Aerosol generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol generating device of this disclosure includes a heater for heating an aerosol generating substance, at least one sensor that outputs a signal related to the surrounding environment, an input unit that receives user input, and a control unit that controls the power supplied to the heater based on a heating profile, wherein the control unit can acquire information about the surrounding environment of the user's inhalation section in response to a signal received by the at least one sensor in the user's inhalation section, acquire preference information about the user's inhalation based on user input received by the input unit, input the surrounding environment information and the preference information into a learning model that determines the heating profile, and determine a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and the preference information.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

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

[0003] There may be differences in the preferred atomization amount and puffing frequency among users who use the aerosol generating device. Therefore, if the user's preference level is reflected in the heating profile of the aerosol generating device, the user's satisfaction can be enhanced.

[0004] However, conventional aerosol generating devices operate according to a single heating profile regardless of the user's preference level, or provide only a function that allows the user to select one of a plurality of predetermined options. Therefore, there is a problem that the user's preference level cannot be accurately reflected.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

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

[0006] Another object is to provide an aerosol generating device that reflects the user's preference level related to inhalation in the heating profile together with the ambient environment information when the user uses the device.

[0007] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generator that determines a heating profile by inputting surrounding environment information and preference information into a learning model.

[0008] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generator that incorporates the user's location and weather information for that location into the heating profile along with user preference information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure for achieving the above-described objectives, an aerosol generating device is provided that includes a heater for heating an aerosol generating substance, at least one sensor that outputs a signal related to the surrounding environment, an input unit for receiving user input, and a control unit for controlling the power supplied to the heater based on a heating profile, wherein the control unit acquires information about the surrounding environment of the inhalation section in response to a signal received by the at least one sensor in the user's inhalation section, acquires preference information about the user's inhalation based on user input received by the input unit, inputs the surrounding environment information and the preference information into a learning model for determining the heating profile, and determines a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and the preference information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, user preferences and ambient environmental information can be reflected together in the heating profile to provide an atomization amount and / or number of puffs suitable for the environment in which the user is located and the user's preferences.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, user preferences can be accurately reflected in the heating profile by determining the heating profile based on a learning model that learns user preferences and surrounding environment information.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by repeatedly combining preferences at certain points in time during the user's inhalation interval, the user's preferences can be reflected in detail for each inhalation point even within a single inhalation interval.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the weather in the user's location or area can be reflected in the heating profile, thereby more accurately reflecting information about the surrounding environment inhaled by the user.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, user preference information can be collected via an external device that can communicate with the aerosol generator, thereby enhancing user convenience.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by reflecting user preferences in the heating profile for identified users, it is possible to prevent situations where user preferences are not accurately reflected in the heating profile for multiple users.

[0016] Any additional applicable scope of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of this disclosure, should be understood to be given only as examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5]It is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] [Figure 10] It is a block diagram of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] [Figure 11] It is a flowchart for the heating profile determination operation of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] [Figure 12] It is an exemplary diagram for explaining a learning model of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] [Figure 13] It is a flowchart for the preference acquisition operation of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] [Figure 14] It is an exemplary diagram for explaining the preference query output of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing an example of a heating profile of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing an example of the time point of the preference query output of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] [Figure 17] This figure shows an example of a heating profile determined by an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] The embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components will be given the same reference numerals even if they are shown in different drawings, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0027] The suffixes "module" and "part" used in the following description are used solely for the sake of clarity in the description. "Module" and "part" do not have any distinct meaning or role from each other.

[0028] Furthermore, in subsequent descriptions of the embodiments disclosed herein, detailed explanations of related known technologies will be omitted if they could obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed herein. The accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and the accompanying drawings do not limit the technical ideas disclosed herein. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions included in the ideas and scope of this disclosure.

[0029] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe a variety of components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by such terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0030] When we say that one component is "linked" to another, it is understandable that other components may exist in between. On the other hand, when we say that one component is "directly linked" to another, it is understandable that there are no other components in between.

[0031] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the context.

[0032] Throughout this specification, the orientation of the aerosol generator and cartridge can be defined with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system. In the Cartesian coordinate system, the x-axis can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generator and cartridge. Here, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +x may mean the right direction, and the direction toward -x may mean the left direction. The y-axis can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generator and cartridge. Here, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +y may mean the rear direction, and the direction toward -y may mean the front direction. The z-axis can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generator and cartridge. With respect to the origin, the direction toward +z may mean the up direction, and the direction toward -z may mean the down direction.

[0033]

[0034] Figures 1 to 9 show an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Referring to Figures 1 and 9, the aerosol generator 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and a heater 18. At least one of the power supply 11, the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the heater 18 may be located inside the body 10 of the aerosol generator. The body 10 may provide an upwardly opening space into which a stick S, which is an aerosol product, can be inserted. This upwardly opening space can be called an insertion space 43. The insertion space 43 may be formed by recessing into the body 10 to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space 43 may correspond to the length of the region in the stick S that contains the aerosol generating material and / or medium. The lower end of the stick S is inserted inside the body 10, and the upper end of the stick S may protrude outside the body 10. The user can inhale air by putting the exposed upper end of the stick S in their mouth.

[0036] The heater 18 can heat the stick S. The heater 18 may extend upward in the space into which the stick S is inserted. For example, the heater 18 may include a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle heating element, or a rod heating element. The heater 18 may be inserted into the bottom of the stick S. The heater 18 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater.

[0037] For example, referring to Figure 1, the heater 18 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 includes an electrically conductive track, and the heater 18 can be heated by current flowing through the electrically conductive track. The heater 18 may be electrically connected to a power supply 11. The heater 18 can generate heat directly by receiving current from the power supply 11.

[0038] For example, the heater 18 may be a multi-heater. The heater 18 may include a first heater 18A and a second heater 18B. The first and second heaters 18A and 18B may be arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction. The first and second heaters 18A and 18B may be heated sequentially or simultaneously.

[0039] For example, referring to Figure 2, the aerosol generator may include an induction coil 181 surrounding a heater 18. The induction coil 181 can cause the heater 18 to heat up. The heater 18 is a susceptor, and it can heat up due to the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 181. The magnetic field penetrates the heater 18 and can generate eddy currents within the heater 18. The current can generate heat in the heater 18.

[0040] For example, referring to Figure 3, a susceptor SS can be included inside the stick S, and the susceptor SS inside the stick S can be heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 181. The susceptor SS is located inside the stick S and does not need to be electrically connected to the aerosol generator. The susceptor SS can be inserted into the insertion space 43 together with the stick S and can be removed from the insertion space 43 together with the stick S. The stick S can be heated by the susceptor SS inside the stick S. Here, the aerosol generator does not need to be equipped with a heater 18.

