Aerosol generating apparatus and aerosol generating system containing the same

Abstract

The aerosol generating device may include a main body that forms the exterior, an aerosol generator that generates aerosols from an aerosol generating substance, a battery coupling to which a battery that supplies power can be detachably coupled, a battery cover that is detachably coupled to the main body and selectively opens or closes the battery coupling, a liquid sensor that detects liquid that has penetrated between the main body and the battery cover and generates a signal depending on whether or not liquid has been detected, and a control unit that controls the aerosol generating device in response to the signal generated by the liquid sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same. More particularly, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating device including a battery coupling part for accommodating a separable battery and capable of sensing liquid that penetrates into an electrode contacting a detachable battery, and an aerosol generating system including the same.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for technologies to replace the method of supplying aerosol by burning a common cigarette. For example, research is being conducted on methods such as generating aerosol from an aerosol generating substance in a liquid state or a solid state, or generating vapor from an aerosol generating substance in a liquid state and then passing the generated vapor through a solid perfume medium to supply a fragrant aerosol.

[0003] The aerosol generating device can be powered by a battery. At this time, the battery is also a battery separable from the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may include a battery coupling part for accommodating a separable battery, and a battery cover for selectively opening or closing the battery coupling part.

[0004] On the other hand, when the battery of the aerosol generating device is configured as a detachable battery, water can penetrate into the device during the insertion and separation process of the detachable battery. Since the electrode contacting the detachable battery is formed by being exposed, when the water penetrating into the device contacts the electrode, it may induce a failure of the internal components of the device due to overcurrent and overvoltage.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Liquid may penetrate the gap between the battery cover, which opens or closes the battery coupling of the aerosol generator, and other components. Liquid that penetrates the gap between the battery cover and other components may flow into other parts and cause electrical problems.

[0006] The technical problem of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating device that can detect water that has entered an electrode in contact with a removable battery.

[0007] The problem to be solved through various embodiments of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same, which ensure the safety of the user of the aerosol generating device by early detection of liquid that has penetrated into the gap between the battery cover and other components and notifying the user.

[0008] Another problem to be solved through various embodiments of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generator and an aerosol generator system including the same that can prevent damage to the aerosol generator by early detection of liquid that has penetrated into the gap between the battery cover and other components and by shutting off the battery power.

[0009] The problems that the embodiments of the present invention seek to solve are not limited to those described above, and any problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art in which the embodiments pertain from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] An aerosol generating apparatus for generating an aerosol according to one embodiment may include a main body that forms the exterior, an aerosol generator that generates an aerosol from an aerosol generating substance, a battery coupling part to which a battery that supplies power can be detachably coupled, a battery cover that is detachably coupled to the main body and selectively opens or closes the battery coupling part, a liquid sensor that detects liquid that has penetrated between the main body and the battery cover and generates a signal depending on whether or not liquid has been detected, and a control unit that controls the aerosol generating apparatus in response to the signal generated by the liquid sensor.

[0011] The liquid sensor may include a first pad and a second pad. Each of the first and second pads may be conductive and arranged opposite each other at a predetermined distance apart.

[0012] The first pad may be located on the main unit. The second pad may be located on the battery cover.

[0013] The liquid sensor can generate a signal depending on the electrical connection between the first pad and the second pad.

[0014] The liquid sensor can generate a signal in response to a change in capacitance between the first pad and the second pad.

[0015] A liquid sensor is conductive, contains electrical resistance, and can generate a signal in response to changes in the electrical resistance value.

[0016] The aerosol generator may include a sealing member. The sealing member may be placed between the main body and the battery cover. The sealing member may prevent liquid from penetrating towards the battery connection through the space between the main body and the battery cover.

[0017] The aerosol generator may further include a first display that outputs visual information.

[0018] The control unit can control the display in response to signals generated by the liquid sensor.

[0019] The aerosol generating device may further include a first acoustic output unit that outputs auditory information.

[0020] The control unit may control the acoustic output unit in response to the signal generated by the liquid sensor.

[0021] If the control unit determines that liquid has penetrated between the main body and the battery cover in response to the signal generated by the liquid sensor, it may cut off the power supply of the battery.

[0022] The aerosol generating device may further include a memory for storing information.

[0023] The control unit may store information corresponding to the signal generated by the liquid sensor in the memory.

[0024] The aerosol generating device according to another aspect includes an input unit that receives user input, a heating unit that heats the aerosol generating substrate according to the user input, a terminal unit that makes electrical contact with a detachable battery for supplying power to the heating unit, a water sensing unit that senses water entering the terminal unit, and a control unit that controls the power supplied to the heating unit based on the sensing result of the water sensing unit.

[0025] The aerosol generating system according to another aspect includes an aerosol generating device and an external device communicable with the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may transmit information corresponding to the signal generated by the liquid sensor to the external device.

[0026] The external device may include a second display that outputs visual information. The external device may control the second display in response to the information received from the aerosol generating device.

[0027] The external device may include a second acoustic output unit that outputs auditory information. The external device may control the second acoustic output unit in response to the information received from the aerosol generating device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0028] An aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same according to various embodiments of the present invention include a liquid sensor disposed between a battery cover and a main body, early detect penetrated liquid, and inform a user, thereby providing an effect of ensuring the safety of the user of the aerosol generating device.

[0029] An aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same according to various embodiments of the present invention include a liquid sensor disposed between a battery cover and a main body, early detect penetrated liquid, and cut off the power of a battery, thereby providing an effect of preventing damage to the aerosol generating device.

[0030] Since the aerosol generating device of the present invention supplies power to elements of the aerosol generating device using a detachable battery, inconvenience to the user due to device charging is eliminated.

[0031] In addition, the aerosol generating device senses water contacting an electrode that is in electrical contact with the detachable battery, and when the electrode contacts water, cuts off the power supplied to a heating unit regardless of user input, thereby preventing device failure due to overcurrent and overvoltage.

[0032] In addition, when the electrode contacts water, the aerosol generating device requests rapid separation of the detachable battery by notifying a flooded state through an output unit, thereby further enhancing user stability.

[0033] In addition, when the electrode contacts water, the aerosol generating device can forcibly separate the detachable battery from the device, prevent device failure, and enhance user stability.

[0034] The effects according to the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the embodiments belong from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0035] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] These are drawings illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3] These are drawings illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4] These are drawings illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 5] These are drawings illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 6] These are drawings illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view taken along the VII-VII line in Figure 7. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view illustrating an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment. [Figure 12A] This diagram shows various embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus depicted in Figure 11. [Figure 12B] This diagram shows various embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus depicted in Figure 11. [Figure 12C] This diagram shows various embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus depicted in Figure 11. [Figure 12D] This diagram shows various embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus depicted in Figure 11. [Figure 12E] This diagram shows various embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus depicted in Figure 11. [Figure 13]This is an exploded perspective view of a part of an aerosol generating device used to illustrate a method for connecting and disconnecting a detachable battery according to one embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a cross-sectional view of a partial configuration of an aerosol generating device for illustrating a method for connecting and disconnecting a detachable battery according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] This is an internal block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 16] This is a circuit diagram of a water sensing unit according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] This diagram illustrates the circuit operation based on the water detection results of the water sensing unit shown in Figure 15. [Figure 18] This diagram illustrates how the output unit operates based on the water detection results of the water sensing unit shown in Figure 15. [Figure 19A] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the method of connecting and disconnecting a detachable battery based on the water detection results of the water sensing unit. [Figure 19B] Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the method of connecting and disconnecting a detachable battery based on the water detection results of the water sensing unit. [Figure 20] This is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0036] The embodiments disclosed herein will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals used in the drawings, identical or similar components will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of them will be omitted.

[0037] The terminology used in the embodiments has been selected, as far as possible, to be widely used and general terms, while taking into account the function of the present invention. However, this may vary depending on the intent of the articulators, case law, or the emergence of new technologies. In certain cases, the applicant may have arbitrarily selected terms, in which case their meaning will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terminology used in the present invention is not simply a set of names, but must be defined based on the meaning of the term and the overall content of the present invention.

[0038] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a component, it means, unless otherwise specified, that it does not exclude other components, but rather that it may include other components. Furthermore, terms such as "...part" and "...module" used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be embodied by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software. The suffixes "module" and "part" used with respect to components in the following description are added or used interchangeably solely for the sake of ease of specification preparation and do not have any distinct meaning or role in themselves.

[0039] Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed herein, if a specific description of the prior art relating thereto is deemed to obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed herein, such detailed description will be omitted. In addition, the accompanying drawings are intended solely to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and it should be understood that the accompanying drawings do not limit the technical idea disclosed herein and include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes that fall within the concept and technical scope of the present invention.

[0040] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe a variety of components, but the components are not limited by such terms. The terms are used simply to distinguish one component from another.

[0041] When one component is described as being "linked" or "connected" to another component, it must be understood that this could mean it is directly linked to the other component, or it could be connected but with other components in between. On the other hand, when one component is described as being "linked" or "directly connected" to another component, it must be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0042] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0043] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that they can be easily implemented by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. However, the present invention can be embodied in a variety of different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0044] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] The aerosol generating device 1 can generate aerosols and provide the generated aerosols to the outside.

[0046] The aerosol generator 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 forms the overall appearance of the aerosol generator 1 and may contain internal space. At least one of the following may be located inside the main body 10: an article storage section 11, an aerosol generator (not shown), a control unit (not shown), and a battery (not shown).

[0047] The article storage section 11 may provide a space into which an aerosol product 2 can be detachably bound (inserted). The aerosol product 2 may include an aerosol-generating substance that generates an aerosol when heated by a heater. The article storage section 11 may provide a space that is open toward the outside of the main body 10 into which the aerosol product 2 can be inserted.

[0048] The article storage section 11 may be recessed inward toward the body 10 so that at least a portion of the aerosol product 2 can be inserted. The depth to which the article storage section 11 is recessed may correspond to the length of the region in the aerosol product 2 that contains the aerosol-generating substance and / or medium. A portion of the aerosol product 2 may be inserted into the body 10, while another portion of the aerosol product 2 may protrude toward the outside of the body 10. The user may put the portion of the aerosol product 2 exposed toward the outside of the body 10 into their mouth and inhale the air containing the aerosol.

[0049] An aerosol generator (not shown) can generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance. The aerosol generator may be located inside the main body 10. The aerosol generator (not shown) can heat the aerosol product 2. For example, the aerosol generator may include a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element. The aerosol generator may include an electrically resistive heater and / or an induction heater.

[0050] For example, an aerosol generator is also a resistive heater. An aerosol generator may include a conductive track, which can be heated by an electric current flowing through it. An aerosol generator may be electrically connected to a power source. An aerosol generator may be heated by power supplied from the power source.

[0051] For example, an aerosol generator is also a multiple heater. The aerosol generator may include a first heater and a second heater. The first heater and the second heater may be heated sequentially or simultaneously.

[0052] The aerosol generator 1 may include an induction coil. The induction coil may generate heat in the aerosol generator. The aerosol generator may include a susceptor. The susceptor may be generated by a magnetic field created by the alternating current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field may penetrate the susceptor and generate eddy currents inside it. The eddy currents may generate heat in the susceptor.

[0053] As another example, a susceptor may be included inside the aerosol product 2. The susceptor inside the aerosol product 2 may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an alternating current flowing through an induction coil. The susceptor is located inside the aerosol product 2 and is not electrically connected to the aerosol generating device. The susceptor may be inserted into the article storage section 11 together with the aerosol product 2 and may be removed from the article storage section 11 together with the aerosol product 2. If an alternating current flows through the induction coil, the aerosol product 2 may be heated by the susceptor inside the aerosol product 2.

[0054] The power supply can provide power to operate the components of the aerosol generator 1. The power supply is also a battery that stores power. The power supply can provide power to components such as the aerosol generator, induction coil, and control unit.

[0055] The control unit can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. The control unit can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit can control the operation of components such as the aerosol generator, induction coil, and power supply. The control unit can control the operation of displays, actuators (motors), and other components provided in the aerosol generator 1. The control unit can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether the aerosol generator 1 is in an operational state.

[0056] According to the present invention, the aerosol generator 1 may include an output unit 40. The output unit 40 may output and provide to the user information relating to the state of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 40 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a display, a haptic unit, and an acoustic output unit.

[0057] The display can output visual information to the outside. The display can visually provide the user with information related to the aerosol generator 1. For example, information related to the aerosol generator 1 means a variety of information such as the charging / discharging status of the aerosol generator 1's battery, the preheating status of the aerosol generator, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol product and / or cartridge, the attachment / removal status of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 1 is restricted (for example, when an incompatible battery is connected), and the display can output said information to the outside. For example, the display can also be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display can also be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0058] The acoustic output unit can provide the user with auditory information related to the aerosol generator 1. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0059] Figures 2 to 4 are drawings illustrating aerosol generating apparatus according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0060] Referring to Figure 2, an aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include at least one of a battery 12, a control unit 13, a sensor unit 14, and an aerosol generator 15. At least one of the battery 12, the control unit 13, the sensor unit 14, and the aerosol generator 15 may be located inside the main body 10 of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0061] The main body 10 may provide a space that opens on one side into which an aerosol product 2 can be inserted. This space that opens on one side may be referred to as an article storage section. The article storage section may be formed by recessing into the main body 10 to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the aerosol product 2 can be inserted. The depth of the article storage section may correspond to the length of the region in the aerosol product 2 that contains the aerosol-generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the aerosol product 2 is inserted into the main body 10, and a portion of the aerosol product 2 may protrude outside the main body 10. The user may inhale air by putting the portion of the aerosol product 2 that is exposed to the outside into their mouth.

