Aerosol generating apparatus and its operating method

Abstract

An aerosol generating apparatus and a method of operating the same are disclosed. The aerosol generating apparatus of this disclosure includes a body, a heater for heating an aerosol generating substance, a battery for supplying power to the heater, a charging circuit for supplying power to the battery, and a control unit for controlling the charging circuit, wherein the charging circuit includes a first charging circuit including a switching charger and a second charging circuit including a charge pump, and the control unit can perform general charging by supplying a first current to the battery using the first charging circuit, and perform fast charging by supplying a second current greater than the first current to the battery using at least the second charging circuit.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] ,

[0007] ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof.

Background Art

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

[0003] For the sake of portability, ease of use, etc., a rechargeable battery is generally used in an aerosol generating device. Also, the larger the capacity of the battery provided in the aerosol generating device and the faster the battery is charged, the more the usability of the aerosol generating device can be improved. However, considering that the manufacturing cost increases as the capacity of the battery provided in the aerosol generating device increases and there are technical limitations regarding the increase in battery capacity, etc., research for shortening the time for charging the battery has been actively conducted.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-described problems and other problems.

[0005] Another object is to provide an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that can shorten the time for charging a battery using a charge pump.

[0006] Still another object is to provide an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that can efficiently control the operation of a charge pump based on the temperature inside the device.

[0007] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generator and its operating method that can utilize a charge pump with improved performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described objectives includes a body, a heater for heating an aerosol generating substance, a battery for supplying power to the heater, a charging circuit for supplying power to the battery, and a control unit for controlling the charging circuit, wherein the charging circuit includes a first charging circuit including a switching charger and a second charging circuit including a charge pump, and the control unit can perform general charging by supplying a first current to the battery using the first charging circuit, and perform fast charging by supplying a second current greater than the first current to the battery using at least the second charging circuit.

[0009] A method of operating an aerosol generator according to one aspect of this disclosure for achieving the above-described objectives may include: performing general charging by supplying a first current to a battery that supplies power to a heater using a first charging circuit including a switching charger; and performing fast charging by supplying a second current greater than the first current to the battery using at least a second charging circuit including a charge pump. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the time required to charge a battery using a charge pump can be reduced.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the operation of the charge pump can be efficiently controlled based on the temperature inside the device.

[0012] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, a charge pump with improved performance can be utilized.

[0013] 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]

[0014] [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] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This is a block diagram of a charging circuit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] This is a circuit diagram of a charging circuit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] This flowchart shows the operation method of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Even if the same or similar components are illustrated in different drawings, the same reference numerals are given thereto, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0016] The suffixes “module” and “section” for components used in the following description are used only for the ease of description in this specification. “Module” and “section” do not have different meanings or roles from each other.

[0017] Also, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if a detailed description of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Also, the accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be construed to include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included in the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0018] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0019] 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.

[0020] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the context.

[0021] Figures 1 to 9 show aerosol generating apparatuses relating to various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0022] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, an aerosol generator 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 have an upwardly opening space into which a stick S, which is an aerosol product, is inserted. The upwardly opening space can be called an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by recessing inward to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the region in the stick S that contains the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the stick S is inserted 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] For example, referring to Figure 1, the heater 18 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 may include 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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 together with the stick S and can be removed from the insertion space 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.

[0028] Power supply 11 can supply power to the components of the aerosol generator so that they can 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.

[0029] 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 in an operational state.

[0030] The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor 13 and control the processes to be performed thereafter. 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 maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0031] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, and an acceleration sensor. For example, sensor 13 can sense at least one of the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the internal and external temperatures of the body 10. For example, sensor 13 can sense the user's puff. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, sensor 13 can sense the movement of the aerosol generator.

[0032] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the aerosol generator may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and a heater 18. At least one of the power supply 11, control unit 12, sensor 13, and heater 18 may be located inside the body 10 of the aerosol generator. The body 10 may have an opening at the top into which a stick S, which is an aerosol product, is inserted. This opening at the top can be called an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by recessing inward to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the region in the stick S that contains the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the stick S is inserted into the body 10, and the upper end of the stick S may protrude outside the body 10. The user can inhale air by putting the exposed upper end of the stick S in their mouth.