[0041] Power supply 11 can supply power to the components of the aerosol generator to operate. Power supply 11 can be described as a battery. Power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, sensor 13, and heater 18. Power supply 11 can supply power to induction coil 181.

[0042] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator. The control unit can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, sensor 13, and heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the induction coil 181. The control unit 12 can control the operation of displays, motors, etc., installed in the aerosol generator. The control unit 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator and determine whether the aerosol generator is operational.

[0043] The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor 13 and control subsequent processes. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 so that the heater 18 starts or stops operating. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 18 and the duration of power supply so that the heater 18 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0044] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge sensor, and an upper case sensor. For example, sensor 13 can sense at least one of the following: the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the internal and external temperatures of the body 10. For example, sensor 13 can sense the user's puff. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space 43. For example, sensor 13 can sense the movement of the aerosol generator.

[0045]

[0046] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, an aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, a heater 18, and a cartridge 19. At least one of the power supply 11, control unit 12, sensor 13, and heater 18 may be located inside the body 10 of the aerosol generator. Detailed explanation of the same configuration as the aerosol generator 1 in Figures 1 and 2 is omitted.

[0047] The heater 18 can heat the stick S. The heater 18 may extend upward around the space into which the stick S is inserted. For example, the heater 18 may be in the form of a tube with a hollow interior. The heater 18 may be positioned around the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space 43. The heater 18 can heat the insertion space 43 or the stick S inserted into the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0048] The cartridge 19 may contain an aerosol-generating substance having one of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0049] The cartridge 19 may be integrally formed with the body 10 or may be detachably attached to the body 10.

[0050] For example, referring to Figure 4, the cartridge 19 is integrally formed with the body 10 and can communicate with the insertion space via the airflow channel CN.

[0051] For example, referring to Figure 5, a space is formed on one side of the body 10, and the cartridge 19 can be mounted on the body 10 by inserting at least a portion of the cartridge 19 into the space formed on one side of the body 10. The airflow channel CN ​​is defined by a portion of the cartridge and / or a portion of the body 10, and the cartridge 19 can communicate with the insertion space 43 through the airflow channel CN.

[0052] The body 10 can be formed in such a way that outside air can flow into the body 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. Here, the outside air that flows into the body 10 can pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0053] The cartridge 19 may include a storage section C0 containing an aerosol-generating substance and / or a heater 24 for heating the aerosol-generating substance in the storage section C0. A liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating substance may be located inside the storage section C0. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic. The electrically conductive track of the heater 24 may be formed in the form of a coil structure winding around the liquid transfer means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means. The heater 24 can be called a cartridge heater 24.

[0054] Cartridge 19 can generate an aerosol. An aerosol can be generated by heating the liquid transfer means with the cartridge heater 24. An aerosol can be generated by heating the stick S with the heater 18. As the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 and heater 18 passes through the stick S, tobacco substances are added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with added tobacco substances can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick S.

[0055] The aerosol generator 1 is equipped only with a cartridge heater 24, and the body 10 does not need to be equipped with a heater 18. In this configuration, the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 can absorb tobacco substances as it passes through the stick S and be inhaled into the user's mouth.

[0056] The aerosol generator 1 may include an upper case (not shown). The upper case may be detachably attached to the body 10 so as to cover at least a portion of the cartridge 19 which is coupled to the body 10. The stick S may be inserted into the body 10 by passing through the upper case.

[0057] The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, sensor 13, cartridge heater 24, and heater 18.

[0058] The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, sensor 13, heater 18, and cartridge 19. The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by sensor 13 and control subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 so that the operation of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 starts or stops. For example, based on the results sensed by sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 and the duration of power supply so that cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0059] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge sensor, and an upper case sensor. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether a cartridge is installed. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether an upper case is installed.

[0060]

[0061] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the aerosol generator 1 can include a body 10 and a cartridge 19. A detailed explanation of the same configuration as the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figures 1 to 5 will be omitted.

[0062] The aerosol generator 10 may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, and a sensor 13. At least one of the power supply 11, control unit 12, and sensor 13 may be located inside the body 10. A cartridge 19 containing the aerosol product may be mounted in the body 10. The user can inhale the aerosol by placing a mouthpiece provided at one end of the cartridge 19 in their mouth.

[0063] The cartridge 19 can be detachably attached to the body 10. The cartridge 19 can be attached to the body 10 by being inserted into the body 10.

[0064] The body 10 can be formed in such a way that outside air can flow into the body 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. Here, the outside air that flows into the body 10 passes through the cartridge 19 and can flow into the user's mouth through the airflow channel CN.

[0065] Cartridge 19 can generate an aerosol. The aerosol can be generated by heating the liquid transfer means 25 with the cartridge heater 24. The generated aerosol can be inhaled into the user's mouth through the airflow channel CN.

[0066] An airflow channel CN ​​may be provided in the cartridge 19. The airflow channel CN ​​can communicate with the chamber C0 where the cartridge heater 24 is located and with the outside of the cartridge. One end of the airflow channel CN ​​can open in the chamber C0 where the cartridge heater 24 is located, and the other end can communicate with the mouthpiece. For example, referring to Figure 3, the airflow channel CN ​​may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 19 from one side of the chamber C0 of the cartridge 19. For example, referring to Figure 4, the airflow channel CN ​​may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 19, penetrating the chamber C0 of the cartridge 19.

[0067]

[0068] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, an aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and a heater 18. At least one of the power supply 11, control unit 12, sensor 13, and heater 18 may be located inside the body 10 of the aerosol generator. Detailed explanation of the same configuration as the aerosol generator 1 in Figures 1 to 7 is omitted.

[0069] The heater 18 can heat the stick S. The heater 18 may extend upward around the space into which the stick S is inserted. For example, the heater 18 may be in the form of a tube with a hollow interior. The heater 18 may be positioned around the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space 43. The heater 18 can heat the insertion space 43 or the stick S inserted into the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0070] For example, referring to Figure 8, the heater 18 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 includes an electrically conductive track, and the heater 18 can be heated by current flowing through the electrically conductive track. The heater 18 may be electrically connected to a power supply 11. The heater 18 can generate heat directly by receiving current from the power supply 11.

[0071] For example, referring to Figure 9, the aerosol generator may include an induction coil 181 surrounding a heater 18. The induction coil 181 can cause the heater 18 to heat up. The heater 18 is a susceptor, and it can heat up due to the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 181. The magnetic field penetrates the heater 18 and can generate eddy currents within the heater 18. The current can generate heat in the heater 18.

[0072] On the other hand, a susceptor can be included inside the stick S, and the susceptor inside the stick S can be heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 181.

[0073] The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the heater 18. If the aerosol generator 1 includes an induction coil 181, the power supply 11 can supply power to the induction coil 181.

