capacitance value of an empty cartridge or when no cartridge is installed, when fully filled... The capacitance value measured by the capacitance value calculation unit 1202 for the cartridge is If it is greater than the maximum value, the difference is taken from the capacitance value measured by a certain ratio. Pull it out. Conversely, if the cartridge is empty or no cartridge is installed, the capacitor If the capacitance value calculated by the calculation unit 1202 is smaller than the minimum value, the difference value or It is added to the measured capacitance value by a certain ratio. The degradation compensation unit 1206 is a remaining amount meter This can be performed after gain compensation in the calculation unit 1204 or after temperature compensation in the temperature compensation unit 1205. Furthermore, the deterioration compensation unit 1206 compensates for deterioration of the electrode material, so the aerosol generating device It can be selectively implemented, taking into consideration factors such as the duration of use.

[0147] The cartridge attachment / detachment detection sensor 1270 detects when a cartridge is attached to the aerosol generator. Or it detects separation (attachment / detachment). Here, the attachment / detachment detection by the attachment / detachment detection sensor 1270 enables the process The sesser 1200 may start measuring the remaining amount in the cartridge. For example, processor 1200 When a new cartridge is installed, it measures the remaining amount in the installed cartridge and It can be displayed on display 1280.

[0148] The processor 1200 includes a remaining capacity calculation unit 1204, a temperature compensation unit 1205, and a degradation compensation unit 120 From 6, the cartridge corresponds to the capacitance value after gain compensation, temperature compensation, and degradation compensation. The remaining amount can be calculated in levels of high / medium / low / none. Figure 16 shows a cartridge according to one embodiment. This is an illustrative diagram for measuring the remaining amount of the liquid. Referring to Figure 16, the measurement is performed through the electrode member 1610. Based on the capacitance value, the remaining cartridge capacity is 100% (1620). It is divided into three categories: medium (1621) at 50%, low (1622) at 15%, and none (1623). It is possible. Here, each level or number is illustrative and not limiting. Needless to say, a wide variety of detailed transformations are possible.

[0149] The display 1280 shows the remaining cartridge capacity under the control of the processor 1200. Figure 17 is an illustrative diagram showing the remaining amount of a cartridge according to one embodiment. Referring to Figure 17, the display 1280 shows the cartridge level as high / medium / low / empty. It may display an icon appropriate to the situation.

[0150] The processor 1200 detects the inhalation of aerosols vaporized by the aerosol generator. The number of puffs detected by the puff sensor (not shown) is accumulated and counted. The remaining amount in the cartridge can be calculated based on this. For example, for a fully filled cartridge If the total number of puffs is (14 puffs * 20 times), resulting in a total of 280 puffs, the cartridge will be replaced. Replacement, that is, immediately after a new cartridge is installed, resets the puff count. The remaining cartridge capacity can be calculated by accumulating the capacitance. The processor 1200 is based on capacitance. Next, after measuring the remaining cartridge capacity, compare it with the calculated remaining cartridge capacity on the puff board. If the difference is large, the data is deemed unreliable, and the currently calculated cart The cartridge level will not be output. In that case, the previously calculated cartridge level will be used. It can be output as is.

[0151] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating a control method for an aerosol generator according to another embodiment. This is a chart. Figure 13 shows the measurements taken through the electrode member in the aerosol generator. This document explains how to perform gain compensation for capacitance values.

[0152] Referring to Figure 13, in step 1300, one side of the detachable cartridge faces the other. A predetermined measurement signal is applied to the electrode member arranged on one side of the main body. In step 1302, the electrode part Receives sensing signals received from the material.

[0153] In step 1304, based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor, Calculate the passitance value.

[0154] In step 1304, the cartridge is determined based on the calculated capacitance value and the default gain value. The remaining amount of aerosol-generating material stored in the liquid storage section is calculated. Here, a predetermined gain value is used. During the manufacturing of the aerosol generator, a calibration process is performed to store the memory for each aerosol generator. This is a stored value. Here, the aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiment performs the calibration work described above. The gain value and offset value set through are stored in the memory of the aerosol generator, for example, It is stored in rush memory. Therefore, it is stored in memory for each aerosol generator. The gain or offset values ​​are also different from each other. This is because they are based on the same threshold. This does not determine the remaining amount in the cartridge, but rather the gain stored for each aerosol generator. By using a value or offset value, the settings set at the manufacturing plant for each aerosol generator can be determined. By determining the amount of change relative to a reference value, it may be possible to reduce the device's deviation.