[0062] The aerosol generator 15 can heat the aerosol product 2. The aerosol generator 15 may extend outward in the longitudinal direction of the space into which the aerosol product 2 is inserted. For example, the aerosol generator 15 may include a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element. The aerosol generator 15 may be inserted into one end of the aerosol product 2. The aerosol generator 15 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater.

[0063] For example, referring to Figure 2, the aerosol generator 15 is also a resistive heater. For example, the aerosol generator 15 includes a conductive track, and the aerosol generator 15 can be heated by current flowing through the conductive track. The aerosol generator 15 can be electrically connected to a battery 12. The aerosol generator 15 can be directly heated by current supplied from the battery 12.

[0064] For example, the aerosol generator 15 is also a multiple heater. The aerosol generator 15 may include a first heater 15A and a second heater 15B. The first heater 15A and the second heater 15B may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. The first heater 15A and the second heater 15B may be heated sequentially or simultaneously.

[0065] For example, referring to Figure 3, the aerosol generator 1 may include an induction coil 151 surrounding the aerosol generator 15. The induction coil 151 can generate heat in the aerosol generator 15. The aerosol generator 15 can be heated by a magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 151 as a susceptor. The magnetic field can penetrate the aerosol generator 15 and generate eddy currents within the aerosol generator 15. The eddy currents can generate heat in the aerosol generator 15.

[0066] For example, referring to Figure 4, a susceptor 152 may be included inside the aerosol product 2, and the susceptor 152 inside the aerosol product 2 may be heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 151. The susceptor 152 is located inside the aerosol product 2 and is not electrically connected to the aerosol generator 1. The susceptor 152 is housed in the article container together with the aerosol product 2 and can be detached from the article container together with the aerosol product 2. The aerosol product 2 may be heated by the susceptor 152 inside the aerosol product 2.

[0067] The battery 12 can supply power to the components of the aerosol generator 1 to operate. The battery 12 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 13, the sensor unit 14, and the aerosol generator 15. The battery 12 can supply power to the induction coil 151.

[0068] The control unit 13 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 13 may be located on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 13 can control the operation of at least one of the following: the battery 12, the sensor unit 14, and the aerosol generator 15. The control unit 13 can control the operation of the induction coil 151. The control unit 13 can control the operation of the display, actuator (motor), etc., provided in the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 13 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether the aerosol generator 1 is in an operational state.

[0069] The control unit 13 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor unit 14 and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 14, the control unit 13 can control the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15 so that the operation of the aerosol generator 15 starts or stops. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 14, the control unit 13 can control the amount of power supplied to the aerosol generator 15 and the duration of power supply so that the aerosol generator 15 is heated to a specified temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0070] The sensor unit 14 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, or an acceleration sensor. For example, the sensor unit 14 may sense at least one of the following: the temperature of the aerosol generator 15, the temperature of the battery 12, or the temperature inside or outside the main unit 10. For example, the sensor unit 14 may sense the user's puff. For example, the sensor unit 14 may sense whether or not the aerosol product 2 has been inserted into the article storage compartment. For example, the sensor unit 14 may sense the movement of the aerosol generator 1.

[0071] Figures 5 and 6 are drawings showing an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0072] Referring to Figure 5, the aerosol generator 1 may include a cartridge 3 and a main body 10. The aerosol generator 1 may include at least one of a battery 12, a control unit 13, and a sensor unit (not shown). At least one of the control unit 13 and the battery 12 may be located inside the main body 10. The main body 10 may be fitted with a cartridge 3 containing an aerosol generating substance. The user can inhale the aerosol by putting a mouthpiece (not shown) provided at one end of the cartridge 3 into their mouth.

[0073] Cartridge 3 may contain an aerosol-generating substance in its internal storage space 31, which may be in 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.

[0074] Cartridge 3 can be detachably attached to the main unit 10. By being attached to the main unit 10, cartridge 3 can be installed in the main unit 10.

[0075] The main unit 10 may have a structure that allows outside air to flow into the main unit 10 while the cartridge 3 is attached. In this case, the outside air that flows into the main unit 10 can pass through the cartridge 3 and flow into the user's mouth via the airflow channel CN.

[0076] Cartridge 3 may include a storage space 31 containing aerosol-generating material and / or a generating section 32. The generating section 32 may heat the aerosol-generating material in the storage space 31. Cartridge 3 may include a liquid transfer means 33 for absorbing the aerosol-generating material. Here, the liquid transfer means 33 may include a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic. The conductive track of the generating section 32 may consist of a coiled structure that winds the liquid transfer means 33 or a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means 33. The generating section 32 may be referred to as a "cartridge heater".

[0077] Cartridge 3 can generate an aerosol. The aerosol can be generated by heating the liquid transmission means 33 by the generation unit 32. The generated aerosol can be inhaled into the user's mouth through the airflow channel CN.

[0078] An airflow channel CN ​​may be provided in the cartridge 3. The airflow channel CN ​​may connect the generating section 32 of the cartridge 3 to the outside of the cartridge 3. One end of the airflow channel CN ​​may open to the generating section 32, and the other end may connect to the outside. For example, the airflow channel CN ​​may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 3 on one side of the storage space 31 of the cartridge 3. For example, the airflow channel CN ​​may extend through the cartridge 3 along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 3.

[0079] Referring to Figure 6, in one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 can contain the aerosol product 2. For example, the aerosol product 2 can be contained in a cartridge 3. As another example, the aerosol product 2 can be contained in the main body 10.

[0080] The aerosol product 2 can pass through the aerosol generated in the generation unit 32. The aerosol generator 1 includes an article storage unit that contains the aerosol product 2, and the aerosol generated inside the generation unit 32 can pass through the aerosol product 2 stored in the article storage unit and be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generator 1. At this time, the user can bring their mouth into contact with the aerosol product 2 and inhale the aerosol discharged to the outside of the aerosol generator 1 through the aerosol product 2.

[0081] Referring to Figure 6, the aerosol generator 1 may further include an aerosol generator 15 for heating the aerosol product 2. The aerosol generator 15 can heat the aerosol product 2. The aerosol generator 15 may be positioned around the space into which the aerosol product 2 is inserted. The aerosol generator 15 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0082] The control unit 13 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 13 may be located on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 13 can control the operation of at least one of the cartridge 3, battery 12, and sensor. For example, the control unit 13 can control the operation of a display (not shown), an acoustic output unit (not shown), a haptic unit (not shown), etc., provided in the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 13 can check the state of each component of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether the aerosol generator 1 is in an operational state.

[0083] The control unit 13 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor, the control unit 13 can control the power supplied to the generation unit 32 so that the operation of the generation unit 32 starts or stops. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor, the control unit 13 can control the amount of power supplied to the generation unit 32 and the duration of power supply so that the generation unit 32 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0084] The battery 12 can supply power to the components of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the battery 12 can provide electrical energy to at least one of the control unit 13, the sensor unit (not shown), and the aerosol generator (not shown).

[0085] The sensor unit may include at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, a cartridge sensing sensor, and a motion sensing sensor. For example, the sensor unit may sense at least one of the following: the temperature of the generation unit 32, the temperature of the battery 12, and the temperature inside and outside the main unit 10. For example, the sensor unit may sense the user's puff. For example, the sensor unit may sense whether the cartridge 3 is installed or not. For example, the sensor unit may sense the movement of the aerosol generation device 1.

[0086] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 in detail.

[0087] The aerosol generator 1 of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, any one of the embodiments of the aerosol generator 1 described with reference to Figures 1 to 6.

[0088] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 may have an external appearance and contain internal spaces.

[0089] The aerosol generating device 1 may further include a battery coupling portion 16 and a battery cover 17.

[0090] A battery (not shown) that supplies power can be detachably coupled to the battery coupling portion 16. The battery coupling portion 16 may include a space for coupling the battery (not shown). The battery coupling portion 16 may be located in a region inside the main body 10. Inside the battery coupling portion 16, main body electrodes (not shown) for electrically connecting to the battery may be arranged.

[0091] The main unit 10 may include a battery cover 17 that selectively opens or closes the battery coupling portion 16. The battery cover 17 may be located in one area of ​​the main unit 10. For example, the battery cover 17 may be located in the area corresponding to the battery coupling portion 16.

[0092] The battery cover 17 can be detachably connected to the main unit 10. The battery cover 17 can selectively open or close the battery coupling portion 16.

[0093] For example, the battery cover 17 can move to a closed position that closes the battery coupling portion 16, thereby closing the battery coupling portion 16 from the outside. By moving the battery cover 17 away from the closed position, the battery coupling portion 16 can be opened to the outside.

[0094] The battery cover 17 can be connected to the main body 10 in a closed position that closes the battery coupling portion 16. The battery cover 17 can be separated from the main body 10 by being released from the closed position.

[0095] Figure 7 illustrates how the battery cover 17, separated from the main unit 10, moves toward the closed position. Arrow A indicates the direction in which the battery cover 17 moves toward the closed position.

[0096] Referring to Figure 7, the battery cover 17 moves to the closed position by moving in the -x direction, thereby closing the battery coupling portion 16. When the battery cover 17 moves to the closed position, the battery coupling portion 16 is closed by the battery cover 17 and is no longer exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator 1.

[0097] The battery cover 17, positioned in the closed position, can move in the +x direction (opposite direction of arrow A) to open the battery coupling portion 16. When the battery cover 17 moves from the closed position in the +x direction, the battery coupling portion 16 is opened outwards and is no longer exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator 1.

[0098] When the battery cover 17 moves to the closed position and connects with the main body 10, the battery coupling portion 16 is closed to the outside, preventing the battery (not shown) from being coupled to or detached from the battery coupling portion 16, and potentially blocking foreign matter from the outside of the aerosol generator 1 from flowing into the battery coupling portion 16.

[0099] When the battery cover 17 is separated from the main body 10, the battery coupling portion 16 is opened to the outside, so the battery can be coupled to the battery coupling portion 16 or removed from the battery coupling portion 16.

[0100] The direction in which the battery coupling portion 16 is opened (-y) and the position in which the battery cover 17 is positioned, as shown in Figure 7, are merely illustrative examples. The battery coupling portion 16 can be opened from other sides of the main body 10 that are not in the -y direction, and the position in which the battery cover 17 is positioned along the direction in which the battery coupling portion 16 is opened can be determined.

[0101] A structure for a detachable connection between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 may be applied to at least a part of the main body 10, the battery coupling part 16, and the battery cover 17. For example, the battery cover 17 may be provided with a hook structure, and the main body 10 may be provided with a groove on which the hook structure can engage. As another example, the main body 10 may be provided with a groove on which the battery cover 17 can slide. As yet another example, the main body 10 or the battery cover 17 may be provided with a button structure that allows the battery cover 17 to be separated from the main body 10 by pressurization. As yet another example, the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 may be detachably connected by screws and threads. As yet another example, the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 may be detachably connected by an electronic means. The configuration and structure for a detachable connection between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 are not limited to those described above.

[0102] Incidentally, with a battery coupling portion 16 for a detachable battery, and a battery cover 17 structure that is detachable from the main body 10 and selectively opens or closes the battery coupling portion 16, liquid may penetrate into the gap between the battery cover 17 and the main body 10.

[0103] Liquid that seeps into the gap between the battery cover 17 and the main unit 10 may flow into the battery coupling 16 and cause problems with the battery's power supply. Liquid that seeps into the gap between the battery cover 17 and the main unit 10 may flow into other components inside the main unit 10 and cause electrical problems.

[0104] A sealing member (not shown) may be placed between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17. The sealing member can prevent liquid from penetrating towards the battery coupling portion 16 through the space between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17. The sealing member may include, but is not limited to, silicone, rubber, or plastic.

[0105] According to the present invention, in order to prevent problems that may occur due to the penetration of liquid through the gap between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17, the present invention may further include a configuration that can detect liquid that has penetrated between the battery cover 17 and the main body 10 at an early stage.

[0106] For example, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a liquid sensor (not shown). The liquid sensor may be included in the sensor unit. The liquid sensor may detect liquid that has penetrated between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 and generate a signal depending on whether or not liquid has been detected.

[0107] For example, the liquid sensor may detect water seeping between the main unit 10 and the battery cover 17 and generate a signal. The control unit (not shown) may control the aerosol generator 1 in response to the signal generated by the liquid sensor.

[0108] At least one of the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 may include a groove in which a liquid sensor is placed. For example, referring to Figure 7, the main body 10 may include a first groove 101, and the battery cover 17 may include a second groove 171.

[0109] A liquid sensor may be placed in at least one of the first groove 101 and the second groove 171. For example, liquid sensors may be placed in the first groove 101 and the second groove 171, respectively.

[0110] For example, when the battery cover 17 is connected to the main body 10, the first groove 101 and the second groove 171 may be arranged to face each other.

[0111] The following describes the detection of liquid that has penetrated between the main unit 10 and the battery cover 17 via a liquid sensor, and various embodiments based on this, with reference to Figure 8.

[0112] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] The aerosol generator 1 of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, any one of the embodiments of the aerosol generator 1 described with reference to Figures 1 to 6.

[0114] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating in detail the configuration of the battery coupling portion 16 and battery cover 17 of the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 7. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the VII-VII line in Figure 7.

[0115] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the battery cover 17 in the closed position, and Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the battery cover 17 in the closed position.

[0116] The aerosol generator 1 and its components, as described with reference to Figure 8, are identical or similar to those described with reference to Figure 7. To avoid repetitive explanations, explanations of redundant components may be omitted.