[0074] The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11 and the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor 13 and control the processing to be performed thereafter.

[0075] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion sensing sensor.

[0076]

[0077] Figure 10 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] The aerosol generator 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and at least one heater 18, 24. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to that shown in Figure 10. In other words, it will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment that the design of the aerosol generator 1 may omit some of the components shown in Figure 10 or add new components.

[0079] The sensor 13 can sense the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the state of the area around the aerosol generator 1, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 12. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, restricting smoking, determining whether a stick S and / or cartridge 19 has been inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0080] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: temperature sensor 131, puff sensor 132, insertion sensor 133, reuse sensor 134, cartridge sensor 135, upper case sensor 136, and motion sensor 137.

[0081] The temperature sensor 131 can sense the temperature at which the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are heated. The aerosol generator 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 themselves may act as a temperature sensor.

[0082] The temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element whose resistance changes in response to temperature changes in the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The temperature sensor 131 can be implemented using a thermistor or other element that utilizes the property that resistance changes with temperature. Here, the temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be configured as a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Here, the temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0083] The temperature sensor 131 may be positioned around the power supply 11 to monitor its temperature. The temperature sensor 131 may be positioned adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one side of the battery which is the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0084] The temperature sensor 131 is located inside the body 10 and can sense the internal temperature of the body 10. The temperature sensor 131 is located outside the body 10 or in a space communicating with the outside of the body 10 and can sense the external temperature of the body 10 or the ambient temperature.

[0085] The puff sensor 132 can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor 132 may be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1 may correspond to the pressure of the airflow through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 132 may be positioned in the aerosol generator 1 in a manner corresponding to the airflow through which the gas flows.

[0086] The insertion sensing sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The insertion sensing sensor 133 can detect the signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The insertion sensing sensor 133 may be provided around the insertion space. The insertion sensing sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick S by the change in dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 133 may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0087] An induction sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the induction sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. For example, if the magnetic field changes around a coil through which current flows, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0088] Induction sensors can output signals that correspond to the characteristics of the current flowing through a coil. For example, an induction sensor can output a signal that corresponds to the inductance value of a coil.

[0089] A capacitance sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitance sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitance sensor can output a signal corresponding to the surrounding electromagnetic properties, such as the capacitance around the conductor. For example, if a stick S including a metal wrapper is inserted into the insertion space, the wrapper of the stick S may alter the electromagnetic properties around the conductor.

[0090] The reuse detection sensor 134 can detect whether the stick S has been reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 may also be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the hue of the stick S. The color sensor can detect the hue of a portion of the wrapper surrounding the outside of the stick S. The color sensor can detect a value for an optical property corresponding to the hue of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical property may be the wavelength of light. The color sensor may be implemented as an integrated configuration with the proximity sensor, or as a separate configuration separated from the proximity sensor.

[0091] At least a portion of the wrapper constituting the stick S can change hue due to aerosols. The reuse sensing sensor 134 may be positioned corresponding to the location where at least a portion of the wrapper whose hue changes due to aerosols is located when the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick S is used by the user, at least a portion of the wrapper may have a first hue. Here, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 1 passes through the stick S, at least a portion of the wrapper becomes wet with the aerosol, causing the hue of at least a portion of the wrapper to change to a second hue. On the other hand, after the hue of at least a portion of the wrapper has changed from the first hue to the second hue, it may be maintained at the second hue.

[0092] The cartridge sensing sensor 135 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge sensing sensor 135 can be implemented as an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, or a Hall sensor (Hall IC) using the Hall effect.

[0093] The upper case sensing sensor 136 can detect the installation and / or removal of the upper case. When the upper case 200 is separated from the body 10, the cartridge 19 and a portion of the body 10 that were covered by the upper case 200 may be exposed to the outside. The upper case sensing sensor 136 can be implemented as a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0094] The motion sensor 137 can detect the movement of the aerosol generator. The motion sensor 137 can be implemented using at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

[0095] The humidity sensor 138 can sense the humidity inside and outside the aerosol generator. The humidity sensor 138 can sense the ambient humidity of the aerosol generator 1 and / or the humidity inside the device. The humidity sensor 138 can be implemented as a capacitive sensor or the like. The humidity sensor 138 can be placed on the outside of the body 10 or in the path where outside air flows in, and can measure the ambient humidity of the aerosol generator 1.

[0096] The position sensor 139 can sense the position of the aerosol generator. The position sensor 139 may be implemented using GPS or the like.

[0097] Sensor 13 may further include at least one of the following, in addition to the aforementioned sensors 131 to 139: a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, and a proximity sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by those skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed explanation can be omitted.

[0098] The output unit 14 can output and provide to the user information about the status of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 14 may include, but is not limited to, a display 141, a haptic unit 142, and an acoustic output unit 143. If the display 141 and the touchpad form a layered structure and constitute a touchscreen, the display 141 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0099] The display 141 can visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the information about the aerosol generator 1 can include various types of information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the heater 18, the insertion / removal status of the stick S and / or cartridge 19, the mounting / removal status of the upper case, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 1 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal object), and the display 141 can output this information to the outside. For example, the display 141 may be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display 141 may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0100] The haptic unit 142 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli, providing the user with tactile information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, if initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 during a set time, the haptic unit 142 can generate vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating. The haptic unit 142 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0101] The acoustic output unit 143 can provide the user with auditory information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the acoustic output unit 143 can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0102] The power supply 11 can supply the power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. The power supply 11 can supply power so that the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 can be heated. The power supply 11 can also supply the power necessary for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator 1, namely the sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. The power supply 11 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 11 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery.

[0103] 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 power supply 11 and may include a switching element.

[0104] The power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 under predetermined conditions. For example, the power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 if the voltage level of the power supply 11 is equal to or greater than a first voltage corresponding to overcharging. For example, the power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 if the voltage level of the power supply 11 is less than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharge.

[0105] The heater 18 receives power from the power supply 11 and can heat the medium or aerosol-generating material inside the stick S. Although not shown in Figure 10, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the power supply 11 and supplies it to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 1 generates aerosols using an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the power supply 11 to AC power.

[0106] The control unit 12, sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17 can function by receiving power from the power supply 11. Although not shown in Figure 10, a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a constant voltage circuit, may be further included to convert the power from the power supply 11 and supply it to each component. Also, although not shown in Figure 10, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter may include at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The low-pass filter prevents high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor 13, such as the insertion sensing sensor 133.

[0107] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 may be formed from any suitable electrical resistant material. For example, suitable electrical resistant materials may be, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Also, the heater 18 may be, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which an electrically conductive track is arranged, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0108] In other embodiments, the heater 18 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 18 may include a susceptor that generates heat by a magnetic field applied by a coil and heats the aerosol-generating material.

