Aerosol generator and aerosol generating system containing the same

Abstract

An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a housing having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side surface between the first surface and the second surface, the first surface having an internal space into which an aerosol generating article is inserted, a first sensor and a second sensor arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space, and a control unit housed in the housing and including at least one processor, the control unit receiving first information measured by the first sensor and second information measured by the second sensor, and being able to determine the state of the aerosol generating article based on the first information and the second information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following various embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same.

Background Art

[0002] Research has been conducted on non-combustible roll tobacco. An aerosol generating device heats an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol.

[0003] The above-mentioned background art is what the inventor maintained or acquired during the derivation process of the present invention, and it cannot necessarily be said to be publicly known technology that was publicly disclosed to the general public before the filing of the present invention.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object according to one embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same that can effectively determine the presence or absence of reuse of an aerosol generating article.

[0005] An object according to one embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same that can accurately determine the presence or absence of reuse of an aerosol generating article even in a super wet state.

[0006] An object according to one embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same that can effectively determine whether an aerosol generating article is placed in a super wet state.

[0007] An object according to one embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same that can effectively determine or verify the type of an aerosol generating article.

[0008] One objective of this embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system including the same that can provide the user with the optimal smoking satisfaction by utilizing the determined state of the aerosol generating article. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a housing having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side surface between the first surface and the second surface, the first surface having an internal space into which the aerosol generating article is inserted, a first sensor and a second sensor arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space, and a control unit housed in the housing and including at least one processor, the control unit receiving first information measured by the first sensor and second information measured by the second sensor, and being able to determine the state of the aerosol generating article based on the first information and the second information.

[0010] An aerosol generating system according to one embodiment includes an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating article includes a first filter segment, a medium segment disposed downstream of the first filter segment and containing a medium, and a second filter segment disposed downstream of the medium segment, and the aerosol generating device may include a housing having an internal space formed for housing the aerosol generating article, a first sensor positioned at a location corresponding to the medium segment when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the internal space, and a second sensor positioned at a location corresponding to the first filter segment when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the internal space. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to one embodiment, it is possible to effectively determine whether or not an aerosol-generating article that can be used under non-heating conditions is reusable.

[0012] According to one embodiment, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not an aerosol generating article can be reused even under over-wet conditions.

[0013] According to one embodiment, it is possible to effectively determine that an aerosol generating article has been placed in an over-wet state.

[0014] According to one embodiment, it is possible to effectively determine or verify the type of an aerosol generating article inserted into an aerosol generator.

[0015] According to one embodiment, it is possible to utilize the state information of an aerosol generating article to provide an optimal smoking satisfaction feeling to a user.

[0016] The effects of an aerosol generator and an aerosol generating system including the same according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and different effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017] [Figure 1] An aerosol generating system according to one embodiment is shown.

[0018] [Figure 2] An aerosol generating system according to one embodiment is shown.

[0019] [Figure 3] It is a block diagram of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment.

[0020] [Figure 4] It is a diagram schematically showing the structure of an aerosol generating article included in an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment.

[0021] [Figure 5] It is an exploded view showing a part of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment.

[0022] [Figure 6] Exploded view showing a state where an aerosol product is inserted into a part of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0023] [Figure 7] Exploded view showing a part of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0024] [Figure 8] An aerosol generation system according to an embodiment is shown.

[0025] [Figure 9] An aerosol generation system according to an embodiment is shown.

[0026] [Figure 10] An aerosol generation system according to an embodiment is shown.

[0027] [Figure 11] An aerosol generation system according to an embodiment is shown.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0028] The terms used in the embodiments are generally widely used at present as much as possible considering the functions in the embodiments, but this may change depending on the intentions or precedents of those skilled in the art, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Also, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, the meaning will be described in detail in the description part of the corresponding invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based not on the simple name of the terms, but on the meaning they have and the overall content of the present invention.

[0029] When any part of the specification "includes" any component, this does not exclude other components unless otherwise stated, but rather means that other components may be included. Furthermore, the terms "~part" and "~module" used in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be embodied in hardware or software, or implemented as a combination of hardware and software.

[0030] As used herein, when an expression such as “at least one of the following” precedes an array of components, it modifies the entire component, not each of the individual components in the array. For example, the expression “at least one of a, b, and c” should be interpreted as including a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0031] Figures 1 and 2 show an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an aerosol generating article included in an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is an exploded view showing a part of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, Figure 6 is an exploded view showing a part of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment with an aerosol generating article inserted, and Figure 7 is an exploded view showing a part of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0032] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, an aerosol generating system 100 according to one embodiment includes an aerosol generating device 1 and an aerosol generating article S.

[0033] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the aerosol generator 1 may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and a vaporizer 19. At least one of the power supply 11, the control unit 12, and the sensor 13 may be located inside the housing 10 of the aerosol generator 1. The housing 10 can provide a space that is open on one side into which an aerosol generating article S is inserted. The space that is open on one side is referred to as the internal space 104. The internal space 104 may be recessed inward from the housing 10 to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the aerosol generating article S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space corresponds to the length of the region in the aerosol generating article S that contains the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The upstream end of the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the housing 10, and the downstream end of the aerosol generating article S may protrude outside the housing 10. The user can bite down on the downstream end of the aerosol generating article S that is exposed to the outside and inhale air.

[0034] The vaporizer 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-phase composition. For example, the liquid-phase composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The vaporizer 19 may be integrally formed with the housing 10 or detachably coupled to the housing 10.

[0035] For example, referring to Figure 1, the steam generator 19 is integrally formed with the housing 10 and can communicate with the internal space 104 via an airflow channel CN.

[0036] For example, referring to Figure 2, a space may be formed on one side of the housing 10, and at least a portion of the steam maker 19 may be inserted into the space formed on one side of the housing 10, and the steam maker 19 may be mounted on the housing 10. The airflow channel CN ​​is defined by a portion of the steam maker 19 and / or a portion of the housing 10, and the steam maker 19 can communicate with the internal space 104 through the airflow channel CN.

[0037] The housing 10 may be constructed such that outside air flows into the housing 10 when the vaporizer 19 is inserted. Here, the outside air that flows into the housing 10 passes through the vaporizer 19 and flows into the user's mouth.

[0038] The vaporizer 19 includes a heater 191 for heating the containment CO containing the aerosol-generating material and / or the aerosol-generating material in the containment CO. A liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating material may be located inside the containment CO. 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 191 may be formed in the form of a coil around the liquid transfer means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means. The heater 191 is referred to as the vaporizer heater 191.

[0039] The vaporizer 19 can generate an aerosol. The aerosol is generated when the liquid transfer means is heated by the vaporizer heater 191. Alternatively, the aerosol may be generated by heating the aerosol generating article S with the heater 191. As the aerosol generated by the vaporizer heater 191 passes through the aerosol generating article S, tobacco substances are added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with added tobacco substances is inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the aerosol generating article S.

[0040] The aerosol generator 1 may include a cap (not shown). The cap may be detachably bonded to the housing 10 so as to cover at least a portion of the vaporizer 19 coupled to the housing 10. The aerosol generating article S can be inserted into the housing 10 through the cap.

[0041] The power supply 11 provides power to the components of the aerosol generator 1 so that they can operate. The power supply 11 may also be called a battery. The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the vaporizer heater 191.

[0042] The control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 12 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 12 may control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, sensor 13, and vaporizer 19. The control unit 12 may also control the operation of a display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether the aerosol generator is in an operational state.