[0117] Referring to Figure 8, the battery 12 can be housed in the battery coupling 16. As previously mentioned with reference to Figure 7, the battery coupling 16 can be opened or closed by the battery cover 17.

[0118] When the battery coupling portion 16 is opened, the battery 12 can be inserted into the battery coupling portion 16 or ejected to the outside of the battery coupling portion 16.

[0119] After the battery 12 is inserted into the battery coupling portion 16, the battery cover 17 moves to the closed position and the battery coupling portion 16 is closed, thereby fixing the battery 12 inside the battery coupling portion 16.

[0120] To explain the state shown in Figure 8, the battery 12 is located inside the battery coupling 16, the battery cover 17 is in the closed position, and the battery cover 17 closes the battery coupling 16 to prevent the battery 12 from being ejected to the outside.

[0121] The battery coupling section 16 may be located in one area inside the main body 10. The main body electrode 161 may be located in one area inside the battery coupling section 16. The main body electrode 161 is configured to be electrically connected to the battery 12. The main body electrode 161 can receive current from the battery 12 and transmit that current to other components of the aerosol generator 1. For example, at least a portion of the control unit 13, the sensor unit 14, and the aerosol generator 15 may receive current from the battery 12 via the main body electrode 161.

[0122] A battery electrode 121 may be placed in one area of ​​the battery 12. The battery electrode 121 is configured to be electrically connected to the main electrode 161. The battery electrode 121 can supply current to other components of the aerosol generator 1 via the main electrode 161.

[0123] If the battery cover 17 is separated from the main unit 10, the battery 12 may be separated from the battery coupling portion 16. If the battery 12 is separated from the battery coupling portion 16, the electrical connection between the battery electrode 121 and the main unit electrode 161 is broken, and the power supply to the battery 12 may be interrupted.

[0124] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent problems that may occur due to the penetration of liquid through the gap between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17.

[0125] For example, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a liquid sensor 141. The liquid sensor 141 may be included in the sensor unit described above. The liquid sensor 141 can detect liquid that has penetrated between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 and generate a signal depending on whether or not liquid has been detected.

[0126] For example, the liquid sensor 141 can detect water seeping between the main unit 10 and the battery cover 17 and generate a signal indicating whether or not water is detected. The control unit 13 can control other components of the aerosol generator 1 in response to the signal generated by the liquid sensor.

[0127] The liquid sensor 141 may include "pads" which are conductive electrodes. The liquid sensor 141 may generate a signal in response to changes that occur when the pads come into contact with a liquid such as water. The liquid sensor 141 may include one or more pads.

[0128] For example, the liquid sensor 141 may include a first pad 141a and a second pad 141b. The first pad 141a and the second pad 141b are each conductive and may be arranged facing each other at a predetermined distance apart.

[0129] At least one of the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 may include a groove in which the liquid sensor 141 is positioned. For example, referring to Figure 8, the main body 10 may include a first groove 101, and the battery cover 17 may include a second groove 171.

[0130] A liquid sensor 141 may be placed in at least one of the first groove 101 and the second groove 171. For example, a first pad 141a may be placed in the first groove 101, and a second pad 141b may be placed in the second groove 171. The first pad 141a may be placed in the main body 10, and the second pad 141b may be placed in the battery cover 17.

[0131] However, according to the technical concept of the present invention, the arrangement of the liquid sensor 141 is not limited to what has been described above.

[0132] According to the present invention, the aerosol generator 1 may include an output unit (not shown). The output unit may output and provide information related to the aerosol generator 1 to the user. The output unit may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a display and an audio output unit.

[0133] The display can output visual information to the outside. The display can provide the user with information related to the aerosol generating device 1 in a visual manner.

[0134] The acoustic output unit can provide the user with information related to the aerosol generator 1 in an auditory manner. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0135] The aerosol generator 1 may further include a memory (not shown). The memory is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1 and can store data processed by the control unit 13 and data being processed.

[0136] For example, the liquid sensor 141 may not generate a separate signal if no liquid is detected, and may only generate a signal if liquid is detected. Another example is that the liquid sensor 141 may generate a first signal if no liquid is detected, and a second signal different from the first signal if liquid is detected.

[0137] The liquid sensor 141 can detect liquids in various ways through various embodiments as described below.

[0138] According to one embodiment, the signal from the liquid sensor 141 is also an electrical resistance value. The liquid sensor 141 may include an electrical resistor (not shown). The electrical resistor may be placed in the space between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 into which the liquid that has permeated can flow.

[0139] If a liquid such as water comes into contact with an electrical resistor, its electrical resistance value may decrease. Therefore, if a liquid that has permeated between the main unit 10 and the battery cover 17 comes into contact with the electrical resistor while current is flowing through it, its electrical resistance value may decrease. The liquid sensor 141 can generate a signal in response to the change in the electrical resistance value of the electrical resistor.

[0140] For example, if liquid that has penetrated between the main unit 10 and the battery cover 17 comes into contact with the first pad 141a and / or the second pad 141b, the electrical resistance values ​​of the first pad 141a and / or the second pad 141b will change, and in response, the liquid sensor 141 may generate a signal related to the electrical resistance value. According to this embodiment, when no liquid is detected, the electrical resistance values ​​of the first pad 141a and / or the second pad 141b may be referred to as the first signal, and the electrical resistance values ​​of the first pad 141a and / or the second pad 141b that have been changed due to the detection of liquid may be referred to as the second signal.

[0141] In another embodiment, the signal from the liquid sensor 141 is also a signal corresponding to the electrical connection between the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b. When the battery cover 17 is coupled to the main body 10, the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b may be positioned facing each other at a predetermined distance apart and without electrical connection. In this case, if liquid that has permeated between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 flows between the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b, the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b are electrically connected via the liquid, and the liquid sensor 141 can generate a signal due to the electrical connection between the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b. According to this embodiment, the liquid sensor 141 does not generate a separate signal when no liquid is detected, and generates a signal only when liquid is detected.

[0142] In other embodiments, the signal from the liquid sensor 141 is also a signal corresponding to the capacitance between the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b. The liquid sensor 141 may further include a capacitance sensor (not shown). When the battery cover 17 is coupled to the main body 10, the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b may be spaced a predetermined distance apart and positioned facing each other. In this case, if liquid that has permeated between the main body 10 and the battery cover 17 flows between the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b, the capacitance between the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b changes, and the liquid sensor 141 may generate a signal corresponding to the change in capacitance between the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b. According to this embodiment, when no liquid is detected, the signal relating to the capacitance between the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b is referred to as the first signal, and the signal relating to the capacitance between the first pad 141a and the second pad 141b that has been changed due to the detection of liquid may be referred to as the second signal.

[0143] According to the present invention, the liquid sensor 141 is positioned between the battery cover 17 and the main body 10, so that it can detect liquid flowing through the space between the battery cover 17 and the main body 10 early and generate a signal before it flows into other components, and the control unit 13 can appropriately control the aerosol generator 1 to prevent damage caused by liquid penetration. The following describes an embodiment in which the control unit 13 controls other components in response to the signal transmitted from the liquid sensor 141.

[0144] The control unit 13 can control other components of the aerosol generator 1 in response to signals generated by the liquid sensor 141.

[0145] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when the control unit 13 receives a signal related to liquid penetration from the liquid sensor 141, if it determines that liquid has penetrated between the main unit 10 and the battery cover 17, it can cut off the power supply to the battery 12 and interrupt all operations of the aerosol generator 1, thereby minimizing damage caused by the liquid.

[0146] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 13 can control the output unit's display (not shown), acoustic output unit (not shown), etc., in response to a signal generated by the liquid sensor 141. For example, when the control unit 13 receives a signal related to liquid penetration from the liquid sensor 141, it can control the display to output visual information instructing the aerosol generator 1 to disconnect and / or replace the battery. As another example, when the control unit 13 receives a signal related to liquid penetration from the liquid sensor 141, it can control the display to output visual information instructing the aerosol generator 1 to stop using the device and cut off the power supply.

[0147] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 13 can control the acoustic output unit (not shown) of the output unit in response to a signal generated by the liquid sensor 141. For example, when the control unit 13 receives a signal related to liquid penetration from the liquid sensor 141, it can control the acoustic output unit to output auditory information instructing the aerosol generator 1 to disconnect and / or replace the battery. As another example, when the control unit 13 receives a signal related to liquid penetration from the liquid sensor 141, it can control the acoustic output unit to output auditory information instructing the aerosol generator 1 to stop using the device and cut off the power. As yet another example, when the control unit 13 receives a signal related to liquid penetration from the liquid sensor 141, it can control the acoustic output unit to output a warning sound.

[0148] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 13 can store information corresponding to the signal generated by the liquid sensor 141 in memory. The information stored in memory will be useful in analyzing the cause of any problems that may occur in the aerosol generator 1 in the future.

[0149] The embodiments of the present invention described above can be implemented in combination.

[0150] For example, the control unit 13 first controls the display to output visual information related to liquid penetration, then stores the relevant information in memory, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, automatically cuts off the power supply from the battery 12, thereby interrupting all operations of the aerosol generator 1 and minimizing damage caused by the liquid.

[0151] As another example, the control unit 13 first controls the acoustic output unit to output auditory information related to liquid penetration, then stores the relevant information in memory, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, automatically cuts off the power supply from the battery 12, thereby interrupting all operations of the aerosol generator 1 and minimizing damage caused by the liquid.

[0152] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0153] The aerosol generator 1 of this embodiment is identical to, or similar to, any one of the embodiments of the aerosol generator 1 described with reference to Figures 1 to 6, but is not limited to these.

[0154] The aerosol generator 1 and its components, as described with reference to Figure 9, are identical or similar to the aerosol generator 1 and its components described above with reference to other drawings. To avoid repetitive explanations, detailed descriptions of redundant components may be omitted.

[0155] According to the present invention, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an output unit 40. The output unit 40 may output and provide to the user information relating to the state of the aerosol generating device 1. The output unit 40 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a first display (not shown) and a first acoustic output unit (not shown).

[0156] The first display can provide visual information to the outside. The first display can visually provide the user with information related to the aerosol generator 1. For example, information related to the aerosol generator 1 means a variety of information such as the charging / discharging status of the battery of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the aerosol generator, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol product and / or cartridge, the attachment / removal status of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 1 is restricted (for example, when an incompatible battery is connected), and the first display can output said information to the outside. For example, the first display can also be an LED light-emitting element. For example, the first display can also be a liquid crystal first display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting first display panel (OLED), etc.

[0157] The first acoustic output unit can provide the user with auditory information related to the aerosol generator 1. For example, the first acoustic output unit can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it externally.

[0158] The aerosol generator 1 may further include memory (not shown). The memory may include at least one type of recording medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The memory may store data relating to 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.

[0159] As previously mentioned with reference to other drawings, the aerosol generator may further include a control unit (not shown), an identification unit (not shown), and a battery coupling unit (not shown). The battery coupling unit can house a battery.

[0160] The control unit can control other components of the aerosol generator 1 in response to signals generated by the liquid sensor.

[0161] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when the control unit 13 receives a signal related to liquid penetration from the liquid sensor 141, if it determines that liquid has penetrated between the main unit 10 and the battery cover 17, it can cut off the power supply to the battery 12 and interrupt all operations of the aerosol generator 1, thereby minimizing damage caused by the liquid.

[0162] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 13 can control the output unit's display (not shown) in response to a signal generated by the liquid sensor 141.

[0163] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 13 can control the acoustic output unit (not shown) of the output unit in response to the signal generated by the liquid sensor 141.

[0164] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 13 can store information corresponding to the signal generated by the liquid sensor 141 in memory. The information stored in memory will be useful in analyzing the cause of any problems that may occur in the aerosol generator 1 in the future.

[0165] The aerosol generator 1 can communicate with an external device 1000. The aerosol generator 1 may further include a communication unit (not shown) for communicating with the external device 1000. The communication unit may include at least one component for communication with the external device 1000. For example, the communication unit may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0166] 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 others.

[0167] 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.

[0168] The external device 1000 may include a second display that outputs visual information. The external device may include a second acoustic output unit that outputs auditory information.

[0169] The aerosol generating device 1 and the external device 1000 can be referred to as an aerosol generating system.

[0170] The aerosol generator 1 can transmit information corresponding to the signal generated by the liquid sensor to the external device 1000. For example, the control unit can control the communication unit to transmit information corresponding to the signal generated by the liquid sensor to the external device 1000.

[0171] The external device 1000 can control its components in response to information received from the aerosol generator 1. For example, the external device 1000 can control the second display in response to information received from the aerosol generator 1. As another example, the external device 1000 can control the second acoustic output unit in response to information received from the aerosol generator 1.

[0172] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when the external device 1000 receives information related to liquid penetration from the aerosol generator 1, it may control the second display to output visual information instructing the aerosol generator 1 to disconnect and / or replace the battery. As another example, when the external device 1000 receives information related to liquid penetration from the aerosol generator 1, it may control the second display to output visual information instructing the aerosol generator 1 to stop using the device and cut off the power supply.

[0173] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the external device 1000 can control the second acoustic output unit in response to information transmitted from the aerosol generator 1. For example, if the external device 1000 receives information related to liquid penetration from the aerosol generator 1, it can control the second acoustic output unit to output auditory information instructing the aerosol generator 1 to disconnect and / or replace the battery. As another example, if the external device 1000 receives a signal related to liquid penetration from the aerosol generator 1, it can control the second acoustic output unit to output auditory information instructing the aerosol generator 1 to stop using the device and cut off the power supply. As yet another example, if the external device 1000 receives a signal related to liquid penetration from the aerosol generator 1, it can control the second acoustic output unit to output a warning sound.

