Aerosol generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol generating device of this disclosure includes a body, a heater disposed in the body for heating an aerosol generating substance, at least one sensor that outputs sensing data about the body falling, a memory for storing the body's fall history information, a control unit that acquires sensing data from the at least one sensor and determines whether the body has fallen based on the acquired sensing data, and a power supply that supplies power to at least one of the heater, the control unit, the sensor and the memory, wherein the control unit can accumulate and store the fall history information in the memory if it determines that the body has fallen.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

Background Art

[0002] An aerosol generating device is for extracting a predetermined component from a medium or a substance through an aerosol. The medium can contain substances with various components. The substances contained in the medium may be flavor substances with various components. For example, the substances contained in the medium can include a nicotine component, a herb component, and / or a coffee component, etc. In recent years, many studies have been conducted on such aerosol generating devices.

[0003] When the aerosol generating device is dropped by a user, the aerosol generating device may malfunction due to the dropping impact. Or, even if the aerosol generating device does not malfunction due to a single drop, the aerosol generating device may malfunction due to various dropping impacts accumulating in the aerosol generating device.

[0004] Conventionally, since the dropping impact of the aerosol generating device is not sensed or the dropping history is not saved in the aerosol generating device, there is a problem that it is difficult to accurately analyze the cause when the aerosol generating device malfunctions due to dropping.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-described problems and other problems.

[0006] Another object is to provide an aerosol generating device that stores the dropping history information of the body.

[0007] Still another object is to provide an aerosol generating device that provides an alarm to the user due to the dropping of the body.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned objectives, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising: a body; a heater disposed in the body for heating an aerosol generating substance; at least one sensor that outputs sensing data about the body falling; a memory for storing the body's fall history information; a control unit that acquires sensing data from the at least one sensor and determines whether the body has fallen based on the acquired sensing data; and a power supply that supplies power to at least one of the heater, the control unit, the sensor, and the memory, wherein the control unit can accumulate and store the fall history information in the memory if it determines that the body has fallen. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to accurately determine whether the body has fallen.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the fall of the body can be reliably detected.

[0011] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the drop history can be accumulated and stored, and the cause of the failure can be accurately identified when a failure occurs in the aerosol generator.

[0012] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, when a malfunction occurs in the aerosol generating apparatus, the apparatus can be easily serviced.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an alarm can be provided to the user in the event of the body falling, thereby guiding the stable use of the device and preventing serious malfunctions that may occur in the device.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heating operation of the device can be shut off in situations where the device may be damaged by a fall, thereby preventing further malfunction of the device.

[0015] Any additional applicable scope of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of this disclosure, should be understood to be given only as examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus relating to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus relating to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus relating to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus relating to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus relating to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus relating to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus relating to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of an aerosol generator falling. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart illustrating the fall detection operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This graph shows an example of atmospheric pressure data resulting from the dropping of an aerosol generator. [Figure 12]A graph showing an example of altitude data due to the fall of an aerosol generation device. [Figure 13] A flowchart showing the fall determination operation of an aerosol generation device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] A graph showing an example of impact amount data due to the fall of an aerosol generation device. [Figure 15] A flowchart showing the fall determination operation of an aerosol generation device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] A flowchart showing an additional operation when determining the fall of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or similar components are given the same reference numerals even if they are shown in different drawings, and duplicate explanations thereof are omitted.

[0018] The suffixes "module" and "unit" for the components used in the following description are used only for the ease of explanation in the specification. "Module" and "unit" do not have distinct meanings or roles from each other.

[0019] Also, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, when a detailed description of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof is omitted. Also, the accompanying drawings are for the purpose of enabling easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included in the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0020] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe a variety of components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by such terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0021] When we say that one component is "linked" to another, it is understandable that other components may exist in between. On the other hand, when we say that one component is "directly linked" to another, it is understandable that there are no other components in between.

[0022] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the context.

[0023] Figures 1 to 7 show aerosol generating apparatuses relating to various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0024] Referring to Figure 1, the aerosol generator 1 may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and a heater 18. At least one of the power supply 11, control unit 12, sensor 13, and heater 18 may be located inside the body 10 of the aerosol generator. The body 10 may provide an upwardly opening space into which a stick S, which is an aerosol product, can be inserted. This upwardly opening space can be called an insertion space 43. The insertion space 43 may be formed by recessing into the body 10 to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space 43 may correspond to the length of the region in the stick S that contains the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the stick S is inserted into the body 10, and the upper end of the stick S may protrude outside the body 10. The user can inhale air by putting the exposed upper end of the stick S in their mouth.

[0025] The heater 18 can heat the stick S. The heater 18 may extend upward in the space into which the stick S is inserted. For example, the heater 18 may include a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle heating element, or a rod heating element. The heater 18 may be inserted into the bottom of the stick S. The heater 18 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater.

[0026] For example, referring to Figure 1, the heater 18 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 includes an electrically conductive track, and the heater 18 can be heated by current flowing through the electrically conductive track. The heater 18 may be electrically connected to a power supply 11. The heater 18 can generate heat directly by receiving current from the power supply 11.

[0027] For example, the heater 18 may be a multi-heater. The heater 18 may include a first heater 18A and a second heater 18B. The first and second heaters 18A and 18B may be arranged side by side along the length. The first and second heaters 18A and 18B may be heated sequentially or simultaneously.

[0028] For example, referring to Figure 2, the aerosol generator 1 may include an induction coil surrounding the heater 18. The induction coil can cause the heater 18 to generate heat. The heater 18 is a susceptor, and the heater 18 can generate heat through a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field penetrates the heater 18 and can generate eddy currents within the heater 18. The current can generate heat in the heater 18.

[0029] For example, referring to Figure 3, a susceptor SS can be included inside the stick S, and the susceptor SS inside the stick S can be heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 181. The susceptor SS is located inside the stick S and does not need to be electrically connected to the aerosol generator. The susceptor SS can be inserted into the insertion space 43 together with the stick S and can be removed from the insertion space 43 together with the stick S. The stick S can be heated by the susceptor SS inside the stick S. Here, the aerosol generator does not need to be equipped with a heater 18.

[0030] Power supply 11 can supply power to the components of the aerosol generator to operate. Power supply 11 can be described as a battery. Power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, sensor 13, and heater 18. Power supply 11 can supply power to induction coil 181.

[0031] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator. The control unit can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, sensor 13, and heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the induction coil 181. The control unit 12 can control the operation of displays, motors, etc., installed in the aerosol generator. The control unit 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator and determine whether the aerosol generator is operational.

[0032] The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor 13 and control subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 so that the operation of the heater 18 is disclosed or terminated. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 18 and the duration of power supply so that the heater 18 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0033] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, and an acceleration sensor. For example, sensor 13 can sense at least one of the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the internal and external temperatures of the body 10. For example, sensor 13 can sense the user's puff. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space 43. For example, sensor 13 can sense the movement of the aerosol generator.