[0155] In this embodiment, the desired water level and its resolution are determined based on the calibrated value. It can be measured based on this. Here, interference with external objects and hysteresis during water level movement are taken into consideration. It can be set to a value of approximately 200. For example, if the noise level due to external interference is 200, the water level will be... If the hysteresis is also at level 200, then 800, which is a stable multiple of the sum, will be at each level. These can be set differently. Here, the noise level or hysteresis values ​​are illustrative examples. It must be understood that such differences exist. Furthermore, examples should be given when the difference in levels is more than twice the sum. It must be understood that... For example, when measuring in three stages, upper: 10500, middle: 9 The initial values ​​are 500, and the lower value is 8500, with a level difference of 1000 between each stage.

[0156] Figure 14 illustrates a control method for an aerosol generator according to another embodiment. This is a flowchart. Figure 14 shows the measurement in the aerosol generation device through the electrode member. This document describes how to perform temperature compensation for the given capacitance value.

[0157] Referring to Figure 14, in step 1400, one side of the detachable cartridge faces the other. A predetermined measurement signal is applied to electrode members arranged on one side of the main body.

[0158] In step 1402, the sensing signal received from the electrode member is received.

[0159] In step 1404, based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor, Calculate the passitance value.

[0160] In step 1406, the calculated capacitance value and the operating conditions of the aerosol generator are determined. The remaining amount of aerosol-generating material stored in the liquid storage section of the cartridge, based on the temperature compensation value. The calculation is performed. Here, the operating conditions of the aerosol generator are during heating or charging. May include. When the aerosol generator is heating, the top of the device (i.e., the cigarette lighter) Heat is transferred from the heater side, and the heater reaches very high temperatures, for example, over approximately 240°C. It is affected, and after smoking ends, it cools relatively quickly. (Aerosol generation device charging) During operation, heat is transferred from the lower part of the device (where the battery is located), resulting in a relatively lower temperature, for example. For example, it is affected by a temperature of approximately 60°C, and heat dissipation by the internal sealing is weak, resulting in slow cooling.

[0161] In the embodiment, both of the two temperature effects are taken into consideration, during heating This includes a temperature sensor attached to the heating element or heater, for example, an RTD, During charging, a temperature sensor attached to the battery pack, such as an NTC, is used for compensation. The higher the temperature characteristics of the electrode material used to measure the remaining amount in the cartridge, the higher the electrostatic capacitance. If the volume is large, the heater temperature can be calculated from the measured capacitance value (or remaining liquid volume). Subtract the temperature from the battery temperature. Here, the temperature characteristics of the heater temperature and battery temperature are applied to each. An appropriate coefficient reflecting this can be multiplied.

[0162] Figure 15 illustrates a control method for an aerosol generator according to another embodiment. This is a flowchart. Figure 15 shows the measurement in the aerosol generation device through the electrode member. This document describes a method for performing degradation compensation for the given capacitance value.

[0163] Referring to Figure 15, at step 1500, one side of the detachable cartridge faces the other. A predetermined measurement signal is applied to electrode members arranged on one side of the main body.

[0164] In step 1502, the sensing signal received from the electrode member is received.

[0165] In step 1504, based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor, Calculate the passitance value.

[0166] In step 1506, based on the calculated capacitance value and the compensation value due to the degree of degradation of the electrode material Next, calculate the remaining amount of aerosol-generating substance stored in the liquid storage section of the cartridge. In the embodiment, compensation for electrode degradation for capacitance measurement is described in 1). This can be compensated using the minimum and maximum values ​​that can be measured during the calibration process. The maximum value is the capacitance value measured when a fully filled cartridge is installed. The minimum value is measured when the cartridge is empty or no cartridge is installed. It is also a capacitance value.

[0167] In this embodiment, after installing a fully filled cartridge, the capacitance was measured. If the capacitance value is greater than the previously stored maximum value, i.e., the capacitance value at the time of calibration is greater than the capacitance value at the time of calibration. If it becomes excessively high, subtract the amount that has increased. Here, the level to subtract is It is also a ratio that is roughly equal to the difference. Furthermore, a fixed ratio, for example, approximately 2%, can be selectively chosen. You can subtract only that ratio. For example, if the cartridge value was 10500 at the time of calibration Yes, if a value of 11000 or more is measured, 220, which is the 2% level, will be deducted from the measurement value. Subtracting the compensation capacitance value (or cartridge value) of 10780, It can be determined. Here, the ratio and specific numerical values ​​for deterioration compensation were explained as examples, but It is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made considering the characteristics of the aerosol generator or the usage time. It goes without saying that it is possible. Conversely, the remaining amount of the cartridge or the capacitor... If the performance value is low, the lowest value without a cartridge is saved in advance during the calibration process. Therefore, when the cartridge is removed from the aerosol generator, the lowest value is measured and during calibration. If it falls below this value, inverse correction is possible.

[0168] Figure 18 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0169] The aerosol generator 1 consists of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, and an input unit 1. 5. May include a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and at least one heater 18, 24. However, The internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to what is shown in Figure 18. Due to the design of the aerosol generator 1, some of the components shown in Figure 18 may be omitted. Furthermore, the addition of new configurations will be known to persons with ordinary skill in the relevant technical field. If you have it, you will understand.

