Aerosol generating apparatus and its operating method

Abstract

An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a main body having a storage space into which an aerosol product is inserted, a cap detachably coupled to the main body, a cartridge detachably coupled to the main body, a first sensor for sensing whether the cap is attached or detached, a second sensor for sensing whether the cartridge is attached or detached, a third sensor for sensing the remaining amount of liquid in the cartridge, and a microcontroller electrically connected to the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor. The microcontroller wakes up when the measurement value sensed by the first sensor changes to a predetermined value or more, and determines whether the cap is attached or detached. If it is determined that the cap has been removed from the main body, it uses the second sensor to sense whether the cartridge is attached or detached during a predetermined grace period. However, if it is not possible to detect whether the cartridge is attached or detached during the grace period, it switches to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed. During sleep mode, it wakes up when the measurement value sensed by the third sensor changes to a predetermined value or more, and uses the second sensor to sense whether the cartridge is attached or detached again.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and method including a cartridge. Specifically, it relates to an aerosol generating device capable of confirming whether a cartridge has been replaced with low power consumption.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, the demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes has been increasing. For example, the demand for a method of generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substance in a cigarette instead of burning a cigarette to generate an aerosol has been increasing. Accordingly, research on heated cigarettes or heated aerosol generating devices has been actively conducted.

[0003] An aerosol generating device includes a cartridge for generating an aerosol. The cartridge includes a storage unit for storing an aerosol generating substance and an atomization unit for vaporizing the aerosol generating substance. In order for the aerosol generating device to operate safely and normally, information on whether the cartridge has been replaced and the remaining liquid amount of the cartridge is required.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating device and a driving method thereof capable of accurately confirming whether a cartridge has been replaced with low power consumption can be provided.

[0005] The problems to be solved through the embodiments are not limited to the problems described above, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the embodiments belong from the present specification and the attached drawings.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment includes a main body having a storage space into which an aerosol product is inserted, a cap detachably coupled to the main body, a cartridge detachably coupled to the main body, a first sensor for sensing whether the cap is attached or detached, a second sensor for sensing whether the cartridge is attached or detached, a third sensor for sensing the remaining amount of liquid in the cartridge, and a microcontroller electrically connected to the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor.

[0007] The microcontroller wakes up when the measurement value detected by the first sensor changes to a predetermined value or higher, and determines whether the cap has been removed or not. If it is determined that the cap has been removed from the main body, it uses the second sensor to detect whether the cartridge has been removed or not during a predetermined grace period. However, if it is not possible to detect whether the cartridge has been removed or not during the grace period, it switches to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed. During the sleep mode, it wakes up when the measurement value detected by the third sensor changes to a predetermined value or higher, and uses the second sensor to detect whether the cartridge has been removed or not again.

[0008] An aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment includes a main body having a storage space into which an aerosol product is inserted, a cap detachably coupled to the main body, a cartridge detachably coupled to the main body, a first sensor for sensing whether the cap is attached or detached, a second sensor for sensing whether the cartridge is attached or detached, a third sensor for sensing the remaining amount of liquid in the cartridge, and a microcontroller electrically connected to the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor.

[0009] The microcontroller wakes up when the measurement value sensed by the first sensor changes to a predetermined value or more, and determines whether the cap has been attached or detached. If it is determined that the cap has been removed from the main body, it uses the second sensor to sense whether the cartridge has been attached or detached during a predetermined grace period. However, if it is not possible to detect whether the cartridge has been attached or detached during the grace period, it switches to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed, and during the sleep mode, it wakes up at predetermined intervals to sense whether the cartridge has been attached or detached again using the second sensor.

[0010] The operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes the steps of: waking up the microcontroller and determining whether the cap is attached or detached when a measurement value detected by a first sensor that detects whether the cap is attached or detached changes to a predetermined value or greater; if it is determined that the cap has been removed from the main body, sensing whether the cartridge is attached or detached using a second sensor that detects whether the cartridge is attached or detached during a predetermined grace period, but if the attachment or detachment of the cartridge could not be detected during the grace period, switching the microcontroller to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed; and during the sleep mode, waking up the microcontroller and again sensing whether the cartridge is attached or detached using the second sensor when a measurement value detected by a third sensor that detects the remaining amount of liquid in the cartridge changes to a predetermined value or greater. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] The aerosol generating apparatus and method according to various embodiments of the present invention can accurately determine whether a cartridge has been replaced with low power consumption by generating an interrupt signal that cancels sleep mode based on a measurement value from a capacitance sensor that senses the remaining amount of liquid in the cartridge.

[0012] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and any effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol generating apparatus. [Figure 2] This is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol generating apparatus. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating one example of a method for determining the connection between the main body and the cap. [Figure 5A] This is a diagram illustrating the structure of a third sensor according to one embodiment. [Figure 5B] This is a diagram illustrating the method for driving the third sensor. [Figure 5C] This is a diagram illustrating the method for driving the third sensor. [Figure 5D] This is a diagram illustrating the method for driving the third sensor. [Figure 5E] This is a diagram illustrating the method for driving the third sensor. [Figure 6] This is a diagram illustrating an electrode unit arranged in the main body according to another embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating an electrode unit arranged in the main body according to another embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining whether a cartridge has been attached or detached in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] As terms used in the embodiments, general terms that are currently widely used as much as possible in view of the functions of the present invention are selected, but this may change depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Also, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, the meaning thereof is described in detail in the description part of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based on the meaning that the term has and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply the name of the term.

[0015] Throughout the specification, when a certain part "includes" a certain component, this means that, unless otherwise stated, it does not exclude other components but can further include other components. Also, terms such as "~ part" and "~ module" described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which can be embodied in hardware or software, or in a combination of hardware and software.

[0016] Hereinafter, referring to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described here.

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0018] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are drawings showing an example of an aerosol generating device.

[0019] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a main body 10 including a semi-exterior part 13, an electrode unit 150, a sensing unit 140, a microcontroller 130, a battery 120, and a housing unit 14. The aerosol generating device 100 further includes a cap 30.

[0020] A cartridge 20 is detachably mounted in the semi-external part 13. The semi-external part 13 includes fixing means that are physically connected to the cartridge 20, and electrical contacts 18 that are electrically connected to the cartridge 20. The cartridge 20 can be electrically connected to the sensing unit 140, the battery 120, and the microcontroller 130 via the electrical contacts 18. Power is supplied from the battery 120 to the atomizing unit 22 via the electrical contacts 18. The microcontroller 130 can determine whether the cartridge 20 is mounted in the semi-external part 13 via the electrical contacts 18 or the fixing means. In this case, the cartridge 20 includes a liquid storage unit 21 for storing the liquid composition and an atomizing unit 22. The electrode unit 150 is positioned adjacent to the liquid storage unit 21.