[0034] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, an aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment may include at least one of the following: a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, a heater 18, and a cartridge 19. At least one of the power supply 11, the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the heater 18 may be located inside the body 10 of the aerosol generator. Detailed explanation of the same configuration as the aerosol generator 1 in Figures 1 and 2 is omitted.

[0035] The heater 18 can heat the stick S. The heater 18 may extend upward around the space into which the stick S is inserted. For example, the heater 18 may be in the form of a tube with a hollow interior. The heater 18 may be positioned around the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space 43. The heater 18 can heat the insertion space 43 or the stick S inserted into the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0036] The cartridge 19 may contain an aerosol-generating substance having one of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0037] The cartridge 19 may be integrally formed with the body 10 or may be detachably attached to the body 10.

[0038] For example, referring to Figure 4, the cartridge 19 is integrally formed with the body 10 and can communicate with the insertion space via the airflow channel CN.

[0039] For example, referring to Figure 2, a space is formed on one side of the body 10, and the cartridge 19 can be mounted on the body 10 by inserting at least a portion of the cartridge 19 into the space formed on one side of the body 10. The airflow channel CN ​​is defined by a portion of the cartridge and / or a portion of the body 10, and the cartridge 19 can communicate with the insertion space 43 through the airflow channel CN.

[0040] The body 10 can be formed in such a way that outside air can flow into the body 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. Here, the outside air that flows into the body 10 can pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0041] The cartridge 19 may include a storage section C0 containing an aerosol-generating substance and / or a heater 24 for heating the aerosol-generating substance in the storage section C0. A liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating substance may be located inside the storage section C0. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic. The electrically conductive track of the heater 24 may be formed in the form of a coil that winds the liquid transfer means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means. The heater 24 can be called a cartridge heater 24.

[0042] Cartridge 19 can generate an aerosol. An aerosol can be generated by heating the liquid transfer means with the cartridge heater 24. An aerosol can be generated by heating the stick S with the heater 18. As the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 and heater 18 passes through the stick S, tobacco substances are added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with added tobacco substances can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick S.

[0043] The aerosol generator 1 is equipped only with a cartridge heater 24, and the body 10 does not need to be equipped with a heater 18. In this configuration, the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 can absorb tobacco substances as it passes through the stick S and be inhaled into the user's mouth.

[0044] The aerosol generator 1 may include a cap (not shown). The cap may be detachably attached to the body 10 so as to cover at least a portion of the cartridge 19 which is coupled to the body 10. The stick S may be inserted into the body 10 through the cap.

[0045] The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, sensor 13, cartridge heater 24, and heater 18.

[0046] The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, sensor 13, heater 18, and cartridge 19. The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by sensor 13 and control subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 so that the operation of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 starts or stops. For example, based on the results sensed by sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 and the duration of power supply so that cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0047] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge sensor, and a cap sensor. For example, sensor 13 can sense 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 body 10. For example, sensor 13 can sense the user's puff. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space 43. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether a cartridge has been installed. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether a cap has been installed.

[0048] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, an aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and a heater 18. At least one of the power supply 11, control unit 12, sensor 13, and heater 18 may be located inside the body 10 of the aerosol generator. Detailed explanation of the same configuration as the aerosol generator 1 in Figures 1 to 5 is omitted.

[0049] The heater 18 can heat the stick S. The heater 18 may extend upward around the space into which the stick S is inserted. For example, the heater 18 may be in the form of a tube with a hollow interior. The heater 18 may be positioned around the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space 43. The heater 18 can heat the insertion space 43 or the stick S inserted into the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0050] For example, referring to Figure 6, the heater 18 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 includes an electrically conductive track, and the heater 18 can be heated by current flowing through the electrically conductive track. The heater 18 may be electrically connected to a power supply 11. The heater 18 can generate heat directly by receiving current from the power supply 11.

[0051] For example, referring to Figure 7, the aerosol generator may include an induction coil 181 surrounding a heater 18. The induction coil 181 can cause the heater 18 to heat up. The heater 18 is a susceptor, and it can heat up due to the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 181. The magnetic field penetrates the heater 18 and can generate eddy currents within the heater 18. The current can generate heat in the heater 18.

[0052] On the other hand, a susceptor can be included inside the stick S, and the susceptor inside the stick S can be heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 181.

[0053] The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the heater 18. If the aerosol generator 1 includes an induction coil 181, the power supply 11 can supply power to the induction coil 181.

[0054] The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11 and the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor 13 and control subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 so that the heater 18 starts or stops operating. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 18 and the power supply time so that the heater 18 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0055] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion sensing sensor. For example, sensor 13 can sense at least one of the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the internal and external temperatures of the body 10. For example, sensor 13 can sense the user's puff. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space 43.

[0056] Figure 8 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] The aerosol generator 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, 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 that shown in Figure 8. In other words, it will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment that the design of the aerosol generator 1 may allow for the omission of some of the components shown in Figure 8 or the addition of new components.

[0058] The sensor 13 can sense the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the state of the area around the aerosol generator 1, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 12. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, restricting smoking, determining whether a stick S and / or cartridge 19 has been inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0059] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: temperature sensor 131, puff sensor 132, insertion sensor 133, reuse sensor 134, cartridge sensor 135, cap sensor 136, motion sensor 137, first sensor 138, and second sensor 139.

[0060] The temperature sensor 131 can sense the temperature at which the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are heated. The aerosol generator 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 themselves may act as a temperature sensor.

[0061] The temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element whose resistance changes in response to temperature changes in the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The temperature sensor 131 can be implemented using a thermistor or other element that utilizes the property that resistance changes with temperature. Here, the temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be configured as a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Here, the temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0062] The temperature sensor 131 may be positioned around the power supply 11 to monitor its temperature. The temperature sensor 131 may be positioned 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 supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0063] The temperature sensor 131 is located inside the body 10 and can sense the internal temperature of the body 10.

[0064] The puff sensor 132 can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor 132 may be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1 may correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 132 may be positioned in the aerosol generator 1 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0065] The insertion sensing sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The insertion sensing sensor 133 can detect the signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The insertion sensing sensor 133 may be provided around the insertion space. The insertion sensing sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick S by the change in dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 133 may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0066] An induction sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the induction sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. For example, if the magnetic field changes around a coil through which current flows, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0067] Induction sensors can output signals that correspond to the characteristics of the current flowing through a coil. For example, an induction sensor can output a signal that corresponds to the inductance value of a coil.

[0068] A capacitance sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitance sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitance sensor can output a signal corresponding to the surrounding electromagnetic properties, such as the capacitance around the conductor. For example, if a stick S including a metal wrapper is inserted into the insertion space, the wrapper of the stick S may alter the electromagnetic properties around the conductor.