[0170] Sensor 13 detects the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the state of the area surrounding the aerosol generator 1. It can sense and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 12. The control unit 12 senses Based on the information obtained, the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 is controlled, smoking Restrictions, determination of whether Stick S and / or Cartridge 19 are inserted, notification display, etc. The aerosol generator 1 can be controlled to perform any of the various functions.

[0171] Sensor 13 includes a temperature sensor 131, a puff sensor 132, an insertion detection sensor 133, and a reuse sensor. Sensing sensor 134, cartridge sensing sensor 135, cap sensing sensor 136, motion sensing It may include at least one of the intelligence sensors 137.

[0172] The temperature sensor 131 detects the temperature at which the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are heated. The degree can be sensed. The aerosol generator 1 has a cartridge heater 24 and / or heater Includes a separate temperature sensor that senses temperature 18, or a cartridge heater 24 and / or The heater 18 itself can function as a temperature sensor.

[0173] The temperature sensor 131 corresponds to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. It can output a signal. For example, the temperature sensor 131 is connected to the cartridge heater 24 and / or It may include a resistive element with a different resistance value in response to the temperature change of the heater 18. This can be realized by elements that utilize different properties, such as thermistors. In this case, the temperature sensor 131 receives a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element from the cartridge heater. It can be output as a signal corresponding to the temperature of 24 and / or heater 18. For example, The temperature sensor 131 detects the resistance values ​​of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. It may consist of sensors. In this case, the temperature sensor 131 is connected to the cartridge heater 24 and / or a signal corresponding to the resistance value of heater 18 to cartridge heater 24 and / or heater It can be output as a signal corresponding to the temperature of DATA 18.

[0174] The temperature sensor 131 is positioned around the power supply 11 to monitor its temperature. It is possible. The temperature sensor 131 may be placed adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one side of the battery which is the power source 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 is It can be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0175] The temperature sensor 131 is located inside the main unit 10 and can sense the internal temperature of the main unit 10.

[0176] The puff sensor 132 can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to a puff. For example, puff sensor 132 It also functions as a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 132 responds to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator. It can output a signal. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1 is the airflow through which the gas flows. It can respond to the pressure in the path. The puff sensor 132 detects the flow of gas in the aerosol generator 1. They can be positioned in accordance with airflow paths.

[0177] The insertion sensing sensor 133 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The sensor 133 detects a signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. It can be known. The insertion sensing sensor 133 may be provided around the insertion space. Insertion sensing sensor 1 33 senses the insertion and / or removal of the stick S by the change in dielectric constant inside the insertion space. It is possible. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 133 is an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor. It also functions as a chest of drawers sensor.

[0178] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. For example, a magnetic field around a coil through which current flows. When the field changes, according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, a current flows through the coil. The characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may differ. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil depend on the frequency of the alternating current. This may include current values, voltage values, inductance values, impedance values, etc.

[0179] An inductive sensor can output a signal that corresponds to the characteristics of the current flowing through a coil. Example For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of a coil. .

[0180] A capacitance sensor may contain a conductor. The conductor of the capacitance sensor is inserted They can be placed adjacent to each other in space. Capacitance sensors measure the surrounding electromagnetic characteristics, for example, It can output a signal corresponding to the capacitance around a conductor. For example, a metal trumpet When the included stick S is inserted into the insertion space, the trumpet of the stick S causes the conductor to move around The electromagnetic properties of the edges can differ.

[0181] The reuse detection sensor 134 can detect whether the stick S has been reused. The SA134 is also a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the hue of the stick S. The color sensor can detect the hue of a portion of the trumpet that encloses the outside of the stick S. A light sensor analyzes the optical properties of an object based on the light reflected from it, corresponding to the object's hue. It can detect values ​​such as the wavelength of light. For example, optical properties are also the wavelength of light. A color sensor is a proximity sensor. The sensor is embodied by a single configuration, and the proximity sensor is embodied by a separate configuration that is distinct from the sensor. It is possible.

[0182] At least a portion of the trumpet that makes up Stick S has a different hue due to the aerosol. The reuse detection sensor 134 detects when the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. Arranged in accordance with the position where at least a portion of the trumpet, which has a different hue due to the aerosol, is positioned. It can be placed. For example, before the stick S is used by the user, the trumpet is less In this case, some of the hues are also the first hue. While the aerosol passes through stick S, at least a portion of the trumpet is affected by the aerosol. When wet, at least some of the hues of the trumpet can be changed to a second hue. On the other hand, At least some of the hues of the color are changed from the first hue to the second hue and then retained in the second hue. It is possible.

