Aerosol products and methods for manufacturing aerosol products

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol product comprising an aerosol-generating substance that generates an aerosol when heated, wherein the aerosol product includes an identifying substance that absorbs light of a first wavelength irradiated from outside the aerosol product and emits light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength, and the identifying substance includes an organic substance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article capable of accurately identifying the presence and type of an aerosol-generating article, an aerosol-generating system including the same, and a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for a system that generates an aerosol by heating a cigarette (or "aerosol-generating article") using an aerosol-generating device, rather than a method of burning a cigarette to generate an aerosol.

[0003] Recently, aerosol-generating devices equipped with separate sensors have been diversified in order to sense cigarette insertion / removal, cigarette type, cigarette forgery, etc. In particular, as the types of cigarettes have become diverse and there are forged cigarettes in the market, the need for an aerosol-generating device having a function capable of distinguishing these has been increasing. The aerosol-generating device can acquire cigarette information through various sensors such as an inductive sensor, a capacitance sensor, a resistance sensor, an infrared sensor, and a color sensor.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An aerosol-generating device that can use various types of cigarettes can perform different control operations for each type of cigarette. Further, the aerosol-generating device can also start a control operation only for a genuine cigarette by distinguishing a forged cigarette. Accordingly, the aerosol-generating device needs to grasp the type and forgery of a cigarette through a separate sensor.

[0005] In particular, an aerosol generator can perform heating operations for specific types of cigarettes through a specific heating profile corresponding to those cigarettes. Therefore, the sensing accuracy for cigarettes needs to be improved so that the optimal smoking experience is provided from those cigarettes.

[0006] In various embodiments of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus can be provided that acquires sensing values ​​from an aerosol product containing an identification substance that is excited by the absorption of light in a predetermined wavelength range, and determines information about the aerosol product based on the acquired sensing values.

[0007] In various embodiments of the present invention, an aerosol generation system can be provided that can more accurately grasp information about aerosol products by individually recognizing multiple identification substances.

[0008] The problems to be solved through embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and any problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art in which the embodiments pertain from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] An aerosol product according to one embodiment includes an aerosol-generating substance that generates an aerosol when heated, and the aerosol product includes an identification substance that absorbs light of a first wavelength irradiated from outside the aerosol product and emits light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength, and the identification substance may include organic matter.

[0010] The first wavelength ranges from 10 nm to 340 nm, and the second wavelength ranges from 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0011] The aforementioned organic substance may include one or more organic substances selected from the group consisting of quinazolinone compounds, thiophene compounds, sulfobenzoic acid compounds, and naphthyridine compounds.

[0012] The maximum absorption wavelength (Abs) of the aforementioned identifying substance max The difference between the main wavelength (DWL) of light emitted from the identification substance is 20% or more, based on the maximum absorption wavelength.

[0013] The identification substance may contain a plurality of particles having a diameter of 0.1 μm to 10 μm.

[0014] The system includes a trumpet for packaging the aerosol product, and the identifying substance may be placed on the outer surface of the trumpet.

[0015] The system includes a plurality of trumpets for superimposing and packaging the aerosol product, and the identification substance may be placed between the plurality of trumpets.

[0016] The identifying substance is arranged along the circumferential direction of the aerosol product, and the region in which the identifying substance is arranged may extend 1 mm to 10 mm along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product.

[0017] The aerosol product includes aerosol generating rods and filter rods that are sequentially aligned along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product, and the length from the downstream end of the region where the identification substance is placed to the boundary between the aerosol generating rods and the filter rods is 0 mm to 5 mm.

[0018] The identification substance comprises a first identification substance and a second identification substance, the first identification substance and the second identification substance emit light of different wavelengths, and the difference between the wavelength of light emitted by the first identification substance and the wavelength of light emitted by the second identification substance is 15 nm or more.

[0019] The identifying substance comprises a first identifying substance and a second identifying substance, and the first identifying substance and the second identifying substance may be separated along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product.

[0020] A method for producing an aerosol product according to one embodiment may include the steps of: preparing an identification substance containing organic matter; mixing the identification substance and OP varnish (overprint varnish) to produce a primary solution; mixing the primary solution and a diluent to produce an identification substance solution; and applying the identification substance solution to the aerosol product.