[0069] The reuse detection sensor 134 can detect whether the stick S has been reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 may also be 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 wrapper surrounding the outside of the stick S. The color sensor can detect a value for an optical property corresponding to the hue of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical property may be the wavelength of light. The color sensor may be implemented as an integrated configuration with the proximity sensor, or as a separate configuration separated from the proximity sensor.

[0070] At least a portion of the wrapper constituting the stick S can change hue due to aerosols. The reuse sensing sensor 134 may be positioned corresponding to the location where at least a portion of the wrapper whose hue changes due to aerosols is located when the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick S is used by the user, at least a portion of the wrapper may have a first hue. Here, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 1 passes through the stick S, at least a portion of the wrapper becomes wet with the aerosol, causing the hue of at least a portion of the wrapper to change to a second hue. On the other hand, after the hue of at least a portion of the wrapper has changed from the first hue to the second hue, it may be maintained at the second hue.

[0071] The cartridge sensing sensor 135 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge sensing sensor 135 can be implemented as an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, or a Hall sensor (Hall IC) using the Hall effect.

[0072] The cap sensing sensor 136 can detect the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap 200 is separated from the body 10, a portion of the cartridge 19 and body 10 that was covered by the cap may be exposed to the outside. The cap sensing sensor 136 can be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0073] The motion sensing sensor 137 can detect the movement of the aerosol generator. The motion sensing sensor 137 can be implemented using at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

[0074] The first sensor 138 can sense the atmospheric pressure around the aerosol generator. The first sensor 138 can be implemented using a pressure sensor.

[0075] The second sensor 139 can detect the amount of impact. The second sensor 139 can be implemented as a piezo sensor.

[0076] Sensor 13 may further include at least one of the following, in addition to the aforementioned sensors 131 to 139: a humidity sensor, a magnetic sensor, a GPS position sensor, and a proximity sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed explanation can be omitted.

[0077] The output unit 14 can output and provide to the user information about the status of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 14 may include, but is not limited to, a display 141, a haptic unit 142, and an acoustic output unit 143. If the display 141 and the touchpad form a layered structure and constitute a touchscreen, the display 141 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0078] The display 141 can visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the information about the aerosol generator 1 can include various types of information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the heater 18, the insertion / removal status of the stick S and / or cartridge 19, the attachment / removal status of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 1 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal object), and the display 141 can output this information to the outside. For example, the display 141 may be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display 141 may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0079] The haptic unit 142 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli, providing the user with tactile information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, if initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 during a set time, the haptic unit 142 can generate vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating. The haptic unit 142 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0080] The acoustic output unit 143 can provide the user with auditory information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the acoustic output unit 143 can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0081] The power supply 11 can supply the power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. The power supply 11 can supply power so that the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 can be heated. The power supply 11 can also supply the power necessary for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator 1, namely the sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. The power supply 11 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 11 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery.

[0082] Although not shown in Figure 8, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit is electrically connected to the power supply 11 and may include a switching element.

[0083] The power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 under predetermined conditions. For example, the power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 if the voltage level of the power supply 11 is equal to or greater than a first voltage corresponding to overcharging. For example, the power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 if the voltage level of the power supply 11 is less than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharge.

[0084] The heater 18 receives power from the power supply 11 and can heat the medium or aerosol-generating material inside the stick S. Although not shown in Figure 8, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the power supply 11 and supplies it to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 1 generates aerosols using an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the power supply 11 to AC power.

[0085] The control unit 12, sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17 can function by receiving power from the power supply 11. Although not shown in Figure 8, a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a constant voltage circuit, may be further included to convert the power from the power supply 11 and supply it to each component. Also, although not shown in Figure 10, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter may include at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The low-pass filter prevents high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor 13, such as the insertion sensing sensor 133.

[0086] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 may be formed from any suitable electrical resistant material. For example, suitable electrical resistant materials may be, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Also, the heater 18 may be, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which an electrically conductive track is arranged, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0087] In other embodiments, the heater 18 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 18 may include a susceptor that generates heat by a magnetic field applied by a coil and heats the aerosol-generating material.

[0088] The input unit 15 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit 15 may be a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor that senses touch. For example, the touch sensor may include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, an ultrasonic touch sensor (surface acoustic wave touch sensor), or an infrared touch sensor.

[0089] The display 141 and the touch panel can be realized by a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be embedded within the display 141 (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added on top of the display panel 141 (add-on type).

[0090] On the other hand, the input section 15 may include, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0091] Memory 17 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. Memory 17 can include at least one type of storage medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 17 can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0092] 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.

[0093] The short-range wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth® communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee® communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, and the like.

[0094] The wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit.

[0095] Although not shown in Figure 8, the aerosol generator 1 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can connect to other external devices via the connection interface, such as a USB interface, to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0096] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 1 may include at least one processor. The processor can also be realized by an array of numerous logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program executable by this microprocessor. It is also understandable to those with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it can be realized by other forms of hardware.

[0097] The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the supply of power from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 sensed by the temperature sensor 131. The control unit 12 can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0098] The aerosol generator 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11 between the power supply 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, heater 18, or induction coil 181. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element can be embodied by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 12 can control the power supply circuit.

[0099] The control unit 12 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. It may also be an inverter that converts the DC power output from the power supply 11 to AC power. For example, the inverter can be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including multiple switching elements.

[0100] The control unit 12 can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power supply 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The control unit 12 can turn off the switching element so that power is cut off to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The control unit 12 can adjust the current supplied from the power supply 11 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0101] The control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented using a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, or the like.

[0102] The control unit 12 can adjust the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit by controlling the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power supply circuit. When the switching element remains in the on state, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit may correspond to the voltage level output from the power supply 11. The duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power supply 11. The lower the duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element, the lower the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit can be. The heater 18 may be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0103] The control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heater 18 using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID).

[0104] For example, the control unit 12 can use a PWM method to control the supply of current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses.

[0105] For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the heater temperature 18 and the target temperature, the integral of the difference over time, and the derivative of the difference over time.

[0106] The control unit 12 can prevent the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to interrupt the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a previously set limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by a certain ratio if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a previously set limit temperature. For example, if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted and can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24.

[0107] The control unit 12 can control the charging and discharging of the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can check the temperature of the power supply 11 according to the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0108] When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator 1, the control unit 12 can check whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or above a first limiting temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the charging of the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the first limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can control the charging of the power supply 11 based on a previously set charging current. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or above the first limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can shut off the charging of the power supply 11.

[0109] With the aerosol generator 1 powered on, the control unit 12 can check whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the second limiting temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the discharge of the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the second limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can control the system to use the power stored in the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the second limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the power supply 11.

[0110] The control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 relative to the power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0111] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space using the insertion sensing sensor 133. The control unit 12 can determine that the stick S has been inserted based on the output signal from the insertion sensing sensor 133. If it determines that the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0112] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space using the insertion sensing sensor 133. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the heater 18 is above a limit temperature or if the temperature change gradient of the heater 18 is above a set gradient. If the control unit 12 determines that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0113] The control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 18 based on the state of the stick S sensed by the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can check the level range that includes the level of the capacitance sensor signal based on a lookup table. The control unit 12 can determine the amount of moisture in the stick S based on the checked level range.