[0174] Figure 10 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0175] The aerosol generator 1 may include a battery 12, a control unit 13, a sensor unit 14, an output unit 40, an input unit 70, a communication unit 50, a memory 60, and at least one aerosol generator 15. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to that shown in Figure 10. That is, a person with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment will understand that some of the components shown in Figure 10 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1.

[0176] The sensor unit 14 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 13. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 13 can control the aerosol generator 1 so that various functions are performed, such as controlling the operation of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15, restricting smoking, determining whether a stick and / or cartridge is inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0177] The sensor unit 14 may include at least one of the following: liquid sensor 141, temperature sensor 142, puff sensor 143, insertion sensor 144, reuse sensor 145, cartridge sensor 146, cap sensor 147, and motion sensor 148.

[0178] The liquid sensor 141 can detect the penetration of liquid between the battery cover and the main body. The description of the liquid sensor 141 should be interpreted in accordance with the above description by referring to other drawings.

[0179] The temperature sensor 142 can sense the temperature at which the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or stick aerosol generator 15 are heated. The aerosol generator 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or stick aerosol generator 15, or the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or stick aerosol generator 15 themselves may perform the role of a temperature sensor.

[0180] The temperature sensor 142 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15. For example, the temperature sensor 142 may include a resistive element whose resistance changes in response to temperature changes in the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15. This can be implemented using a thermistor or other element that utilizes the property that resistance changes with temperature. In this case, the temperature sensor 142 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15. For example, the temperature sensor 142 may be composed of a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15. In this case, the temperature sensor 142 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15.

[0181] The temperature sensor 142 may be positioned around the battery 12 to monitor its temperature. The temperature sensor 142 may be positioned adjacent to the battery 12. For example, the temperature sensor 142 may be attached to one side of the battery 12. For example, the temperature sensor 142 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0182] The temperature sensor 142 is located inside the main unit 10 and can sense the internal temperature of the main unit 10.

[0183] The puff sensor 143 can detect user puffs based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 143 can output a signal corresponding to a puff. For example, the puff sensor 143 is also a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 143 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1 can correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 143 can be positioned in the aerosol generator 1 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0184] The insertion sensing sensor 144 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick. The insertion sensing sensor 144 can detect signal changes due to the insertion and / or removal of the stick. The insertion sensing sensor 144 may be provided around the insertion space. The insertion sensing sensor 144 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick by a change in dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 144 is also an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0185] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive 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.

[0186] An inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through a coil. For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of a coil.

[0187] A capacitance sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitance sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitance sensor may output a signal corresponding to the surrounding electromagnetic properties, such as the capacitance around the conductor. For example, if a stick including a metal ferrule is inserted into the insertion space, the ferrule of the stick may alter the electromagnetic properties around the conductor.

[0188] The reuse detection sensor 145 can detect whether the stick has been reused. The reuse detection sensor 145 is also a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the hue of the stick. The color sensor can detect the hue of a part of the trumpet covering the outside of the stick. The color sensor can detect a value for an optical property corresponding to the hue of an object, based on the light reflected from the object. For example, the optical property is also the wavelength of light. The color sensor can be implemented in one configuration with the proximity sensor, or in a separate configuration distinct from the proximity sensor.

[0189] At least a portion of the flaps that make up the stick may change hue due to aerosols. The reuse sensing sensor 145 may be positioned in a location corresponding to where at least a portion of the flaps whose hue changes due to aerosols are located when the stick is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick is used by a user, at least a portion of the flaps has the first hue. In this case, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 1 passes through the stick, at least a portion of the flaps may be wetted by the aerosol, causing at least a portion of the flaps to change to the second hue. On the other hand, at least a portion of the flaps may remain at the second hue after being changed from the first hue to the second hue.

[0190] The cartridge sensing sensor 146 can detect the insertion and / or removal of a cartridge. The cartridge sensing sensor 146 can be implemented as an inductance substrate sensor, a power outage capacitance sensor, a resistance sensor, or a Hall sensor (Hall IC) using the Hall effect.

[0191] The cap sensing sensor 147 can detect the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the main body 10, the cartridge and part of the main body 10 that were covered by the cap may be exposed to the outside. The cap sensing sensor 147 can be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0192] The motion sensing sensor 148 can detect the movement of the aerosol generator. The motion sensing sensor 148 can be embodied in at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0193] In addition to the aforementioned sensors (141 to 147), the sensor unit 14 may further include at least one of the following: a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor. A detailed explanation of the function of each sensor may be omitted.

[0194] The output unit 40 may output and provide to the user information relating to the state of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 40 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the display 41, the haptic unit 42, and the acoustic output unit 43. If the display 41 and the touchpad form a layered structure to constitute a touchscreen, the display 41 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0195] The display 41 can visually provide the user with information related to the aerosol generator 1. For example, information related to the aerosol generator 1 can include a variety of information such as the charging / discharging status of the battery 12 of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the stick aerosol generator 15, the insertion / removal status of the stick and / or cartridge, 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 41 can output this information to the outside. For example, the display 41 can also be an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display 41 can also be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0196] The haptic unit 42 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli to provide the user with tactile information related to the aerosol generator 1. For example, if initial power is supplied to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or stick aerosol generator 15 for a set time, the haptic unit 42 may generate vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating. The haptic unit 42 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0197] The acoustic output unit 43 can provide the user with auditory information related to the aerosol generator 1. For example, the acoustic output unit 43 can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0198] The battery 12 can supply power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. The battery 12 can supply power so that the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or stick aerosol generator 15 can be heated. The battery 12 can also supply power necessary for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator 1, namely the sensor unit 14, output unit 40, input unit 70, communication unit 50, and memory 60. The battery 12 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 12 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to these.

[0199] Although not shown in Figure 10, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit is electrically connected to the battery 12 and may include a switching element.

[0200] The power protection circuit may interrupt the circuit to the battery 12 under predetermined conditions. For example, the power protection circuit may interrupt the circuit to the battery 12 if the voltage level of the battery 12 is equal to or greater than a first voltage corresponding to overcharging. For example, the power protection circuit may interrupt the circuit to the battery 12 if the voltage level of the battery 12 is less than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharge.

[0201] The stick aerosol generator 15 can be powered by the battery 12 to heat the medium or aerosol-generating material inside the stick. Although not shown in Figure 10, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the battery 12 and supplies it to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 1 generates aerosols by induction heating, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power from the battery 12 to AC power.

[0202] The control unit 13, sensor unit 14, output unit 40, input unit 70, communication unit 50, and memory 60 can perform their functions by being powered by the battery 12. Although not shown in Figure 10, the system may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power from the battery 12 and supplies it to each component. Also, although not shown in Figure 10, a noise filter may be provided between the battery 12 and the stick aerosol generator 15. The noise filter is also 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 battery 12 to the stick aerosol generator 15. The low-pass filter can prevent high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor unit 14, such as the insertion sensing sensor 144.

[0203] In one embodiment, the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 may consist of any suitable electrical resistant material. Suitable electrical resistant materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys, such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The stick aerosol generator 15 may also be embodied in, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with conductive tracks, a ceramic heating element, and the like.

[0204] In other embodiments, the stick aerosol generator 15 is also an induction heating heater. For example, the stick aerosol generator 15 may include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil, thereby heating the aerosol-generating material.

[0205] The input unit 70 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit 70 is also a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor that detects 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.

[0206] The display 41 and the touch panel can be realized as a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be inserted into the display 41 (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel can be added on top of the display 141 (add-on type).

[0207] On the other hand, the input section 70 includes, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0208] Memory 60 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 13 and data being processed. Memory 60 may include at least one type of recording medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 60 may 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.

[0209] The communication unit 50 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 50 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0210] 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 others.

[0211] 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.

[0212] Although not shown in Figure 10, 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 USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 12.

[0213] The control unit 13 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 13 may include at least one processor. The processor may be embodied as an array of numerous logic gates and may be embodied as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program that can be executed by the microprocessor. Alternatively, the control unit 13 may be embodied as other forms of hardware.

[0214] The control unit 13 can control the temperature of the stick aerosol generator 15 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 12 to the stick aerosol generator 15. The control unit 13 can control the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 based on the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 sensed by the temperature sensor 142. The control unit 13 can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 based on the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15. For example, the control unit 13 can determine a target temperature for the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 60.

[0215] The aerosol generator 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the battery 12 between the battery 12 and the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge aerosol generator 15, the stick aerosol generator 15, or the induction coil 181. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be embodied by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 13 can control the power supply circuit.

[0216] The control unit 13 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit is also an inverter that converts the DC power output from the battery 12 into AC power. For example, the inverter may consist of a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit that includes multiple switching elements.

[0217] The control unit 13 can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the battery 12 to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15. The control unit 13 can turn off the switching element so that the power supply to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 is cut off. The control unit 13 can adjust the current supplied from the battery 12 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulses input to the switching element.

[0218] The control unit 13 can control the voltage output from the battery 12 by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the battery 12. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the battery 12. For example, the power conversion circuit may be implemented through a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, or the like.

[0219] The control unit 13 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 conversion 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 battery 12. 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 battery 12. 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 may be. The stick aerosol generator 15 may be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0220] The control unit 13 can control the supply of power to the stick aerosol generator 15 using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID).

[0221] For example, the control unit 13 can use a PWM method to control the supply of current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the stick aerosol generator 15. The control unit 13 can adjust the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses to control the power supplied to the stick aerosol generator 15.

[0222] For example, the control unit 13 can determine a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile. The control unit 13 can control the power supplied to the stick aerosol generator 15 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the temperature of the stick aerosol generator 15 and the target temperature, the integral of the difference over time, and the derivative of the difference over time.

[0223] The control unit 13 can prevent overheating of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15. For example, the control unit 13 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit so that the power supply to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 is interrupted based on the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 exceeding a previously set limit temperature. For example, the control unit 13 can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 by a certain percentage based on the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 exceeding a previously set limit temperature. For example, the control unit 13 can determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge has been exhausted based on the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 exceeding a limit temperature and cut off the power supply to the cartridge aerosol generator 15.

[0224] The control unit 13 can control the charging and discharging of the battery 12. The control unit 13 can check the temperature of the battery 12 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 142.

[0225] When a power line is connected to the main body electrode of the aerosol generator 1, the control unit 13 can check whether the temperature of the battery 12 is equal to or above a first limiting temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the charging of the battery 12. If the temperature of the battery 12 is below the first limiting temperature, the control unit 13 can control the battery 12 to be charged based on a previously set charging current. If the temperature of the battery 12 is equal to or above the first limiting temperature, the control unit 13 can shut off the charging of the battery 12.

[0226] With the aerosol generator 1 powered on, the control unit 13 can check whether the temperature of the battery 12 is above the second limit temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the discharge of the battery 12. If the temperature of the battery 12 is below the second limit temperature, the control unit 13 can control the system to use the power stored in the battery 12. If the temperature of the battery 12 is above the second limit temperature, the control unit 13 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the battery 12.

[0227] The control unit 13 can calculate the remaining capacity of the battery 12 relative to the power stored in the battery 12. For example, the control unit 13 can calculate the remaining capacity of the battery 12 based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the battery 12.

[0228] The control unit 13 can determine whether or not a stick has been inserted into the insertion space via the insertion sensing sensor 144. Based on the output signal of the insertion sensing sensor 144, the control unit 13 can determine that a stick has been inserted. If it determines that a stick has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 13 can control the supply of power to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15. For example, the control unit 13 can supply power to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 60.

[0229] The control unit 13 can determine whether or not the stick has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 13 can determine whether or not the stick has been removed from the insertion space via the insertion sensing sensor 144. For example, the control unit 13 determines that the stick has been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the stick aerosol generator 15 is above a limit temperature, or if the temperature change gradient of the stick aerosol generator 15 is above a set gradient. If the control unit 13 determines that the stick has been removed from the insertion space, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15.

[0230] The control unit 13 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the stick aerosol generator 15 based on the state of the stick sensed by the sensor unit 14. The control unit 13 can determine the level range that includes the signal level of the capacitance sensor based on a lookup table. The control unit 13 can determine the amount of moisture in the stick based on the determined level range.

[0231] If the stick is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 13 controls the power supply time to the stick aerosol generator 15, and may increase the preheating time of the stick compared to normal conditions.

[0232] The control unit 13 can determine whether the stick inserted into the insertion space is being reused via the reuse sensing sensor 145. For example, the control unit 13 compares the sensing value of the reuse sensing sensor signal with a first reference range that includes a first hue, and determines that the stick is not being used if the sensing value falls within the first reference range. For example, the control unit 13 compares the sensing value of the reuse sensing sensor signal with a second reference range that includes a second hue, and determines that the stick has been used if the sensing value falls within the second reference range. If it is determined that the stick has been used, the control unit 13 may cut off the power supply to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15.

[0233] The control unit 13 can determine whether to connect and / or remove the cartridge through the cartridge sensing sensor 146. For example, the control unit 13 can determine whether to connect and / or remove the cartridge based on the sensing value of the signal from the cartridge sensing sensor.

[0234] The control unit 13 can determine whether the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge has been exhausted. For example, the control unit 13 preheats the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 by applying power, and determines whether the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period. If the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 exceeds the limit temperature, the control unit 13 determines that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge has been exhausted. If the control unit 13 determines that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge has been exhausted, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15.