[0183] The cartridge sensing sensor 135 senses the insertion and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge sensing sensor 135 is an inductance substrate sensor, a capacitive type sensor. This includes resistance sensors and Hall sensors (Hall ICs) that utilize the Hall effect. It can be realized.

[0184] The cap sensing sensor 136 can detect the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the main body 10, the cartridge 19 and the cap that were covered by the cap A portion of the main body 10 may be exposed to the outside. The cap sensing sensor 136 is a contact sensor, ho This can be realized through optical sensors (Hall ICs), optical sensors, etc.

[0185] The motion sensor 137 can detect the movement of the aerosol generator. 37 is embodied by at least one of an accelerometer and a gyro sensor. Shut up.

[0186] In addition to the aforementioned sensors 131 to 137, sensor 13 includes a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, At least one of the following: a magnetic sensor, a GPS position sensor, or a proximity sensor. It may include one more. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an average engineer from its name. Since it is a technical matter, a detailed explanation may be omitted.

[0187] The output unit 14 outputs information related to the status of the aerosol generator 1 and provides it to the user. The output unit 14 is connected to the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the sound output unit 143. It may include, but is not limited to, at least one of them. Display 14 When 1 and the touchpad form a layered structure and constitute a touchscreen, the display I-141 can be used not only as an output device but also as an input device.

[0188] The display 141 visually provides the user with information related to the aerosol generating device 1. For example, information relating to the aerosol generator 1 is provided by the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1. The charge / discharge state of the heater 18, the preheat state of the stick S and / or cartridge 19 The insertion / removal state, the cap attachment / removal state, or the use of the aerosol generator 1 is controlled. This refers to a variety of information, such as limited conditions (e.g., detection of abnormal objects), and is displayed on display 141. The above information can be output externally. For example, the display 141 has LEDs It is also in the form of an optical element. For example, the display 141 is a liquid crystal display panel (LCD ), and also organic light-emitting display panels (OLEDs).

[0189] The haptic unit 142 converts electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli. Information related to the allosol generating device 1 can be provided to the user tactilely. For example, haptic Unit 142 provides initial power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 for a set time. When supplied, it may generate vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating. Haptic section 14 Item 2 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0190] The acoustic output unit 143 provides the user with auditory information related to the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the audio output unit 143 can convert electrical signals into audio signals and output them externally. can.

[0191] Power supply 11 can supply the power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. 11 supplies power so that the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are heated. It is possible. Also, the power supply 11 is a sensor, which is another component provided in the aerosol generator 1. 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17 are supplied with the power necessary for their operation. Yes. Power source 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, Power source 11 is also a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is limited to those. do not have.

[0192] Although not shown in Figure 18, the aerosol generator 1 further includes a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may include a switching element and be electrically connected to the power supply 11.

[0193] The power protection circuit can interrupt the circuit to the power supply 11 under predetermined conditions. For example, the power supply The protection circuit, if the voltage level of power supply 11 is equal to or greater than the first voltage corresponding to overcharge, power supply 1 The circuit to 1 can be interrupted. For example, the power protection circuit can interrupt the power supply 11 if the voltage level is over-discharged. If the voltage is less than the corresponding second voltage, the circuit to power supply 11 may be interrupted.

[0194] The heater 18 is powered by the power supply 11 to heat the medium or aerosol inside the stick S. The generated substance can be heated. Although not shown in Figure 18, the aerosol generator 1 uses a power supply 11 A power conversion circuit converts the power and supplies it to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. It may further include a circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter). Also, the aerosol generator 1 When generating aerosols using an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 1 receives DC power from the power supply 11. It may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the power source to AC power.

[0195] The control unit 12, sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17 are powered It can perform its function by receiving power from power source 11. Although not shown in Figure 18, A power conversion circuit that converts the power from power supply 11 and supplies it to each component, for example, an LDO (lo It may further include a dropout circuit or a voltage regulator circuit. Also, as shown in Figure 18 Although not present, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. Noise filter It is also a low-pass filter. A low-pass filter has at least 1 It may include one inductor and one capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter is the power supply 11 or This can correspond to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied to the heater 18. The ruta applies high-frequency noise components to the sensor 13, such as the insertion sensing sensor 133. This can prevent that from happening.

[0196] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are any suitable It can consist of electrical resistant materials. For example, suitable electrical resistant materials include titanium and zirconium. Molybdenum, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, Gold containing tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. It may be a metal or metal alloy, but is not limited to them. Also, heater 18 is a metal heating element (w A metal heating plate with conductive tracks, a ceramic heating element, etc. It can be materialized in that way, but it is not limited to that.

[0197] In other embodiments, the heater 18 is also an induction heating heater. For example, Ta18 generates heat through the magnetic field applied by the coil, heating the aerosol-generating material. It may contain susceptors.