[0043] The control unit 12 can analyze the results detected by the sensor 13 and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit 12 may control the power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 so that the operation of the vaporizer heater 191 is disclosed or terminated based on the results detected by the sensor 13. For example, the control unit 12 may control the amount of power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 and the duration of power supply so that the vaporizer heater 191 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature, based on the results detected by the sensor 13.

[0044] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, or a cap detection sensor. For example, sensor 13 may detect at least one of the following: the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191, the temperature of the power supply 11, or the temperature inside or outside the housing 10. For example, sensor 13 may detect a user's puff. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether or not an aerosol generating article S has been inserted into the internal space 104. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether or not the vaporizer 19 is installed. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether or not the cap is installed.

[0045] The housing 10 includes a first surface 101, a second surface 102 opposite to the first surface 101, and a side surface 103 between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102. An internal space 104 may be formed in the first surface 101. The internal space 104 includes an end surface 1042 of the internal space located between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102, and an internal space side surface 1043 extending from the end of the end surface 1042 of the internal space to the first surface 101.

[0046] The first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space 104 (for example, along the -X direction in Figures 1 and 2).

[0047] The control unit 12 receives first information measured by the first sensor 13-1 and second information measured by the second sensor 13-2, and determines the state of the aerosol-generating article S based on the first and second information. The first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 will be described in detail later.

[0048] Referring to Figure 3, the aerosol generator 1 includes a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and at least one 191. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to that shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2. That is, depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1, some of the components shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2 may be omitted, or new components may be added, as can be understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment.

[0049] The sensor 13 can detect the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the state of the area around the aerosol generator 1 and transmit the detected information to the control unit 12. Based on the detected information, the control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 so that various functions are performed, such as controlling the operation of the vaporizer heater 191, restricting smoking, determining whether or not to insert the aerosol generating article S and / or vaporizer 19, and displaying notifications.

[0050] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: temperature sensor 131, puff sensor 132, insertion detection sensor 133, reuse detection sensor 134, cartridge detection sensor (vaporizer detection sensor) 135, cap detection sensor 136, and motion detection sensor 137.

[0051] The temperature sensor 131 detects the temperature at which the vaporizer heater 191 heats. The aerosol generator 1 may include a separate temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191, or the vaporizer heater 191 itself may perform the role of a temperature sensor.

[0052] The temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element whose resistance changes in response to temperature changes in the vaporizer heater 191. This may 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 vaporizer heater 191. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be configured as a sensor that detects the resistance value of the vaporizer heater 191. Here, the temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the vaporizer heater 191 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191.

[0053] The temperature sensor 131 is positioned around the power supply 11 to monitor its temperature. The temperature sensor 131 may also be positioned adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one side of the battery of the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0054] The temperature sensor 131 is located inside the housing 10 and can detect the internal temperature of the housing 10.

[0055] The puff sensor 132 can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 132 outputs 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 1. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1 corresponds to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 132 is positioned in the aerosol generator 1 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0056] The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article S. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect a signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article S. The insertion detection sensor 133 may be provided around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article S in accordance with the change in dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor 133 may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitor (capacitance) sensor.

[0057] An induction sensor includes at least one coil. The coils of the induction sensor may be arranged adjacent to each other in the internal space. For example, if the magnetic field around a coil through which current flows changes, 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.

[0058] An inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through a coil. For example, an inductive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0059] The capacitor sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitor sensor may be positioned adjacent to the internal space (internal space 104 in Figure 1 or Figure 2). The capacitor sensor may output a signal corresponding to the surrounding electromagnetic characteristics, for example, the capacitance around the conductor. For example, when an aerosol generating article S including a metal wrapper is inserted into the insertion space, the wrapper of the aerosol generating article S may change the electromagnetic characteristics around the conductor.

[0060] The reuse detection sensor 134 can detect whether or not the aerosol-generating article S is being reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 may also be a color sensor. The color sensor detects the color of the aerosol-generating article S. The color sensor can detect the color of a portion of the wrapper surrounding the outside of the aerosol-generating article S. The color sensor detects a value for an optical property corresponding to the color of the object based on the light reflected from the object. For example, the optical property may be the wavelength of light. The color sensor may be implemented in a single configuration with the proximity sensor, or in a separate configuration separate from the proximity sensor.

[0061] At least a portion of the wrapper constituting the aerosol-generating article S may change color due to the aerosol. The reuse detection sensor 134 is positioned corresponding to the location where at least a portion of the wrapper that changes color due to the aerosol is located when the aerosol-generating article S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the aerosol-generating article S is used by the user, at least a portion of the wrapper may be the first color. Here, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 1 passes through the aerosol-generating article S, at least a portion of the wrapper may be wetted by the aerosol, causing at least a portion of the wrapper to change color to the second color. On the other hand, at least a portion of the wrapper may remain the second color after changing from the first color to the second color.

[0062] The cartridge (vaporizer) detection sensor 135 can detect the installation and / or removal of the vaporizer 19. The cartridge detection sensor 135 may be implemented by an inductance substrate sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, or a Hall sensor (Hall IC) utilizing the Hall effect.

[0063] The cap detection sensor 136 can detect the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the housing 10, the vaporizer 19 and a portion of the housing 10 that were covered by the cap are exposed to the outside. The cap detection sensor 136 can be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0064] The motion detection sensor 137 can detect the movement of the aerosol generator 1. The motion detection sensor 137 can be implemented using at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0065] Sensor 13 may further include at least one of the following in addition to the aforementioned sensors 131 to 137: a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor. The function of the angle sensor can be intuitively inferred by those skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0066] The output unit 14 can output and provide to the user information regarding the status of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 14 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the acoustic output unit 143. If the display 141 and the touchpad are configured as a touchscreen without a layer structure, the display 141 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0067] The display 141 can visually provide the user with information regarding the aerosol generator 1. For example, information regarding the aerosol generator 1 could include various pieces of information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the vaporizer heater 191, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating item S and / or vaporizer 19, the attachment / removal status of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 1 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the display 141 can output this information to the outside. For example, the display 141 may be in an LED light-emitting state. For example, the display 141 may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0068] The haptic unit 142 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli to provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, if initial power is supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 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.

[0069] The acoustic output unit 143 can provide the user with information about the aerosol generator 1 audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit 143 may convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0070] The power supply 11 can supply the power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. The power supply 11 may also supply power to enable the vaporizer heater 191 to heat up. In addition, the power supply 11 can 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.

[0071] Although not shown in Figure 3, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and may include a switching element.

[0072] The power protection circuit interrupts the circuit to the power supply 11 according to predetermined conditions. For example, the power protection circuit may interrupt 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 may interrupt 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.

[0073] 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 1 or 2, the system may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power from the power supply 11 and supplies it to each component. Also, although not shown in Figure 10, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the vaporizer heater 191. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter includes at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter corresponds to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 11 to the vaporizer heater 191. The low-pass filter prevents the application of high-frequency noise to the sensor 13, such as the insertion detection sensor 133.

[0074] In one embodiment, the vaporizer heater 191 can be formed from any suitable electrical resistant material. For example, suitable electrical resistant materials may include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys, such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The vaporizer heater 191 may also be implemented as, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which an electrically conductive track is arranged, or a ceramic heating element.

[0075] In other embodiments, the vaporizer heater 191 may be an induction heating type heater, and for example, the vaporizer heater 191 may include a susceptor that generates heat by a magnetic field applied by a coil and heats the aerosol-generating substance.

[0076] The input unit 15 can receive information input from the user and 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 for detecting touches. 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.