[0235] The control unit 13 can determine whether the cartridge is usable or not. For example, based on the data stored in the memory 60, the control unit 13 determines that the cartridge is unusable if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge. For example, the control unit 13 determines that the cartridge is unusable if the total time the cartridge aerosol generator 15 has been heated is greater than or equal to the previously set maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 is greater than or equal to the previously set maximum amount of power.

[0236] The control unit 13 can make decisions regarding the user's inhalation through the puff sensor 143. For example, the control unit 13 can determine whether or not a puff has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor. For example, the control unit 13 can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor 143. If the number of puffs reaches the pre-set maximum number of puffs, or if no puff has been detected for a pre-set time or longer, the control unit 13 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15.

[0237] The control unit 13 can determine whether to attach and / or remove the cap via the cap sensing sensor 147. For example, the control unit 13 can determine whether to attach and / or remove the cap based on the sensing value of the signal from the cap sensing sensor.

[0238] The control unit 13 can control the output unit 40 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 14. For example, if the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 143 reaches a pre-set number, the control unit 13 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 1 will soon shut down via at least one of the display 41, the haptic unit 42, and the acoustic output unit 43. For example, the control unit 13 can notify the user via the output unit 40 based on the determination that there is no stick in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 13 can notify the user via the output unit 40 based on the determination that the cartridge and / or cap is not installed. For example, the control unit 13 can transmit information related to the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15 to the user via the output unit 40.

[0239] The control unit 13 can save and update a history of events in the memory 60 based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. Events may include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1, such as stick insertion detection, stick heating start, puff detection, puff end, overheating detection of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or stick aerosol generator 15, overvoltage application detection to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or stick aerosol generator 15, stick heating end, power on / off of the aerosol generator 1, charging start to the battery 12, overcharge detection of the battery 12, and charging end to the battery 12. The history of events may include the date and time the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is stick insertion detection, the log data corresponding to the event may include data related to the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor 144, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating in the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15, the log data corresponding to the event may include data relating to the temperature of the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15, the voltage applied to the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15, the current flowing through the cartridge aerosol generator 15 and / or the stick aerosol generator 15, and so on.

[0240] The control unit 13 can be controlled to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 13 can remove restrictions 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 that the user data is valid based on the user's date of birth, a unique number identifying the user, etc., and can receive data related to the right to use the aerosol generator 1 from an external server. Based on the data related to 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 13 can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. For example, once user authentication is complete, the control unit 13 can remove restrictions on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the stick aerosol generator 15.

[0241] The control unit 13 can transmit data related to 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 battery 12 of the aerosol generator 1, the operating mode, etc., via the external device's display.

[0242] An external device may 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 13 receives a location search request from the external device, it may 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 42 may generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display 41 may output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0243] The control unit 13 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update upon receiving firmware data from an external device. The external device can check the current firmware version of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether a new firmware version exists. If the external device receives an input requesting a firmware download, it can receive the new firmware version data and transmit the new firmware version data to the aerosol generator 1. Upon receiving the new firmware version data, the control unit 13 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update.

[0244] The control unit 13 can transmit data related to the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor unit 14 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 50, and can receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensing values ​​from the server via machine learning such as deep learning. The control unit 13 can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 13 can store sensing value data from at least one sensor unit 14 and data for learning the artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 60. For example, the memory 60 can store a database related to each component of the aerosol generator 1, weights and biases that make up the artificial neural network (ANN) structure, for learning the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 13 learns data related to the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor unit 14, the user's inhalation pattern, temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory 60, and can generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's inhalation pattern, generating a temperature profile, etc.

[0245] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment.

[0246] Referring to Figure 11, the aerosol generation system 100 may include an aerosol generating device 1 and an aerosol product 2.

[0247] Aerosol generator 1 also has the configuration corresponding to aerosol generators 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, and 1e in Figures 12A to 12E. Aerosol product 2 also has the configuration corresponding to cigarettes 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d in Figures 12A to 12D. Furthermore, aerosol product 2 also has the configuration corresponding to liquid composition 2e in Figure 12E.

[0248] The aerosol generating device 1 can generate and provide aerosols.

[0249] The aerosol generator 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 forms the overall appearance of the aerosol generator 1 and may contain internal space. At least one of the following may be located inside the main body 10: heater (15 in Figure 15), control unit (13 in Figure 15), input unit 70, output unit 40, memory (60 in Figure 15), internal battery (19 in Figure 15), communication unit (50 in Figure 15), sensor unit (14 in Figure 15), water sensing unit (200 in Figure 15), and terminal unit (161 in Figure 15). A removable battery (110 in Figure 15) may be detachably mounted in the aerosol generator 1. When a removable battery 12 is inserted into the aerosol generator 1, the removable battery 12 may be defined as an internal component of the aerosol generator 1.

[0250] The article storage section 11 may provide a space into which the aerosol product 2 can be detachably bound (inserted). The aerosol product 2 may include an aerosol-generating substance that is heated by the aerosol generator 15 to produce an aerosol. The article storage section 11 may provide a space that is open toward the outside of the main body 10 into which the aerosol product 2 can be inserted.

[0251] The article storage section 11 may be recessed inward toward the body 10 so that at least a portion of the aerosol product 2 can be inserted. The depth to which the article storage section 11 is recessed may correspond to the length of the region in the aerosol product 2 that contains the aerosol-generating substance and / or medium. A portion of the aerosol product 2 may be inserted into the body 10, while another portion of the aerosol product 2 may protrude toward the outside of the body 10. The user may put the portion of the aerosol product 2 exposed toward the outside of the body 10 into their mouth and inhale the air containing the aerosol.

[0252] The main body 10 forms the overall appearance of the aerosol generator 1 and may include an internal space where the components of the aerosol generator 1 can be arranged. Although the drawings only show an embodiment in which the main body 10 has a rectangular prism-like cross-section, the shape of the main body 10 is not limited to this and may be formed in a cylindrical shape or a polygonal prism shape.

[0253] The main body 10 may further include a cover 18 that opens or closes the article storage section 11. The cover 18 may be movably positioned on the main body 10 to expose the article storage section 11 to the outside of the aerosol generator 1, or it may cover the article storage section 11 so that it is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the cover 18 may open the article storage section 11 in a first position, exposing it to the outside, so that an aerosol product 2 can be inserted into the article storage section 11. Alternatively, the cover 18 may move from the first position to a second position, closing the article storage section 11 so that it is not exposed to the outside, thereby protecting the article storage section 11 from external impact or the inflow of external foreign matter.

[0254] The aerosol generator 15, located inside the main body 10, can heat the aerosol product 2. For example, the aerosol generator 15 may include a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element. The aerosol generator 15 may include an electrically resistive heater and / or an induction heater. If the aerosol generator 15 is composed of an induction heater, it may include a susceptor and an induction coil. The aerosol generator 15 also corresponds to the configurations of the aerosol generators 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, and 15e in Figures 12A to 12E.

[0255] The removable battery 12 can supply power to operate the components of the aerosol generator 1. The removable battery 12 may be housed inside the main body 10 via a battery coupling (16 in Figure 13). In some embodiments, the aerosol generator 1 may further include an internal battery 19, which is separate from the removable battery 12 and fixed inside the main body 10. The internal battery 19 has a lower output than the removable battery 12 and can provide minimal power to the internal components of the aerosol generator 1 even when the removable battery 12 is not housed in the battery coupling 16.

[0256] The control unit 13 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 13 can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 13 can receive user input via the input unit 70 and control the operation of the aerosol generator 15 based on the user input. The control unit 13 can also control the output unit 40 to output status information of the aerosol generator 1.

[0257] The input unit 70 can receive user input. In one embodiment, the input unit 70 may consist of a pressurized push button or a touch sensor. The input unit 70 is positioned to protrude from at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the main body 10 and can receive user input in response to the user pressing or touching the input unit 70.

[0258] The output unit 40 can output information relating to the status of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 40 can output the charge / discharge status of the removable battery 12 and / or internal battery 19, the heating status of the aerosol generator 15, the insertion status of the aerosol product 2, and error information of the aerosol generator 1. For this purpose, the output unit 40 may include a display, a haptic motor, and an acoustic output unit. The output unit 40 may be located in at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the main body 10. Figure 11 shows the output unit 40 located in the -z direction relative to the input unit 70, but the position of the output unit 40 is not limited thereto.

[0259] Figures 12A to 12E are diagrams illustrating various embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus shown in Figure 11.

[0260] Referring to Figures 12A to 12E, the aerosol generator 1 can be realized as various types of aerosol generators 1a to 1e, such as using an electric resistance heating method or an induction heating method, a method further equipped with a vaporizer, or a cartridge method. Figures 12A to 12E only show some elements to explain the types of aerosol generators 1a to 1e, and other general-purpose elements may be further included in the aerosol generators 1a to 1e in addition to the elements shown in Figures 12A to 12E.

[0261] In Figure 12A, the aerosol generator 1a may include a detachable battery 12, an aerosol generator 15a, and a control unit 13.

[0262] A cigarette 2a can be inserted into the internal containment space of the aerosol generator 1a. Once the cigarette 2a is inserted into the aerosol generator 1a, the aerosol generator 1a can generate an aerosol from the cigarette 2a by heating it using the aerosol generator 15a. The generated aerosol can pass through the cigarette 2a and be transmitted to the user.

[0263] The aerosol generator 15a can be heated by power supplied from the removable battery 12. The aerosol generator 15a is also an electrical resistive heater. For example, the aerosol generator 15a includes a conductive track, and the aerosol generator 15a can be heated by current flowing through the conductive track.

[0264] The conductive track of the aerosol generator 15a is made of an electrically resistive material, the heating temperature is determined by the power dissipation of the resistor, and the resistance value of the conductive track may be set based on the power dissipation of the resistor of the conductive track. The resistance value of the conductive track can be set in various ways depending on the constituent material, length, width, thickness, or pattern of the electrically resistive material.

[0265] Due to its temperature coefficient of resistance characteristic, the conductive track's internal resistance can increase as the temperature rises. For example, within a given temperature range, the temperature and resistance of the conductive track are proportional. Using this principle, an aerosol generator 15a made of a conductive track can heat a cigarette 2a using an electrical resistance method.

[0266] Conductive tracks can be made from tungsten, gold, platinum, silver, copper, nickel, palladium, or combinations thereof. Conductive tracks may also be doped with appropriate doping materials and may include alloys.

[0267] The shape of the aerosol generator 15a can be varied, such as tubular, plate-shaped, needle-shaped, or rod-shaped. Furthermore, multiple aerosol generators 15a may be arranged. The aerosol generator 15a can be used in an internal heating manner, inserted into the cigarette 2a to heat the inside of the cigarette 2a.

[0268] The detachable battery 12 can be separated from or attached to the aerosol generator 1a. When the detachable battery 12 is attached to the aerosol generator 1a, power can be supplied from the detachable battery 12 to the aerosol generator 15a for heating operation, thereby controlling the temperature of the conductive track.

[0269] The control unit 13 can control the heating operation of the aerosol generator 15a by controlling the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15a. For example, the control unit 13 can control the temperature at which the cigarette 2a is heated by the aerosol generator 15a using a temperature profile.

[0270] Figures 12B and 12C are diagrams illustrating aerosol generators 1b and 1c further comprising vaporizers 155b and 155c according to exemplary embodiments. Each of the aerosol generators 1b and 1c is a type of aerosol generator 1.

[0271] Referring to Figures 12B and 12C, the aerosol generators 1b and 1c further include vaporizers 155b and 155c. Cigarettes 2b and 2c can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generators 1b and 1c.

[0272] Figure 12B shows that the vaporizer 155b and the aerosol generator 15B are arranged in a single line. However, Figure 12C shows that the vaporizer 155c and the aerosol generator 15c are arranged in parallel. In other words, the aerosol generators 1b and 1c can be distinguished according to the arrangement of the vaporizer 155b.

[0273] The aerosol generators 15b and 15c may be heated by power supplied from the removable battery 12. The aerosol generators 15b and 15c may include, for example, a conductive track as an electrically resistive heater.

[0274] Unlike the aerosol generator 15a described in Figure 12A, the aerosol generators 15b and 15c in Figures 12B and 12C can be implemented using an external heating method, where they are positioned around the outside of the cigarettes 2b and 2c to heat the outer surfaces of the cigarettes 2b and 2c.

[0275] The vaporizers 155b and 155c heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be transmitted to the user through the cigarettes 2b and 2c. That is, the aerosol generated by the vaporizers 155b and 155c is transferred along the air flow path of the aerosol generating devices 1b and 1c, and the air flow path can be configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizers 155b and 155c passes through the cigarettes 2b and 2c and is transmitted to the user.

[0276] The vaporizers 155b and 155c may include a liquid storage part, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element (or a vaporizing element). However, each of the liquid storage part, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element may be arranged at other positions within the aerosol generating device 1, rather than inside the vaporizers 155b and 155c as independent modules.

[0277] The liquid storage part can store the liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage part is made to be detachable / attachable to the vaporizers 155b and 155c and can be made integrally with the vaporizers 155b and 155c. For example, the liquid composition can include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. Also, the liquid composition can include an aerosol forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0278] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition of the liquid storage part to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means can be a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, but is not limited thereto.

[0279] The heating elements provided in the vaporizers 155b and 155c are elements for heating (vaporizing) the liquid composition transmitted by the liquid transmission means. For example, the heating elements can be, but are not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc. Further, the heating element can be composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire and can be arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transmission means. The heating element is heated by the supply of an electric current, transfers heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, and can heat the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated. Accordingly, the vaporizers 155b and 155c can also be referred to by other terms such as a cartomizer or an atomizer.