[0033] 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. The heater 18 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The heater 18 can heat the insertion space or the stick S inserted into the insertion space. The heater 18 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0034] For example, referring to Figure 4, 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 an electric current flowing through the electrically conductive track. The heater 18 may be electrically connected to a power supply 11. The heater 18 can directly generate heat by receiving an electric current from the power supply 11. The heater 18 is a hollow heater, positioned to surround at least a portion of the stick S inserted into the insertion space, and heats the outside of the inserted stick S, or it is a needle-shaped, rod-shaped, tubular, or other shaped heater that can be inserted inside the stick S inserted into the insertion space and heat the inside.

[0035] For example, referring to Figure 5, 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The power supply 11 can provide power to the components of the aerosol generator. The power supply 11 can be described as a battery. 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.

[0038] 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 and the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the induction coil 181. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the display, motor, 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 in an operational state.

[0039] The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor 13 and control the processes to be performed thereafter. 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 maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0040] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion sensing sensor. For example, sensor 13 can sense at least one of the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the internal and external temperatures of the body 10. For example, sensor 13 can sense the user's puff. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space.

[0041] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the aerosol generator 1 may include a body 10 and a cartridge 19. 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, the control unit 12, and the sensor 13 may be located inside the body 10. The body 10 may be fitted with a cartridge 19 containing the aerosol product. The user can inhale the aerosol by placing a mouthpiece provided at one end of the cartridge 19 in their mouth.

[0042] The cartridge 19 may contain an aerosol-generating substance having one of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel-like, in its internal chamber C0. 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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 through the airflow channel CN.

[0045] The cartridge 19 may include a chamber C0 containing an aerosol-generating substance and / or a heater 24 for heating the aerosol-generating substance in chamber C0. A liquid transfer means 25 impregnated with the aerosol-generating substance may be located inside chamber C0. Here, the liquid transfer means 25 may include a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic. The electrically conductive track of the heater 24 may be formed in the form of a coil that winds around the liquid transfer means 25 or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means 25. The heater 24 can be called a cartridge heater.

[0046] 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.

[0047] An airflow channel CN ​​may be provided in the cartridge 19. The airflow channel CN ​​may communicate the chamber where the heater 24 of the cartridge 19 is located with the outside of the cartridge. One end of the airflow channel CN ​​may open into the chamber where the heater 24 is located, and the other end may communicate with the mouthpiece 35. For example, referring to Figure 6, the airflow channel CN ​​may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 19 on one side of the chamber C0 of the cartridge 19. For example, referring to Figure 7, the airflow channel CN ​​may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 19, penetrating the chamber C0 of the cartridge 10.

[0048] The power supply 11 can supply power to the components of the aerosol generator so that they can operate. The power supply 11 can be described as a battery. The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the cartridge heater 24.

[0049] 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 cartridge 19. The control unit 12 can control the operation of a display, motor, 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 in an operational state.

[0050] The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor 13 and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 so that the operation of the cartridge heater 24 starts or stops. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and the duration of power supply so that the cartridge heater 24 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0051] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, a cartridge sensing sensor, and a motion sensing sensor. For example, sensor 13 can sense at least one of the temperature of the cartridge heater 24, 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 a cartridge is installed. For example, sensor 13 can sense the movement of the aerosol generator.

[0052] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the aerosol generator 1 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, 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. The insertion space may be formed by recessing inward to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the region in the stick S that contains the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the stick S may be 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.

[0053] The heater 18 can heat the stick S. The heater 18 can 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 can be positioned around the insertion space. The heater 18 can be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The heater 18 can heat the insertion space or the stick S inserted into the insertion space. The heater 18 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0054] For example, the heater 18 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater 18 can be heated by an electric 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 an electric current from the power supply 11.

[0055] For example, the aerosol generator 1 may include an induction coil surrounding a heater 18. The induction coil can cause the heater 18 to generate heat. The heater 18 is a susceptor, and the heater 18 can generate heat through a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field penetrates the heater 18 and can generate eddy currents within the heater 18. The current can generate heat in the heater 18.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] The cartridge 19 may be integrally formed with the body 10 or may be detachably attached to the body 10.