[0109] The input unit 15 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit 15 may be a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor that senses touch. For example, the touch sensor may include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, an ultrasonic touch sensor (surface acoustic wave touch sensor), or an infrared touch sensor. For example, the input unit 15 may include a biorecognition sensor. The biorecognition sensor can sense user-identifiable information such as the user's fingerprint or iris.

[0110] The display 141 and the touch panel can be realized by a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be embedded within the display 141 (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added on top of the display 141 (add-on type).

[0111] On the other hand, the input section 15 may include, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0112] Memory 17 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. Memory 17 can include at least one type of storage medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 17 can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0113] The communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0114] 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, or an Ant+ communication unit.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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 such a connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0117] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor can also be realized by an array of numerous logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program executable by this microprocessor. It is also understandable to those with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it can be realized by other forms of hardware.

[0118] The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the supply of power from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 sensed by the temperature sensor 131. The control unit 12 can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0119] The aerosol generator 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11 between the power supply 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, heater 18, or induction coil 181. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element can be embodied by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 12 can control the power supply circuit.

[0120] The control unit 12 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts the DC power output from the power supply 11 into AC power. For example, the inverter can be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit that includes multiple switching elements.

[0121] The control unit 12 can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power supply 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The control unit 12 can turn off the switching element so that power is cut off to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The control unit 12 can adjust the current supplied from the power supply 11 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0122] The control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented using a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, or the like.

[0123] The control unit 12 can adjust the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit by controlling the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power supply circuit. When the switching element remains in the on state, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit may correspond to the voltage level output from the power supply 11. The duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power supply 11. The lower the duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element, the lower the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit can be. The heater 18 may be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0124] The control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heater 18 using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID).

[0125] For example, the control unit 12 can use a PWM method to control the supply of current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses.

[0126] For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the heater temperature 18 and the target temperature, the integral of the difference over time, and the derivative of the difference over time.

[0127] The control unit 12 can prevent the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to interrupt the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a previously set limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by a certain ratio if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a previously set limit temperature. For example, if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted and can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24.

[0128] The control unit 12 can control the charging and discharging of the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can check the temperature of the power supply 11 in accordance with the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0129] When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator 1, the control unit 12 can check whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or above a first limiting temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the charging of the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the first limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can control the charging of the power supply 11 based on a previously set charging current. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or above the first limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can shut off the charging of the power supply 11.

[0130] With the aerosol generator 1 powered on, the control unit 12 can check whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the second limiting temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the discharge of the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the second limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can control the system to use the power stored in the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the second limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the power supply 11.

[0131] The control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 relative to the power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0132] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space using the insertion sensing sensor 133. The control unit 12 can determine that the stick S has been inserted based on the output signal from the insertion sensing sensor 133. If it determines that the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0133] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space using the insertion sensing sensor 133. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the heater 18 is above a limit temperature or if the temperature change gradient of the heater 18 is above a set gradient. If the control unit 12 determines that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0134] The control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 18 based on the state of the stick S sensed by the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can check the level range that includes the level of the capacitance sensor signal based on a lookup table. The control unit 12 can determine the amount of moisture in the stick S based on the checked level range.

[0135] If the stick S is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time to the heater 18, thereby increasing the preheating time of the stick S compared to normal conditions.

[0136] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S inserted into the insertion space has been reused by the reuse sensing sensor 134. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensing value of the reuse sensing sensor signal with a first reference range that includes a first hue, and if the sensing value falls within the first reference range, it can determine that the stick S has not been used. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensing value of the reuse sensing sensor signal with a second reference range that includes a second hue, and if the sensing value falls within the second reference range, it can determine that the stick S has been used. If it is determined that the stick S has been used, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0137] The control unit 12 can determine the coupling and / or removal of the cartridge 19 based on the cartridge sensing sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the coupling and / or removal of the cartridge 19 based on the sensing value of the signal from the cartridge sensing sensor.

[0138] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been depleted. For example, the control unit 12 can preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by applying power, and determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period. If the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been depleted. If the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been depleted, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0139] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 has been used. For example, based on the data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge 19 cannot be used if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge 19. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge 19 cannot be used if the total time the heater 24 has been heated is greater than or equal to a previously set maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the heater 24 is greater than or equal to a previously set maximum amount of power.

[0140] The control unit 12 can make decisions regarding the user's inhalation based on the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor 132. If the number of puffs reaches a pre-set maximum number of puffs or if no puff is detected for a period of time longer than a pre-set time, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0141] The control unit 12 can determine whether to connect and / or remove the upper case based on the upper case sensing sensor 136. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether to connect and / or remove the upper case based on the sensing value of the signal from the upper case sensing sensor.

[0142] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results sensed by the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 132 reaches a pre-set number, the control unit 12 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 1 will immediately shut off via at least one of the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the acoustic output unit 143. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that there is no stick S in the insertion space, it can notify the user via the output unit 14. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the cartridge 19 and / or upper case have not been installed, it can notify the user via the output unit 14. For example, the control unit 12 can transmit information about the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 to the user via the output unit 14.

[0143] The control unit 12 can save and update a history of the event in the memory 17 when a predetermined event occurs. Events can include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1, such as detection of stick S insertion, start of stick S heating, puff detection, end of puffing, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, detection of overvoltage application to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, end of stick S heating, on / off of the aerosol generator 1, start of charging of the power supply 11, detection of overcharge of the power supply 11, and end of charging of the power supply 11. The history of an event can include the date and time the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of stick S insertion, the log data corresponding to the event can include data such as the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, and the current flowing through the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0144] The control unit 12 can be controlled to form a communication link with an external device, such as the user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 can remove the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. Here, the authentication data may include data indicating the completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. The user can perform user authentication via the external device. The external device can determine whether the user data is valid based on the user's date of birth, a unique number identifying the user, etc., and can receive data regarding the right to use the aerosol generator 1 from an external server. Based on the data regarding the right to use, the external device can transmit data indicating the completion of user authentication to the aerosol generator 1. Once user authentication is complete, the control unit 12 can remove the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. For example, once user authentication is complete, the control unit 12 can remove the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the heater 18.

[0145] The control unit 12 can transmit data about the status of the aerosol generator 1 to the external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the operating mode, and other information via the external device's display.

[0146] An external device can transmit a location search request to the aerosol generator 1 based on an input that initiates a location search for the aerosol generator 1. When the control unit 12 receives a location search request from the external device, it can control at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, the haptic unit 142 can generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 can output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0147] The control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update when it receives firmware data from an external device. The external device can check the current firmware version of the aerosol generator 1 and determine if a new firmware version is available. When the external device receives an input requesting a firmware download, it can receive the new firmware data and transmit the new firmware data to the aerosol generator 1. When the control unit 12 receives the new firmware data, it can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update.