[0280] The detachable battery 12 can be separated from the aerosol generation devices 1b and 1c or can be attached thereto. When the detachable battery 12 is attached to the aerosol generation devices 1b and 1c, power can be supplied from the detachable battery 12 to the aerosol generators 15b and 15c and the vaporizers 155b and 155c for the heating operation thereof.

[0281] The control unit 13 can control the heating operation of the aerosol generators 15b and 15c and the vaporizers 155b and 155c by controlling the power supplied to the aerosol generators 15b and 15c and the vaporizers 155b and 155c. For example, the control unit 13 can control the temperature at which the cigarettes 2b and 2c are heated by the aerosol generators 15b and 15c and the vaporizers 155b and 155c according to a temperature profile.

[0282] FIG. 12D is a drawing for explaining an aerosol generation device 1d of an induction heating method according to an exemplary embodiment. The aerosol generation device 1d is also one type of the aerosol generation device 1.

[0283] Referring to FIG. 12D, the aerosol generation device 1d can include an aerosol generator 15d including a coil 41d and a susceptor 152d, a detachable battery 12, and a control unit 13.

[0284] The aerosol generator 1d can generate an aerosol by heating a cigarette 2d contained within the aerosol generator 1d using an induction heating method. The induction heating method refers to a method of heating a magnetic material that generates heat in response to an external magnetic field by applying an alternating magnetic field that periodically changes direction. Therefore, the aerosol generator 1d can heat the cigarette 2d by applying an alternating magnetic field to the magnetic material, causing the magnetic material to release thermal energy, and transferring the thermal energy released from the magnetic material to the cigarette. Here, the magnetic material that generates heat in response to an external magnetic field is also a susceptor 152d. The susceptor 152d may be provided in the aerosol generator 1d. Alternatively, instead of being provided in the aerosol generator 1d, the susceptor 152d may be provided inside the cigarette 2d in the form of a section, flake, or strip.

[0285] Susceptor 152d can be formed in a ferromagnetic state. For example, the material of susceptor 152d may contain metal or carbon. The material of susceptor 152d may contain at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al). In addition, the material of susceptor 152d may contain at least one of graphite, ceramics such as zirconia, transition metals such as nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co), and metalloids such as boron (B) and phosphorus (P).

[0286] The aerosol generator 1d can accommodate a cigarette 2d. The aerosol generator 1d may have a space for accommodating the cigarette 2d. A susceptor 152d may be positioned around the space for accommodating the cigarette 2d. For example, the susceptor 152d may have a cylindrical shape that surrounds the outside of the cigarette 2d. Therefore, when the cigarette 2d is accommodated in the aerosol generator 1d, the cigarette 2d is housed in the accommodation space of the susceptor 152d, and the susceptor 152d may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the cigarette 2d. However, the shape of the susceptor 152d is not limited to this and can be diverse. For example, the susceptor 152d may also be made in the shape of a rod that is inserted into the inside of the cigarette 2d.

[0287] The aerosol generator 15d can heat the cigarette 2d contained in the aerosol generator 1d using a susceptor 152d that generates heat by an external magnetic field generated by a coil 41d using an induction heating method.

[0288] The coil 41d is positioned to be wound along the outer surface of the susceptor 152d, and can apply an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor 152d. When power is supplied to the coil 41d from the aerosol generator 1d, a magnetic field can be formed in the internal region of the coil 41d. When an alternating current is applied to the coil 41d, the direction of the magnetic field formed inside the coil 41d can be continuously changed. When the susceptor 152d is located inside the coil 41d and exposed to a periodically changing alternating magnetic field, the susceptor 152d may generate heat, and the cigarette housed in the susceptor 152d may be heated. The shape of the coil 41d is, but is not limited to, a cylindrical shape wound along the longitudinal direction of the cigarette 2d, and the coil 41d can also be embodied in various forms such as a planar coil.

[0289] The detachable battery 12 is either separated from or attached to the aerosol generator 1d, and when the detachable battery 12 is attached to the aerosol generator 1d, it can supply power to the coil 41d for, for example, the heating operation of the aerosol generator 15d.

[0290] The control unit 13 can control the heating operation of the aerosol generator 15d by controlling the power supplied to the coil 41d. For example, the control unit 13 can control the temperature at which the cigarette 2d is heated by the inductive heating of the susceptor 152d by adjusting the magnetic field strength induced by the coil 41d according to the temperature profile.

[0291] Figure 12E is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generator 1e equipped with a replaceable cartridge 3 containing a liquid composition 2e according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0292] The aerosol generator 1e in Figure 12E includes a cartridge 3 containing a liquid composition 2e and a main body 10 supporting the cartridge 3. The aerosol generator 1e may correspond to one type of aerosol generator 1. In this case, the hardware components included in the aerosol generator 1 may be divided into the main body 10 and the cartridge 3.

[0293] Cartridge 3 can be attached to the main body 10 with a liquid composition 2e contained inside. Cartridge 3 can be attached to the main body 10 by inserting a portion of it into the receptacle of the main body 10.

[0294] Cartridge 3 may, but is not limited to, contain a liquid composition 2e, which may be in any one state, such as solid, gaseous, or gel. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances including volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances.

[0295] The aerosol generator 15e located inside the cartridge 3 performs a heating operation in response to an electrical signal or wireless signal transmitted from the main unit 10. As a result, the liquid composition 2e inside the cartridge 3 is vaporized by the heating of the aerosol generator 15e, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0296] The aerosol generator 15e is embodied by a conductive filament of a metal material such as copper, nickel, tungsten, or a ceramic heating element to heat the aerosol product substance transmitted to the liquid transmission means by generating heat through electrical resistance, and can be wound around the liquid transmission means or disposed adjacent to the liquid transmission means.

[0297] The detachable battery 12 can be separated from or attached to the aerosol generating device 1e. When the detachable battery 12 is attached to the aerosol generating device 1e, power can be supplied from the detachable battery 12 to the aerosol generator 15e for the heating operation of the aerosol generator 15e.

[0298] The control unit 13 can control the heating operation of the aerosol generator 15e by controlling the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15e. For example, the control unit 13 can control the temperature at which the liquid composition 2e is heated by the aerosol generator 15e according to a temperature profile.

[0299] On the other hand, although not shown in FIGS. 12A to 12E, the aerosol generating devices 1a to 1e can constitute a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle can store the aerosol generating devices 1a to 1e or perform charging of the detachable batteries 12 of the aerosol generating devices 1a to 1e.

[0300] According to various embodiments, the aerosol generating device 1 of FIG. 11 is also embodied by at least one of the types of the aerosol generating devices 1a to 1e of FIGS. 12A to 12E, but is not necessarily limited thereto and can also be embodied in other types.

[0301] The aerosol generating devices 1a to 1e of FIGS. 12A to 12E can commonly use the detachable battery 12 as a power source. The detachable battery 12 is an exchangeable battery by being attached to / detached from the aerosol generating devices 1a to 1e.

[0302] However, since the electrodes that make electrical contact with the removable battery 12 are exposed to the outside, water may penetrate the electrodes when the removable battery 12 is replaced. If water penetrates the electrodes, an overcurrent due to a short circuit may occur, which may induce a malfunction of the internal components of the aerosol generator 1. To prevent such a malfunction, the present invention provides an aerosol generator 1 that can detect water entering the electrodes that make electrical contact with the removable battery 12, notify the user, and forcibly separate the removable battery 12.

[0303] Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of a partial configuration of an aerosol generating device illustrating a method for connecting and disconnecting a detachable battery according to one embodiment.

[0304] Figure 13 shows only a portion of the configuration of the aerosol generator 1, but the components of the aerosol generator 1 are not limited to the configuration shown in the drawing.

[0305] Referring to Figure 13, one embodiment of the aerosol generator 1 may include a main body 10, a detachable battery 12, and a magnetic coupling structure 162. The aerosol generator 1 is also one embodiment of the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figures 11, 12A, and 12B, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0306] The main body 10 forms the overall appearance of the aerosol generating device 1, and components of the aerosol generating device 1 can be arranged on the main body 10.

[0307] According to one embodiment, the main body 10 may include a battery coupling portion 16 for housing a removable battery 12. The battery coupling portion 16 is also referred to as the battery housing space, as it includes a space for housing the battery. For example, the battery coupling portion 16 may be formed in a region of the main body 10 (for example, a region facing the x-direction) to accommodate the removable battery 12, but the position of the battery coupling portion 16 is not limited to that.

[0308] The battery coupling portion 16 is provided with a main body electrode 161, which can come into contact with the battery electrode 121 of the removable battery 12 when the removable battery 12 is coupled to or housed in the battery coupling portion 16.

[0309] The main electrode 161 may include a first connection terminal 161a and a second connection terminal 161b that make electrical contact with the battery electrode 121. The battery electrode 121 may also include a first battery electrode 121a that makes electrical contact with the first connection terminal 161a and a second battery electrode 121b that makes electrical contact with the second connection terminal 161b. The first battery electrode 121a may function as the positive electrode, and the second battery electrode 121b may function as the negative electrode.

[0310] On the other hand, Figure 13 only illustrates an embodiment in which the first connection terminal 161a is located on one side of the battery coupling portion 16 and the second connection terminal 161b is located on the other side. However, the arrangement structure and number of the first connection terminal 161a and the second connection terminal 161b can be changed by the design of the battery electrodes 121 of the detachable battery 12.

[0311] The aerosol generator 1 may further include a battery cover 17 that is detachably coupled to the main body 10 and protects the detachable battery 12. The battery cover 17 is detachably coupled to the main body 10 and can open or close the battery coupling portion 16.

[0312] In one embodiment, when the battery cover 17 is detached from the main body 10, the battery coupling portion 16 is exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator 1 and the removable battery 12 can be coupled to the battery coupling portion 16. In another example, when the battery cover 17 is coupled to the main body 10, the battery cover 17 can protect the removable battery 12 from external impact or the ingress of external foreign matter by covering the battery coupling portion 16 with the battery cover 17 and preventing it from being exposed to the outside.

[0313] The detachable battery 12 is detachably connected to the battery coupling portion 16 of the main body 10 and can supply power for the operation of the components of the aerosol generator 1. For example, when the detachable battery 12 is connected to the battery coupling portion 16, the battery electrodes 121 of the detachable battery 12 come into contact with the main body electrodes 161, thereby electrically connecting the detachable battery 12 and the components of the aerosol generator 1. The detachable battery 12 can supply power to the electrically connected components of the aerosol generator 1 and operate the components of the aerosol generator 1.

[0314] The magnetic coupling structure 162 is positioned in one area of ​​the main body 10 and the battery coupling section 16, and can magnetically couple with the removable battery 12 to fix the removable battery 12 to the battery coupling section 16. For this purpose, the magnetic coupling structure 162 may include a first electromagnet 162a and a second electromagnet 162b. For example, the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b are positioned in one area of ​​the main body 10 separated from the battery coupling section 16 along the z-direction, and can be magnetically coupled to or uncoupled from the removable battery 12 by the control unit 13. The magnetic coupling structure 162 is also a component included in the coupling release section 80 of Figure 15, in that it is a configuration for coupling and uncoupling with the removable battery 12.

[0315] The detachable battery 12 may include a conductive portion (not shown) that is magnetically coupled to the magnetic coupling structure 162. The conductive portion may be located inside or outside the detachable battery 12. The detachable battery 12 may include a first conductor 122a and a second conductor 122b. The first conductor 122a may be located at a position corresponding to the first electromagnet 162a of the detachable battery 12, and the second conductor 122b may be located at a position corresponding to the second electromagnet 162b of the detachable battery 12.

[0316] The power supplied to the magnetic coupling structure 162 can cause the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b to be magnetically coupled to or uncoupled from the first conductor 122a and the second conductor 122b, respectively. In one embodiment, the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b generate magnetic force under the control of the control unit 13, and the generated magnetic force can cause the first conductor 122a and the second conductor 122b to be magnetically coupled to the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b, respectively. Alternatively, the magnetic force of the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b can be extinguished under the control of the control unit 13, and the extinguished magnetic force can cause the first conductor 122a and the second conductor 122b to be uncoupled from the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b, respectively.

[0317] The aerosol generating device 1 of the present invention can prevent the removable battery 12 from being unintentionally detached from the battery coupling part 16 by stably fixing the removable battery 12 to the battery coupling part 16 via a magnetic coupling structure 162. Furthermore, if water enters the main body electrode 161, the removable battery 12 can be forcibly separated via the magnetic coupling structure 162, thereby preventing equipment failure.

[0318] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a partial configuration of an aerosol generating device for illustrating a method for connecting and disconnecting a detachable battery according to one embodiment.

[0319] Referring to Figure 14, the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b can be positioned inside or outside one side of the battery coupling 16. The first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b can be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. For example, the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b can be spaced apart from each other in the z direction. By positioning the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b apart, the magnetic force is not concentrated at any one point. Therefore, when the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b generate a magnetic force, the coupling between the detachable battery 12 and the battery coupling 16 becomes even more robust.

[0320] The first conductor 122a and the second conductor 122b may be positioned inside or outside one side of the removable battery 12. The first conductor 122a and the second conductor 122b may be positioned in a location corresponding to the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b.

[0321] The first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b generate or extinguish magnetic fields under the control of the control unit 13. The control unit 13 can use the power of the internal battery 19 to impart or recover magnetic fields to the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b, respectively. For this purpose, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a DC / DC converter and a DC / AC converter. For example, the control unit 13 can control the output of the internal battery 19 to impart or recover magnetic fields to the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b, respectively.