[0059] For example, referring to Figure 8, the cartridge 19 is integrally formed with the body 10 and can communicate with the insertion space via an airflow channel CN.

[0060] For example, referring to Figure 9, 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 via the airflow channel CN.

[0061] 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.

[0062] The cartridge 19 may include a storage section C0 containing an aerosol-generating substance and / or a heater 24 for heating the aerosol-generating substance in the storage section C0. A liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating substance may be located inside the storage section C0. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic. The electrically conductive track of the heater 24 may be formed in the form of a coil that winds the liquid transfer means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means. The heater 24 can be called a cartridge heater 24.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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 through the upper case.

[0066] The power supply 11 can provide power to the components of the aerosol generator. The power supply 11 can be described as a battery. The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, sensor 13, cartridge heater 24, and heater 18. If the aerosol generator 1 includes an induction coil, the power supply 11 can supply power to the induction coil.

[0067] 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 following: the power supply 11, the sensor 13, the heater 18, and the cartridge 19. The control unit 12 can control the operation of a display, motor, 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 in an operational state.

[0068] The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor 13 and control subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 so that the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 starts or stops. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 and the duration for which power is supplied so that the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0069] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, a stick detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and an upper case detection 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. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether a cartridge has been installed. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether the upper case has been installed.

[0070] Figure 10 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] Referring to Figure 10, 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, at least one heater 18, 24, and a power generation unit 20. 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: temperature sensor 131, puff sensor 132, stick detection sensor 133, reuse detection sensor 134, cartridge detection sensor 135, upper case detection sensor 136, motion detection sensor 137, and stick authentication sensor 138.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] The temperature sensor 131 is located inside the body 10 and can sense the internal temperature of the body 10.

[0078] The puff sensor 132 can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor 132 may be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1 may correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 132 may be positioned in the aerosol generator 1 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0079] The stick sensing sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The stick sensing sensor 133 can detect the signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The stick sensing sensor 133 may be provided around the insertion space. The stick 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 stick sensing sensor 133 may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] The upper case sensing sensor 136 can detect the installation and / or removal of the upper case. When the upper case is separated from the body 10, the cartridge 19 and a portion of the body 10 that were covered by the upper case may be exposed to the outside. The upper case sensing sensor 136 can be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0087] 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.

[0088] Sensor 13 may further include at least one of the following, in addition to the sensors 131 to 137 described above: a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a GPS position sensor, and a proximity sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed explanation can be omitted.

[0089] 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 unit 141 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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 stick sensing sensor 133.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] The display 141 and the touch panel can be realized by a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be embedded within the display 141 (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added on top of the display panel 141 (add-on type).

[0102] On the other hand, the input section 15 may include, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] The short-range wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth® communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee® communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, and others.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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).

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] Figure 11 is a block diagram of a charging circuit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 12 is a circuit diagram of a charging circuit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] Referring to Figure 11, the aerosol generator 1 may include a charging circuit 1100. The charging circuit 1100 can supply power to the battery 11. Based on the input power supplied through the input terminal in of the charging circuit 1100, an output power can be output through the output terminal out. For example, the input terminal in may be electrically connected to a power supply terminal supplied from an external source, and the output terminal out may be electrically connected to the battery 11.

[0142] The charging circuit 1100 may include a first charging circuit 1110 and a second charging circuit 1120. The first charging circuit 1110 may include a switching charger that uses a switching charging method. The second charging circuit 1120 may include a charge pump that converts voltage.

[0143] The charging circuit 1100 can perform charging of the battery 11 using at least one of the first charging circuit 1110 and the second charging circuit 1120. For example, the charging circuit 1100 can perform general charging using the first charging circuit 1110. For example, the charging circuit 1100 can perform fast charging using at least the second charging circuit 1120. Here, the current flowing to the output terminal out during general charging may be smaller than the current flowing to the output terminal out during fast charging.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the charging circuit 1100 may further include a MUIC (micro-sub interface controller) that receives data from or transmits data to an external device connected via the Dp / Dn pins of the power terminal, a PDIC (power delivery integrated chip) that identifies the electrical state of the CC (Configuration Channel) pin of the power terminal, and an overvoltage protection integrated circuit (IC).