[0077] The display 141 and the touch panel may be implemented in a single panel. For example, the touch panel may be embedded within the display 141 (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added on top of the display 141 (add-on type).

[0078] On the other hand, the input section 15 includes, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0079] Memory 17, as hardware for storing various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. Memory 17 may 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 may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data on the user's smoking pattern.

[0080] 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.

[0081] The short-range wireless communication unit includes, but is not limited to, Bluetooth® communication units, BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication units, Near Field Communication units, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication units, Zigbee® communication units, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication units, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication units, UWB (ultra wideband) communication units, Ant+ communication units, and others.

[0082] The wireless communication section includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication section, an Internet communication section, and a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication section.

[0083] Although not shown in Figure 3, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and may be connected to other external devices via such a connection interface to send and receive information or to charge the power supply 11.

[0084] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program executed by that microprocessor. It will also be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0085] The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 by controlling the supply of power from the power supply 11 to the vaporizer heater 191. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 based on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 detected by the temperature sensor 131. The control unit 12 can adjust the power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 based on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191. For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature for the vaporizer heater 191 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0086] 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 vaporizer heater 191. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the vaporizer heater 191. The power supply circuit includes at least one switching element. The switching element can be implemented by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 12 can control the power supply circuit.

[0087] 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 may consist of a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit that includes multiple switching elements.

[0088] The control unit 12 can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power supply 11 to the vaporizer heater 191. The control unit 12 can turn off the switching element so that the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191 is cut off. 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.

[0089] The control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements of 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 boosts the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may be implemented via a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, or the like.

[0090] The control unit 12 can adjust the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit by controlling the on / off operation of the switching elements included in the power conversion circuit. When the switching elements remain in the on state, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit corresponds to the voltage level output from the power supply 11. The duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching elements corresponds 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 elements, the lower the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit may be. The vaporizer heater 191 is heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0091] The control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the vaporizer heater 191 using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID).

[0092] For example, the control unit 12 may use a PWM method to control the supply of current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the vaporizer heater 191. The control unit 12 can adjust the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses to control the power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0093] For example, the control unit 12 may determine a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 and the target temperature, the integral of the difference over time, and the derivative of the difference over time.

[0094] The control unit 12 can prevent the vaporizer heater 191 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit so that the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191 is interrupted based on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 can reduce the amount of power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 by a certain percentage based on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the vaporizer 19 has been consumed based on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 exceeding a limit temperature and can shut off the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0095] 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 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0096] 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 preset 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.

[0097] 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 use of 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 interrupts the use of the power stored in the power supply 11.

[0098] 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 may calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the detected voltage and / or current values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0099] The control unit 12 can determine whether or not an aerosol-generating article S is inserted into the insertion space via the insertion detection sensor 133. Based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor 133, the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article S has been inserted. If it determines that the aerosol-generating article S has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the vaporizer heater 191. For example, the control unit 12 may supply power to the vaporizer heater 191 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0100] The control unit 12 can determine whether or not the aerosol-generating article S is removed from the internal space. For example, the control unit 12 may determine whether or not the aerosol-generating article S is removed from the internal space via the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, the control unit 12 may determine that the aerosol-generating article S has been removed from the internal space if the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 is above a limit temperature, or if the slope of the temperature change of the vaporizer heater 191 is above a set slope. If the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article S has been removed from the internal space, it can cut off the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0101] The control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the vaporizer heater 191 according to the state of the aerosol-generating article S detected by the sensor 13. Based on the lookup table, the control unit 12 can confirm the level range that includes the level of the condenser sensor signal. Based on the confirmed level range, the control unit 12 can determine the amount of moisture in the aerosol-generating article S.

[0102] When the aerosol-generating article S is in an over-humid state, the control unit 12 controls the power supply time to the vaporizer heater 191, and can increase the preheating time of the aerosol-generating article S compared to normal conditions.

[0103] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the insertion space can be reused via the reuse detection sensor 134. For example, the control unit 12 may compare the detected value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor with a first reference range that includes a first color, and if the detected value falls within the first reference range, it may determine that the aerosol-generating article S has not been used. For example, the control unit 12 may compare the detected value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor with a second reference range that includes a second color, and if the detected value falls within the second reference range, it may determine that the aerosol-generating article S has been used. If it is determined that the aerosol-generating article S has been used, the control unit 12 may shut off the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0104] The control unit 12 can determine whether the vaporizer 19 can be connected and / or removed via the cartridge detection sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 may determine whether the vaporizer 19 can be connected and / or removed based on the detected value of the signal from the cartridge detection sensor.

[0105] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating material in the vaporizer 19 has been depleted. For example, the control unit 12 preheats the vaporizer heater 191 by applying power, determines whether the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period, and determines that the aerosol-generating material in the vaporizer 19 has been depleted if the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 exceeds the limit temperature. If it determines that the aerosol-generating material in the vaporizer 19 has been depleted, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0106] The control unit 12 can determine whether or not the steam maker 19 is usable. For example, based on the data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 may determine that the steam maker 19 is usable if the current number of puffs is equal to or greater than the maximum number of puffs set for the steam maker 19. For example, the control unit 12 may determine that the steam maker 19 is unusable if the total time the steam maker heater 191 has heated is equal to or greater than a preset maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the steam maker heater 191 is equal to or greater than a preset maximum amount of power.

[0107] The control unit 12 can make decisions regarding the user's inhalation via the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 may determine whether or not a puff has occurred based on the detected signal value of the puff sensor. For example, the control unit 12 may determine the intensity of the puff based on the detected signal value of the puff sensor 132. If the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs, or if no puff has been detected for a preset period of time or longer, the control unit 12 may cut off the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0108] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cap can be attached and / or removed via the cap detection sensor 136. For example, the control unit 12 may determine whether the cap can be attached and / or removed based on the detected value of the signal from the cap detection sensor.

[0109] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results detected by the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 132 reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 may notify the user that the aerosol generator 1 will immediately shut down via at least one of the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the acoustic output unit 143. For example, the control unit 12 may inform the user via the output unit 14 based on the determination that there are no aerosol generating articles S in the internal space. For example, the control unit 12 may inform the user via the output unit 14 based on the determination that the vaporizer 19 and / or cap are not installed. For example, the control unit 12 may transmit information regarding the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 to the user via the output unit 14.

[0110] The control unit 12 can store and update a history of events in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. Events may include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1, such as insertion detection of aerosol generating article S, heating disclosure of aerosol generating article S, puff detection, puff completion, overheating detection of vaporizer heater 191, overvoltage application detection to vaporizer heater 191, completion of heating of aerosol generating article S, turning the power of the aerosol generator 1 on / off, charging disclosure of power supply 11, overcharge detection of power supply 11, and completion of charging of power supply 11. The history of events may include the date and time the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is insertion detection of aerosol generating article S, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the detection value of the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating of the vaporizer heater 191, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191, the voltage applied to the vaporizer heater 191, and the current flowing through the vaporizer heater 191.

[0111] The control unit 12 can be controlled to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 removes 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 may perform user authentication via the external device. The external device may determine whether the user data is valid based on the user's date of birth, a unique number identifying the user, etc., and may receive data from an external server regarding the right to use the aerosol generator 1. Based on the data regarding the right to use, the external device may send data to the aerosol generator 1 indicating the completion of user authentication. If user authentication is complete, the control unit 12 may remove the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. For example, if user authentication is complete, the control unit 12 may remove the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0112] The control unit 12 can transmit data regarding 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, etc., via the external device's display.