[0322] The control unit 13 can supply power to the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b if no water enters the main body electrode 161. As a result, the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b can each generate a magnetic field.

[0323] If water enters the main body electrode 161, the control unit 13 will not supply power to at least one of the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b. In one embodiment, if water enters the main body electrode 161, the control unit 13 may cut off the power supplied to the first electromagnet 162a. If the power supplied to the first electromagnet 162a is cut off, the coupling between the detachable battery 12 and the battery coupling part 16 is performed only by the magnetic force between the second electromagnet 162b and the second conductor 122b, so the detachable battery 12 can be easily separated from the battery coupling part 16 by an external impact. In another embodiment, if water enters the main body electrode 161, the control unit 13 may cut off the power supplied to both the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b. The control unit 13 can forcibly detach the removable battery 12 from the battery coupling 16 by cutting off the power supplied to both the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b. This further completely prevents equipment failure due to water ingress.

[0324] Figure 15 is an internal block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0325] Referring to Figure 15, the aerosol generator 1 may include a removable battery 110, an aerosol generator 15, a control unit 13, an input unit 70, an output unit 40, a memory 60, an internal battery 19, a communication unit 50, a sensor unit 14, a water sensing unit 90, and a disconnection unit 80. However, the hardware components inside the aerosol generator 1 are not limited to those shown in Figure 15. A person with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment will understand that some of the hardware configurations shown in Figure 15 may be omitted or new configurations may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1.

[0326] The detachable battery 12 supplies power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. For example, the detachable battery 12 can supply power to heat the aerosol generator 15. The detachable battery 12 can also supply power necessary for the operation of other hardware components provided in the aerosol generator 1, namely the aerosol generator 15, control unit 13, input unit 70, output unit 40, memory 60, communication unit 50, sensor unit 14, and water sensing unit 90. Depending on the embodiment, the detachable battery 12 can also supply power necessary for the operation of the coupling release unit 80.

[0327] The removable battery 12 may be, for example, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery or a lithium-ion battery, but is not limited to these.

[0328] The detachable battery 12 is a replaceable (separable) type power source that can be attached to or removed from a battery coupling 16 provided in the aerosol generator 1. The detachable battery 12 is equipped with battery electrodes 121, and when the detachable battery 12 is attached to the aerosol generator 1, the battery electrodes 121 of the detachable battery 12 can be electrically connected to a main body electrode 161 provided in the aerosol generator 1 to supply power to the aerosol generator 1.

[0329] The removable battery 12 may be equipped with a charger interface that can be connected to an external charger. Power for charging the removable battery 12 may be supplied to the removable battery 12 via the charger interface. The removable battery 12 may be charged by an external charger while coupled to the aerosol generator 1 or while removed from the aerosol generator 1 (uninstalled).

[0330] The removable battery 12 may optionally be equipped with an NFC tag. The NFC tag on the removable battery 12 can be read through a short-range communication protocol with an NFC module. The NFC tag on the removable battery 12 may include a recording medium on which identification information related to the removable battery 12, battery capacity information, etc. As a result, the aerosol generator 1 can obtain various information, such as whether the removable battery 12 is a certified product or what its battery capacity is, based on the information received from the NFC tag on the removable battery 12.

[0331] The aerosol generator 15 is powered by a removable battery 12 under the control of the control unit 13. The aerosol generator 15 can use the power supplied by the removable battery 12 to heat the cigarette inserted into the aerosol generator 1 or the cartridge attached to the aerosol generator 1. In other words, the aerosol generator 15 can generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating substance contained in the cigarette or cartridge.

[0332] The aerosol generator 15 may be located in the body of the aerosol generator 1. Alternatively, if the aerosol generator 1 consists of a body and a cartridge, the aerosol generator 15 may be located in the cartridge. If the aerosol generator 15 is located in the cartridge, it may be powered by a removable battery 12 located in the body.

[0333] The aerosol generator 15 is implemented as an electrical resistance heater or an induction heating heater, and a description thereof can be found in Figures 12A to 12E.

[0334] The input unit 70 can receive user input. For example, the input unit 70 can be embodied as a single pressurized push button. As another example, the input unit 70 is also a touch panel including at least one touch sensor. The input unit 70 can transmit input signals to the control unit 13. The control unit 13 can supply power to the aerosol generator 15 or control the output unit 40 to output user notifications based on the user input.

[0335] The output unit 40 can output information relating to the status of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 40 can output the charge / discharge status of the removable battery 12 and / or internal battery 19, the heating status of the aerosol generator 15, the insertion status of the aerosol product 2, and error information of the aerosol generator 1. For this purpose, the output unit 40 may include a display, a haptic motor, and an acoustic output unit.

[0336] The sensor unit 14 can sense the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the surrounding environment of the aerosol generator 1 and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 13. For this purpose, the sensor unit 14 may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion sensor. However, the sensors included in the sensor unit 14 are not limited to the examples described above, and further sensors may be included depending on the embodiment. For example, the sensor unit 14 may further include a reuse sensor, a motion sensor, a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a cover removal sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor. If the name of each sensor includes the function of the sensor, a specific description of the function of each sensor will be omitted.

[0337] Based on the sensed information, the control unit 13 can control the aerosol generator 1 so that various functions are performed, such as heating control of the aerosol generator 15, smoking restriction, determination of whether or not to insert the aerosol product 2, and display of notifications.

[0338] The communication unit 50 may include at least one communication module for communication with an external electronic device. The control unit 13 may control the communication unit 50 and transmit information related to the aerosol generator 1 to the external electronic device. Alternatively, the control unit 13 may receive information from the external electronic device via the communication unit 50 and control the configuration included in the aerosol generator 1. For example, the information transmitted between the communication unit 50 and the external electronic device may include user authentication information, firmware update information, and user smoking pattern information.

[0339] The memory 60 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 13 and data being processed. For example, the memory 60 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.

[0340] The internal battery 19 is configured to be separate from the removable battery 12 and can be fixed inside the aerosol generator 1. Unlike the removable battery 12, the internal battery 19 is not separated and can supply a minimum amount of power to the internal components of the aerosol generator 1. The capacity of the internal battery 19 is smaller than that of the removable battery 12. Also, the output power of the internal battery 19 can be set to be lower than that of the removable battery 12.

[0341] The internal battery 19 can supply power to the internal components of the aerosol generator 1 even when the detachable battery 12 is not installed in the aerosol generator 1. For example, the internal battery 19 can supply power greater than the standby power to the control unit 13 at the request of the control unit 13. The internal battery 19 can also supply power to the release unit 80 to fix the detachable battery 12 to the aerosol generator 1 or to separate the detachable battery 12 from the aerosol generator 1. However, unlike the detachable battery 12, the power output from the internal battery 19 is not used for heating the aerosol generator 15.

[0342] The power output from the internal battery 19 can be used when the removable battery 12 is not installed. For example, the power output from the internal battery 19 can be supplied to the input unit 70, output unit 40, memory 60, communication unit 50, and sensor unit 14 when the removable battery 12 is not installed. Depending on the embodiment, the power output from the internal battery 19 can also be used when the removable battery 12 is installed. For example, the power output from the internal battery 19 can be supplied to the water sensing unit 90 and the coupling release unit 80 when the removable battery 12 is installed. However, it is not supplied to the aerosol generator 15 regardless of whether the removable battery 12 is installed or not.

[0343] The internal battery 19 can be charged by the removable battery 12. For example, the internal battery 19 can be charged while the aerosol generator 15 is not heating up.

[0344] The main electrode 161 is made of a conductor and can make electrical contact with the removable battery 12. The main electrode 161 can transmit the output power of the removable battery 12 to the internal components of the aerosol generator 1. For this purpose, the main electrode 161 may include a first connection terminal 161a and a second connection terminal 161b.

[0345] The water sensing unit 90 can detect water entering the main electrode 161. The water sensing unit 90 is positioned adjacent to the main electrode 161 and can detect water entering the main electrode 161, and as a result of the detection, can output a detection signal. The "water" detected by the water sensing unit 90 is also called "liquid." Furthermore, "water" can refer to pure water, or liquids or water containing various substances.

[0346] The water sensing unit 90 may be connected to the main body electrode 161. The water sensing unit 90 may be connected to at least one of the first connection terminal 161a and the second connection terminal 161b.

[0347] The water sensing unit 90 may be powered by a removable battery 12. In some embodiments, the water sensing unit 90 may be powered by an internal battery 19.

[0348] The water sensing unit 90 can transmit a sensing signal to the control unit 13 when water enters the main electrode 161. When the control unit 13 receives a sensing signal from the water sensing unit 90, it can cut off the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15, even if it receives user input. When the water sensing unit 90 does not receive a sensing signal, it can normally control the operation of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the water sensing unit 90 can heat the aerosol generator 15 based on user input and control the temperature of the aerosol generator 15 based on a temperature profile. A detailed explanation of the water sensing unit 90 will be described later with reference to Figure 16 and subsequent figures.

[0349] The control unit 13 is hardware that controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 13 may include at least one processing unit, such as an MCU (Micro Controller Unit). The control unit 13 may be embodied as an array of numerous logic gates and may be embodied as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program that can be executed by the microprocessor. The control unit 13 may also be embodied as other forms of hardware.

[0350] The control unit 13 may be supplied with power via the internal battery 19 if the removable battery 12 is not installed, or if water enters the main body electrode 161 and the removable battery 12 is forcibly separated from the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 13 may use the internal battery 19 to update time-related information or control the output unit 40 to output user-input information. For example, the control unit 13 may control the output unit 40 to output time information, information on the insertion of the removable battery 12, and smoking information.

[0351] The control unit 13 can heat the aerosol generator 15 by controlling the power output from the removable battery 12 when the removable battery 12 is properly inserted. For example, the control unit 13 can control the amount and duration of power output from the removable battery 12 so that the aerosol generator 15 is heated according to a pre-set temperature profile. The control unit 13 can also control the temperature of the aerosol generator 15 after sensing the user's puffs using the puff sensor in the sensor unit 14. Furthermore, the control unit 13 can interrupt the power supply to the aerosol generator 15 after counting the number of puffs using the puff sensor and reaching a pre-set number of puffs. The control unit 13 can control the output unit 40 based on the sensing results. For example, after counting the number of puffs using the puff sensor and reaching a pre-set number of puffs, the control unit 13 can use a lamp, motor, or speaker to notify the user that the aerosol generator 1 will soon shut down.

[0352] Figure 16 is a circuit diagram of a water sensing unit according to one embodiment.

[0353] Referring to Figure 16, the detachable battery 12 has an internal resistance Rs and can make separable contact with the first connection terminal 161a and the second connection terminal 161b. For example, the positive terminal of the detachable battery 12 can make electrical contact with the first connection terminal 161a, and the negative terminal of the detachable battery 12 can make electrical contact with the second connection terminal 161b. When the detachable battery 12 makes electrical contact with the connection terminals 161a and 161b in the specified direction, it can supply power to the internal components of the aerosol generator 1.

[0354] On the other hand, if water enters the connection terminals 161a and 161b while the detachable battery 12 is in electrical contact with the connection terminals 161a and 161b in the specified direction, the connection terminals 161a and 161b may momentarily connect to the ground terminal via the low resistance of the water, potentially generating a high current or voltage. Such a high current or voltage could affect the durability of the internal components of the aerosol generator 1, and therefore, a method is needed to detect the intrusion of water into such connection terminals 161a and 161b and protect the aerosol generator 1.

[0355] The present invention may include a water sensing unit 90 that detects water entering the main electrode 161 and outputs a sensing signal as a result of the detection. For this purpose, the water sensing unit 90 may include a sensing element unit 91 and a signal generation unit 92.

[0356] The water sensing unit 90 can be connected to at least one of the first connection terminal 161a and the second connection terminal 161b. Figure 16 shows an embodiment in which the water sensing unit 90 is connected to the first connection terminal 161a, but depending on the embodiment, the water sensing unit 90 can be connected to the second connection terminal 161b, or to both the first connection terminal 161a and the second connection terminal 161b.

[0357] The sensing element unit 91 is powered by a removable battery 12 or an internal battery 19 and consists of an element that senses water entering the main body electrode 161. The sensing element unit 91 may include a sensing electrode TS, at least one resistive element R, a first switching element SW1, and a second switching element SW2.

[0358] The sensing electrode TS is composed of a conductor and can sense the sensing voltage generated by water entering the main electrode 161. The sensing voltage refers to the instantaneously high voltage generated by water entering the main electrode 161.

[0359] The sensing electrode TS may be positioned adjacent to at least one of the first connection terminal 161a and the second connection terminal 161b. The sensing electrode TS may be positioned adjacent to the connection terminal to which the water sensing unit 90 is connected. For example, when the water sensing unit 90 is connected to the first connection terminal 161a, the sensing electrode TS may be positioned adjacent to the first connection terminal 161a located on one side of the battery coupling unit 16 and exposed to the outside. The following describes the case in which the sensing electrode TS is positioned adjacent to the first connection terminal 161a.

[0360] The sensing voltage may be generated between the first connection terminal 161a and the sensing electrode TS due to water entering the main electrode 161.

[0361] The resistive element R is connected to the sensing electrode TS and can step down the sensing voltage. The resistive element R can protect the internal circuit configuration by stepping down the sensing voltage. The resistive element R can also be used to induce the reverse bias voltage or sun bias voltage of the first switching element SW1, which will be described later. Figure 16 shows only an embodiment in which the water sensing unit 90 includes one resistive element R, but depending on the embodiment, multiple resistive elements R may be provided.