[0145] Referring to Figure 12, the first charging circuit 1110 may include a first transistor T1 connected to the input terminal b, a second transistor T2 and a third transistor T3 connected in series and positioned between the first transistor T1 and the ground terminal, an inductor L1 with one end connected to the first node a between the second transistor T2 and the third transistor T3, a fourth transistor T4 positioned between the other end of the inductor L1 and the output terminal out, and / or a capacitor C1 positioned between the other end of the inductor L1 and the ground terminal.

[0146] The first to fourth transistors T1 to T4 can operate based on each of the multiple signals SW1 to SW4. The multiple signals SW1 to SW4 can be transmitted from the control unit 12.

[0147] When the first transistor T1 and the fourth transistor T4 are turned on, charging of the battery 11 using the first charging circuit 1110 can be performed. When the first transistor T1 and the fourth transistor T4 are turned off, charging of the battery 11 using the first charging circuit 1110 can be interrupted.

[0148] The first charging circuit 1110 can adjust the current and / or voltage output from the first charging circuit 1110 by the switching operation of the second transistor T2 and the third transistor T3. For example, the second transistor T2, the third transistor T3 and the inductor L1 can operate as a buck converter.

[0149] The second charging circuit 1120 may include a fifth transistor T5 and a sixth transistor T6, each with one end connected to the input terminal in; a first capacitor C11 positioned between the second node b, to which the other end of the fifth transistor T5 is connected, and the third node c, to which the other end of the sixth transistor T6 is connected; a seventh transistor T7 positioned between the third node c and the ground terminal; an eighth transistor T8 positioned between the second node b and the output terminal out; and / or a second capacitor C12 positioned between the output terminal out and the ground terminal.

[0150] The second charging circuit 1120 can adjust the current and / or voltage output from the second charging circuit 1120 by the switching operation of multiple transistors T5 to T8. For example, the first capacitor C11 can be charged when the fifth transistor T5 and the seventh transistor T7 are turned on and the sixth transistor T6 and the eighth transistor T8 are turned off, and can be discharged when the fifth transistor T5 and the seventh transistor T7 are turned off and the sixth transistor T6 and the eighth transistor T8 are turned on. Here, the second charging circuit 1120 can output a voltage that is boosted from the voltage at the input terminal in.

[0151] The capacitors C2 and C3 included in the second charging circuit 1120 can be implemented as supercapacitors. Supercapacitors have a high energy density and can be charged and discharged at high current densities, thus enabling them to have high output characteristics. Therefore, the performance of the second charging circuit 1120 can be further improved.

[0152] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the operation method of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Referring to Figure 13, the aerosol generator 1 can start charging the battery 11 in operation S1310. For example, when a USB Type-C or USB PD (Power Delivery) Type-C power line is connected, the aerosol generator 1 can start charging the battery 11 based on the electrical state of the CC pin.

[0154] In operation S1320, the aerosol generator 1 can determine whether its temperature falls within a predetermined temperature range. Here, the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 can include the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the battery 11, and the internal temperature of the body 10, as sensed by the temperature sensor 131. For example, the aerosol generator 1 can determine whether any one of the temperatures of the heater 18, the battery 11, and the internal temperature of the body 10 falls within a predetermined temperature range.

[0155] The predetermined temperature range may correspond to the temperature at which the charging efficiency of the battery 11 is above a predetermined level. Here, the predetermined temperature can be set differently depending on the type of temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131. For example, the maximum value of the predetermined temperature range corresponding to the temperature of the heater 18 (e.g., 150°C) can exceed the maximum value of the predetermined temperature range corresponding to the temperature of the battery 11 (e.g., 45°C).

[0156] In operation S1330, the aerosol generator 1 can perform general charging if the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 is not within a predetermined temperature range. For example, the aerosol generator 1 can perform general charging using the first charging circuit 1110. Here, the aerosol generator 1 can turn off the eighth transistor T8 while performing general charging. On the other hand, the aerosol generator 1 can turn on the fifth transistor T5 and the seventh transistor T7 and turn off the sixth transistor T6 in order to charge the first capacitor C11 while performing general charging.