[0113] An external device can send a location search request to the aerosol generator 1 based on an input disclosing the location search of the aerosol generator 1. When the control unit 12 receives a location search request from the external device, it controls 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 may generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 may output an object corresponding to the location search and the completion of the search in response to the location search request.

[0114] The control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update upon receiving firmware data from an external device. The external device checks the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generator 1 and determines whether a new version of the firmware exists. If the external device receives an input requesting a firmware download, it can receive the new version of the firmware data and send the new version of the firmware data to the aerosol generator 1. Upon receiving the new version of the firmware data, the control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update.

[0115] The control unit 12 transmits data for the detection values ​​of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16, and can receive and store a learning model generated by learning the detection values ​​from the server via machine learning, such as deep learning. The control unit 12 uses the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 12 stores the detection value data of at least one sensor 13 and data for learning the artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 may store a database for each component provided in the aerosol generator 1, weights forming the ANN structure, and biases for learning the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 12 learns the data for the detection values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, the temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory 17, and can generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0116] Referring to Figure 4, an aerosol generating article S according to one embodiment includes a first filter segment S1, a medium segment S2, a second filter segment S3, and a wrapper S5.

[0117] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating article S may be wrapped by at least one wrapper S5. The wrapper S5 may have at least one hole formed therein for external air to flow in and internal gas to flow out. The wrapper S5 may include a material with high thermal conductivity.

[0118] For example, the first filter segment S1 may be wrapped by the first wrapper S51, the medium segment S2 by the second wrapper S52, and the second filter segment S3 by the third wrapper S53. Then, the entire aerosol generating article S may be wrapped again by the fifth wrapper S55.

[0119] In one embodiment, the first wrapper S51, the second wrapper S52, and the third wrapper S53 can be manufactured from porous wrapping paper. For example, the porosity of each of the first wrapper S51, the second wrapper S52, and the third wrapper S53 may be 35,000 CU, but is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of each of the first wrapper S51, the second wrapper S52, and the third wrapper S53 may be within the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. Furthermore, the basis weight of each of the first wrapper S51, the second wrapper S52, and the third wrapper S53 may be 20 g / m². 2 ~25g / m 2 It may be included within the range.

[0120] In one embodiment, the fifth wrapper S55 may be made of sterile paper (MFW). For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper S55 is 57 g / m². 2 ~63g / m 2 It may fall within the range. Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper S55 may fall within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm.

[0121] In one embodiment, the first filter segment S1 may be composed of an acetylcellulose filter. Alternatively, the first filter segment S1 may be composed of a paper filter and a porous molded product. For example, the length of the first filter segment S1 may be 4 to 15 mm, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the first filter segment S1 may be colored or flavored.

[0122] In one embodiment, the medium segment S2 can be filled with a medium. For example, the medium segment S2 may include a cavity, and the cavity may be filled with a medium. In a different example, the medium segment S2 may include an acetylcellulose filter or a paper filter, and the acetylcellulose filter or paper filter may be filled with a medium inserted into it.

[0123] For example, the medium substrate filled in the medium segment S2 may contain at least one component from granular tobacco (tobacco granules), reconstituted tobacco, or shredded tobacco. For example, the length of the medium segment S2 is taken to be an appropriate length within the range of 6 mm to 18 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0124] Generally, tobacco granules contain significantly less moisture and / or aerosol-forming agents than other types of tobacco materials (e.g., shredded tobacco, recombined tobacco, etc.), thus greatly reducing the generation of significant smoke, and thus easily enabling the smokeless function of the aerosol generator 1. However, the diameter, density, packing rate, composition ratio of constituent materials, and heating temperature of the tobacco granules vary and can change depending on the embodiment. The diameter of the tobacco granules may be approximately 0.3 mm to 1.2 mm. Within this numerical range, appropriate hardness and ease of manufacture of the tobacco granules can be ensured, and the probability of eddy current generation within the cavity can be increased.

[0125] Furthermore, the medium segment S2 may contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Additionally, a fragrance liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the medium segment S2 by spraying it.

[0126] In one embodiment, the medium filled in the medium segment S2 can be pH-treated. For example, the medium substrate may be pH-treated to be basic with a pH adjusting agent. The pH adjusting agent is basic and may contain at least one of the following substances: potassium carbonate (K2CO3), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), or calcium oxide (CaO). However, the substances contained in the pH adjusting agent are not limited to the examples above, and substances that produce less negative odor during smoking may be used. A basic pH adjusting agent can increase the pH of the medium substrate contained in the medium segment S2. Compared to a medium substrate that has not been treated with a basic pH adjusting agent, a basic pH-treated medium substrate releases more nicotine. That is, in the case of a basic pH-treated medium substrate, a sufficient nicotine yield can be achieved from the medium segment S2 even at low temperatures.

[0127] In one embodiment, the medium segment S2 may contain a slurry or sheet tobacco for papermaking adjusted to a pH in the range of 7.0 to 9.5, or tobacco granules adjusted to a pH in the range of 7.0 to 9.5. The medium substrate may contain nicotine, and by subjecting it to a basic pH treatment, free nicotine (gaseous nicotine) may be transferred from the medium substrate even under non-heating conditions or relatively low temperature conditions. That is, by adjusting the pH of the medium substrate of the medium segment S2 to a range of 7.0 to 9.5, volatile free nicotine can be transferred under non-heating conditions (or low-temperature heating conditions), and a sufficient level of flavor intensity can be achieved.

[0128] In one embodiment, the second filter segment S3 may be composed of an acetylcellulose filter. The second filter segment S3 may also contain at least one fragrance capsule. For example, the second filter segment S3 may be an acetylcellulose filter into which at least one fragrance capsule is inserted. Alternatively, the second filter segment S3 may be composed of an acetylcellulose filter mixed with a fragrance substance.

[0129] In one embodiment, nicotine can be adsorbed onto at least one of the first filter segment S1 and the second filter segment S3. By treating the medium segment S2 with a pH in the range of 7.0 to 9.5, the nicotine in the medium segment S2 actively becomes free nicotine even under non-heating conditions and is transferred to the first filter segment S1 or the second filter segment S3. The nicotine transferred in the medium segment S2 can then be adsorbed onto at least one of the first filter segment S1 and the second filter segment S3. By including nicotine in both the medium segment S2 and the first filter segment S1 or the second filter segment S3, the aerosol generating article S can be used even without preheating the aerosol generator 1. This not only increases user convenience but also enables sufficient nicotine transfer even under non-heating (or low-temperature heating) conditions, thereby providing a satisfying smoking experience.

[0130] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing housing part 10-1, which constitutes the internal space 104 of housing 10.

[0131] Referring to Figure 5, the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 can be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space 104 (for example, the + / -X direction in Figure 5).

[0132] In one embodiment, the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 can be arranged sequentially along a direction from the first surface 101 toward the end surface 1042 of the internal space (for example, the -X direction in Figure 5).

[0133] At least a portion of the first sensor 13-1 is positioned to face the internal space 104 and to detect the state of the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the internal space 104, and at least a portion of the second sensor 13-2 is positioned to face the internal space 104 and to detect the state of the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the internal space 104. As an example, at least a portion of the first sensor 13-1 and / or the second sensor 13-2 may be exposed from the internal space side surface 1043. As a different example, the first sensor 13-1 and / or the second sensor 13-2 may be housed inside the housing part 10-1 and not exposed to the internal space 104 when detecting the state of the aerosol-generating article S. As a further example, at least a portion of the first sensor 13-1 may be positioned to be exposed from the internal space side surface 1043, and at least a portion of the second sensor 13-2 may be positioned to be exposed from the end surface 1042 of the internal space.