[0148] The control unit 12 can transmit data about the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16, learn the sensing values ​​from the server via machine learning such as deep learning, and receive and store the generated learning model. Using the learning model received from the server, the control unit 12 can perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 12 can store the sensing value data of at least one sensor 13 and data for training an artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 can store a database of each component provided in the aerosol generator 1, weights and biases that make up the artificial neural network (ANN) structure, etc., for training the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 12 can learn the data about the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, the temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory 17, and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0149]

[0150] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the heating profile determination operation of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0151] Referring to Figure 11 together with Figures 1 to 10, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one of the following: a body 10, heaters 18 and 24, a power supply 11, a control unit 12, at least one sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, and a memory 17.

[0152] The body 10 can form the external appearance of the device 1. Inside the body 10, at least one of the following may be arranged: a power supply 11, a control unit 12, at least one sensor 13, heaters 18 and 24, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, and a memory 17.

[0153] The power supply 11 can supply power to the components located inside the body 10, including the control unit 12, at least one sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, memory 17, and heaters 18 and 24.

[0154] The heaters 18 and 24 can receive power from the power supply 11 to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0155] At least one sensor 13 can output a sensing signal. At least one sensor 13 can output a signal related to the surrounding environment of the aerosol generator 1. The sensing signal can reflect information about the surrounding environment of the aerosol generator 1. For example, at least one sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 131, a puff sensor 132, and a humidity sensor 138. The temperature sensor 131 is located outside the body 10 or in a space communicating with the outside of the body 10 and can sense the ambient temperature of the aerosol generator 1. The puff sensor 132 can sense the user's puff. The puff sensor 132 is located on an airflow path through which gas flows and can output a signal corresponding to the pressure that changes due to the user's puff. The humidity sensor 138 is located outside the body 10 or in a space communicating with the outside of the body 10 and can measure the ambient humidity of the aerosol generator 1.

[0156] The input unit 15 can receive user input. The input unit 15 can receive user preference information regarding inhalation from the user as input.

[0157] Referring to Figure 11, the control unit 12 can control the power supply 11 to supply power to the heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the heating profile (S1110).

[0158] The heating profile is for controlling the heating of heaters 18 and 24 and may include information on at least one heating section and the target temperature for that heating section. The heating profile may also include information on the number of puffs that can be provided to the user by heating heaters 18 and 24.

[0159] The control unit 12 can identify the user before supplying power to the heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 and output information requesting the input of user identification information. The control unit 12 can obtain user identification information based on user input received from the input unit 15. The identification information may include at least one of ID (identification), PW (password), and user biometric information.

[0160] The control unit 12 can determine or decide whether the user is an authenticated user based on the identification information. The control unit 12 can determine or decide whether the registered information and the identification information are the same. Here, the registered information may be user-specific identification information registered by the user via at least one of the aerosol generator 1, an external device, and an external server.

[0161] If the control unit 12 determines or confirms that the user is an authenticated user, it can execute a heating profile determination process based on the user's preference information and ambient environment information acquired in the inhalation section. If the control unit 12 determines or confirms that the user is an unauthenticated user, it does not need to execute the heating profile determination process.

[0162] Therefore, it is possible to prevent situations where user preferences are not accurately reflected in the heating profile due to differences in usage among multiple users.

[0163] The control unit 12 can determine the heating profile. In order to determine the heating profile, the control unit 12 can acquire ambient environmental information of the inhalation section in response to signals received from at least one of the sensors 131 and 138 (S1120). For example, the control unit 12 can acquire ambient temperature information and humidity information for the section inhaled by the user in response to signals received from the temperature sensor 131 and the humidity sensor 138.

[0164] The period of inhalation by the user can be defined as the period in which a series of puffs are produced by the user. For example, when a user inhales through a stick S or mouthpiece, the user may produce multiple puffs. The point at which the user produces the first puff may be the start of inhalation, and the point at which the user finishes the last puff may be the end of inhalation. The inhalation period can be defined as the period from the start to the end of inhalation.

[0165] The control unit 12 calculates or determines the difference between the start time of inhalation and the end time of inhalation as the inhalation interval, and can acquire temperature information and humidity information for the inhalation interval in accordance with the signals received by the temperature sensor 131 and humidity sensor 138 during the inhalation interval.

[0166] The control unit 12 can obtain preference information regarding inhalation from the user in order to determine the heating profile (S1130). The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to output information inquiring about the preference for inhalation. The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to sequentially output information inquiring about preference. The control unit 12 can receive user input corresponding to preference inquiry information and obtain preference information corresponding to each inquiry.

[0167] The control unit 12 can receive preference information from an external device via the communication unit 16. The external device may incorporate an application connected to the aerosol generator 1. When the external device receives a preference inquiry information output request signal from the aerosol generator 1, it can output information inquiring about the preference for inhalation based on this signal. The external device can receive user input corresponding to the preference inquiry information via an input unit provided in the external device. The external device can transmit the user input information corresponding to the preference inquiry information to the aerosol generator 1.

[0168] The control unit 12 can input the acquired ambient environment information and preference information into the learning model. Based on the information output from the learning model, the control unit 12 can determine a heating profile (S1140). The control unit can store the determined heating profile in the memory 17. The memory 17 can store at least one heating profile corresponding to the preference information and the ambient environment information acquired in the intake section.

[0169] Subsequently, when inhalation occurs by the user, the control unit 12 can acquire ambient environmental information via at least one sensor 131, 138, search for a heating profile in the memory 17, and select a heating profile corresponding to the acquired ambient environmental information. Based on the selected heating profile, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18, 24. If a heating profile corresponding to the acquired ambient environmental information is not found in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18, 24 based on the basic heating profile and the set heating profile. The basic heating profile may be the heating profile applied to the device 1 when it is shipped from the factory. The control unit 12 can acquire ambient environmental information and user preference information in the smoking area, input this into a learning model, and determine a heating profile corresponding to the ambient environmental information and preference information.

[0170] Meanwhile, the control unit 12 can input ambient environment information, preference information, and weather information corresponding to the current location of the aerosol generator 1 into the learning model. The control unit 12 can acquire location information of the aerosol generator 1 or the user using a position sensor 139, such as GPS, and transmit this to an external server via the communication unit 16. The control unit 12 can receive weather information corresponding to the location of the aerosol generator 1 or the user from the external server via the communication unit 16. The control unit 12 can input ambient environment information, preference information, and weather information into the learning model and determine a heating profile corresponding to the ambient environment information, the preference information, and the weather information.

[0171] Therefore, the heating profile can reflect the weather at the user's location or in the area where they inhale, and the surrounding environmental information that the user inhales can be more accurately reflected in the heating profile.