[0021] The aerosol generator 100 may be further configured to accommodate aerosol products 7 (e.g., cigarettes) in addition to the cartridge 20. For example, the semi-external part 13 may include an article storage section 12 for accommodating the aerosol products 7. The article storage section 12 is a space for accommodating the aerosol products 7, and the semi-external part 13 may further include a heater 110 positioned along the circumferential direction of the side surface of the article storage section 12.

[0022] The main body 10 further includes airflow paths 15 and 16. Airflow paths 15 and 16 are passages for introducing outside air into the aerosol product 7 so that aerosols can be generated from the aerosol product 7. Airflow paths 15 and 16 are passages connecting the aerosol product 7 and the cartridge 20. As a result, aerosols generated from the cartridge 20 can be transmitted to the aerosol product 7 via airflow paths 15 and 16. The aerosol product 7 generates aerosols separately from the cartridge 20. Therefore, aerosols generated from the cartridge 20, together with aerosols generated from the aerosol product 7, can be transmitted to the user via the aerosol product 7.

[0023] The cap 30 is detachably attached to the main body 10. The cap 30 is attached to the main body 10 so as to cover at least a portion of the cartridge 20 mounted on the semi-external part 13. The cap 30 is attached to the main body 10 to prevent the cartridge 20 from being unintentionally separated from the aerosol generator 100. The cap 30 further includes an insertion hole 31 positioned to correspond to the article storage section 12 and a slide cover 32 that can open and close the insertion hole 31.

[0024] The cap 30 contains an electromagnetic wave shielding material. When the cap 30 is coupled to the main body 10, electromagnetic waves are shielded from the outside, which increases the reliability of the capacitance measurement value obtained by the sensing unit 140 measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150.

[0025] If the aerosol generator 100 further includes an article storage section 12, a heater 110, and airflow paths 15 and 16, the aerosol generator 100 can generate aerosols from both the cartridge 20 and the aerosol product 7 and provide them to the user. This diversifies the aerosols provided by the device 100, improving the flavor and smoking sensation of the aerosols.

[0026] The sensing unit 140 obtains capacitance measurements by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150. For example, if the electrode unit 150 includes multiple electrodes, capacitance measurements can be obtained by measuring the capacitance between the electrodes. As another example, if the electrode unit 150 includes one electrode, capacitance measurements can be obtained by measuring the capacitance between the electrode and the ground.

[0027] The sensing unit 140, microcontroller 130, and battery 120 are arranged inside the housing unit 14. The electrode unit 150 is positioned at a distance from the cartridge 20 mounted on the semi-external part 13.

[0028] An input interface means and an output interface means are arranged outside the housing unit 14. In the aerosol generator 100 of the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, a button 161 that can be operated by the user is installed as the input interface means, and an LED (light-emitting diode) 162 and a screen 163 that display the internal operating status of the aerosol generator 100 are installed as the output interface means. The screen 163 is an input interface means and is a touch screen.

[0029] The microcontroller 130 can display a "normal operating state" based on conditions such as the normal operation of the heater 110, sufficient battery charge, and sufficient cartridge charge by illuminating the LED 162. The LED 162 can display the internal operating state of the aerosol generator 100 by illuminating one of several predetermined hues.

[0030] When the user presses button 161, LED 162 lights up, allowing the user to check the battery level, total puff count, puff count used, or remaining puff count from the light emitted by LED 162. For example, if LED 162 emits green light, it means that there are enough remaining puffs to provide the user with a predetermined number of puffs, and if LED 162 emits red light, it means that there are not enough remaining puffs to provide the user with a predetermined number of puffs.

[0031] Furthermore, the status of the aerosol generator 100, such as the battery level, total number of puffs, number of puffs used, or number of remaining puffs, is output to the screen 163. For example, the screen 163 outputs the total number of puffs, number of puffs used, or number of remaining puffs based on various notations such as Arabic numerals.

[0032] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of an aerosol generation device according to one embodiment.

[0033] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the aerosol generator 100 includes a heater 110, a battery 120, a microcontroller 130, a sensing unit 140, a user interface 160, and a memory 170, among others. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 100 is not limited to that shown in Figure 3. Those skilled in the art will understand that the design of the aerosol generator 1300 may omit some of the hardware configurations shown in Figure 3, or new configurations may be added.

[0034] The aerosol generator 100 generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol product. For example, the aerosol product is a cigarette 7. Alternatively, the aerosol generator 100 generates an aerosol by heating the liquid composition of a cartridge. Alternatively, the aerosol generator 100 generates an aerosol by heating both the aerosol product and the liquid composition of a cartridge.

[0035] The liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances, including volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. The liquid composition may include, for example, one of the following components, or a mixture of these components: water, solvent, ethanol, plant extract, fragrance, flavoring agent, and vitamin mixture. The liquid composition may also include aerosol-generating substances such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0036] The aerosol generator 100 includes a cartridge 20. The cartridge 20 is detachably connected to the aerosol generator 100. The cartridge may be disposable or reusable.

[0037] The aerosol generator 100 includes a heater 110. The heater 110 is powered by a battery 120 under the control of a microcontroller 130. Powered by the battery 120, the heater 110 heats the liquid composition of the aerosol product or cartridge inserted into the aerosol generator 100.

[0038] The heater 110 is formed from any suitable electrical-resistant material. Suitable electrical-resistant materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys, such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The heater 110 is also not limited to, but can be embodied in a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which conductive tracks are arranged, or a ceramic heating element.

[0039] In one embodiment, the heater 110 is a component included in a cartridge. The cartridge includes an atomizing section containing the heater 110 and a liquid transfer means, and a liquid storage section. The aerosol-generating material contained in the liquid storage section is transferred to the liquid transfer means, and the heater 110 heats the liquid composition absorbed by the liquid transfer means to generate an aerosol. For example, the heater 110 is made of a material such as nickel-chromium and is either wound around the liquid transfer means or positioned adjacent to the liquid transfer means.

[0040] In another embodiment, the heater 110 heats the aerosol product inserted into the article container of the aerosol generator 100. Because the aerosol product is housed in the article container of the aerosol generator 100, the heater 110 is located inside and / or outside the aerosol product. This allows the heater 110 to heat the aerosol-generating material within the aerosol product to generate an aerosol.

[0041] On the other hand, the heater 110 is an induction heating heater 110. The heater 110 includes a conductive coil for heating the aerosol product or cartridge by induction heating, and the aerosol product or cartridge includes a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heating heater 110.