[0198] The input unit 15 can receive information input by the user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit 15 is also a touch panel. The touch panel is a touch that senses touch It may include at least one touch sensor. For example, the touch sensor may be a capacitive type. Capacitive touch sensor, resistive touch sensor nsor), ultrasonic touch sensor (surface acoustic wave touch sensor), infrared type This may include, but is not limited to, infrared touch sensors.

[0199] The display 141 and the touch panel can be represented by a single panel. For example, The touch panel is inserted into the display 141 (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, a touch panel can be added on the display 141. ru.

[0200] On the other hand, the input section 15 includes buttons, a keypad, a dome switch, and a jog switch. This may include, but is not limited to, features such as eels and jog switches.

[0201] Memory 17 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1. A, which can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data being processed. 17 refers to flash memory type and hard disk type. k type), multimedia card micro type, card Type of memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically rasable programmable read-only memory), PROM(programmable read-only memory), magnetic It may include at least one type of recording medium, such as a memory or an optical disc. Memory 17 This includes the operating time of the aerosol generator 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, and at least one It can store data related to temperature profiles and user smoking patterns.

[0202] The communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0203] The short-range wireless communication unit is the Bluetooth communication unit. , BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) Communication Department, Near Field Communication Department t), WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, Zigbee communication unit, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data As (sociation) communication section, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication section, UWB (ultra wideband) communication section, Ant+ communication This may include, but is not limited to, the Shinbu (a group of samurai).

[0204] The wireless communications unit comprises the cellular network communications unit, the internet communications unit, and the computer network communications unit. This may include, but is not limited to, network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication sections. do not have.

[0205] Although not shown in Figure 18, the aerosol generator 1 uses a USB (universal serial bus) connection. It further includes a connection interface such as an interface, U Connecting to other external devices via a coupling interface such as an SB interface It can send and receive information, or charge the power supply 11.

[0206] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, The control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor has multiple logic Implemented by an array of gates, a general-purpose microprocessor and the microprocessor A program that can be executed is also embodied by the combination of memory locations where the program is stored. This embodiment can also be realized by other forms of hardware, which is the technology to which this embodiment belongs. Anyone with a normal level of knowledge in the field should be able to understand it.

[0207] The control unit 12 controls the supply of power from the power supply 11 to the heater 18, thereby controlling the heater The temperature of 18 can be controlled. The control unit 12 controls the cartridge sensed by the temperature sensor 131. Based on the temperature of the heater 24 and / or heater 18, the cartridge heater 24 and / or The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or Based on the temperature of heater 18, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are supplied. The power can be adjusted. For example, the control unit 12 can adjust the temperature profile stored in the memory 17. Based on this, the target temperature for the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 is determined. Shut up.

[0208] The aerosol generator 1 includes a power supply 11 and a cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 The power supply circuit (not shown) may be electrically connected to the power supply 11 between them. The circuit is electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, heater 18, or induction coil 181. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. Children are bipolar junction transistors (BJTs) and field-effect transistors. This can be realized by a Field Effective Transistor (FET), etc. The control unit 12 controls the electric The power supply circuit can be controlled.

[0209] The control unit 12 controls the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit to supply power The supply can be controlled. The power supply circuit converts the DC power output from power supply 11 into AC power. It is also an inverter. For example, an inverter is a Fulbright inverter that includes multiple switching elements. It can consist of a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit.

[0210] The control unit 12 receives power from the power supply 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The switching element can be turned on to supply power. The control unit 12 controls the cartridge Switch so that the power supply to heater 24 and / or heater 18 is cut off. The switching element can be turned off. The control unit 12 controls the current pulse input to the switching element. Adjust the frequency and / or duty cycle of the signal, and adjust the current supplied from power supply 11. Shut up.

[0211] The control unit 12 controls the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit, thereby controlling the power supply. The voltage output from power source 11 can be controlled. The power conversion circuit controls the voltage output from power supply 11. It can convert. For example, the power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power supply 11 into a higher voltage. It may include a buck converter. For example, a power conversion circuit may include a buck converter. This is realized through a Buck-boost converter, Zener diode, etc. ru.

[0212] The control unit 12 controls the on / off operation of the switching elements included in the power conversion circuit. The voltage level output from the power conversion circuit can be adjusted. (on) If the condition persists, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit will be the same as the output from power supply 11. This can correspond to the voltage level being applied. The duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element. The ratio is the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power supply 11. It is possible. The duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element decreases as it decreases. The voltage level output from the power conversion circuit decreases. Heater 18 is powered by the power conversion circuit or It can be heated based on the output voltage.

[0213] The control unit 12 uses pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential methods. At least one of the Proportional-Integral-Differential (PID) schemes is used. This allows for control over the supply of power to the heater 18.