[0134] In one embodiment, the first sensor 13-1 may be composed of a first capacitance sensor, and the second sensor 13-2 may be composed of a second capacitance sensor. The first capacitance sensor and / or the second capacitance sensor may include a conductor. The conductor may be arranged adjacent to the internal space side surface 1043. The first capacitance sensor and / or the second capacitance sensor can output a signal corresponding to the capacitance of adjacent segments (sections) of the aerosol generating article S. For example, if the moisture content differs for each segment of the aerosol generating article S, the electromagnetic characteristics around the conductor change, and the first capacitance sensor and the second capacitance sensor indicate capacitance values ​​corresponding to each segment.

[0135] In one embodiment, the first sensor 13-1 may be composed of a first induction sensor, and the second sensor 13-2 may be composed of a second induction sensor. The first induction sensor and / or the second induction sensor may include at least one coil. The coil may be arranged adjacent to the internal space side surface 1043. For example, if the magnetic field around a coil through which current flows changes, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. The first induction sensor and / or the second induction sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil. For example, if the moisture content differs for each segment of the aerosol-generating article S, the first induction sensor and the second induction sensor will show signal values ​​corresponding to each segment.

[0136] The signals measured by the first sensor 13-1 and / or the second sensor 13-2 can be transmitted to the control unit (for example, the control unit 12 in Figure 1 or Figure 2) via the connector 13-3.

[0137] Figure 6 shows the housing part 10-1 shown in Figure 5, with the aerosol-generating item S inserted into the internal space 104.

[0138] Referring to Figure 6, in one embodiment, with the aerosol-generating article S fully inserted into the internal space 104, the first sensor 13-1 can be positioned at a location corresponding to the medium segment S2 of the aerosol-generating article S. For example, the first sensor 13-1 may be positioned horizontally (for example, along the YZ plane in Figure 6) away from the medium segment S2.

[0139] With the aerosol-generating article S fully inserted into the internal space 104, the second sensor 13-2 can be positioned at a location corresponding to the first filter segment S1 of the aerosol-generating article S. For example, the second sensor 13-2 may be positioned horizontally (for example, along the YZ plane in Figure 6) away from the first filter segment S1.

[0140] When the first sensor 13-1 is composed of a first capacitance sensor and the second sensor 13-2 is composed of a second capacitance sensor, the first sensor 13-1 can detect the degree of wetting (over-humidity) of the medium segment S2, and the second sensor 13-2 can detect the degree of wetting (over-humidity) of the first filter segment S1.

[0141] In one embodiment, when the first sensor 13-1 is configured as a capacitive sensor and the second sensor 13-2 is configured as a capacitive sensor, the area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 facing the internal space side surface 1043 and the area of ​​the second sensor 13-2 facing the internal space side surface 1043 are the same. By making the exposed area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 (for example, the area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 facing the internal space side surface 1043) and the exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-2 (for example, the area of ​​the second sensor 13-2 facing the internal space side surface 1043) the same, interference between the two sensors can be minimized.

[0142] Here, to minimize the influence between the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2, the first sensor 13-1 is positioned adjacent to the first surface 101, and the second sensor 13-2 is positioned adjacent to the end surface 1042 of the internal space. For example, considering the determined size of the aerosol generator 1, the separation distance between the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 can be maximized. For example, the second sensor 13-2 may be positioned furthest inside the internal space 104. Similarly, the first sensor 13-1 may be positioned furthest adjacent to the first surface 101, but depending on the placement of the proximity sensor, the first sensor 13-1 may be positioned below the proximity sensor from the first surface 101.

[0143] In one embodiment, if the first sensor 13-1 is composed of a first capacitance sensor and the second sensor 13-2 is composed of a second capacitance sensor, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating item S has been reused if the absolute value of the difference between the change in the first capacitance measured from the first capacitance sensor and the change in the second capacitance measured from the second capacitance sensor between a first time point (before the aerosol generating item S is inserted into the internal space 104) and a second time point (after the aerosol generating item is inserted into the internal space 104) is greater than or equal to a first set value.

[0144] For example, aerosols generated in a vaporizer (e.g., vaporizer 19 in Figure 1 or Figure 2) may enter the first filter segment S1 of the aerosol-generating article S, pass through the medium segment S2, and move to the second filter segment S3. As the aerosols move downstream of the aerosol-generating article S (e.g., in the +X direction shown in Figure 6), the downstream side of the aerosol-generating article S is wetted more than the upstream side. Since the dielectric constant changes as the degree of wetting of the aerosol-generating article S changes, the first capacitance value measured by the first sensor 13-1 and the second capacitance value measured by the second sensor 13-2 may change.

[0145] After the aerosol-generating item S is used, the area upstream of the aerosol-generating item S is generally wetted more by aerosols, so the second capacitance value measured by the second sensor 13-2 becomes larger than the first capacitance value measured by the first sensor 13-1.

[0146] Alternatively, depending on the configuration of the aerosol-generating article S, the first capacitance value measured by the first sensor 13-1 may be greater than the second capacitance value measured by the second sensor 13-2. For example, if the medium segment S2 contains a cavity, the aerosol will wet both the inside and outside of the second wrapper S52 of the medium segment S2, so the medium segment 122 will be wetter than the first filter segment S1.

[0147] In either case, there is a difference between the first capacitance and the second capacitance at the second time point, or there is a difference between the change in the first capacitance and the change in the second capacitance between the first and second time points.

[0148] Here, the control unit 12 can determine whether or not the aerosol-generating article S is to be reused based on the difference between the change in the first capacitance and the change in the second capacitance.

[0149] For example, if the absolute value of the difference between the change in the first capacitance and the change in the second capacitance is greater than or equal to a first set value (|change in first capacitance - change in second capacitance| ≥ a, where a is the first set value), the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating article S has been reused. Here, the first set value is defined as a value that takes error into account.

[0150] Here, the reliability of the determination of whether or not the aerosol-generating article S can be reused is determined based on the magnitude of the absolute value of the difference. For example, the larger the absolute value of the difference, the more accurate the determination of whether or not the aerosol-generating article S can be reused. Therefore, the control unit 12 can specify that if the absolute value of the difference is large, the reliability of the reuse determination result is high.

[0151] In one embodiment, if the first sensor 13-1 is configured as a first capacitance sensor and the second sensor 13-2 is configured as a second capacitance sensor, then if the absolute value of the difference between the change in the first capacitance measured by the first sensor 13-1 and the change in the second capacitance measured by the second sensor 13-2 between the first time point (before the aerosol-generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104) and the second time point (after the aerosol-generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104) is less than a second setpoint, it can be determined that the aerosol-generating article is in an over-humidified state.

[0152] For example, in an environment with high humidity such as the rainy season, the aerosol-generating article S becomes in an over-wet state. In such an over-wet state, all of the first filter segment S1, the medium segment S2, and the second filter segment S3 of the aerosol-generating article S are wet and exhibit a capacitance value that converges to the humidity.

[0153] Here, the control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating article S is in an over-wet state based on the difference between the change amount of the first capacitance and the change amount of the second capacitance. Alternatively, the control unit 12 may determine whether the aerosol-generating article S is in an over-wet state based on the difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value at the second time point.

[0154] For example, if the absolute value of the difference between the change amount of the first capacitance and the change amount of the second capacitance between the first time point and the second time point is less than the second set value (|change amount of the first capacitance - change amount of the second capacitance| < b, where b is the second set value), the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article S is in an over-wet state. Here, the second set value is defined as a value considering errors.