[0042] The battery 120 supplies the power used when the aerosol generator 100 operates. Specifically, the battery 120 supplies power to heat the heater 110. The battery 120 also supplies the power necessary for the operation of other hardware components within the aerosol generator 100, namely the microcontroller 130, the sensing unit 140, the user interface 160, and the memory 170. The battery 120 is either a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 120 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to this.

[0043] The aerosol generator 100 includes a sensing unit 140. The results sensed by the sensing unit 140 are transmitted to a microcontroller 130, and based on the sensing results, the microcontroller 130 controls the aerosol generator 100 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the heater 110, limiting smoking, determining whether to attach or detach the cap, determining whether to insert the aerosol product (or cartridge), determining the remaining liquid level in the cartridge, displaying notifications, and determining the number of puffs.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the sensing unit 140 includes a first sensor 141 that detects whether the cap 30 is attached or detached, a second sensor 142 that detects whether the cartridge (20 in Figure 3) is attached or detached, and a third sensor 143 that detects the remaining amount of liquid in the cartridge.

[0045] For example, the first sensor 141 is an inductive sensor that detects changes in the inductance of a coil (19 in Figure 6). The inductive sensor detects whether the cap 30 has been removed from or attached to the main body 10 of the aerosol generator 100. The inductive sensor detects the change in the inductance of the coil that occurs when the cap 30 is removed from or attached to the main body 10. At this time, the cap 30 contains an electromagnetic dielectric.

[0046] Furthermore, the second sensor 142 is a cartridge sensing sensor that determines whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached by current sensing. Current sensing is performed at a predetermined interval. For example, the second sensor 142 performs current sensing with a period of 500 [ms], and the sensor activation time is 200 [us].

[0047] The cartridge sensing sensor includes two terminals connected to the cartridge 20 and transmits a pulsed current through one of the terminals connected to the cartridge. At this time, the cartridge sensing sensor senses whether the cartridge is connected or not based on whether a pulsed current is received through the other terminal. For example, the second sensor 142 (or cartridge sensing sensor) determines that the cartridge 20 is installed in the main unit 10 if the pulsed current transmitted through one terminal is received through the other terminal, and conversely, determines that the cartridge 20 has been removed from the main unit 10 if no pulsed current is received through the other terminal. The microcontroller 130 determines that the cartridge 20 has been replaced if it receives consecutive result values ​​from the second sensor 142 in the order of cartridge 20 installed in the main unit 10, cartridge 20 removed from the main unit 10, and cartridge 20 installed in the main unit 10.

[0048] Furthermore, the third sensor 143 is a capacitance sensor that obtains capacitance measurements by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150. The capacitance sensor measures the capacitance of the electrode unit 150. For example, the electrode unit 150 includes a first electrode, and the capacitance sensor measures the capacitance between the first electrode and the ground. As another example, the electrode unit 150 includes a first electrode and a second electrode, and the capacitance sensor measures the capacitance between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0049] When the cap 30 is attached to the main body 10, the capacitive sensor is used as a level sensor to measure the water level using capacitance, and when the cap 30 is removed from the main body 10, it can be used as a proximity sensor to detect an approaching object using capacitance. When the cap 30 is removed from the main body 10, the capacitance measurement value changes when a part of the user's body (for example, a finger) approaches or moves away from the electrode unit 150.

[0050] The sensing unit 140 also includes a puff sensor (not shown). The puff sensor detects user puffs based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor detects user puffs based on one of the following: temperature changes, flow rate changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0051] The user interface 160 provides the user with information regarding the status of the aerosol generator 100. The user interface 160 includes a variety of interface means, such as a display or lamp that outputs visual information, a motor that outputs tactile information, a speaker that outputs sound information, input / output (I / O) interface means (e.g., buttons or touchscreens) that receive information input from the user or output information to the user, terminals for data communication or supplying charging power, and a communication interface module for wireless communication with external devices (e.g., Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, NFC (Near-Field Communication), etc.).

[0052] However, the aerosol generator 100 may only incorporate a selection of the various user interfaces 160 exemplified above.

[0053] The microcontroller 130 is hardware that controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 100. The microcontroller 130 is a computer that performs certain functions by integrating a microprocessor and input / output modules onto a single chip.

[0054] The microcontroller 130 analyzes the results sensed by the sensing unit 140 and controls the subsequent processing.

[0055] The microcontroller 130 controls the power supplied to the heater 110 so that the heater 110 starts or stops operating, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 140. The microcontroller 130 also controls the amount of power supplied to the heater 110 and the duration of power supply so that the heater 110 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 140.

[0056] In one embodiment, after receiving user input to the aerosol generator 100, the microcontroller 130 sets the mode of the heater 110 to preheating mode in order to start the heater 110's operation. The microcontroller 130 also detects the user's puff using a puff detection sensor and then switches the mode of the heater 110 from preheating mode to operation mode. The microcontroller 130 also counts the number of puffs using the puff detection sensor, and when the number of puffs reaches a predetermined number, it interrupts the power supply to the heater 110.

[0057] The microcontroller 130 controls the user interface 160 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 140. For example, after counting the number of puffs using the puff sensing sensor, if the number of puffs reaches a predetermined number, the microcontroller 130 uses the output interface means to notify the user that the aerosol generator 100 will soon shut down.

[0058] According to one embodiment, when the measurement value sensed by the first sensor 141 changes to a predetermined value or more, the microcontroller 130 wakes up from sleep mode and determines whether the cap 30 is attached or detached.

[0059] If the microcontroller 130 determines that the cap 30 has been removed from the main body 10, it uses the second sensor 142 to detect whether the cartridge 20 has been attached or detached during a predetermined grace period. However, if it is unable to detect whether the cartridge 20 has been attached or detached during the grace period, it switches to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed.

[0060] The microcontroller 130 wakes up when the measurement value detected by the third sensor 143 changes to a predetermined value or more during sleep mode, and uses the second sensor 142 to detect again whether the cartridge has been inserted or removed.

[0061] The microcontroller 130 determines the total number of puffs that can be generated from the cartridge installed in the aerosol generator 100 based on the measurement value of the capacitance sensor. The microcontroller 130 also determines the number of puffs used based on the user's inhalation detected by the puff sensing sensor. Furthermore, the microcontroller 130 determines the remaining number of puffs by subtracting the number of puffs used from the total number of puffs. The microcontroller 130 can inform the user of the total number of puffs, the number of puffs used, and the remaining number of puffs using an output interface means.

[0062] Memory 170 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 100, and stores data processed by the microcontroller 130 and data being processed. Memory 170 can be implemented in various forms such as RAM (random access memory) including DRAM (dynamic random access memory) and SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), and EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory).

[0063] Memory 170 stores data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 100, the total number of puffs, the number of puffs used, the number of remaining puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0064] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for determining the connection state between the main body and the cap.

[0065] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, the main body 10 includes a coil 19 for determining the bonding state with the cap 30 and the aerosol product 7.