[0114] If the stick S is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time to the heater 18, thereby increasing the preheating time of the stick S compared to normal conditions.

[0115] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S inserted into the insertion space has been reused by the reuse sensing sensor 134. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensing value of the reuse sensing sensor signal with a first reference range that includes a first hue, and if the sensing value falls within the first reference range, it can determine that the stick S has not been used. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensing value of the reuse sensing sensor signal with a second reference range that includes a second hue, and if the sensing value falls within the second reference range, it can determine that the stick S has been used. If it is determined that the stick S has been used, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0116] The control unit 12 can determine the coupling and / or removal of the cartridge 19 based on the cartridge sensing sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the coupling and / or removal of the cartridge 19 based on the sensing value of the signal from the cartridge sensing sensor.

[0117] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been depleted. For example, the control unit 12 can preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by applying power, and determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period. If the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been depleted. If the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been depleted, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0118] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 has been used. For example, based on the data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge 19 cannot be used if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge 19. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge 19 cannot be used if the total time the heater 24 has been heated is greater than or equal to a previously set maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the heater 24 is greater than or equal to a previously set maximum amount of power.

[0119] The control unit 12 can make decisions regarding the user's inhalation based on the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor 132. If the number of puffs reaches a pre-set maximum number of puffs or if no puff is detected for a period of time longer than a pre-set time, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0120] The control unit 12 can determine whether to attach and / or remove the cap based on the cap sensing sensor 136. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether to attach and / or remove the cap based on the sensing value of the signal from the cap sensing sensor.

[0121] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results sensed by the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 132 reaches a pre-set number, the control unit 12 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 1 will immediately shut off via at least one of the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the acoustic output unit 143. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that there is no stick S in the insertion space, it can notify the user via the output unit 14. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the cartridge 19 and / or cap has not been installed, it can notify the user via the output unit 14. For example, the control unit 12 can transmit information about the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 to the user via the output unit 14.

[0122] The control unit 12 can save and update a history of the event in the memory 17 when a predetermined event occurs. Events can include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1, such as detection of stick S insertion, start of stick S heating, puff detection, end of puffing, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, detection of overvoltage application to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, end of stick S heating, on / off of the aerosol generator 1, start of charging of the power supply 11, detection of overcharge of the power supply 11, and end of charging of the power supply 11. The history of an event can include the date and time the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of stick S insertion, the log data corresponding to the event can include data such as the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, and the current flowing through the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0123] The control unit 12 can be controlled to form a communication link with an external device, such as the user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 can remove the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. Here, the authentication data may include data indicating the completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. The user can perform user authentication via the external device. The external device can determine whether the user data is valid based on the user's date of birth, a unique number identifying the user, etc., and can receive data regarding the right to use the aerosol generator 1 from an external server. Based on the data regarding the right to use, the external device can transmit data indicating the completion of user authentication to the aerosol generator 1. Once user authentication is complete, the control unit 12 can remove the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. For example, once user authentication is complete, the control unit 12 can remove the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the heater 18.

[0124] The control unit 12 can transmit data about the status of the aerosol generator 1 to the external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the operating mode, and other information via the external device's display.

[0125] An external device can transmit a location search request to the aerosol generator 1 based on an input that initiates a location search for the aerosol generator 1. When the control unit 12 receives a location search request from the external device, it can control at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, the haptic unit 142 can generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 can output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0126] The control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update when it receives firmware data from an external device. The external device can check the current firmware version of the aerosol generator 1 and determine if a new firmware version is available. When the external device receives an input requesting a firmware download, it can receive the new firmware data and transmit the new firmware data to the aerosol generator 1. When the control unit 12 receives the new firmware data, it can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update.

[0127] The control unit 12 can transmit data about the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16, learn the sensing values ​​from the server via machine learning such as deep learning, and receive and store the generated learning model. Using the learning model received from the server, the control unit 12 can perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 12 can store the sensing value data of at least one sensor 13 and data for training an artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 can store a database of each component provided in the aerosol generator 1, weights and biases that make up the artificial neural network (ANN) structure, etc., for training the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 12 can learn the data about the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, the temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory 17, and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0128] Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol generator falling, Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the fall detection operation of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 11 is a graph showing an example of atmospheric pressure data due to the fall of an aerosol generator, and Figure 12 is a graph showing an example of altitude data due to the fall of an aerosol generator.

[0129] Referring to Figure 9, the aerosol generator 1 may fall 200 while the user is holding or using it. For example, the aerosol generator 1 may freefall 200 from a certain height to the ground 500. For example, the aerosol generator 1 may fall 200 from a certain height to the ground 500 with acceleration due to the user's movements, etc. When the aerosol generator 1 falls 200, it will collide 300 with the ground 500, etc. The aerosol generator 1 may repeatedly rise and fall 400 additionally due to the collision 300 with the ground 500, etc.

[0130] Referring to Figure 9 together with Figures 1 to 8, the aerosol generator 1 may include a body 10, a power supply 11, a control unit 12, at least one sensor 13, a memory 17, and a heater 18.

[0131] The body 10 can form the external appearance of the aerosol generator 1. Inside the body 10, at least one of the following may be arranged: a power supply 11, a control unit 12, at least one sensor 13, a memory 17, and a heater 18.

[0132] The power supply 11 includes a control unit 12, at least one sensor 13, a memory 17, and a heater 18, and can supply power to the components located inside the body 10.

[0133] The heater 18 can receive power from the power supply 11 to heat the aerosol-generating substance.

[0134] At least one sensor 13 of the aerosol generator 1 can output sensing data. The sensing data output by at least one sensor 13 can reflect the state of the body 10. The sensing data can reflect the state of the body 10's fall.

[0135] The control unit 12 can acquire sensing data from at least one sensor 13 and determine whether the body 10 has fallen based on the acquired sensing data. When the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it can accumulate and store the body 10's fall history information in the memory 17. The control unit 12 can store the body 10's fall history information in the memory 17 each time it determines that the body 10 has fallen.

[0136] The memory 17 can accumulate and store the fall history information of the body 10 under the control of the control unit 12.

[0137] Referring to Figure 10 together with Figure 8, at least one sensor 13 may include a first sensor 138. The first sensor 138 can sense the atmospheric pressure around the aerosol generator. The first sensor 138 can be embodied by a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor 138 can output first sensing data. The pressure sensor 138 can continuously output first sensing data based on a determined sampling period. The first sensing data may include atmospheric pressure information around the pressure sensor 138 or around the aerosol generator.