[0157] The aerosol generator 1 can perform fast charging in operation S1340 if the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 falls within a predetermined temperature range. For example, the aerosol generator 1 can perform fast charging using the first charging circuit 1110 and the second charging circuit 1120 together. Here, the second charging circuit 1120 can be operated to output a boosted voltage.

[0158] When the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 is high, such as immediately after the heater 18 has finished generating heat, the temperature of the battery 11 is also high, and considering the low charging efficiency, general charging can be performed. On the other hand, when the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 has cooled sufficiently, such as after a certain amount of time has passed since the heater 18 has finished generating heat, the temperature of the battery 11 is not high, and considering the sufficient charging efficiency, fast charging can be performed. Furthermore, regardless of the configuration and design differences of the aerosol generator 1, the charging method for the battery 11 can be determined based on the temperature inside various types of devices.

[0159] The aerosol generator 1 can determine, in operation S1350, whether the voltage of the battery 11 is above a predetermined voltage. Here, the predetermined voltage may be a voltage corresponding to constant voltage charging that maintains the voltage of the battery 11 at a constant level.

[0160] In operation S1360, the aerosol generator 1 can perform constant voltage charging when the voltage of the battery 11 is above a predetermined voltage. For example, the aerosol generator 1 can maintain the voltage output to the battery 11 at a predetermined voltage using the first charging circuit 1110.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 can adjust the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit 1100 based on the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 while performing either general charging or fast charging. For example, if the temperature of the battery 11 is above a predetermined temperature, the aerosol generator 1 can reduce the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit 1100 as the temperature of the battery 11 increases.

[0162] Figures 14 to 17 show graphs for the charging currents 1410, 1420, 1610, and 1620 output from the charging circuit 1100, and graphs for the voltages 1510, 1520, 1710, and 1720 of the battery 11, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0163] Referring to Figures 14 and 15, the aerosol generator 1 can output a minimum current I0 corresponding to charging via the charging circuit 1100 at time t0, when charging of the battery 11 begins. Here, the minimum current I0 can be a current of a magnitude that does not damage the battery 11 when the voltage of the battery 11 is below a certain level.

[0164] The aerosol generator 1 can detect the temperature of the aerosol generator 1, the voltage of the battery 11, and other parameters.

[0165] The aerosol generator 1 can perform general charging from time t1 if the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 is not within a predetermined temperature range. From time t1 when general charging is performed, the aerosol generator 1 can output a first current I1 via the charging circuit 1100. Here, the first current I1 may be a current of a magnitude corresponding to general charging (for example, 2A).

[0166] If the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 at time t2 falls within a predetermined temperature range, the aerosol generator 1 can start fast charging from time t2. From time t2, when fast charging is performed, the aerosol generator 1 can output a second current I2 via the charging circuit 1100 (1410). Here, the second current I2 may be a current of a magnitude corresponding to fast charging (for example, 5A). When fast charging is performed on the battery 11 from time t2, the voltage of the battery 11 can reach a predetermined voltage (Vref) at time t3 (1510).

[0167] On the other hand, if the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 does not fall within the predetermined temperature range after time t2, the aerosol generator 1 can maintain the output of the first current I1 via the charging circuit 1100 (1420). If general charging of the battery 11 is maintained, the voltage of the battery 11 can reach a predetermined voltage (Vref) at time t4, which is later than time t3 (1520).

[0168] Referring to Figures 16 and 17, the aerosol generator 1 can perform fast charging from time t1 if the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 falls within a predetermined temperature range. From time t1, when fast charging is performed, the aerosol generator 1 can output a second current I2 via the charging circuit 1100.

[0169] According to one embodiment, when the aerosol generator 1 performs high-speed charging of the battery 11, if the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 falls within a predetermined temperature range, the output of the second current I2 can be maintained via the charging circuit 1100 (1610). When the output of the second current I2 is maintained via the charging circuit 1100, the voltage of the battery 11 can reach a predetermined voltage (Vref) at time t5 (1710).