[0066] The first sensor 141 senses the change in the current flowing through the coil 19, which is generated by electromagnetic induction between the coil 19 and the electromagnetic induced 33, depending on the coupling state between the main body 10 and the cap 30.

[0067] When the cap 30 is coupled to the main body 10, the distance between the electromagnetic conductor 33 and the coil 19 decreases. As the electromagnetic conductor 33 approaches the coil 19, a change in current occurs in the coil 19, which the first sensor 141 detects. The microcontroller 130 determines the coupling between the cap 30 and the main body 10 based on the change in current.

[0068] Conversely, when the cap 30 is separated from the main body 10, a change in current occurs in the coil 19 as the distance between the electromagnetic conductor 33 and the coil 19 increases. The microcontroller 130 determines that the cap 30 has been separated from the main body 10 based on the change in current sensed by the first sensor 141.

[0069] Furthermore, the first sensor 141 senses the change in the current flowing through the coil, which is generated by electromagnetic induction between the coil 19 and the electromagnetic derivative 71, depending on the insertion state of the aerosol product 7.

[0070] When the aerosol product 7 is inserted into the main body 10, the distance between the electromagnetic conductor 71 and the coil 19 decreases. As the electromagnetic conductor 71 approaches the coil 19, a change in current occurs in the coil 19, which the first sensor 141 detects. The microcontroller 130 determines the insertion of the aerosol product 7 based on the change in current.

[0071] Conversely, when the aerosol product 7 is separated from the main body 10, a change in current occurs in the coil 19 as the distance between the electromagnetic conductor 71 and the coil 19 increases. The microcontroller 130 determines that the aerosol product 7 has been separated from the main body 10 based on the change in current sensed by the first sensor 141.

[0072] The change in coil current generated by the electromagnetic derivative 33 of the cap 30 is different from the change in coil current generated by the electromagnetic derivative 71 of the aerosol product 7. For example, the frequency change of the current generated when the cap 30 is coupled to the main body 10 is greater than the frequency change of the current generated when the aerosol product 7 is inserted into the main body 10. As a result, the microcontroller 130 distinguishes and identifies the coupling state of the cap 30 and the insertion state of the aerosol product 7, and identifies one of the two states.

[0073] In one embodiment, the first sensor 141 transmits the amount of change in the coil current generated by attaching or detaching the cap 30 as an interrupt signal to the microcontroller 130. In other words, when the measured value sensed by the first sensor 141 changes to a predetermined value or more, the microcontroller 130 wakes up in sleep mode to determine whether the cap 30 is attached or detached. At this time, sleep mode means a mode in which the power to the remaining components (e.g., heater 110) is cut off, excluding the components for sensing whether the cap 30 is attached or detached (e.g., sensing unit 140, memory 170, etc.).

[0074] When the microcontroller 130 determines that the cap 30 has been removed from the main body 10, it uses the second sensor 142 to sense whether the cartridge 20 has been removed or not during a predetermined grace period (e.g., 5 seconds). However, if the microcontroller 130 is unable to sense whether the cartridge 20 has been removed or not during the grace period, it switches to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed. In this case, sleep mode means a mode in which power is cut off to the remaining components (e.g., heater 110) except for components for sensing objects approaching the cartridge 20 (e.g., sensing unit 140, memory 170, etc.).

[0075] This configuration is designed to reduce power consumption because, even if the user removes the cap 30 from the main body 10 to replace the cartridge 20, it is difficult to predict when the cartridge 20 will actually be replaced. For example, if the user does not immediately replace the cartridge 20 after removing the cap 30, allowing the second sensor 142 to attempt current sensing indefinitely without any grace period would result in unnecessary power consumption and discharge of the battery 120.

[0076] On the other hand, a third sensor 143 (for example, a capacitance sensor) can also be used to detect whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached. Even when the liquid phase inside the cartridge 20 is completely exhausted, the cartridge 20 itself still has dielectric properties, so the capacitance sensor can detect whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached based on the difference between the capacitance measurement value when the cartridge 20 is attached to the main body 10 and the capacitance measurement value when the cartridge 20 is removed from the main body 10. However, if the cap 30 is removed, the electrode unit 150 may be affected by external noise, so judging whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached based on the difference in capacitance measurement values ​​due to the attachment or detachment of the cartridge 20 carries the risk of errors.

[0077] Hereinafter, with reference to Figures 5A to 5E, an embodiment that can accurately measure whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached with low power consumption will be described. Figures 5A to 5D illustrate a general driving method for the third sensor 143 (or capacitive sensor), and Figure 5E illustrates a driving method for the third sensor 143 in sleep mode.

[0078] Figure 5A is a diagram illustrating the structure of a third sensor according to one embodiment. Figures 5B to 5E are diagrams illustrating a method for driving the third sensor.

[0079] Referring to Figure 5A, the third sensor 143 according to one embodiment includes a transmitter TDC, a receiver TRC, and an output INF.

[0080] The transmitter TDC is configured to supply a drive signal to the electrode unit 150. The transmitter TDC is configured to supply a drive signal to the electrode unit 150 during the first period.

[0081] The receiver TRC is configured to receive a sensing signal from the electrode unit 150. The receiver TRC is configured to receive a sensing signal from the electrode unit 150 during the second period following the first period. The first period and the second period do not overlap.

[0082] The output unit INF is configured to transmit the sensing signal to the microcontroller 130. The output unit INF is configured to transmit the sensing signal to the microcontroller 130 during the second period.

[0083] The transmitter unit TDC includes a power supply unit PSP and a first switch SW1. The first switch SW1 connects the power supply unit PSP and the electrode unit 150. The power supply unit PSP supplies a drive signal VDD or an initialization signal VSS. The voltage level of the drive signal VDD is greater than the voltage level of the initialization signal VSS. For example, when the third switch SW3 is turned on, the power supply unit PSP supplies the drive signal VDD to the output terminal, and when the fourth switch SW4 is turned on, it supplies the initialization signal VSS to the output terminal.

[0084] The receiver TRC includes an integrator ITG and a second switch SW2. The integrator ITG outputs a voltage signal to the output terminal OUT1 at a voltage level corresponding to the amount of charge charged in the electrode unit 150. In other words, the integrator ITG functions as a type of sensor channel. The second switch SW2 connects the integrator ITG and the electrode unit 150.