[0172]

[0173] Figure 12 is an illustrative diagram illustrating a learning model for an aerosol generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0174] Referring to Figure 12, the control unit 12 can determine the heating profile using a learned model.

[0175] Machine learning means that electronic devices learn from data without humans directly instructing them on logic, and in this way, the electronic devices solve problems.

[0176] Deep learning is a method of teaching electronic devices human ways of thinking based on artificial neural networks (ANNs), and refers to artificial intelligence technology that enables electronic devices to learn on their own like humans. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) may be implemented in software form or in hardware form such as chips. For example, artificial neural networks (ANNs) can include various types of algorithms such as deep neural networks (DNNs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), and deep belief networks (DBNs).

[0177] Referring to Figure 12, an artificial neural network (ANN) can include an input layer, a hidden layer, and an output layer. Each layer contains multiple nodes, and each layer is connected to the next layer, with nodes between adjacent layers being connected to each other by weights.

[0178] Electronic devices can find certain patterns in data and form feature maps, extract features from lower-level to intermediate-level and upper-level features, recognize an object, and output the results.

[0179] Furthermore, each node can operate based on an activation model, which determines the output value corresponding to the input value.

[0180] The output value of any node, for example, a lower-level feature, can be input to the next layer connected to that node, for example, an intermediate-level feature node. The node in the next layer, for example, an intermediate-level feature node, can receive values ​​output from multiple nodes of the lower-level feature.

[0181] Here, the input value of each node may be the output value of the node from the previous layer to which a weight has been applied. The weight can represent the strength of the connections between nodes. Furthermore, the deep learning process can also be viewed as a process of finding appropriate weights and biases.

[0182] On the other hand, the output value of any node, for example, an intermediate-level feature, can be input to the next layer connected to that node, for example, a node of a higher-level feature. The node of the next layer, for example, a node of a higher-level feature, can receive values ​​output from multiple nodes of the intermediate-level feature.

[0183] An artificial neural network (ANN) can extract feature information corresponding to each level using trained layers that correspond to each level. The ANN can sequentially abstract and use the feature information at the highest level to recognize a given object.

[0184] On the other hand, artificial neural networks (ANNs) are trained by adjusting the weights of the connections between nodes so that the desired output is produced for each input data, and bias values ​​can also be adjusted if necessary. Furthermore, ANNs can continuously update their weight values ​​through training. In addition, methods such as backpropagation can be used to train ANNs.

[0185] On the other hand, the aerosol generator 1 can also store data acquired from each component of the aerosol generator 1, data for training an artificial neural network (ANN), and so on. For example, the memory 17 of the aerosol generator 1 can store a database of each component of the aerosol generator 1, weights and biases that make up the structure of the artificial neural network (ANN), for training the artificial neural network (ANN). The aerosol generator 1 can learn data on the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, the heating profile, etc., stored in the memory 17, and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's inhalation pattern, generating a heating profile, etc.

[0186] The control unit 12 can determine a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and preference information by inputting the surrounding environment information and preference information into a learning model that determines the heating profile.

[0187]

[0188] Figure 13 is a flowchart of the preference information acquisition operation in the heating profile determination operation shown in Figure 11, and Figure 14 is an illustrative diagram illustrating the preference query output of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0189]

[0190] Referring to Figure 13, the control unit 12 can obtain preference information regarding inhalation from the user in order to determine the heating profile (S1130). The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to output information inquiring about the preference for inhalation. The control unit 12 can output preference inquiry information via the output unit 14 based on the inhalation section or the end of inhalation. For example, the control unit 12 can detect or determine that the user has finished inhaling and output preference inquiry information via the output unit 14. For example, the control unit 12 can output preference inquiry information at regular intervals within the inhalation section. In this case, preference inquiry information can be repeatedly output within the inhalation section. This will be explained in detail with reference to Figure 16.

[0191] The control unit 12 controls the output unit 14 and can sequentially output information that questions the degree of preference. The preference questioning information may include at least one of the following: information that questions whether the flavor is appropriate, information that questions whether the amount of atomization is appropriate, and information that questions whether the number of puffs is appropriate.

[0192] The control unit 12 controls the output unit 14 and outputs information questioning whether the flavor provided via the aerosol generator 1 is appropriate, and can receive corresponding user input via the input unit 15 (S1131).

[0193] The control unit 12 controls the output unit 14 and outputs information questioning whether the amount of atomization provided via the aerosol generator 1 is appropriate, and can receive corresponding user input via the input unit 15 (S1132).

[0194] The control unit 12 controls the output unit 14 and outputs information questioning whether the number of puffs provided via the aerosol generator 1 is appropriate, and can receive corresponding user input via the input unit 15 (S1133).

[0195]

[0196] For example, referring to Figure 14, the output unit 14 can display together information asking whether the provided flavor is appropriate and selection information allowing the user to choose between too much, appropriate, or insufficient flavor. The user can input a response regarding whether the flavor is appropriate by selecting one of the three types of selection information displayed.

[0197] After the user's response regarding whether the flavor is appropriate is received, the output unit 14 can display information asking whether the provided atomization amount is appropriate, along with selection information allowing the user to choose between excessive, appropriate, and insufficient atomization. The user can input their response regarding whether the atomization amount is appropriate by selecting one of the three types of selection information displayed.

[0198] After the user's response regarding whether the atomization amount is appropriate is received, the output unit 14 can display information asking whether the provided number of puffs is appropriate, along with selection information allowing the user to choose between too many, too many, or too few puffs. The user can input their response regarding whether the number of puffs is appropriate by selecting one of the three types of selection information displayed.

[0199] Figure 14 illustrates the sequential display of information questioning whether the flavor, atomization amount, and puff count are appropriate. However, it is obvious to any ordinary engineer that the questioning information can be changed to other types of information, and that fewer or more pieces of information can be displayed as needed.

[0200]

[0201] Figure 15 shows an example of a heating profile of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0202] Referring to Figure 15, the heating profile may include information on at least one heating section and the target temperature for that heating section. The heating profile may also include information on the number of puffs that can be provided to the user by heating the heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the heating profile.

[0203] The heating profile may include information for a preheating section P0 and at least one heating section P1, P2, and P3. The preheating section P0 may be a section in which heaters 18 and 24 are heated to a temperature for heating the aerosol-generating material to produce an aerosol. At least one heating section P1, P2, and P3 is a section in which an aerosol is generated and may also be a section in which puffs are generated by the user.