[0214] For example, the control unit 12 uses a PWM method and has a predetermined frequency and duty cycle. The current pulse can be controlled to be supplied to the heater 18. The control unit 12 controls the frequency of the current pulse. The power supplied to the heater 18 can be controlled by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle.

[0215] For example, the control unit 12 determines a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile. The control unit 12 calculates the difference between the temperature of the heater 18 and the target temperature, and adjusts the difference over time. A feedback control method that uses the integrated value and the derivative of the difference value according to the passage of time. The power supplied to the heater 18 can be controlled using a certain PID scheme.

[0216] The control unit 12 prevents the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. It can be stopped. For example, the control unit 12 controls the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Based on the temperature exceeding the predetermined limit temperature, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater The operation of the power conversion circuit can be controlled so that the power supply to Ta18 is cut off. The control unit 12 determines when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 reaches a predetermined limit temperature. Based on exceeding the limit, the following is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The amount of power consumed can be reduced by a certain percentage. For example, the control unit 12 controls the cartridge heater 24 Based on the temperature exceeding the limit temperature, the aerosol contained in cartridge 19 If it is determined that the compound has been completely consumed, the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 may be cut off.

[0217] The control unit 12 can control the charging and discharging of the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can control the output of the temperature sensor 131. The temperature of the power supply 11 can be determined based on the power signal.

[0218] When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator 1, the control unit 12 controls the power supply. Check whether the temperature of 11 is above the first limit temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the charging of power supply 11. It is possible. The control unit 12 sets a default charging current when the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the first limit temperature. Based on this, the power supply 11 can be controlled to be charged. The control unit 12 controls the temperature of the power supply 11 to the first 1. If the temperature exceeds a certain limit, charging of the power supply 11 may be cut off.

[0219] When the aerosol generator 1 is powered on, the control unit 12 determines that the temperature of the power supply 11 is electric. The control unit can confirm whether the temperature is above the second limiting temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the discharge of the power source 11. 12. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the second limit temperature, the power stored in the power supply 11 is used. It can be controlled to use. The control unit 12 controls the power supply 11 if the temperature is above the second limit temperature. The use of power stored in power supply 11 may be interrupted.

[0220] The control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity relative to the power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12, based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power supply 11, controls the power supply 1 The remaining capacity of 1 can be calculated.

[0221] The control unit 12 detects whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space via the insertion sensing sensor 133. It is possible to determine whether or not. Based on the output signal of the insertion sensing sensor 133, the control unit 12 determines whether or not. It can be determined that stick S has been inserted. In addition, the control unit 12 supplies power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. It can be controlled in such a way. For example, the control unit 12 can control the temperature based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17. This allows power to be supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0222] The control unit 12 can determine whether or not the stick S is removed in the insertion space. For example, control The unit 12 determines whether the stick S is removed in the insertion space via the insertion sensing sensor 133. It can determine that. For example, the control unit 12 will determine if the temperature of the heater 18 is above a limit temperature. Alternatively, if the temperature change gradient of the heater 18 is greater than or equal to the set gradient, the stick S in the insertion space It can be determined that it has been removed. If it is determined that stick S has been removed in the insertion space, the control unit 12 may cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. ru.

[0223] The control unit 12 controls the heater 18 based on the state of the stick S detected by the sensor 13. The power supply time and / or power supply amount can be controlled. The control unit 12 looks up Based on the table (lookup table), the level includes the level of the capacitance sensor signal. The range can be confirmed. Based on the confirmed level range, the control unit 12 controls the stick S. It is possible to determine the amount of moisture.

[0224] If the stick S is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 12 will control the power supply time to the heater 18. This can be controlled to increase the preheating time of stick S compared to normal conditions.

[0225] The control unit 12 detects the stick S inserted into the insertion space via the reuse detection sensor 134. It can determine whether or not to reuse it. For example, the control unit 12 senses the signal from the reuse detection sensor. The sensing value is compared to the first reference range which includes the first hue, and if the sensing value is included in the first reference range In this case, it can be determined that stick S is not being used. For example, the control unit 12 may determine that it is not being reused. The sensing value of the sensor signal is compared with a second reference range that includes a second hue, and the sensing If the value falls within the second reference range, it can be determined that Stick S was used. If it is determined that the S has been used, the control unit 12 will turn on the cartridge heater 24 and / or This can cut off the power supply to the heater 18.

[0226] The control unit 12 detects the coupling of the cartridge 19 via the cartridge sensing sensor 135 and / Alternatively, it can determine whether to remove it or not. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the signal of the cartridge sensing sensor. Based on the sensing values, it is possible to determine whether to attach and / or remove cartridge 19.

[0227] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been completely consumed. Then, the control unit 12 applies power to preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The system heats up, and during the preheating section, it determines whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature. If the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, the aerosol of cartridge 19 will be released. It can be determined that the aerosol-generating material has been completely consumed. If it determines that this has occurred, the control unit 12 will turn on the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. It may be possible to cut off the power supply to the other party.