[0362] The first switching element SW1 may be connected to a resistive element R1. In one embodiment, the first switching element SW1 may be composed of an npn type bipolar junction transistor (BJT). The first switching element SW1 may include a first terminal connected to the resistive element R, a second terminal connected to the ground terminal, and a third terminal to which a current path is generated by the voltage input to the first terminal. When the first switching element SW1 is of npn type, the first terminal is the base B, the second terminal is the emitter E, and the third terminal is the collector C. Furthermore, when a stepped-down sensing voltage is applied to the base B, a current path may be formed from the collector C toward the emitter E.

[0363] The second switching element SW2 may be connected to the first switching element SW1. The second switching element SW2 is connected to the first switching element SW1 and the first connection terminal 161a, and the first connection terminal 161a and the signal generation unit 92 can be electrically connected or disconnected by turning the first switching element SW1 on or off. In one embodiment, the second switching element SW2 may be configured as a relay switch.

[0364] When the second switching element SW2 is composed of a relay switch, the second switching element may include a coil and a switch. The coil is connected to the third terminal of the first switching element SW1, and when the first switching element SW1 is turned on, it can pull the switch in one direction, connecting the first connection terminal 161a and the signal generation unit 92.

[0365] The signal generation unit 92 is connected to the second switching element SW2 and can generate a sensing signal based on the sensing result of the sensing element unit 91. The signal generation unit 92 can transmit the sensing signal to the control unit 13. The signal generation unit 92 can be powered using the power of the removable battery 12 and / or the internal battery 19.

[0366] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the circuit operation based on the water detection results of the water sensing unit in Figure 16.

[0367] Referring to Figure 17, when the detachable battery 12 is in electrical contact with the connection terminals 161a and 161b in the specified direction, and water enters the connection terminals 161a and 161b, a high voltage may be instantaneously applied between the first connection terminal 161a and the sensing electrode TS. The sensing electrode Ts can sense the sensing voltage Vs generated by the water that has entered the main electrode 161.

[0368] The resistive element R can step down the sensing voltage Vs to protect the internal circuit configuration. The resistive element R may also be positioned to provide a bias voltage for the first switching element SW1. The stepped-down sensing voltage Vs is supplied to the base B of the first switching element SW1, thereby forming a current path from the collector C to the emitter E.

[0369] The power supplied to the first connection terminal 161a flows to the ground terminal GND via the current path provided by the first switching element SW1, thereby pulling the coil of the second switching element SW2 in the direction of the coil, and electrically connecting the first connection terminal 161a and the signal generation unit 92. In other words, the power to the first connection terminal 161a can be supplied to the signal generation unit 92 via the first current path path1. In this way, the water ingress detection circuit of the present invention can detect the ingress of water to the main body electrode 161 using the power of a removable battery 12 instead of an internal battery 19.

[0370] The signal generation unit 92 can generate a sensing signal S1 based on the sensing result of the sensing element unit 91 and transmit it to the control unit 13. In one embodiment, the signal generation unit 92 can output the power supplied from the first connection terminal 161a as the sensing signal S1. In this case, the signal generation unit 92 can output the sensing result using the power of a removable battery 12 instead of the internal battery 19. In another embodiment, when the signal generation unit 92 is supplied with power from the first connection terminal 161a, it can generate the sensing signal S1 using the internal battery 19 and transmit it to the control unit 13.

[0371] Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating the operation method of the output unit based on the water detection results of the water sensing unit in Figure 16.

[0372] Referring to Figure 18, the control unit 13 can also cut off the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15 when it receives a sensing signal S1 from the signal generation unit 92, or when it receives user input via the input unit 70. This is to further protect the internal components of the device by cutting off the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15, which consumes the most power among the internal components of the aerosol generator 1.

[0373] The control unit 13 can output the water detection result via the output unit 40. For example, the control unit 13 can control the output unit 40 while the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15 is cut off to output a graphic object 41a corresponding to the water detection result along with text 41b such as "Water immersion detected" through a predetermined display 41. In this case, the graphic object 41a and the text 41b may blink.

[0374] On the other hand, the power to drive the output unit 40 in Figure 18 can be supplied from the internal battery 19. This is to further protect the internal components of the device by minimizing the power supply to the internal components of the aerosol generator 1 when water ingress is detected.

[0375] Figures 19A and 19B are diagrams illustrating the method of connecting and disconnecting the detachable battery based on the water detection results of the water sensing unit in Figure 16.

[0376] Figures 19A and 19B illustrate the process by which, if water enters the main body electrode 161, the detachable battery 12 is forcibly separated from the battery coupling portion 16 while still connected.

[0377] Referring to Figures 19A and 19B, the control unit 13 can control the uncoupling unit 80 to release the electrical contact between the detachable battery 12 and the main body electrode 161. On the other hand, Figures 19A and 19B are diagrams illustrating the coupling and uncoupling of the detachable battery 12 by the control signal of the control unit 13, and further configurations such as an internal battery 19 and a power conversion unit (not shown) are required between the detachable battery 12 and the control unit 13.

[0378] The decoupling section 80 may include a magnetic coupling structure 162. The magnetic coupling structure 162 may include a first electromagnet 162a positioned to correspond to the first conductor 122a of the detachable battery 12, and a second electromagnet 162b positioned to correspond to the second conductor 122b of the detachable battery 12.

[0379] The control unit 13 can magnetically couple the detachable battery 12 with the main body electrode 161 using a first magnetic force signal Sm1. For example, the control unit 13 can move the detachable battery 12 in the -x direction using the first magnetic force signal Sm1. The control unit 13 can also release the magnetic coupling between the detachable battery 12 and the main body electrode 161 using a second magnetic force signal Sm2. For example, the control unit 13 can move the detachable battery 12 in the +x direction using the first magnetic force signal Sm1.

[0380] When the removable battery 12 is housed in the battery coupling section 16, the control unit 13 can fix the removable battery 12 to the battery coupling section 16 using the first magnetic force signal Sm1, regardless of whether water has entered or not. The control unit 13 can control the output of the internal battery 19 using the first magnetic force signal Sm1 so that at least one of the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b generates a magnetic force. In one embodiment, when the removable battery 12 is housed in the battery coupling section 16, the control unit 13 can control the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b to generate a magnetic force using the first magnetic force signal Sm1, regardless of whether water has entered or not. In another embodiment, when the removable battery 12 is housed in the battery coupling portion 16, the control unit 13 may, using the first magnetic force signal Sm1, control only the first electromagnet 162a to generate magnetic force regardless of whether water has entered or not, and then, only after confirming that no water has entered, control the second electromagnet 162b to also generate magnetic force.

[0381] When the control unit 13 receives a sensing signal S1 from the signal generation unit 220, it determines that water has entered the main electrode 161. Furthermore, if the control unit 13 determines that water has entered the main electrode 161, it may use the second magnetic force signal Sm2 to release the magnetic coupling between the detachable battery 12 and the main electrode 161. In other words, the control unit 13 may use the second magnetic force signal Sm2 to forcibly separate the detachable battery 12 from the battery coupling unit 16.

[0382] The control unit 13 can use a second magnetic force signal Sm2 to control both the first electromagnet 162a and the second electromagnet 162b so that they do not generate magnetic force. As a result, the detachable battery 12 can be separated from the battery coupling part 16.

[0383] On the other hand, the separation of the detachable battery 12 in Figures 19A and 19B may be performed after notification of the water ingress result via the output unit 40 in Figure 18. That is, the control unit 13 notifies the user of the water ingress status via the output unit 40, and if the detachable battery 12 has not been separated from the battery coupling unit 16 after a predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 13 may forcibly separate the detachable battery 12 from the battery coupling unit 16.

[0384] Figure 20 is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0385] Referring to Figure 20, in step S1010, the water sensing unit 90 can sense water entering the main body electrode 161, which is in electrical contact with the detachable battery 12.

[0386] The water sensing unit 90 may be connected to the main body electrode 161. The water sensing unit 90 may be connected to at least one of the first connection terminal 161a and the second connection terminal 161b. The water sensing unit 90 may be powered by a removable battery 12. Depending on the embodiment, some components of the water sensing unit 90 may be powered by an internal battery 19.

[0387] The water sensing unit 90 can transmit a sensing signal S1 to the control unit 13 when water enters the main body electrode 161.

[0388] In step S1020, the control unit 13 can determine whether or not water has entered the main body electrode 161 based on the sensing signal S1.

[0389] The sensing signal S1 may be generated by the signal generation unit 92 within the water sensing unit 90. In one embodiment, the signal generation unit 92 may output the power supplied from the first connection terminal 161a as the sensing signal S1. In this case, the signal generation unit 92 may output the sensing result using the power of a removable battery 12 instead of the internal battery 19. In another embodiment, when the signal generation unit 92 is supplied with power from the first connection terminal 161a, it may use the internal battery 19 to generate the sensing signal S1 and transmit it to the control unit 13.

[0390] In step S1030, if the control unit 13 receives a sensing signal S1 from the signal generation unit 92, it may determine that water has entered the main electrode 161 and cut off the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15.

[0391] If the control unit 13 determines that water has entered the main electrode 161, it may cut off the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15, even when it receives user input via the input unit 70.

[0392] In step S1040, if the control unit 13 determines that water has entered the main electrode 161, it may output the water detection result through the output unit 40.

[0393] The control unit 13 can control the output unit 40 to output water detection results while the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15 is cut off. For example, the output unit 40 can output a graphic object corresponding to the water detection result.

[0394] In step S1050, if the control unit 13 determines that water has entered the main body electrode 161, it may separate the detachable battery 12 from the battery coupling part 16.

[0395] The control unit 13 can disconnect the detachable battery 12 from the aerosol generator 1 by controlling the disconnection unit 80 while the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15 is cut off. For this purpose, the disconnection unit 80 may include a magnetic coupling structure 162 in which magnetic force is generated or extinguished by the control unit 13.

[0396] The magnetic coupling structure 162 can either fix the detachable battery 12 to the aerosol generator 1 using the generated magnetic force, or separate the detachable battery 12 from the aerosol generator 1 using the dissipated magnetic force.

[0397] The control unit 13 can control the disconnection unit 80 within a predetermined time from the end of the output of the water sensing result via the output unit 40 to forcibly separate the detachable battery 12 from the aerosol generator 1. For example, the predetermined time is 3 seconds, but is not limited to this.

[0398] In step S1060, if the control unit 13 has not received the sensing signal S1 from the signal generation unit 92, it determines that no water has entered the main electrode 161 and can control the power supplied to the aerosol generator 15 based on user input.

[0399] The control unit 13 can receive user input via the input unit 70 if no water has entered the main electrode 161, and may start heating the aerosol generator 15 based on the user input. It can also heat the aerosol generator 15 according to a pre-set temperature profile.

[0400] The embodiments described above, or other embodiments, are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. The respective configurations or functions of the embodiments described above, or other embodiments, may be used in combination or in combination with each other.

[0401] For example, this means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing may be combinable with configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. In other words, even if the combinability between configurations is not directly described, it means that combinability is possible unless it is stated that combinability is impossible.

[0402] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in any way, but should be considered illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention. [Industrial applicability]

[0403] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same, which include a battery coupling portion that houses a separable battery and is capable of sensing liquid entering electrodes that come into contact with a removable battery.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating apparatus that generates aerosols, The main body that forms the exterior, An aerosol generator that generates aerosols from aerosol-generating materials, A battery coupling section into which a battery supplying power can be detachably coupled, A battery cover is detachably connected to the main body and selectively opens or closes the battery coupling portion. A liquid sensor that detects liquid that has penetrated between the main unit and the battery cover and generates a signal depending on whether or not liquid is detected, an aerosol generating apparatus, comprising: a control unit that controls the aerosol generating apparatus in response to a signal generated by the liquid sensor.

2. The liquid sensor includes a first pad and a second pad, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first pad and the second pad are each conductive and are arranged to face each other at a predetermined distance apart.

3. The first pad is positioned on the main body, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second pad is disposed on the battery cover.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the liquid sensor generates a signal in response to the electrical connection between the first pad and the second pad.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the liquid sensor generates a signal in response to a change in capacitance between the first pad and the second pad.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the liquid sensor is conductive, includes electrical resistance, and generates a signal in response to a change in the electrical resistance value of the electrical resistance.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a sealing member disposed between the main body and the battery cover, which prevents the penetration of liquid toward the battery coupling portion through the space between the main body and the battery cover.

8. Further including a first display for outputting visual information, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the display in response to a signal generated by the liquid sensor.

9. It further includes a first acoustic output section for outputting auditory information, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the acoustic output unit in response to the signal generated by the liquid sensor.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit, in response to a signal generated by the liquid sensor, determines that liquid has penetrated between the main body and the battery cover, and shuts off the power supply to the battery.

11. It also includes memory for storing information, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stores information corresponding to the signal generated by the liquid sensor in the memory.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, The aerosol generating device includes an external device capable of communicating with the aerosol generating device, The aerosol generating device is an aerosol generating system that transmits information corresponding to the signal generated by the liquid sensor to the external device.

13. The aerosol generation system according to claim 12, wherein the external device includes a second display for outputting visual information and controls the second display in response to information received from the aerosol generation device.

14. The aerosol generation system according to claim 12, wherein the external device includes a second acoustic output unit for outputting auditory information, and controls the second acoustic output unit in response to information received from the aerosol generation device.

Images