[0138] The control unit 12 can be electrically connected to the barometric pressure sensor 138. The control unit 12 can acquire first sensing data output by the barometric pressure sensor 138 (S1010). Based on the first sensing data, the control unit 12 can calculate or determine the amount of altitude change of the body 10 (S1020). The barometric pressure has the characteristic that it decreases as the altitude above sea level increases. The control unit 12 can continuously acquire first sensing data from the barometric pressure sensor 138 and calculate the difference in first sensing data based on the acquired first sensing data.

[0139] Referring to Figures 11 and 12 together with Figure 10, the difference in the first sensing data may be the pressure change ΔP. The control unit 12 can calculate the pressure change ΔP by calculating the difference in the first sensing data obtained at two different time points T1 and T2. If the pressure change ΔP increases continuously over time, the control unit 12 can calculate the pressure change ΔP up to the point in time when the pressure change ΔP is at its maximum. Based on the calculated pressure change ΔP, the control unit 12 can calculate or determine the altitude change ΔH or height change of the body 10.

[0140] Memory 17 can store information on the change in altitude ΔH due to the change in atmospheric pressure ΔP. The information on the change in altitude ΔH due to the change in atmospheric pressure ΔP, or the altitude information H corresponding to each atmospheric pressure P, can be stored in memory 17 in the form of a lookup table (LUT).

[0141] The control unit 12 can compare the derived pressure change amount ΔP information with a lookup table stored in the memory 17 and derive the altitude change amount ΔH or height change amount corresponding to the pressure change amount ΔP.

[0142] The control unit 12 does not need to derive the altitude change ΔH or height change if the pressure change ΔP is less than 0. This is because if the pressure change ΔP is negative, the altitude of the body 10 is increasing, so there is no need to determine whether it is falling.

[0143] The control unit 12 can compare the derived altitude change amount ΔH with a first reference value H1 (see Figure 12) (S1030). The control unit 12 can determine that the body 10 has fallen if the altitude change amount ΔH is greater than or equal to the first reference value H1. The control unit 12 can determine that the body 10 has not fallen if the altitude change amount ΔH is less than the first reference value H1. Here, the first reference value H1 can be determined in advance by experimentation or the like. The first reference value H1 can be determined to be a value that, if the body 10 were to free fall from a height corresponding to the first reference value H1, would inflict an impact of a certain level or higher on the body 10. In other words, determining that the body 10 has not fallen does not mean that the body 10 did not actually fall, but rather that the body 10 did not fall from a height that would inflict an impact of a certain level or higher on the body 10.

[0144] When the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it can save the fall history information of the body 10 to the memory 17 (S1040). The fall history information may include at least one of the following: the time T1 when the fall occurred, the location where the fall occurred, the fall height ΔH, the duration of the fall (T2-T1), and information on the amount of impact that occurred after the fall.

[0145] If the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 did not fall, it can repeat the process of acquiring the first sensing data output by the pressure sensor 138 (S1010).

[0146] Therefore, by accumulating and saving drop history information, the cause of failure can be accurately identified when a malfunction occurs in the aerosol generator later, and the device can be easily maintained.

[0147] On the other hand, memory 17 can store altitude information H corresponding to each atmospheric pressure P. The altitude information H corresponding to each atmospheric pressure P can be stored in memory 17 in the form of a lookup table (LUT). The control unit 12 can compare the first sensing data obtained at two different time points T1 and T2 with the lookup table to derive the altitude information H corresponding to each atmospheric pressure P, and derive the altitude change amount ΔH or height change amount based on the derived altitude information H.

[0148] The control unit 12 can calculate or determine the gradient S of the altitude change ΔH (see Figure 12) by taking into account the time difference between two different points in time T1 and T2. The control unit 12 can compare the magnitude of the gradient S of the altitude change ΔH with a third reference value S1. Even if the altitude change ΔH is greater than or the same as the first reference value H1, the control unit 12 can determine that the body 10 did not fall if the gradient S of the altitude change ΔH is smaller than the third reference value S1. Even if the body 10 falls from a high place to a low place, the falling speed may not be fast due to various types of friction during the fall. In this case, the body 10 may not be subjected to an impact of a certain level or higher. By further considering the gradient S of the altitude change ΔH, the control unit 12 can accurately distinguish between falls that can inflict an impact of a certain level or higher on the body 10.

[0149] The control unit 12 can count the number of times the fall history has been saved. The number of times the fall history has been saved can be said to be the number of times a fall has been determined to have occurred. Each time the control unit 12 determines that a fall has occurred, it can save the fall history information and the number of times the fall history has been saved to the memory 17.

[0150] The control unit 12 can change the first reference value H1 as the number of times the fall history is saved increases. If the control unit 12 determines that the number of times the fall history is saved is greater than or equal to the first set number, it can change the first reference value H1 to a value that is reduced by a certain percentage. For example, the initial first reference value H1 may be A, and the certain percentage may be 0.1. If the control unit 12 determines that the number of times the fall history is saved is greater than or equal to the first set number, it can change the first reference value H1 from A to 0.9A.

[0151] Similarly, if the control unit 12 determines that the number of times the fall history has been saved is greater than or equal to the second number of times which is greater than the first number of times, it can change the first reference value H1 by decreasing it by a certain percentage. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the number of times the fall history has been saved is greater than or equal to the second number of times which is greater than the second number of times, it can change the first reference value H1 from 0.9A to 0.81A.

[0152] However, the number of first and second setting cycles and the percentage of the change in the first reference value H1 are not limited to these, and can be set to appropriate values ​​through experimentation.

[0153] The more times a device is dropped, the greater the damage it sustains, and the device can be severely damaged even by the same external impact. Therefore, by setting the first criterion value H1, which is the standard for determining whether a device has been dropped, to gradually decrease in accordance with the number of drops, the drop history can be managed more effectively.

[0154] On the other hand, the first sensor 138 can be implemented by various types of pressure sensors, including barometric pressure sensors.

[0155] On the other hand, the first sensor 138 can be implemented as a 3-axis or 6-axis accelerometer or gyroscope. In this case, the control unit 12 can calculate or determine the magnitude, direction, and amount of change of the acceleration of the body 10 based on the first sensing data of the first sensor 138, and determine whether the body 10 has fallen based on the calculated magnitude, direction, and amount of change of acceleration. For example, the control unit 12 can derive an altitude change ΔH or height change based on the magnitude, direction, and amount of change of acceleration, and determine whether the body 10 has fallen based on this. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the magnitude of the acceleration with a set acceleration value and determine whether the body 10 has fallen based on this.

[0156] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the fall detection operation of an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 14 is a graph showing an example of impact amount data due to the fall of the aerosol generator.

[0157] Referring to Figure 13 together with Figure 8, at least one sensor 13 may include a second sensor 139. The second sensor 139 can detect impact. The second sensor 139 can be implemented as a piezo sensor. The piezo sensor 139 can output second sensing data. The piezo sensor 139 can continuously output second sensing data based on a determined sampling period. The second sensing data may include information about the impact applied to the body 10 of the aerosol generator.