[0228] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 is usable or not. For example, the control unit 12 Based on the data stored in memory 17, the current puff count is set in cartridge 19. If the number of puffs exceeds the maximum allowed, it may be determined that cartridge 19 cannot be used. For example, the control unit 12 determines whether the total time the heater 24 has been heated is equal to or greater than a predetermined maximum time. If the total amount of power supplied to the heater 24 is greater than or equal to the predetermined maximum power, then cartridge 1 It can be determined that it is not possible to use it for 9.

[0229] The control unit 12 makes decisions regarding the user's inhalation through the puff sensor 132. This is possible. For example, the control unit 12 determines the puff generation based on the sensing value of the puff sensor signal. It can determine whether or not it is present. For example, the control unit 12 uses the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor 132 as a basis. Therefore, the strength of the puff can be judged. When the number of puffs reaches the predetermined maximum number of puffs or if If no puff is detected for a specified period of time, the control unit 12 will turn on the cartridge heater 24 and The power supply to the heater 18 may be cut off.

[0230] The control unit 12 detects the attachment and / or removal of the cap via the cap sensing sensor 136. What can be determined? For example, the control unit 12 can determine based on the sensing value of the signal from the cap sensing sensor. Based on this, it is possible to determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed.

[0231] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results sensed by the sensor 13. For example, if the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 132 reaches a predetermined number, The control unit 12 controls the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the sound output unit 143. The user is notified via at least one means that the aerosol generator 1 will soon shut down. For example, based on the determination that there is no stick S in the insertion space, the control unit 12 The user can be notified via the output unit 14. For example, the control unit 12 can output a cartridge Based on the determination that the 19 and / or cap are not attached, the output unit 14 is used to send a signal to the user. The system can be notified. For example, the control unit 12 can notify the cartridge heater 24 and / or Alternatively, information related to the temperature of the heater 18 can be transmitted to the user via the output unit 14. .

[0232] The control unit 12 stores information related to the event that occurred in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. The history can be saved and updated. The event is carried out by aerosol generator 1. Insertion of stick S detected, heating of stick S started, puff detected, puff ended, cartridge Overheat detection of heater 24 and / or heater 18, cartridge heater 24 and / or Overvoltage application detection to 18, completion of heating of stick S, power of aerosol generator 1 Power on / off operation, start of charging for power supply 11, overcharge detection of power supply 11, This may include events such as the end of charging for power supply 11. The history related to the event is the date and time the event occurred. This may include log data corresponding to the event. For example, if a certain event sticks If insertion detection occurs, the log data corresponding to the event is from the insertion detection sensor 133. This may include data related to tuning values, etc. For example, if a certain event occurs, the cartridge heal If overheating is detected in heater 24 and / or heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event will be , the temperature of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, cartridge heater 24 and / or the voltage applied to heater 18, cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 This may include data related to the current flowing through it.

[0233] The control unit 12 controls the system to form a communication link with an external device such as the user's mobile terminal. Controllable. If authentication data is received from an external device via a communication link, control unit 1 2. To remove the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. This is possible. Here, authentication data is used for user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. It may include data indicating the completion of authentication. Users can perform user authentication via an external device. This is possible. The external device can access the user based on the user's birthday, a unique identification number, etc. Determine whether the data is valid and grant access rights to the aerosol generator 1 from the external server. The relevant data may be received. The external device, based on the data related to usage rights, aerosol The generating device 1 can transmit data indicating the completion of user authentication. When user authentication is complete, The control unit 12 removes the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the control unit 12 can turn on the heater 18 when user authentication is complete. The restrictions on the use of the heating function that supplies power can be removed.

[0234] The control unit 12 communicates the aerosol generating device to the external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Data related to the state of device 1 can be transmitted. Based on the received state data, the external device will... The remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1 and the operating mode are displayed via the device's display. It can output things like this.

[0235] The external device initiates a location search for the aerosol generator 1 based on the input, and then generates the aerosol A location search request can be transmitted to the device 1. When a location search request is received from an external device, control Based on the received location search request, unit 12 will output at least one of the output devices to perform a location search. It can be controlled to perform the corresponding action. For example, in response to a location search request, haptic The part 142 may generate vibrations. For example, in response to a location search request, the display 141 This can output objects corresponding to location search and search completion.

[0236] When the control unit 12 receives firmware data from an external device, it updates the firmware. The update can be controlled to perform. The external device controls the firmware of the aerosol generator 1. You can check the current version of the device and determine if there is a new firmware version available. The external device will, when it receives input requesting a firmware download, download a new firmware. Receives firmware data for version and new firmware data for version The data can be transmitted to the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 12 has a new version of firmware. By receiving the data, the firmware update of the aerosol generator 1 is completed. It can be controlled to ensure that it is carried out.