[0204] At least one heating section P1, P2, and P3 can be divided into multiple sections based on the number of puffs taken by the user. For example, at least one heating section P1, P2, and P3 can include at least one of the first heating section P1, the second heating section P2, and the third heating section P3. The first heating section P1 may include the first puff and correspond to the first set number of puffs from the first puff. The second heating section P2 may correspond to the second set number of puffs that occur after the first heating section P1. The third heating section P3 may correspond to the third set number of puffs that occur after the second heating section P2. Here, the first to third set numbers may be set to the same number or to be different from each other. For example, the first to third set numbers may be 3 to 5. For example, the first set number may be 3, and the second and third set numbers may be the same as the first set number.

[0205] A heating profile can include target temperatures for each heating section. For example, a heating profile can include a first target temperature Ta for the first section P1, a second target temperature Tb for the second section P2, and a third target temperature Tc for the third section P3. The first to third target temperatures can be set to be the same as or higher than the vaporization temperature of the aerosol-generating substance. The first to third target temperatures can be set to be different from each other. For example, the second target temperature Tb can be set lower than the first target temperature Ta, and the third target temperature Tc can be set higher than the first target temperature Ta.

[0206] The target temperature of the heating section can be determined by a learning model based on ambient environmental information and preference information. For example, the target temperature of the heating section can be determined based on preference information input in response to information questioning whether the flavor is appropriate, preference information input in response to information questioning whether the atomization amount is appropriate, temperature information and humidity information of the inhalation section, etc.

[0207] Based on the input preference information and surrounding environment information, the learning model can output heating profiles in which the target temperature for each heating section is maintained, increased, or decreased.

[0208] The heating profile may include information on the maximum number of puffs that can be provided to the user by heating the heaters 18 and 24.

[0209] The maximum number of puffs can be determined by a learning model based on ambient environmental information and preference information. For example, the maximum number of puffs can be determined based on preference information input in response to information questioning whether the number of puffs is appropriate, as well as temperature and humidity information of the inhalation area.

[0210] The learning model can output a heating profile in which the maximum number of puffs is maintained, increased, or decreased, based on the input preference information and surrounding environment information.

[0211]

[0212] Figure 16 shows an example of the timing of preference query output for an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 17 shows an example of a heating profile determined by the aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0213]

[0214] Referring to Figure 16, the control unit 12 can acquire preference information about inhalation from the user multiple times during the inhalation interval. The control unit 12 can output preference inquiry information at regular intervals during the inhalation interval. The control unit 12 counts the number of puffs that occur after the start of inhalation in response to the signal received by the puff sensor 132, and can control the output unit 14 to output preference inquiry information at each of the time points t1, t2, and t3 when the counted number of puffs reaches a first set number. Based on the user input received in response to the preference inquiry information, the control unit 12 can acquire preference information for each time point.

[0215] For example, the first set number of puffs may be 3. In this case, the control unit 12 can output preference question information each time three puffs occur, based on the first puff pf1 that occurred. The control unit 12 can detect when the third puff pf3 occurs, output preference question information via the output unit 14, and obtain user input related to preference via the input unit 15. Similarly, when the control unit detects when the sixth and ninth puffs pf6 and pf9 occur, it can also perform the process of outputting preference question information and obtaining user input.

[0216]

[0217] Referring to Figure 17 together with Figure 15, the control unit 12 can input preference information and surrounding environment information acquired repeatedly at regular intervals into a learning model to determine heating profiles HP1_0, HP1_1, and HP1_2. The target temperatures for each heating section P1, P2, and P3 of the heating profile can be determined by the learning model based on preference information and surrounding environment information acquired at each time point. For example, the target temperatures for each heating section P1, P2, and P3 can be determined based on preference information input in response to information questioning whether the flavor is appropriate, preference information input in response to information questioning whether the atomization amount is appropriate, and temperature and humidity information acquired for each heating section P1, P2, and P3.

[0218] The first target temperature Ta of the first heating section P1 can be determined based on the temperature and humidity information acquired in the first heating section P1, and the preference information acquired at or after the end of the first heating section P1.

[0219] For example, if the user inputs that the provided flavor and / or atomization amount is insufficient, the first target temperature Ta determined by the learning model can be increased. Here, if the temperature achieved in the first heating section P1 is higher than the set temperature and the humidity is higher than the set humidity, the first target temperature Ta determined by the learning model can be increased by the first temperature (heating profile HP1_1 in Figure 17). If the temperature achieved in the first heating section P1 is lower than the set temperature and the humidity is lower than the set humidity, the first target temperature Ta determined by the learning model can be increased by the second temperature which is greater than the first temperature (heating profile HP1_2 in Figure 17).

[0220] Similarly, the second target temperature Tb of the second heating section P2 can be determined based on the temperature and humidity information acquired in the second heating section P2, and the preference information acquired at or after the end of the second heating section P2.

[0221] For example, if the user inputs that the provided flavor and / or atomization amount is excessive, the second target temperature Tb determined by the learning model can be reduced. Here, if the temperature achieved in the second heating section P2 is higher than the set temperature and the humidity is higher than the set humidity, the second target temperature Tb determined by the learning model can be reduced by a third temperature (heating profile HP1_1 in Figure 17). If the temperature achieved in the second heating section P2 is lower than the set temperature and the humidity is lower than the set humidity, the second target temperature Tb determined by the learning model can be reduced by a fourth temperature greater than the third temperature (heating profile HP1_2 in Figure 17).

[0222] The set temperature and set humidity can be set in advance. The set temperature is a preset temperature value that allows for the determination of whether the ambient temperature is high or low, and may be a value preset through experimentation, taking into account the temperatures of multiple environments, locations, and regions in which the user may be located. The set humidity is a preset humidity value that allows for the determination of whether the ambient humidity is high or low, and may be a value preset through experimentation, taking into account the humidity of multiple environments, locations, and regions in which the user may be located.

[0223] Therefore, by repeatedly combining preferences at specific points in the user's inhalation interval, it is possible to reflect the user's preferences in detail for each inhalation point within a single inhalation interval.

[0224]

[0225] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, user preferences and surrounding environment information can be reflected together in the heating profile, and an atomization amount and / or number of puffs suitable for the environment in which the user is located and the user's preferences can be provided.

[0226] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, user preferences can be accurately reflected in the heating profile by determining the heating profile based on a learning model that learns user preferences and surrounding environment information.

[0227] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by repeatedly combining preferences at certain points in time during the user's inhalation interval, the user's preferences can be reflected in detail for each inhalation point even within a single inhalation interval.

[0228] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the weather in the user's location or area can be reflected in the heating profile, and information about the surrounding environment in which the user inhales can be more accurately reflected in the heating profile.

[0229] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, user preference information can be collected via an external device that can communicate with the aerosol generator, thereby enhancing user convenience.

[0230] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by reflecting user preferences in the heating profile for identified users, it is possible to prevent situations where user preferences are not accurately reflected in the heating profile for multiple users.