[0158] The control unit 12 can be electrically connected to the piezo sensor 139. The control unit 12 can acquire second sensing data output by the piezo sensor 139 (S1310). Based on the second sensing data, the control unit 12 can calculate or determine the amount of impact applied to the body 10 (S1320). The control unit 12 can continuously acquire second sensing data from the piezo sensor 139 and calculate the amount of impact based on the acquired second sensing data.

[0159] Referring to Figure 14 together with Figure 13, the control unit 12 can calculate the impact amount I by accumulating second sensing data obtained at multiple different time points T2 and T3. The control unit 12 can also calculate the impact amount I for a series of impacts 1402, 1403, and 1404 that occur continuously over time.

[0160] Memory 17 can store impact information or external force information. Impact information or external force information corresponding to the second sensing data can be stored in memory 17 in the form of a lookup table (LUT).

[0161] The control unit 12 can compare the acquired second sensing data with a lookup table stored in the memory 17 and derive impact information or external force information corresponding to each second sensing data. The control unit 12 can calculate the impact amount I by accumulating the derived impact information or external force information over time. The control unit 12 can calculate the impact amount I for a series of impacts 1402, 1403, and 1404 that occur continuously over time.

[0162] The control unit 12 can compare the calculated impact amount I with a second reference value I1 (S1330). For example, the control unit 12 can compare the impact amount I for each of the series of impacts 1402, 1403, and 1404 that occur continuously over time with the second reference value I1. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the largest impact amount I among the series of impacts 1402, 1403, and 1404 that occur continuously over time with the second reference value I1. For example, the control unit 12 can combine the impact amounts I of the series of impacts 1402, 1403, and 1404 that occur continuously over time and compare the combined value with the second reference value I1.

[0163] The control unit 12 can determine that the body 10 has fallen if the impact amount I is greater than or equal to the second reference value I1. The control unit 12 can determine that the body 10 did not fall if the impact amount I is less than the second reference value I1. Here, the second reference value I1 can be determined in advance by experimentation or the like. The second reference value I1 can be determined to be a value that can apply an impact of a certain level or higher to the body 10. In other words, determining that the body 10 did not fall does not mean that the body 10 did not actually fall, but rather that the amount of impact applied to the body 10 was not above a certain level.

[0164] When the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it can store the fall history information of the body 10 in the memory 17 (S1340). The fall history information may include at least one of the following: the time T2 when the fall occurred, the location where the fall occurred, and information on the amount of impact that occurred after the fall. The information on the amount of impact that occurred after the fall may include, for example, all of the impact amounts I for each of the series of impacts 1402, 1403, and 1404 that occur continuously over time. The information on the amount of impact that occurred after the fall may include, for example, an impact amount I that is greater than or equal to the second reference value I1 among the impact amounts I for each of the series of impacts 1402, 1403, and 1404 that occur continuously over time. The information on the amount of impact that occurred after the fall may include, for example, the sum of all the impact amounts I for each of the series of impacts 1402, 1403, and 1404 that occur continuously over time.

[0165] If the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 did not fall, it can repeat the process of acquiring the second sensing data output by the piezo sensor 139 (S1310).

[0166] Therefore, by accumulating and saving drop history information, it becomes possible to accurately identify the cause of failure when an aerosol generator malfunctions later, and to easily maintain the device.

[0167] Each time the fall history is saved, the control unit 12 can accumulate the impact amount with the impact amount of previously occurring impacts and save it. Each time the control unit 12 determines that a fall has occurred, it can save the fall history information and the accumulated impact amount information to the memory 17.

[0168] The control unit 12 can change the second reference value I1 as the cumulative impact amount increases. If the control unit 12 determines that the cumulative impact amount is greater than or equal to the first impact amount, it can change the second reference value I1 to a value that is decreased by a certain percentage. For example, the initial second reference value I1 may be B, and the percentage may be 0.1. If the control unit 12 determines that the cumulative impact amount is greater than or equal to the first impact amount, it can change the second reference value I1 from B to 0.9B.

[0169] Similarly, if the control unit 12 determines that the cumulative impact amount is greater than or equal to the second impact amount which is greater than the first impact amount, it can change the second reference value I1 by further decreasing it by a certain percentage. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the cumulative impact amount is greater than or equal to the second impact amount, it can change the second reference value I1 from 0.9B to 0.81B.

[0170] However, the first impact amount, second impact amount, and constant percentage that change the second reference value I1 are not limited to these and can be set to appropriate values ​​through experimentation.

[0171] The more times a device is dropped, the greater the damage it sustains, and the device may be more severely damaged by the same external impact. Therefore, by setting the second criterion value I1, which is the standard for determining whether a device has been dropped, to gradually decrease in accordance with the cumulative amount of impact, the drop history can be managed more effectively.

[0172] On the other hand, the second sensor 139 can be implemented by various types of pressure-based sensors, including piezo sensors.

[0173] On the other hand, the second sensor 139 can be implemented as a 3-axis or 6-axis accelerometer or gyroscope. In this case, the control unit 12 can calculate or determine the magnitude, direction, and change of the acceleration of the body 10 based on the second sensing data of the second sensor 139, and determine whether the body 10 has fallen based on the calculated magnitude, direction, and change of acceleration. For example, the control unit 12 can derive the impact amount based on the magnitude, direction, and change of acceleration, and determine whether the body 10 has fallen based on this.

[0174] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the fall detection operation of an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed explanations of the same configuration as the aerosol generator 1 in Figures 10 to 14 are omitted.

[0175] Referring to Figure 15 together with Figure 8, at least one sensor 13 can include a first sensor 138 and a second sensor 139. The first sensor 138 can be embodied by a barometric pressure sensor. The barometric pressure sensor 138 can output first sensing data. The first sensing data can include barometric pressure information around the barometric pressure sensor 138 or around the aerosol generator. The second sensor 139 can sense the amount of impact. The second sensor 139 can be embodied by a piezo sensor. The piezo sensor 139 can output second sensing data. The second sensing data can include impact information applied to the body 10 of the aerosol generator.

[0176] The control unit 12 can be electrically connected to the barometric pressure sensor 138 and the piezo sensor 139. The control unit 12 can acquire first sensing data output by the barometric pressure sensor 138 (S1510). The control unit 12 can continuously acquire first sensing data from the barometric pressure sensor 138 and calculate the difference of the first sensing data based on the acquired first sensing data.

[0177] Referring to Figure 15 together with Figures 11 and 12, the control unit 12 can calculate the pressure change amount ΔP by calculating the difference between the first sensing data obtained at two different time points T1 and T2. Based on the calculated pressure change amount ΔP, the control unit 12 can calculate or determine the altitude change amount ΔH or height change amount of the body 10 (S1520).

[0178] The control unit 12 can compare the derived pressure change amount ΔP information with a lookup table stored in the memory 17 and derive the altitude change amount ΔH or height change amount corresponding to the pressure change amount ΔP. The control unit 12 does not need to derive the altitude change amount ΔH or height change amount if the pressure change amount ΔP is less than 0.