[0237] The control unit 12, via the communication unit 16, is related to the sensing value of at least one sensor 13. The data is transmitted to an external server (not shown), and the server performs deep learning. Sensing values ​​are learned and generated through machine learning (such as ning). The control unit 12 can receive and store the learned model received from the server. This includes actions such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 12 can perform the following: The control unit 12 stores at least one sensor 13 in the memory 17. It can store sensing value data and data for training artificial neural networks (ANNs), etc. For example, memory 17 is used in the aerosol generator 1 for learning the artificial neural network (ANN). Databases related to each component, weights (wei) that make up the artificial neural network (ANN) structure The control unit 12 can store the ght, bias. The control unit 12 stores at least the memory 17. Data related to the sensing value of another sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, temperature profile It learns from files and other data, and is used to determine the user's inhalation pattern and generate temperature profiles. It is possible to generate at least one learning model.

[0238] The embodiments described above, or other embodiments, are mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. This does not mean that the aforementioned embodiment of the present invention or other embodiments are based on their respective configurations. Alternatively, the functions may be used in combination or used in parallel.

[0239] For example, a different embodiment and / or configuration A described in the specific embodiment and / or drawings Or, it means that configuration B described in the drawing may be combined. Even if the coupling between components is not directly explained, it is explained that coupling is impossible. This means that joining is possible, except in the case of [specific condition].

[0240] The above explanation should not be interpreted restrictively in any way, and should be considered illustrative. The scope of this invention must be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the claims. Furthermore, all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating device, A liquid storage unit for storing aerosol-generating material and a heater for vaporizing the aerosol-generating material. A removable cartridge including a lid, An electrode member is positioned on one side of the main body so as to face one side of the cartridge, A predetermined measurement signal is applied to the electrode member, and the sensing signal received from the electrode member A capacitive sensor that receives, Capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor The capacitor value is calculated, and based on the calculated capacitance value and the predetermined gain value, the liquid storage unit is prepared. A processor that calculates the remaining amount of stored aerosol-generating material, including, Device.

2. The aforementioned processor, The capacitance value is calculated based on the charging and discharging times of the electrode member. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned default gain value is During the manufacturing of the aerosol generating device, the calibration process differs for each aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, configured as follows.

4. The aforementioned default gain value is Measurement is taken with the cartridge, which is fully filled with the aerosol-generating substance, attached to the main unit. The measured capacitance value has a constant capacitance value. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the coefficient is multiplied by the citance value.

5. The aforementioned processor, The calculated capacitance value is multiplied by a predetermined gain value, and a predetermined offset value is added. The capacitance value is corrected, and the E corresponding to the corrected capacitance value is The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, which outputs the remaining amount of aerosol generating material.

6. A memory that stores at least one of the default gain value and the predetermined offset value. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising:

7. The aforementioned processor, Noise due to external interference and hysteresis due to changes in the water level of the liquid storage section. Reflecting the effect, a predetermined difference is set between the levels of the remaining amount of the aerosol-generating substance. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The system further includes a puff sensor that detects the inhalation of the vaporized aerosol, The aforementioned processor, The puff sensor counts the number of puffs detected, and the counted The aerosol generator according to claim 1, which calculates the remaining amount of puff base corresponding to the cumulative sum of the number of puffs. equipment.

9. The aforementioned processor, The remaining amount of the calculated aerosol-generating substance is compared with the remaining amount of the puff substrate, and each If the difference exceeds a threshold, the calculated remaining amount of aerosol-generating substance is not output. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8.

10. The display further includes an icon that outputs an icon corresponding to the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance. fruit, The aforementioned processor, When the cartridge is installed in the main unit, the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance is calculated. The system controls the output of an icon corresponding to the calculated remaining amount to the display. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

11. The aforementioned display is The remaining amount of the aerosol-generating substance is at least four, corresponding to high / medium / low / none. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, which outputs as individual icons.

12. The electrode member is The air according to claim 1, having an area corresponding to the area of ​​the liquid storage section of the cartridge. Rosol generating device.

13. The electrode member is The liquid storage portion of the cartridge is separated by approximately 0.55 mm to 1.55 mm, according to the claim. The aerosol generating apparatus described in 1.

14. The electrode member and the capacitive sensor are connected by a connector including a C-clip. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

15. In a control method for an aerosol generating device, An electrode member is positioned on one side of the main body so as to be opposite one side of the detachable cartridge. The step of applying a constant measurement signal, The steps include receiving a sensing signal received from the electrode member, Capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor The stage of calculating, Based on the calculated capacitance value and the predetermined gain value, the liquid state of the cartridge Aerosol generation includes the step of calculating the remaining amount of aerosol-generating material stored in the storage area. A method for controlling a device.

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