[0155] As a different example, if the absolute value of the difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value at the second time point is less than the fourth set value (|first capacitance value - second capacitance value| < d at the second time point, where d is the fourth set value), the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article S is in an over-wet state.

[0156] If there is only one capacitance sensor, it is impossible to determine whether the increase in capacitance is due to reuse or due to overhumid conditions. The aerosol generator 1 according to an embodiment includes the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2, so that compared with the case of having only one capacitance sensor, it is possible to prevent an error in determining reuse due to excessive overhumidity. For example, in the case of overhumid conditions, both the change amount of the first capacitance in the first sensor 13-1 and the change amount of the second capacitance in the second sensor 13-2 increase. Here, since the capacitance value of the entire capacitance sensor has increased, the difference between the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value at the same time point is very small, and the control unit 12 does not recognize such a situation as reuse.

[0157] In one embodiment, when the first sensor 13-1 is composed of a capacitance sensor and the second sensor 13-2 is composed of a capacitance sensor, between the first time point (before the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104) and the second time point (after the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104), if at least one of the change amount of the first capacitance measured from the first sensor 13-1 and the change amount of the second capacitance measured from the second sensor 13-2 is less than the third set value, it is determined that the aerosol generating article S is unused

[0158] For example, the change amount of the first capacitance and / or the change amount of the second capacitance of the unused aerosol generating article S may be the lowest compared with the case of reuse or overhumid conditions. Here, if at least one of the change amount of the first capacitance and the change amount of the second capacitance is less than the third set value (change amount of the first capacitance < c or change amount of the second capacitance < c, where c is the third set value), the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol generating article S is in an unused state.

[0159] As a different example, in an unused aerosol-generating article S, the capacitance value of the medium segment S2 may be the highest compared to the first filter segment S1 or the second filter segment S3. In this case, if the first capacitance value is greater than the second capacitance value, the control unit 12 determines that such an aerosol-generating article S is unused.

[0160] In one embodiment, when the first sensor 13-1 is configured as a capacitance sensor and the second sensor 13-2 is configured as a capacitance sensor, the control unit 12 can verify the type of aerosol generating article based on whether the first capacitance value measured by the first sensor 13-1 and the second capacitance value measured by the second sensor 13-2 exceed a first set range.

[0161] For example, when an unused aerosol generating item S is recognized, the control unit 12 may further determine whether the aerosol generating item S is of the appropriate type for the aerosol generator 1 or whether it is a genuine product. The control unit 12 can pre-secure and store data for the capacitance value of the medium segment S2 and the capacitance value of the first filter segment S1 of a genuine product aerosol generating item S. The control unit 12 compares the first capacitance value and the second capacitance value with the pre-secured data, and if they exceed the first set range, it determines that it is not a genuine product. At this point, the control unit 12 can stop the operation of the aerosol generator 1 or provide an alarm indicating that an incorrectly inserted aerosol generating item S has been placed.

[0162] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view showing housing part 10-1 which constitutes the internal space 104 of housing 10. In the following explanation referring to Figure 7, explanations of components that overlap with those in Figure 5 will be omitted for simplicity.

[0163] Referring to Figure 7, in one embodiment, when the first sensor 13-1 is configured as a capacitive sensor and the second sensor 13-22 is configured as a capacitive sensor, the area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 facing the internal space side surface 1043 is larger than the area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 facing the internal space side surface 1043.

[0164] Capacitance is inversely proportional to the distance of the space in which the dielectric is inserted and proportional to the cross-sectional area of ​​the dielectric. Therefore, when an aerosol-generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104, the larger the area of ​​the capacitance sensor facing the side surface 1043 of the internal space, the more charge it can accept.

[0165] Because the exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 (for example, the area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 facing the internal space side surface 1043) is larger than the exposed area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 (for example, the area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 facing the internal space side surface 1043), the degree of wetting of the first filter segment S1, which is heavily wetted by aerosols, can be measured more precisely.

[0166] Here, the width W2 of the second sensor 13-22 along the peripheral direction of the internal space side surface 1043 is greater than the width W1 of the first sensor 13-1 along the peripheral direction of the internal space side surface 1043. Due to the larger exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-22, if a part of the second sensor 13-22 approaches the first sensor 13-1, the second sensor 13-22 can also receive the magnetic field from the medium segment S2. Here, the exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 can be increased by increasing the width W2 without increasing the length of the second sensor 13-22 in the longitudinal direction (for example, the + / -X direction in Figure 7). This contributes to maximizing the separation between the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-22.

[0167] Figures 8 and 9 show an aerosol generating system 200 according to one embodiment.

[0168] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the aerosol generation system 200 includes an aerosol generator 2 and an aerosol generating article S. The aerosol generator 2 includes at least one of a power supply 21, a control unit 22, a sensor 23, a vaporizer 29, and a heater 28. At least one of the power supply 21, the control unit 22, the sensor 23, and the heater 28 may be located inside the housing 20 of the aerosol generator 2. The housing 20 can provide a space that is open on one side for the insertion of the aerosol generating article S.

[0169] The heater 28 heats the aerosol-generating article S. The heater 28 may extend upward around the space into which the aerosol-generating article S is inserted. For example, the heater 28 may be in the form of a tube containing a hollow interior. The heater 28 may be positioned around the internal space. The heater 28 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the internal space. The heater 28 heats the internal space or the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the internal space. The heater 28 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0170] For example, heater 28 may be a resistive heater. For example, heater 28 includes an electrically conductive track, and heater 28 is heated by the flow of current through the electrically conductive track. Heater 28 may be electrically connected to a power supply 21. Heater 28 can be directly heated by current supplied from the power supply 21.

[0171] For example, the aerosol generator 2 may include an induction coil surrounding the heater 28. The induction coil can cause the heater 28 to heat up. The heater 28 acts as a susceptor, and is heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field penetrates the heater 28 and can generate eddy currents within it. The current can generate heat in the heater 28.

[0172] On the other hand, a susceptor may be included inside the aerosol generating article S, and the susceptor inside the aerosol generating article S may be heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil.

[0173] The vaporizer 29 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-phase composition. For example, the liquid-phase composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The vaporizer 29 may be integrally formed with the housing 20 or detachably coupled to the housing 20.

[0174] For example, referring to Figure 8, the steam generator 29 is integrally formed with the housing 20 and can communicate with the internal space via an airflow channel CN.

[0175] For example, referring to Figure 9, a space may be formed on one side of the housing 20, and at least a portion of the steam maker 29 may be inserted into the space formed on one side of the housing 20, and the steam maker 29 may be mounted on the housing 20. The airflow channel CN ​​is defined by a portion of the steam maker 29 and / or a portion of the housing 20, and the steam maker 29 can communicate with the internal space through the airflow channel CN.

[0176] The housing 20 is constructed in such a way that outside air can flow into the housing 20 while the vaporizer 29 is inserted. Here, the outside air that flows into the housing 20 passes through the vaporizer 29 and flows into the user's mouth.

[0177] The vaporizer 29 includes a heater 291 for heating the containment CO containing the aerosol-generating material and / or the aerosol-generating material in the containment CO. A liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating material may be located inside the containment CO. 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 291 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 291 is referred to as the vaporizer heater 291.