[0231]

[0232] Referring to Figures 1 to 17, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes heaters 18 and 24 for heating an aerosol generating substance, at least one sensor 131 and 138 that outputs a signal related to the surrounding environment, an input unit 15 that receives user input, and a control unit 12 that controls the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 based on a heating profile. The control unit 12 can acquire information about the surrounding environment of the user's inhalation section in response to a signal received by the at least one sensor 131 and 138 in the user's inhalation section, acquire preference information about the user's inhalation based on user input received by the input unit 15, input the surrounding environment information and the preference information into a learning model that determines the heating profile, and determine a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and the preference information.

[0233] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 12 further includes an output unit 14 that outputs information and a puff sensor 132 that senses puffs, wherein the control unit 12 determines the start of inhalation, which is the time when the first puff occurs, and the end of inhalation, which is the time when the last puff ends, in response to a signal already received by the puff sensor 132, determines the difference between the start of inhalation and the end of inhalation as the inhalation interval, and controls the output unit 14 to output the user's preference information for inhalation based on the inhalation interval or the end of inhalation.

[0234] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 12 counts the number of puffs that occur after the start of inhalation in response to the signal received by the puff sensor 132, and controls the output unit 14 to output the preference inquiry information each time the counted number of puffs reaches a first set number, and can obtain preference information for each point in time based on the user input that is input in response to the preference inquiry information.

[0235] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the heating profile includes a plurality of heating sections divided based on a first set number of puffs and a target temperature for each of the plurality of heating sections, and the target temperature for each of the plurality of heating sections can be determined based on ambient environmental information for the inhalation section and preference information for each of the respective time points.

[0236] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first number of setting times may be 3 to 5 times.

[0237] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the preference inquiry information may include information that inquires about at least one of the following: that the flavor is insufficient, that the atomization is insufficient, and that the number of puffs is insufficient.

[0238] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the heating profile includes information on the maximum number of puffs, and the maximum number of puffs can be determined based on user input that is entered in response to information questioning whether the number of puffs is insufficient.

[0239] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the at least one sensor 131, 138 includes at least one of the temperature sensor 131 and the humidity sensor 138, and the ambient environment information may include at least one of the temperature information and humidity information of the intake section.

[0240] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the heating profile includes at least one heating section and a target temperature for the heating section, and the target temperature for the heating section can be determined based on user inputs that correspond to at least one of information questioning whether the flavor is insufficient and information questioning whether the atomization amount is insufficient, and temperature and humidity information for the inhalation section.

[0241] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the system further includes a communication unit 16 and a location sensor 139 for sensing geographical location, wherein the control unit 12 can receive weather information corresponding to the user's location from an external server via the communication unit 16, input the weather information into the learning model, and determine a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information, preference information, and weather information.

[0242] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the control unit 12 further includes a memory 17 for storing at least one heating profile, and the control unit 12 can store the heating profile, ambient environment information and preference information input to the learning model, which are determined, in the memory 17, select a heating profile corresponding to the ambient environment information, and control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the selected heating profile.

[0243] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the control unit 12 further includes a communication unit 16, which can receive the preference information from an external device via the communication unit 16 and input the surrounding environment information and the preference information received from the external device into the learning model to determine the heating profile.

[0244] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 12 can acquire user identification information based on user input received by the input unit 15, determine whether the user is an authenticated user based on the identification information, and if the user is an authenticated user, input the surrounding environment information and the preference information into the learning model to determine the heating profile.

[0245]

[0246] The specific or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinguishable. The specific or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or in combination with each other in terms of their respective configurations or functions.

[0247] For example, this means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with configuration B described in other embodiments and / or drawings. In other words, even if a combination of configurations is not directly described, it means that such a combination is possible unless it is explicitly stated that such a combination is not possible.

[0248] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in any way and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A heater for heating aerosol-generating material, At least one sensor that outputs signals related to the surrounding environment, An input unit that receives user input, Includes a control unit that controls the power supplied to the heater based on a heating profile, The control unit, In response to a signal received by at least one sensor in the user's inhalation section, information about the surrounding environment of the inhalation section is acquired. Based on the user input received by the input unit, preference information regarding the user's inhalation is obtained. An aerosol generating apparatus that inputs the surrounding environment information and the preference information into a learning model for determining the heating profile, and determines a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and the preference information.

2. An output unit that outputs information, It further includes a puff sensor that detects the puff, The control unit, Based on the signal received by the puff sensor, the system determines the start of inhalation, which is the point at which the first puff occurs, and the end of inhalation, which is the point at which the last puff ends. The difference between the start time of the inhalation and the end time of the inhalation is determined as the inhalation interval. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output unit is controlled to output the user's preference information for inhalation during the inhalation section or based on the end of the inhalation.

3. The control unit, In response to the signal received by the puff sensor, the number of puffs occurring after the start of inhalation is counted. Each time the counted number of puffs reaches the first set number, the output unit is controlled to output the preference question information. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, which acquires preference information for each point in time based on the user input that is entered in response to the preference inquiry information.

4. The aforementioned heating profile is The heating intervals are divided based on the first set number of puffs, and each of the heating intervals has a target temperature. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the target temperature of each of the plurality of heating sections is determined based on the surrounding environment information of the intake section and the preference information for each of the respective time points.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the first number of setting times is 3 to 5 times.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the preference inquiry information includes information that inquires whether the flavor is insufficient, the amount of atomization is insufficient, and the number of puffs is insufficient.

7. The heating profile includes information on the maximum number of puffs, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the maximum number of puffs is determined based on user input that is entered in response to information questioning whether the number of puffs is insufficient.

8. The aforementioned at least one sensor includes at least one of a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the surrounding environment information includes at least one of the temperature information and humidity information of the inhalation section.

9. The heating profile includes at least one heating section and a target temperature for the heating section. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the target temperature of the heating section is determined based on user input corresponding to at least one of the information questioning whether the flavor is insufficient and the information questioning whether the atomization amount is insufficient, and temperature information and humidity information of the inhalation section.

10. Communications Department and, It further includes a location sensor that senses geographical location, The control unit, The communication unit receives weather information corresponding to the user's location from an external server. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the weather information is input to the learning model, and a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information, the preference information, and the weather information is determined.

11. It further includes memory to store at least one heating profile, The control unit, The heating profile, ambient environment information, and preference information determined by inputting them into the learning model are accumulated and stored in the memory. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, comprising selecting a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and controlling the power supplied to the heater based on the selected heating profile.

12. Including the communications department, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit receives preference information from an external device via the communication unit, inputs the surrounding environment information and the preference information received from the external device into the learning model to determine the heating profile.

13. The control unit, Based on the user input received by the input unit, the user's identification information is obtained. Based on the aforementioned identification information, it is determined whether the user is an authenticated user. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, if the user is an authenticated user, the surrounding environment information and the preference information are input to the learning model to determine the heating profile.

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