[0179] The control unit 12 can compare the derived altitude change amount ΔH with a first reference value H1 (S1530). If the altitude change amount ΔH is greater than or equal to the first reference value H1, the control unit 12 can acquire second sensing data output by the piezo sensor 139 (S1540). Based on the second sensing data, the control unit 12 can calculate or determine the amount of impact applied to the body 10 (S1550). The control unit 12 can continuously acquire second sensing data from the piezo sensor 139 and calculate the amount of impact based on the acquired second sensing data.

[0180] Referring to Figure 15 together with Figure 13, the control unit 12 can calculate the impact amount I by accumulating second sensing data obtained at multiple different time points T2 and T3. The control unit 12 can also calculate the impact amount I for a series of impacts 1402, 1403, and 1404 that occur continuously over time.

[0181] The control unit 12 can compare the acquired second sensing data with a lookup table stored in the memory 17 and derive impact information or external force information corresponding to each second sensing data. The control unit 12 can calculate the impact amount I by accumulating the derived impact information and external force information over time. The control unit 12 can calculate the impact amount I for a series of impacts 1402, 1403, and 1404 that occur continuously over time.

[0182] The control unit 12 can compare the calculated impact amount I with a second reference value I1 (S1560). The control unit 12 can determine that the body 10 fell if the impact amount I is greater than or equal to the second reference value I1. The control unit 12 can determine that the body 10 did not fall if the impact amount I is less than the second reference value I1.

[0183] When the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it can save the fall history information of the body 10 to the memory 17 (S1570). The fall history information may include at least one of the following: the time T1 when the fall occurred, the location where the fall occurred, the fall height ΔH, the duration of the fall (T2-T1), and information on the amount of impact that occurred after the fall.

[0184] If the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 did not fall, it can repeat the process of acquiring the first sensing data output by the pressure sensor 138 (S1510).

[0185] Therefore, by accumulating and saving drop history information, it becomes possible to accurately identify the cause of failure when an aerosol generator malfunctions later, and to easily maintain the device.

[0186] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing additional actions taken when a fall is detected in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0187] Referring to Figure 16, when the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen (S1610), it can save the fall history information to the memory 17 (S1620). The S1620 process may be the same as any one of the aforementioned S1040, S1340, and S1570 processes.

[0188] If the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it can control the heater 18 so that it does not operate.

[0189] When the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it can determine whether the heater 18 is operating (S1630). For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the heater 18 is operating by checking whether power is supplied to the heater 18 by the power supply 11, or by checking whether power is supplied to the induction coil 181 that inductively heats the heater 18, or by checking the temperature of the heater 18 as sensed by the temperature sensor 131.

[0190] When the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen and that the heater 18 is operating, it can control the power supply 11 to cut off the power supplied to the heater 18 or the induction coil 181 (S1640).

[0191] Therefore, in situations where there is concern about damage to the device due to a fall, the heating operation of the device can be shut off to prevent additional malfunctions of the device.

[0192] The control unit 12 can store the fall history information in the memory 17 and then control the output unit 14 to output the information to the user.

[0193] The aerosol generator 1 may include an output unit 14. The output unit 14 may include at least one of a display 141 (see Figure 8), a haptic unit 142 (see Figure 8), and an acoustic output unit 143 (see Figure 8).

[0194] When the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it can save the fall history information in the memory 17, and save the number of times the fall history has been saved and the cumulative impact amount information. The number of times the fall history has been saved and the cumulative impact amount information may be considered to be included in the fall history information.

[0195] When the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it counts the number of times the fall history has been saved and can determine whether the number of times the fall history has been saved is greater than or equal to the reference number (S1650). When the control unit 12 determines that the number of times the fall history has been saved is greater than or equal to the reference number, it can control the output unit 14 to output information about the fall of the body 10 (S1640). The information about the fall may include a warning about the possibility of equipment failure due to the fall, guidance on safe use of the equipment, guidance on AS of the equipment, guidance on interrupting equipment use, etc.

[0196] When the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it can accumulate and store impact amount information. The control unit 12 can determine whether the accumulated impact amount is greater than or equal to the reference impact amount (S1670). When the control unit 12 determines that the accumulated impact amount is greater than or equal to the reference impact amount, it can control the output unit 14 to output information about the fall of the body 10 (S1640).

[0197] Figure 16 shows that the control unit 12 executes the S1670 operation after the S1650 operation, but the control unit 12 can also execute the S1650 operation after the S1670 operation, or it can execute only one of the S1650 and S1670 operations, or it can execute the S1650 and S1670 operations independently.

[0198] Therefore, by providing the user with an alarm in case the device falls, it is possible to guide the stable use of the device and prevent serious malfunctions that may occur in the device in advance.

[0199] Referring again to Figure 8, the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1 can include a plurality of independent power supplies 111, 112.

[0200] The power supply 11 may include a first power supply 111 and a second power supply 112. The first power supply 111 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, output unit 14, memory 17, and heater 18. The second power supply 112 may be configured as a separate power supply independently of the first power supply 111. The second power supply 112 can supply power to at least one sensor 13. The second power supply 112 supplies power to at least one sensor 13, and all components of the aerosol generator 1 except for at least one sensor 13 can receive power from the first power supply 111.

[0201] The control unit 12 can control the second power supply 112 so that power is always supplied to at least one sensor 13 by the second power supply 112 in all operating modes of the aerosol generator 1, including the minimum power mode.

[0202] On the other hand, the second power supply 112 can supply power to the control unit 12 and at least one sensor 13, and the first power supply 111 can also supply power to the remaining components of the aerosol generator 1.

[0203] Therefore, by providing an independent second power supply 112 connected to at least one sensor 13 for detecting the fall of the body 10, at least one sensor 13 can reliably detect the fall.

[0204] The memory 17 of the aerosol generator 10 may include a buffer memory 171. The buffer memory 171 is a FIFO (First In First Out) buffer and can sequentially store first sensing data and / or second sensing data output from at least one sensor 13. The control unit 12 can determine whether the body 10 has fallen based on the first sensing data and / or second sensing data sequentially stored in the buffer memory 171. However, although Figure 8 shows the buffer memory 171 as being included in the memory 17, in some embodiments, the buffer memory 171 may also be included inside the sensor 13.

[0205] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to accurately determine whether the body has fallen.

[0206] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the fall of the body can be reliably detected.

[0207] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, drop history information can be accumulated and stored, and the cause of failure can be accurately identified when a failure occurs in the aerosol generating device.

[0208] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, when a malfunction occurs in the aerosol generating apparatus, the apparatus can be easily serviced.

[0209] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an alarm can be provided to the user in the event of the body falling, thereby guiding the stable use of the device and preventing serious malfunctions that may occur in the device.

[0210] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the heating operation of the device can be shut off in situations where there is concern about damage to the device due to a fall, thereby preventing further malfunction of the device.