[0170] On the other hand, according to one embodiment, when the aerosol generator 1 performs high-speed charging of the battery 11 and the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 falls within a predetermined temperature range, the aerosol generator 1 can adjust the current output from the charging circuit 1100 based on the temperature of the aerosol generator 1. For example, if the temperature of the battery 11 is above a predetermined temperature, the aerosol generator 1 can reduce the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit 1100 as the temperature of the battery 11 increases. Here, the aerosol generator 1 can gradually reduce the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit 1100 for each interval of the temperature of the battery 11. If the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit 1100 is reduced based on the temperature of the aerosol generator 1, the voltage of the battery 11 can reach a predetermined voltage (Vref) at time t6, which is later than time t5 (1720).

[0171] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the time required to charge a battery using a charge pump can be reduced.

[0172] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the operation of the charge pump can be efficiently controlled based on the temperature inside the device.

[0173] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, a charge pump with improved performance can be utilized.

[0174] Referring to Figures 1 to 17, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a body 10, a heater 18 for heating an aerosol generating substance, a battery 11 for supplying power to the heater 18, a charging circuit 1100 for supplying power to the battery 11, and a control unit 12 for controlling the charging circuit 1100. The charging circuit 1100 includes a first charging circuit 1110 including a switching charger and a second charging circuit 1120 including a charge pump. The control unit 12 can perform general charging by supplying a first current to the battery 11 using the first charging circuit 1110, and can perform fast charging by supplying a second current greater than the first current to the battery 11 using at least the second charging circuit 1120.

[0175] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the aerosol generator 1 includes a temperature sensor 131 for sensing the temperature of the aerosol generator 1, and the control unit 12 can perform general charging if the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131 is not within a predetermined temperature range, and can perform fast charging if the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131 is within the predetermined temperature range.

[0176] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 may be any one of the following: the internal temperature of the body 10, the temperature of the heater 18, and the temperature of the battery 11.

[0177] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 12 may perform constant voltage charging using the first charging circuit 1110 if the voltage of the battery 11 is above a predetermined voltage, and may perform either the general charging or the fast charging based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131 if the voltage of the battery 11 is below the predetermined voltage.

[0178] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, when the control unit 12 performs either the general charging or the fast charging, it adjusts the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit 1100 based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131, and the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit 1100 decreases as the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131 increases.

[0179] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the capacitors C11 and C12 provided in the charge pump may be supercapacitors.

[0180] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first charging circuit 1110 includes a first transistor T1 connected to the input terminal in of the charging circuit 1100, second transistors T2 and third transistors T3 connected in series and positioned between the first transistor T1 and the ground terminal, and a fourth transistor T4 positioned between the other end of an inductor, one end of which is connected to a first node a between the second transistor T2 and the third transistor T3, and the output terminal out of the charging circuit 1100. The second charging circuit 1120 may include a fifth transistor T5 and a sixth transistor T6, each connected to the input terminal in, a first capacitor C11 positioned between a second node b to which the other end of the fifth transistor T5 is connected and a third node c to which the other end of the sixth transistor T6 is connected, a seventh transistor T7 positioned between the third node c and the ground terminal, an eighth transistor T8 positioned between the second node b and the output terminal out, and a second capacitor C12 positioned between the output terminal out and the ground terminal.

[0181] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 12 can turn on the fifth transistor T5 and the seventh transistor T7, and turn off the sixth transistor T6 and the eighth transistor T8 while performing the general charging.

[0182] One aspect of the operation method of the aerosol generator 1 according to this disclosure may include an operation to perform general charging by supplying a first current to a battery 11 that supplies power to a heater 18 using a first charging circuit 1110 including a switching charger, and an operation to perform fast charging by supplying a second current greater than the first current to the battery 11 using at least a second charging circuit 1120 including a charge pump.

[0183] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the operation further includes determining whether to perform either the general charge or the fast charge based on the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 sensed by a temperature sensor, the operation of determining whether to perform the general charge or the fast charge may include determining whether to perform the general charge if the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131 does not fall within a predetermined temperature range, and determining whether to perform the fast charge if the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131 falls within the predetermined temperature range.