[0178] The vaporizer 29 can generate an aerosol. The aerosol is generated when the liquid transfer means is heated by the vaporizer heater 291. Alternatively, the aerosol may be generated by heating the aerosol generating article S with the heater 291. As the aerosol generated by the vaporizer heater 291 passes through the aerosol generating article S, tobacco substances are added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with added tobacco substances is inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the aerosol generating article S.

[0179] The aerosol generator 2 may include a cap (not shown). The cap may be detachably bonded to the housing 20 so as to cover at least a portion of the vaporizer 29 coupled to the housing 20. The aerosol generating article S can be inserted into the housing 20 through the cap.

[0180] The power supply 21 provides power to the components of the aerosol generator 2 so that they can operate. The power supply 21 may also be called a battery. The power supply 21 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 22, the sensor 23, the vaporizer heater 291, and the heater 28.

[0181] The control unit 22 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 2. The control unit 22 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 22 may control the operation of at least one of the following: the power supply 21, the sensor 23, the vaporizer 29, and the heater 28. The control unit 22 may also control the operation of a display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generator 2. The control unit 22 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator 2 and determine whether the aerosol generator is in an operational state.

[0182] The control unit 22 can analyze the results detected by the sensor 23 and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, based on the results detected by the sensor 23, the control unit 22 may control the power supplied to the vaporizer heater 291 and / or heater 28 so that the operation of the vaporizer heater 291 and / or heater 28 is disclosed or terminated. For example, based on the results detected by the sensor 23, the control unit 22 may control the amount of power supplied to the vaporizer heater 291 and the duration for which power is supplied so that the vaporizer heater 291 heats up to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0183] Sensor 23 may include at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, or a cap detection sensor. For example, sensor 23 may detect at least one of the following: the temperature of the vaporizer heater 291 and / or heater 28, the temperature of the power supply 21, or the temperature inside and outside the housing 20. For example, sensor 23 may detect a user's puff. For example, sensor 23 may detect whether or not an aerosol generating article S has been inserted into the internal space. For example, sensor 23 may detect whether or not the vaporizer 29 is installed. For example, sensor 23 may detect whether or not the cap is installed.

[0184] The first sensor 23-1 and the second sensor 23-2 are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space (for example, along the -X direction in Figures 8 and 9).

[0185] The control unit 22 receives first information measured by the first sensor 23-1 and second information measured by the second sensor 23-2, and can determine the state of the aerosol-generating article S based on the first and second information. The functions of the first sensor 23-1 and the second sensor 23-2 are the same as or similar to those of the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2, so a detailed explanation thereof is omitted for simplicity.

[0186] Figures 10 and 11 show an aerosol generating system 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generating system 300 includes an aerosol generating device 3 and an aerosol generating article S.

[0187] Referring to Figure 10, the aerosol generator 3 may include at least one of a power supply 31, a control unit 32, a sensor 33, and a heater 38. At least one of the power supply 31, control unit 32, sensor 33, and heater 38 may be located inside the housing 30 of the aerosol generator. The housing 30 can provide an upper-opening space into which an aerosol generating article S is inserted. The upper-opening space is referred to as the internal space.

[0188] The heater 38 heats the aerosol-generating article S. The heater 38 extends upward around the space into which the aerosol-generating article S is inserted. For example, the heater 38 may be in the form of a tube containing a hollow interior. The heater 38 may be positioned around the internal space. The heater 38 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the internal space. The heater 38 heats the internal space or the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the internal space. The heater 38 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0189] For example, referring to Figure 10, the heater 38 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 38 includes an electrically conductive track, and the heater 38 is heated by the flow of current through the electrically conductive track. The heater 38 may be electrically connected to a power supply 31. The heater 38 can be directly heated by current supplied from the power supply 31. The heater 38 can be a hollow heater positioned to cover at least a portion of the aerosol generating article S inserted into the insertion space to heat the outside of the inserted aerosol generating article S, or it can be a needle-shaped, rod-shaped, or tubular heater inserted into the inside of the aerosol generating article S inserted into the insertion space to heat the inside.

[0190] For example, referring to Figure 11, the aerosol generator may include an induction coil 381 surrounding a heater 38. The induction coil 381 can cause the heater 38 to heat up. The heater 38 acts as a susceptor, and is heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 381. The magnetic field penetrates the heater 38 and can generate eddy currents within it. The current can generate heat in the heater 38.

[0191] On the other hand, a susceptor may be included inside the aerosol generating article S, and the susceptor inside the aerosol generating article S may be heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 381.

[0192] The power supply 31 can supply power to the components of the aerosol generator to operate. The power supply 31 may also be referred to as a battery. The power supply 31 may supply power to at least one of the control unit 32, the sensor 33, and the heater 38. If the aerosol generator 3 includes an induction coil 381, the power supply 31 can supply power to the induction coil 381.

[0193] The control unit 32 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator. The control unit 32 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 32 may control the operation of at least one of the power supply 31 and the sensor 33. The control unit 32 may control the operation of the induction coil 381. The control unit 32 may control the operation of a display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generator. The control unit 32 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator and determine whether the aerosol generator is in an operational state.

[0194] The control unit 32 can analyze the results detected by the sensor 33 and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit 32 may control the power supplied to the heater 38 so that the operation of the heater 38 is disclosed or terminated based on the results detected by the sensor 33. For example, the control unit 32 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater 38 and the duration of power supply so that the heater 38 heats up to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature, based on the results detected by the sensor 33.

[0195] Sensor 33 includes at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion detection sensor. For example, sensor 33 may detect at least one of the following: the temperature of the heater 38, the temperature of the power supply 31, or the temperature inside or outside the housing 30. For example, sensor 33 may detect a user's puff. For example, sensor 33 may detect whether or not an aerosol-generating article S has been inserted into the insertion space.

[0196] The first sensor 33-1 and the second sensor 33-2 are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space (for example, along the -X direction in Figure 10 or Figure 11).

[0197] The control unit 32 receives first information measured by the first sensor 33-1 and second information measured by the second sensor 33-2, and can determine the state of the aerosol-generating article S based on the first and second information. The functions of the first sensor 33-1 and the second sensor 33-2 are the same as or similar to those of the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2, so a detailed explanation thereof is omitted for simplicity.

[0198] On the other hand, the aerosol generating article S may include a first filter segment, a medium segment, a cooling segment, and a second filter segment. The first filter segment may consist of an atomizing segment. For example, the atomizing segment may be filled with a humectant, which may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. If the first filter segment consists of an atomizing segment, the aerosol generator 3 may not have a separate vaporizer, and instead, a heater 38 may be placed around and / or inside the first filter segment which consists of the atomizing segment.

[0199] According to one embodiment of the aerosol generators 1, 2, and 3 and the aerosol generating systems 100, 200, and 300 including them, it is possible to effectively determine whether or not the aerosol generating article S is to be reused. Furthermore, even under humid conditions, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the aerosol generating article S is to be reused, and to effectively determine that the aerosol generating article S is in a humid state. In addition, it is possible to effectively determine and verify the type of aerosol generating article S inserted into the aerosol generators 1, 2, and 3. According to one embodiment of the aerosol generators 1, 2, and 3, it is possible to provide the user with an optimal smoking satisfaction by utilizing the state information of the aerosol generating article S.

[0200] An aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment includes a housing 10 having a first surface 101, a second surface 102 opposite to the first surface 101, and a side surface 103 between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102, the first surface 101 having an internal space into which the aerosol generating article S is inserted, a first sensor 13-1 and a second sensor 13-2 arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space 104, and a control unit 12 housed in the housing 10 and including at least one processor, the control unit 12 receiving first information measured by the first sensor 13-1 and second information measured by the second sensor 13-2, and being able to determine the state of the aerosol generating article S based on the first information and the second information.