[0085] For example, the integrator ITG includes an amplifier AMP, a capacitor CA, and a reset switch SWr. The amplifier AMP includes a first input terminal IN1 connected to a second switch SW2, a second input terminal IN2 that receives a reference voltage Vref, and an output terminal OUT1. For example, the amplifier AMP is an operational amplifier. For example, the first input terminal IN1 is an inverting terminal, and the second input terminal IN2 is a non-inverting terminal. The voltage level of the reference voltage Vref is greater than the voltage level of the initialization signal VSS and less than the voltage level of the drive signal VDD. The capacitor CA connects the first input terminal IN1 and the output terminal OUT1. The reset switch SWr connects the first input terminal IN1 and the output terminal OUT1.

[0086] The output section INF includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The ADC receives the output signal from the integrator ITG. The ADC converts the analog voltage level output by the integrator ITG into a digital value and outputs it to the microcontroller 130. The microcontroller 130 receives the output signal of the analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The microcontroller 130 uses the received digital value to calculate the capacitance of the electrode unit 150.

[0087] Referring to Figure 5B, the first period of charging the electrode unit 150 will be explained.

[0088] The power supply unit PSP supplies a drive signal VDD to the electrode unit 150 during the first period. For example, the power supply unit PSP supplies the drive signal VDD to the electrode unit 150 when the third switch SW3 is turned on during the first period.

[0089] The first switch SW1 electrically connects the power supply PSP and the electrode unit 150 during the first period. That is, the first switch SW1 is turned on during the first period. Therefore, the drive signal VDD can be applied to the electrode unit 150 during the first period. At this time, the second switch SW2 electrically disconnects the integrator ITG and the electrode unit 150 during the first period. That is, the second switch SW2 is turned off during the first period.

[0090] At this time, the magnetic capacitance between the electrode unit 150 and the cartridge 20 changes depending on the remaining amount of aerosol-generating substance (or liquid phase) in the cartridge 20, resulting in a difference in the amount of charge charged to the electrode unit 150. The capacitance between the electrode unit 150 and the cartridge 20 depends on the amount of aerosol-generating substance stored in the cartridge 20. For example, the capacitance decreases as the amount of aerosol-generating substance stored in the cartridge 20 decreases.

[0091] Referring to Figure 5C, the second period of sensing the electrode unit 150 will be explained.

[0092] The second switch SW2 electrically connects the integrator ITG and the electrode unit 150 during the second period following the first period. In other words, the second switch SW2 is turned on during the second period.

[0093] The integrator ITG receives a sensing signal SI from the electrode unit 150 during the second period. For example, the integrator ITG outputs a voltage signal to the output terminal OUT1 that corresponds to the amount of charge charged in the electrode unit 150. At the end of the second period, the voltage level of the electrode unit 150 is the same as the voltage level of the reference voltage Vref.

[0094] During this time, the first switch SW1 electrically isolates the power supply unit PSP and the electrode unit 150 during the second period. In other words, the first switch SW1 is in the turned-off state during the second period.

[0095] The analog-to-digital converter (ADC) converts the voltage signal received from the integrator (ITG) into a digital value and transmits it to the microcontroller 130. The microcontroller 130 then uses the received digital value to calculate the capacitance of the electrode unit 150. At this time, the capacitance of the electrode unit 150 represents the total capacitance between the electrode unit 150 and the aerosol-generating substance.

[0096] Referring to Figure 5D, the third period for initializing the electrode unit 150 will be explained.

[0097] The first switch SW1 electrically connects the power supply unit PSP and the electrode unit 150 during the third period following the second period. In other words, the first switch SW1 is turned on during the third period.

[0098] The power supply unit PSP supplies an initialization signal VSS to the electrode unit 150 during the third period. For example, the power supply unit PSP supplies the initialization signal VSS to the electrode unit 150 when the fourth switch SW4 is turned on during the third period. As a result, at the end of the third period, the voltage level of the electrode unit 150 may be the same as the voltage level of the initialization signal VSS. For example, the voltage level of the initialization signal VSS is lower than the voltage level of the reference voltage Vref.

[0099] Furthermore, the charge amount of capacitor CA can be initialized by turning on the reset switch SWr during the third period. In other embodiments, the reset switch SWr may be turned on during a period other than the third period.

[0100] On the other hand, as explained in Figure 4, if the microcontroller 130 cannot detect whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached during the grace period, it switches to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed. While in sleep mode, the microcontroller 130 wakes up from sleep mode when the measured value detected by the third sensor 143 changes to a predetermined value or more, and uses the second sensor 142 to determine again whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached. At this time, the default value is set to the difference between the amount of charge charged to the electrode unit 150 when an empty cartridge 20 is attached and the amount of charge charged to the electrode unit 150 when a part of the user's body (e.g., a finger) approaches (or moves away from) the attached empty cartridge 20.

[0101] As described in the explanation of Figure 5B, the amount of charge charged to the electrode unit 150 generally varies depending on the remaining amount of aerosol-generating substance (or liquid phase) in the cartridge 20. However, as shown in Figure 5E, the amount of charge charged to the electrode unit 150 may also vary further depending on external objects (OBJs) that are close to or detached from the electrode unit 150 (or cartridge 20). For example, an external object (OBJ) could be a part of the user's body, such as a finger.

[0102] Therefore, the third sensor 143 can transmit the capacitance change amount generated by an external object OBJ approaching or moving away from the electrode unit 150 as an interrupt signal to the microcontroller 130. This is because, when the cap 30 is removed and the microcontroller 130 is operating in sleep mode after a grace period has elapsed, the user's finger approaching or moving away from the electrode unit 150 is considered as an attempt to replace the empty cartridge 20, causing the microcontroller 130 to exit sleep mode and use the second sensor 142 to determine again whether the cartridge 20 has been removed or not.

[0103] The second sensor 142 is a cartridge sensing sensor that determines whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached by current sensing. Current sensing is performed at a predetermined interval. The cartridge sensing sensor includes two terminals connected to the cartridge 20 and transmits a pulsed current through one of the terminals connected to the cartridge. At this time, the cartridge sensing sensor senses whether the cartridge is attached or detached based on whether the pulsed current is received through the other terminal. For example, the second sensor 142 (or cartridge sensing sensor) determines that the cartridge 20 is attached to the main unit 10 if the pulsed current transmitted through one terminal is received through the other terminal, and conversely, determines that the cartridge 20 has been removed from the main unit 10 if the pulsed current is not received through the other terminal. The microcontroller 130 determines that the cartridge 20 has been replaced if it receives consecutive result values ​​from the second sensor 142 in the order of cartridge 20 attached to the main unit 10, cartridge 20 removed from the main unit 10, and cartridge 20 attached to the main unit 10.

[0104] This reduces power consumption by activating the second sensor 142 only when there is a clear intention by the user to replace the cartridge 20 (i.e., when the measured value detected by the third sensor 143 changes to a predetermined value or more during sleep mode), instead of endlessly attempting to sense the current using the second sensor 142 without any grace period, causing unnecessary power consumption, even if the user does not immediately replace the cartridge 20 after removing the cap 30. This also allows for accurate determination of whether the cartridge 20 should be replaced using a current sensing method that is resistant to external noise.