[0184] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the temperature of the aerosol generator 1 may be any one of the following: the internal temperature of the body of the aerosol generator 1, the temperature of the heater 18, and the temperature of the battery 11.

[0185] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the operation further includes performing constant voltage charging using the first charging circuit 1110 when the voltage of the battery 11 is above a predetermined voltage, and the operation of deciding to perform either the general charge or the fast charge may be an operation performed when the voltage of the battery 11 is below the predetermined voltage.

[0186] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, when performing either the general charging or the fast charging, the operation further includes adjusting the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit 1100 based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131, such that the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit 1100 decreases as the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 131 increases.

[0187] 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.

[0188] 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.

[0189] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in any way and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. The body and, A heater for heating aerosol-generating material, A battery that supplies power to the heater, A charging circuit that supplies power to the aforementioned battery, Includes a control unit for controlling the charging circuit, The aforementioned charging circuit is A first charging circuit including a switching charger, A second charging circuit including a charge pump, The control unit, Using the first charging circuit, general charging is performed by supplying a first current to the battery. An aerosol generating device that performs high-speed charging by supplying a second current greater than the first current to the battery, using at least the second charging circuit.

2. The aerosol generating device includes a temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the aerosol generating device, The control unit, If the temperature detected by the temperature sensor does not fall within a predetermined temperature range, the general charging is performed. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor falls within the predetermined temperature range, the high-speed charging is performed.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the temperature of the aerosol generating apparatus is one of the internal temperature of the body of the aerosol generating apparatus, the temperature of the heater, and the temperature of the battery.

4. The control unit, If the voltage of the battery is above a predetermined voltage, constant voltage charging is performed using the first charging circuit. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein if the voltage of the battery is less than the predetermined voltage, one of the general charging and the fast charging is performed based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor.

5. The control unit, When performing either the general charging or the fast charging described above, the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit is adjusted based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit decreases as the temperature detected by the temperature sensor increases.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the capacitor provided in the charge pump is a supercapacitor.

7. The first charging circuit includes a first transistor connected to the input terminal of the charging circuit, a second transistor and a third transistor connected in series and positioned between the first transistor and the ground terminal, and a fourth transistor positioned between the other end of an inductor, one end of which is connected to a first node between the second transistor and the third transistor, and the output terminal of the charging circuit. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second charging circuit includes a fifth transistor and a sixth transistor, each connected to the input terminal; a first capacitor disposed between a second node, to which the other end of the fifth transistor is connected, and a third node, to which the other end of the sixth transistor is connected; a seventh transistor disposed between the third node and the ground terminal; an eighth transistor disposed between the second node and the output terminal; and a second capacitor disposed between the output terminal and the ground terminal.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the control unit turns on the fifth transistor and the seventh transistor and turns off the sixth transistor and the eighth transistor while performing the general charging.

9. The operation involves performing general charging by supplying a first current to the battery that supplies power to the heater using a first charging circuit including a switching charger, and A method for operating an aerosol generator, comprising: performing a high-speed charge by supplying a second current greater than a first current to the battery using at least a second charging circuit including a charge pump.

10. The operation further includes determining whether to perform either the general charge or the fast charge based on the temperature of the aerosol generator sensed by a temperature sensor, The operation to decide which of the above general charging and the above fast charging will be performed is: If the temperature detected by the temperature sensor does not fall within a predetermined temperature range, the system decides to perform the general charging operation. A method for operating an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, comprising: an action of deciding to perform the fast charging when the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor falls within the predetermined temperature range.

11. The method for operating the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the temperature of the aerosol generating apparatus is one of the internal temperature of the body, the temperature of the heater, and the temperature of the battery.

12. If the voltage of the battery is above a predetermined voltage, the operation further includes performing constant voltage charging using the first charging circuit, The method for operating an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the operation to determine whether to perform general charging or fast charging is an operation to be performed when the voltage of the battery is less than the predetermined voltage.

13. When performing either the general charging or the fast charging described above, the operation further includes adjusting the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor. The method of operating the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the magnitude of the current output from the charging circuit decreases as the temperature detected by the temperature sensor increases.

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