[0211] Referring to Figures 1 to 16, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a body 10, a heater 18 disposed in the body 10 for heating an aerosol generating substance, at least one sensor 13 that outputs sensing data about the body 10 falling, a memory 17 for storing the body 10's fall history information, a control unit 12 that acquires sensing data from the at least one sensor 13 and determines whether the body 10 has fallen based on the acquired sensing data, and a power supply 11 that supplies power to at least one of the heater 18, the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the memory 17. If the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it can accumulate and store the fall history information in the memory 17.

[0212] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the at least one sensor 13 includes a barometric pressure sensor 138, and the control unit 12 acquires first sensing data output by the barometric pressure sensor 138, determines the amount of altitude change of the body 10 based on the first sensing data, and if the amount of altitude change is greater than or equal to a first reference value, it determines that the body 10 has fallen and can store the fall history information in the memory 17.

[0213] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the at least one sensor 13 includes a piezo sensor 139, and the control unit 12 can acquire second sensing data output by the piezo sensor 139, determine the amount of impact on the body 10 based on the second sensing data, and if the amount of impact is greater than or equal to a second reference value, determine that the body 10 has fallen and store the fall history information in the memory 17.

[0214] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the at least one sensor 13 includes a barometric pressure sensor 138 and a piezo sensor 139, and the control unit 12 acquires first sensing data output by the barometric pressure sensor 138, determines the amount of altitude change of the body 10 based on the first sensing data, and if the amount of altitude change is greater than or equal to a first reference value, acquires second sensing data output by the piezo sensor 139, determines the amount of impact on the body 10 based on the second sensing data, and if the amount of impact is greater than or equal to a second reference value, determines that the body 10 has fallen and can store the fall history information in the memory 17.

[0215] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 12 further includes an output unit 14, which accumulates and stores the impact amount, and controls the output unit 14 to output information about the fall of the body 10 if the accumulated impact amount is greater than or equal to a reference impact amount.

[0216] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 12 further includes an output unit 14, which counts the number of times the body 10 has been dropped and, if the number of times the body 10 has been dropped is greater than or equal to a reference number, controls the output unit 14 to output information about the body 10's drops.

[0217] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the fall history information may include at least one of the time the fall occurred, the height of the fall, the duration of the fall, the location where the fall occurred, and the amount of impact.

[0218] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the power supply 11 may include a first power supply 111 that supplies power to at least one of the heater 18, the control unit 12, and the memory 17, and a second power supply 112 that supplies power to at least one sensor 13.

[0219] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the system further includes a buffer memory 171 for storing the sensing data, the buffer memory 171 being a FIFO (First In First Out) buffer, and capable of sequentially storing the sensing data.

[0220] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, if the control unit 12 determines that the body 10 has fallen, it can determine whether the heater 18 is operating, and if the heater 18 is operating, it can control the power supply 11 to cut off the power supplied to the heater 18.

[0221] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the body 10 includes an insertion space 43 with one end open, the heater 18 is positioned within the insertion space 43 and protrudes into the interior of the insertion space 43, and the heater 18 may be a resistance heater or an induction heating heater.

[0222] Furthermore, according to other aspects of the present disclosure, the present invention further includes a cartridge 19 comprising a container for storing liquid, which is coupled to one side of the body 10, the body 10 comprising an insertion space 43 with one end open, and the heater 18 being hollow and capable of surrounding the insertion space 43.

[0223] Furthermore, according to other aspects of the present disclosure, the present invention further includes an induction coil 181 surrounding at least a portion of the heater 18, the body 10 includes an insertion space 43 with one end open, the heater 18 is hollow and surrounds the insertion space 43, and the induction coil 181 is capable of generating heat for the heater 18.

[0224] The specific or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinguishable. The specific or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or in combination with each other in terms of their respective configurations or functions.

[0225] For example, this means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with configuration B described in other embodiments and / or drawings. In other words, even if a combination of configurations is not directly described, it means that such a combination is possible unless it is explicitly stated that such a combination is not possible.

[0226] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in any way and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. The body and, A heater is placed in the body and heats the aerosol-generating substance, At least one sensor that outputs sensing data regarding the fall of the body, A memory for storing the fall history information of the aforementioned body, A control unit that acquires sensing data from at least one of the sensors and determines whether the body has fallen based on the acquired sensing data, The system includes a power supply that provides power to at least one of the heater, the control unit, the sensor, and the memory, The control unit, An aerosol generating device that, when it is determined that the body has fallen, accumulates and stores the fall history information in the memory.

2. The at least one of the sensors includes a barometric pressure sensor, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires first sensing data output by the pressure sensor, determines the amount of altitude change of the body based on the first sensing data, determines that the body has fallen if the amount of altitude change is greater than or equal to a first reference value, and stores the fall history information in the memory.

3. The at least one sensor includes a piezoelectric sensor, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires second sensing data output by the piezo sensor, determines the amount of impact on the body based on the second sensing data, determines that the body has fallen if the amount of impact is greater than or equal to a second reference value, and stores the fall history information in the memory.

4. The at least one sensor includes a barometric pressure sensor and a piezoelectric sensor, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires first sensing data output by the pressure sensor, determines the amount of altitude change of the body based on the first sensing data, and if the amount of altitude change is greater than or equal to a first reference value, acquires second sensing data output by the piezo sensor, determines the amount of impact on the body based on the second sensing data, and if the amount of impact is greater than or equal to a second reference value, determines that the body has fallen and stores the fall history information in the memory.

5. Further including an output section, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit accumulates and stores the impact amount, and if the accumulated impact amount is greater than or equal to a reference impact amount, it controls the output unit to output information about the fall of the body.

6. Further including an output section, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit counts the number of times the body's fall history is saved, and if the number of times the fall history is saved is greater than or equal to a reference number, it controls the output unit to output information about the body's fall.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the fall history information includes at least one of the time the fall occurred, the height of the fall, the duration of the fall, the location where the fall occurred, and the amount of impact.

8. The aforementioned power supply is A first power supply that supplies power to at least one of the heater, the control unit, and the memory, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a second power source for supplying power to at least one of the sensors.

9. The system further includes a buffer memory for storing the aforementioned sensing data, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the buffer memory is a FIFO (First in First Out) buffer and sequentially stores the sensing data.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines, when it determines that the body has fallen, whether the heater is operating, and if the heater is operating, controls the power supply to cut off the power supplied to the heater.

11. The body includes an insertion space with one end open, The heater is positioned within the insertion space and protrudes into the interior of the insertion space. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heater is a resistance heater or an induction heating heater.

12. The body includes a container for storing liquid, and further includes a cartridge coupled to one side of the body, The body includes an insertion space with one end open, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heater is hollow and surrounds the insertion space.

13. The heater further includes an induction coil surrounding at least a portion of the heater, The body includes an insertion space with one end open, The heater is hollow and surrounds the insertion space. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heater generates heat due to the induction coil.

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