[0105] On the other hand, according to another embodiment, the microcontroller 130 wakes up when the measured value sensed by the first sensor 141 changes to a predetermined value or more, determines whether the cap 30 is attached or detached, and if it is determined that the cap 30 has been separated from the main body 10, it uses the second sensor 142 to sense whether the cartridge 20 has been attached or detached during a predetermined grace period. However, if it is not possible to detect whether the cartridge 20 has been attached or detached during the grace period, it switches to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed.

[0106] If the microcontroller 130 cannot detect whether the cartridge 20 has been inserted or removed during the grace period, it switches to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed. While in sleep mode, the microcontroller 130 wakes up at predetermined intervals and uses the second sensor 142 to detect whether the cartridge 20 has been inserted or removed again. At this time, the microcontroller 130 wakes up multiple times until the cap 30 is attached to the main body 10.

[0107] In this way, it is possible to easily wake up the sleep mode of the microcontroller 130 using a signal from the microcontroller 130 itself, rather than an interrupt signal from the third sensor 143.

[0108] When the microcontroller 130 determines that the cap 30 is attached after the cartridge 20 has been replaced, it determines the total number of puffs from which aerosol can be generated from the cartridge 20 based on the capacitance measurement value.

[0109] Specifically, the microcontroller 130 obtains a capacitance difference value by calculating the difference between a first capacitance measurement value obtained by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150 at a first time point when the cap 30 is removed from the main body 10, and a second capacitance measurement value obtained by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150 at a second time point when the cap 30 is attached to the main body 10. Based on the capacitance difference value, the total number of puffs for the second time point can be determined.

[0110] The first time point is the point in time when the cap 30 is separated from the main body 10, or a point in time before it is separated. The microcontroller 130 obtains a first capacitance measurement by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150 at the first time point via the third sensor 143. For example, the third sensor 143 measures the capacitance of the electrode unit 150 at predetermined time intervals, and the microcontroller 130 obtains the capacitance last measured before the cap 30 is separated from the main body 10 as the first capacitance measurement.

[0111] Alternatively, the first time point is the point in time when the cartridge 20 is separated from the semi-external part 13, or a point in time before separation. The microcontroller 130 obtains a first capacitance measurement by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150 at the first time point. For example, the microcontroller 130 obtains the capacitance last measured before the first cartridge is separated from the semi-external part 13 as the first capacitance measurement.

[0112] Since the cap 30 is attached to the main body 10 in such a way that it covers at least a portion of the cartridge 20 which is mounted on the semi-external part 13, the time when the cap 30 is separated from the main body 10 and the time when the cartridge 20 is separated from the semi-external part 13 are the same.

[0113] The second time point is the time when the cap 30 is attached to the main body 10 or the time after it has been attached. The microcontroller 130 obtains the second capacitance measurement value by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150 at the second time point via the third sensor 143. For example, the third sensor 143 measures the capacitance of the electrode unit 150 at predetermined time intervals, and the microcontroller 130 obtains the capacitance measured for the first time after the cap 30 is attached to the main body 10 as the second capacitance measurement value.

[0114] Alternatively, the second time point is the time when the second cartridge is mounted on the semi-external part 13 or a time after it has been mounted. The microcontroller 130 obtains the second capacitance measurement value by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150 at the second time point. For example, the microcontroller 130 obtains the capacitance measured for the first time after the second cartridge is mounted on the semi-external part 13 as the second capacitance measurement value. Since the cap 30 is coupled to the main body 10 so as to cover at least a part of the cartridge 20 mounted on the semi-external part 13, the time when the cap 30 is mounted on the main body 10 and the time when the cartridge is mounted on the semi-external part 13 are the same.

[0115] The microcontroller 130 obtains the capacitance difference value by calculating the difference between the first capacitance measurement value and the second capacitance measurement value.

[0116] The capacitance difference is the value obtained by subtracting the second capacitance measurement from the first capacitance measurement. Alternatively, the capacitance difference is the value obtained by subtracting the first capacitance measurement from the second capacitance measurement. Alternatively, the capacitance difference is the absolute value of the difference between the first capacitance measurement and the second capacitance measurement.

[0117] The microcontroller 130 determines the total number of puffs that can generate aerosols from the cartridge installed in the aerosol generator 100, based on the capacitance difference value. The microcontroller 130 determines the total number of puffs for the second time point. At this time, the total number of puffs for the second time point is the number of puffs that can generate aerosols, which is expected from the cartridge 20 attached to the semi-external part 13 at the second time point. In the same manner, the total number of puffs for the first time point is the number of puffs that can generate aerosols, which is expected from the cartridge 20 attached to the semi-external part 13 at the first time point.

[0118] The microcontroller 130 can determine the remaining number of puffs by subtracting the number of puffs used based on the user's inhalation from the total number of puffs. In this case, the number of puffs used is the number of puffs counted by the user's inhalation when the user uses the aerosol generator 100. For example, if the total number of puffs is 450 and the number of puffs used is 80, counted by the user's 80 inhalations, the remaining number of puffs is 370.

[0119] The microcontroller 130 can determine the remaining number of puffs at the second time point by subtracting the number of puffs used at the second time point from the total number of puffs at the second time point. In this case, the number of puffs used at the second time point is the number of puffs inhaled by the user, counted from the second time point. The microcontroller 130 can also determine the remaining number of puffs at the first time point by subtracting the number of puffs used at the first time point from the total number of puffs at the first time point. In this case, the number of puffs used at the first time point is the number of puffs inhaled by the user, counted from the first time point.

[0120] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating an electrode unit arranged in the main body according to another embodiment.

[0121] The electrode unit 150 is positioned inside the housing unit 14, separated from the cartridge 20. The first electrode 151 and the second electrode 152 are positioned facing the cartridge 20. The first electrode 151 and the second electrode 152 are also positioned in the longitudinal direction X of the aerosol generator 100.

[0122] The first electrode 151 and the second electrode 152 are mounted on the PCB 155. The PCB 155 is electrically connected to the sensing unit 140 and the microcontroller 130.

[0123] The main body 10 includes a shield 17 positioned between the electrode unit 150 and the article storage section 12. The shield 17 includes an electromagnetic shielding material to block electromagnetic interference between the coil 19 and the electrode unit 150 for sensing whether the cap (30 in Figure 4) is attached or detached and / or whether the aerosol product 7 is inserted. For example, the shield 17 includes an EMI (Electro Magnetic Interference) shielding material.