[0201] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a vaporizer 19 housed within the housing 10, which heats a liquid-phase composition to generate an aerosol and releases the aerosol toward the aerosol-generating article S.

[0202] In one embodiment, the internal space 104 includes an end surface 1042 of the internal space located between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102, and an internal space side surface 1043 extending from the end of the end surface 1042 of the internal space to the first surface 101, the first sensor 13-1 is composed of a first capacitance sensor, the second sensor 13-2 is composed of a second capacitance sensor, and the first capacitance sensor and the second capacitance sensor can be arranged in order along the direction from the first surface 101 toward the end surface 1042 of the internal space.

[0203] In one embodiment, the internal space 104 includes an end surface 1042 of the internal space located between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102, and an internal space side surface 1043 extending from the end of the end surface 1042 of the internal space to the first surface 101, the first sensor 13-1 is composed of a single induction sensor, the second sensor 13-2 is composed of a second induction sensor, the first induction sensor is positioned adjacent to the first surface 101, and the second induction sensor can be positioned adjacent to the end surface 1042 of the internal space.

[0204] In one embodiment, the area of ​​the second capacitance sensor facing the internal space side surface 1043 is larger than the area of ​​the first capacitance sensor facing the internal space side surface 1043.

[0205] The width W2 of the second capacitance sensor along the peripheral direction of the internal space side surface 1043 is greater than the width W1 of the first capacitance sensor along the peripheral direction of the internal space side surface 1043.

[0206] To minimize interference between the first capacitance sensor and the second capacitance sensor, the first capacitance sensor may be positioned adjacent to the first surface 101, and the second capacitance sensor may be positioned adjacent to the end surface 1042 of the internal space.

[0207] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating article S has been reused if the absolute value of the difference between the change in the first capacitance measured from the first capacitance sensor and the change in the second capacitance measured from the second capacitance sensor between the first time point and the second time point is equal to or greater than a first set value.

[0208] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating article S is in an over-humidified state if the absolute value of the difference between the change in the first capacitance measured from the first capacitance sensor and the change in the second capacitance measured from the second capacitance sensor between the first time point and the second time point is less than a second setpoint.

[0209] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol generating article S has not been used if at least one of the change in the first capacitance measured from the first capacitance sensor and the change in the capacitance measured from the second capacitance sensor between the first time point and the second time point is less than the third set value.

[0210] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can verify the type of aerosol-generating article based on whether the first capacitance value measured by the first capacitance sensor and the second capacitance value measured by the second capacitance sensor exceed a third set range.

[0211] An aerosol generating system 100 according to one embodiment includes an aerosol generating article S and an aerosol generating device 1, wherein the aerosol generating article S includes a first filter segment S1, a medium segment S2 disposed downstream of the first filter segment S1 for containing a medium, and a second filter segment S3 disposed downstream of the medium segment S2, and the aerosol generating device 1 may include a housing 10 having an internal space 104 in which the aerosol generating article S is contained, a first sensor 13-1 disposed at a position corresponding to the medium segment S2 when the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104, and a second sensor 13-2 disposed at a position corresponding to the first filter segment S1 when the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104.

[0212] The medium segment S2 contains a pH-treated tobacco medium, and nicotine transferred from the medium segment S2 can be adsorbed onto the first filter segment S1 or the second filter segment S3.

[0213] In one embodiment, the first sensor 13-1 may be composed of a first capacitance sensor, and the second sensor 13-2 may be composed of a second capacitance sensor.

[0214] In one embodiment, the area of ​​the second sensor 13-2 facing the internal space 104 is larger than the area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 facing the internal space 104.

[0215] The above-described embodiments are illustrative only, and a person with ordinary skill in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent different embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention must be determined by the attached claims, and all differences that fall within the same scope as those described in the claims should be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection determined by the claims.

Claims

1. A housing comprising a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the first surface has an internal space into which an aerosol generating article is inserted, A first sensor and a second sensor are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space, A control unit, which includes at least one processor, is housed within the aforementioned housing. Includes, The control unit receives first information measured by the first sensor and second information measured by the second sensor, and determines the state of the aerosol generating article based on the first information and the second information, in an aerosol generating device.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a vaporizer housed within the housing for heating a liquid phase composition to generate an aerosol and for releasing the aerosol toward the aerosol generating article.

3. The internal space includes an end surface of the internal space located between the first surface and the second surface, and an internal space side surface extending from the end of the end surface of the internal space to the first surface. The first sensor is composed of a first capacitance sensor, and the second sensor is composed of a second capacitance sensor. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first capacitance sensor and the second capacitance sensor are arranged in order along a direction from the first surface toward the end surface of the internal space.

4. The internal space includes an end surface of the internal space located between the first surface and the second surface, and an internal space side surface extending from the end of the end surface of the internal space to the first surface. The first sensor is composed of a first induction sensor, and the second sensor is composed of a second induction sensor. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first induction sensor is arranged adjacent to the first surface, and the second induction sensor is arranged adjacent to the end surface of the internal space.

5. The aerosol generator according to claim 3, wherein the area of ​​the second capacitance sensor facing the side surface of the internal space is larger than the area of ​​the first capacitance sensor facing the side surface of the internal space.

6. The aerosol generator according to claim 5, wherein the width of the second capacitance sensor along the peripheral direction of the internal space side surface is greater than the width of the first capacitance sensor along the peripheral direction of the internal space side surface.

7. The aerosol generator according to claim 3, wherein the first capacitance sensor is positioned adjacent to the first surface and the second capacitance sensor is positioned adjacent to the end surface of the internal space, such that interference between the first capacitance sensor and the second capacitance sensor is minimized.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit determines that the aerosol generating article has been reused if the absolute value of the difference between the amount of change in the first capacitance measured from the first capacitance sensor and the amount of change in the second capacitance measured from the second capacitance sensor between the first time point and the second time point is equal to or greater than a first set value.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit determines that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humidified state if the absolute value of the difference between the amount of change in the first capacitance measured from the first capacitance sensor and the amount of change in the second capacitance measured from the second capacitance sensor between the first time point and the second time point is less than a second set value.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit determines that the aerosol generating article has not been used if at least one of the change in the first capacitance measured from the first capacitance sensor and the change in the capacitance measured from the second capacitance sensor between the first time point and the second time point is less than a third set value.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit verifies the type of aerosol generating article based on whether or not the first capacitance value measured by the first capacitance sensor or the second capacitance value measured by the second capacitance sensor exceeds a first set range.

12. Including aerosol generating articles and aerosol generating devices, The aerosol generating article is The first filter segment and, A medium segment is located downstream of the first filter segment and contains the medium, A second filter segment is located downstream of the medium segment, Includes, The aerosol generating device is A housing having an internal space formed in which the aerosol-generating article is contained, A first sensor is positioned at a location corresponding to the medium segment when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the internal space, A second sensor is positioned at a location corresponding to the first filter segment when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the internal space, an aerosol generation system, including...

13. The aerosol generating system according to claim 12, wherein the medium segment comprises a pH-treated tobacco medium, and nicotine transferred from the medium segment is adsorbed onto the first filter segment or the second filter segment.

14. The aerosol generating system according to claim 12, wherein the first sensor is composed of a first capacitance sensor and the second sensor is composed of a second capacitance sensor.

15. The aerosol generating system according to claim 12, wherein the area of ​​the second sensor facing the internal space is larger than the area of ​​the first sensor facing the internal space.

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