[0124] In one embodiment, the first electrode 151 is charged with a positive charge, and the second electrode 152 is charged with a negative charge. The capacitance between the first electrode 151 and the second electrode 152 varies depending on the amount of liquid composition stored in the cartridge 20 and / or the presence or absence of external objects approaching the cartridge 20.

[0125] The third sensor 143 obtains a capacitance measurement value by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150. Based on the capacitance measurement value, the microcontroller 130 determines whether to wake up in sleep mode or to determine the total number of puffs.

[0126] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an electrode unit arranged in the main body according to yet another embodiment.

[0127] The electrode unit 150 is positioned inside the housing unit 14, separated from the cartridge 20. The first electrode 153 is positioned toward the cartridge 20, and the second electrode 154 is positioned toward the first electrode 153. The first electrode 153 and the second electrode 154 are positioned in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction X of the aerosol generator 100. For example, the first electrode 153 and the second electrode 154 are positioned in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X of the aerosol generator 100.

[0128] Although not shown in Figure 7, as shown in Figure 6, the main body 10 further includes a shield 17 and a coil 19.

[0129] In one embodiment, the first electrode 153 is charged with a positive charge, and the second electrode 154 is grounded. The capacitance between the first electrode 153 and the second electrode 154 varies depending on the amount of liquid composition stored in the cartridge 20 and / or the presence or absence of external objects approaching the cartridge 20.

[0130] The third sensor 143 obtains a capacitance measurement value by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150. Based on the capacitance measurement value, the microcontroller 130 determines whether to wake up in sleep mode or to determine the total number of puffs.

[0131] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining whether a cartridge has been attached or detached in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. It goes without saying that not only the embodiment shown in Figure 8, but also the embodiments described in Figures 1 to 7, can be applied to the operation method of the aerosol generating device.

[0132] Referring to Figures 1 to 8, the operation method of the aerosol generator 100 according to one embodiment includes the steps of: waking up the microcontroller 130 and determining whether the cap 30 is attached or detached when the measured value detected by the first sensor 141, which detects whether the cap 30 is attached or detached, changes to a predetermined value or greater (S10); if it is determined that the cap 30 has been removed from the main body 10, the microcontroller 130 is used to detect whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached using the second sensor 142, which detects whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached during a predetermined grace period, but if the attachment or detachment of the cartridge 20 cannot be detected during the grace period, the microcontroller 130 is switched to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed (S20); and while in sleep mode, waking up the microcontroller 130 and using the second sensor 142 to detect whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached again when the measured value detected by the third sensor 143, which detects the remaining amount of liquid in the cartridge 20, changes to a predetermined value or greater (S30).

[0133] In step S10, the first sensor 141 senses a change in the current flowing through the coil 19, which is generated by electromagnetic induction between the coil 19 and the electromagnetic induced dielectric 33, depending on the coupling state between the main body 10 and the cap 30.

[0134] When the cap 30 is coupled to the main body 10, the distance between the electromagnetic conductor 33 and the coil 19 decreases. As the electromagnetic conductor 33 approaches the coil 19, a change in current occurs in the coil 19, which the first sensor 141 detects. The microcontroller 130 determines the coupling between the cap 30 and the main body 10 based on the change in current.

[0135] Conversely, when the cap 30 is separated from the main body 10, a change in current occurs in the coil 19 as the distance between the electromagnetic conductor 33 and the coil 19 increases. The microcontroller 130 determines that the cap 30 has been separated from the main body 10 based on the change in current sensed by the first sensor 141.

[0136] In one embodiment, the first sensor 141 transmits the amount of change in the coil current generated by attaching or detaching the cap 30 as an interrupt signal to the microcontroller 130. In other words, when the measured value sensed by the first sensor 141 changes to a predetermined value or more, the microcontroller 130 wakes up in sleep mode to determine whether the cap 30 is attached or detached. At this time, sleep mode means a mode in which the power to the remaining components (e.g., heater 110) is cut off, excluding the components for sensing whether the cap 30 is attached or detached (e.g., sensing unit 140, memory 170, etc.).

[0137] In step S20, if the microcontroller 130 determines that the cap 30 has been removed from the main body 10, it uses the second sensor 142 to sense whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached during a predetermined grace period (e.g., 5 seconds). For example, the second sensor 142 is a cartridge sensing sensor that determines whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached by current sensing. Current sensing is performed at a predetermined interval. For example, the second sensor 142 performs current sensing with a period of 500 [ms] and the sensor activation time is 200 [us]. The cartridge sensing sensor includes two terminals connected to the cartridge 20 and transmits a pulsed current through one terminal connected to the cartridge. At this time, the cartridge sensing sensor senses whether the cartridge is attached or detached based on whether a pulsed current is received through the other terminal. For example, the second sensor 142 (or cartridge sensing sensor) determines that the cartridge 20 is installed in the main unit 10 if a pulse current transmitted through one terminal is received through another terminal, and conversely, determines that the cartridge 20 has been removed from the main unit 10 if no pulse current is received through the other terminal. The microcontroller 130 determines that the cartridge 20 has been replaced if it receives consecutive result values ​​from the second sensor 142 in the order of cartridge 20 installed in the main unit 10, cartridge 20 removed from the main unit 10, and cartridge 20 installed in the main unit 10.

[0138] However, if the microcontroller 130 is unable to detect whether the cartridge 20 has been inserted or removed during the grace period, it will switch to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed. In this case, sleep mode means a mode in which power is cut off to the remaining components (e.g., heater 110) except for the components for detecting an object approaching the cartridge (e.g., sensing unit 140, memory 170, etc.).

[0139] This configuration is designed to reduce power consumption because, even if the user removes the cap 30 from the main body 10 to replace the cartridge 20, it is difficult to predict when the cartridge 20 will actually be replaced. For example, if the user does not immediately replace the cartridge 20 after removing the cap 30, allowing the second sensor 142 to attempt current sensing indefinitely without any grace period would result in unnecessary power consumption and discharge of the battery 120.

[0140] In step S30, the microcontroller 130 wakes up from sleep mode when the measured value detected by the third sensor 143 changes to a predetermined value or more, and uses the second sensor 142 to determine again whether the cartridge 20 is attached or detached. At this time, the default value is set to the difference between the amount of charge charged to the electrode unit 150 when an empty cartridge 20 is attached and the amount of charge charged to the electrode unit 150 when a part of the user's body (e.g., a finger) approaches (or moves away from) the attached empty cartridge 20.

[0141] The third sensor 143 is a capacitance sensor that obtains capacitance measurements by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit 150. The capacitance sensor measures the capacitance of the electrode unit 150.

[0142] The third sensor 143 can transmit the change in capacitance generated by an external object OBJ approaching or moving away from the electrode unit 150 as an interrupt signal to the microcontroller 130. This is because, when the cap 30 has been removed and the microcontroller 130 is operating in sleep mode after a grace period has elapsed, the user's finger approaching or moving away from the electrode unit 150 is considered an attempt to replace the empty cartridge 20, causing the microcontroller 130 to exit sleep mode and use the second sensor 142 to determine again whether the cartridge 20 has been removed or not.

[0143] This reduces power consumption by activating the second sensor 142 only when there is a clear intention by the user to replace the cartridge 20 (i.e., when the measured value detected by the third sensor 143 changes to a predetermined value or more during sleep mode), instead of endlessly attempting to sense the current using the second sensor 142 without any grace period, causing unnecessary power consumption, even if the user does not immediately replace the cartridge 20 after removing the cap 30. This also allows for accurate determination of whether the cartridge 20 should be replaced using a current sensing method that is resistant to external noise.

[0144] One embodiment also embodies a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as a program module executed by a computer. Computer-readable media are any available medium accessible by a computer, and include both volatile and non-volatile media, and isolated and non-isolated media. Computer-readable media also include both computer recording media and communication media. Computer recording media include both volatile and non-volatile, isolated and non-isolated media, embodied in any method or technique for storing information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data such as modulated data signals or other data, and include any information transmission medium.

[0145] Those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be embodied in modified forms without departing from the essential characteristics described above. Therefore, the disclosed methods should be considered in an explanatory rather than restrictive manner. The scope of the invention is defined in the claims, not in the foregoing description, and all differences within an equivalent scope should be interpreted as being included in the invention.

[0146] The aerosol generating apparatus and method according to various embodiments of the present invention can determine whether a cartridge has been replaced with low power consumption by generating an interrupt signal that cancels sleep mode based on the measurement value of a capacitance sensor that senses the remaining liquid level inside the cartridge.

[0147] The embodiments described herein should be interpreted in a descriptive sense only and not intended to be limiting. Descriptions of features or aspects within each embodiment should generally be considered to apply to other similar features or aspects of other embodiments. Although one or more embodiments have been described with reference to the drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that a variety of modifications of form and detail can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined below.

Claims

1. A main body including a main body section having a containment space into which aerosol products are inserted, A cap that is detachably connected to the main body, A cartridge that is detachably connected to the main body, A first sensor that detects whether the cap is attached or detached, A second sensor that detects whether the cartridge has been attached or detached, A third sensor that senses the remaining amount of liquid in the cartridge, The system includes a microcontroller electrically connected to the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor, The aforementioned microcontroller is When the measured value detected by the first sensor changes to a value greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the system wakes up to determine whether the cap is attached or detached. If it is determined that the cap has been removed from the main body, the second sensor is used to detect whether the cartridge has been removed or not during a predetermined grace period. However, if the removal or attachment of the cartridge is not detected during the grace period, the system switches to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed. An aerosol generating device that wakes up when the measured value detected by the third sensor changes to a predetermined value or more during the sleep mode, and uses the second sensor to detect again whether the cartridge has been attached or detached.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cap includes an electromagnetic derivative, the first sensor includes a coil, and the microcontroller determines whether to attach or detach the cap based on the current change value due to the electromagnetic derivative and the coil.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second sensor includes a terminal connected to the cartridge, transmits a pulsed current through one terminal at a predetermined period, and determines whether to attach or detach the cartridge based on whether the pulsed current is received through the other terminal.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the second sensor determines that it is in an attached state when the pulse current is received via the other terminal, and determines that it is in an unattached state when the pulse current is not received.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the microcontroller determines that the cartridge has been replaced when it receives a series of result values ​​from the second sensor in the order of attached state, removed state, and attached state.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the third sensor is a capacitance sensor that includes an electrode unit and obtains a capacitance measurement value by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the capacitance measurement value is variable when the cap is removed, due to approaching or moving away from a part of the user's body.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the microcontroller determines, based on the capacitance measurement value, the total number of puffs from which aerosol can be generated from the cartridge when it determines that the cap is attached after the cartridge has been replaced.

9. The aforementioned microcontroller is A capacitance difference value is obtained by calculating the difference between a first capacitance measurement value obtained by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit at a first time point when the cap is removed from the main body, and a second capacitance measurement value obtained by measuring the capacitance of the electrode unit at a second time point when the cap is attached to the main body. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the total number of puffs for the second time point is determined based on the capacitance difference value.

10. A main body including a main body section having a containment space into which aerosol products are inserted, A cap that is detachably connected to the main body, A cartridge that is detachably connected to the main body, A first sensor that detects whether the cap is attached or detached, A second sensor that detects whether the cartridge has been attached or detached, A third sensor that senses the remaining amount of liquid in the cartridge, The system includes a microcontroller electrically connected to the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor, The aforementioned microcontroller is When the measured value detected by the first sensor changes to a value greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the system wakes up to determine whether the cap is attached or detached. If it is determined that the cap has been separated from the main body, the second sensor is used to detect whether the cartridge has been attached or detached during a predetermined grace period. However, if the attachment or detachment of the cartridge is not detected during the grace period, the system switches to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed. An aerosol generating device that wakes up at a predetermined interval during the sleep mode and uses the second sensor to again sense whether the cartridge has been attached or detached.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the cap includes an electromagnetic derivative, the first sensor includes a coil, and the microcontroller determines whether to attach or detach the cap based on the current change value due to the electromagnetic derivative and the coil.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the second sensor includes a terminal connected to the cartridge, transmits a pulsed current through one terminal at a predetermined period, and determines whether to attach or detach the cartridge based on whether the pulsed current is received through the other terminal.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the second sensor determines that it is in an attached state when the pulse current is received via the other terminal, and determines that it is in an unattached state when the pulse current is not received.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the microcontroller determines that the cartridge has been replaced when it receives a series of result values ​​from the second sensor in the order of attached state, removed state, and attached state.

15. In a method of operating an aerosol generating apparatus including a main body having a storage space into which an aerosol product is inserted, a cap detachably coupled to the main body, a cartridge detachably coupled to the main body, and a microcontroller, When the measured value detected by the first sensor, which senses whether the cap is attached or detached, changes to a value greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the microcontroller is woken up, and the presence or absence of the cap is determined. If it is determined that the cap has been removed from the main body, a second sensor that detects whether the cartridge has been attached or detached is used to detect whether the cartridge has been attached or detached during a predetermined grace period. However, if the attachment or detachment of the cartridge cannot be detected during the grace period, the microcontroller is switched to sleep mode when the grace period has elapsed. A method for operating an aerosol generator, comprising the steps of: waking up the microcontroller when, during the sleep mode, a measurement value detected by a third sensor for sensing the remaining amount of liquid in the cartridge changes to a predetermined value or greater, and using the second sensor to sense again whether the cartridge has been removed or not.

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