[0021] The aforementioned organic substance may include one or more organic substances selected from the group consisting of quinazolinone compounds, thiophene compounds, sulfobenzoic acid compounds, and naphthyridine compounds.

[0022] The identification substance solution may contain 0.01% to 20% by weight of the identification substance, 10% to 40% by weight of the OP varnish, and 50% to 85% by weight of the diluent.

[0023] The OP varnish may contain one or more substances selected from the group consisting of nitrocellulose, polyamide, propyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, and 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH).

[0024] An aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment may include an aerosol-generating rod containing an aerosol-generating substance that is heated to generate an aerosol; a filter rod connected to the aerosol-generating rod; a wrapper surrounding at least one of the aerosol-generating rod and the filter rod; and an identifying substance disposed in at least one of the aerosol-generating rod, the filter rod, or the wrapper, which emits light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength when excited by light of the first wavelength. The identifying substance may include a first identifying substance and a second identifying substance in which at least one of the sheep, concentration, type, or composition ratio is different from each other.

[0025] The second wavelength emitted by the first identifying substance and the second wavelength emitted by the second identifying substance may have different ranges from each other.

[0026] The difference between the second wavelength emitted by the first identifying substance and the second wavelength emitted by the second identifying substance is also 15 nm or more.

[0027] The first identifying substance and the second identifying substance may be spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the wrapper.

[0028] At least one of the first identifying substance and the second identifying substance may be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the wrapper.

[0029] At least one of the first identifying substance and the second identifying substance may be disposed in a region along the circumferential direction of the wrapper.

[0030] At least one of the first identifying substance or the second identifying substance contains an organic substance, and the organic substance may include one or more organic substances selected from the group consisting of quinazolinone-based compounds, thiophene-based compounds, sulfobenzoic acid-based compounds, and naphthyridine-based compounds.

[0031] An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment may include an aerosol product according to one embodiment; and an aerosol generation apparatus having a cavity into which the aerosol product is inserted. The aerosol generation apparatus may include a heater for heating the aerosol product inserted in the cavity; a sensor module including a light-emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength toward a first identifying substance and a second identifying substance of the aerosol product inserted in the cavity, and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted from the first identifying substance and the second identifying substance, respectively; and a control unit that determines information about the aerosol product based on sensing values ​​sensed via the light-receiving unit and controls the power supply to the heater based on the determined information about the aerosol product.

[0032] If the light receiving unit receives light of the second wavelength emitted by the first identification substance, the control unit may activate the heater.

[0033] When the light receiving unit receives light of the second wavelength emitted by the second identification substance, the control unit can control the power supply to the heater with a temperature profile corresponding to the aerosol product.

[0034] After the heater is activated by the light receiving unit receiving light of the second wavelength emitted by the first identifying substance, the control unit may control the light receiving unit to receive light of the second wavelength emitted by the second identifying substance.

[0035] The sensor module may include a first sensor module having a light-emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength toward the first identifying substance and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the first identifying substance, and a second sensor module having a light-emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength toward the second identifying substance and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the second identifying substance.

[0036] The sensor module may be movably positioned in the aerosol generator so as to move to a position corresponding to the first or second identifying substance.

[0037] An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment may further include a shielding section arranged to surround the sensor module and block externally generated electric or magnetic field signals.

[0038] An aerosol generation system according to one embodiment may further include a lens positioned between the sensor module and the cavity, through which the light of the first wavelength emitted by the light-emitting unit and the light of the second wavelength emitted by the first and second identifying substances pass. [Effects of the Invention]

[0039] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generator can detect the type of aerosol product inserted, perform heating according to a temperature profile corresponding to the detected type of aerosol product, and provide the user with an optimal smoking experience.

[0040] Furthermore, according to various embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generation system can more accurately grasp information about aerosol products and save power consumption by individually recognizing multiple identification substances.

[0041] Furthermore, since the identification substance according to the present invention substantially does not emit light before being irradiated with a predetermined wavelength, it does not affect the appearance of the aerosol product and can provide information about the aerosol product to the aerosol generating device without being perceived by the user.

[0042] Furthermore, the aerosol generating apparatus according to the present invention can improve the accuracy of identification of aerosol products by determining information about the aerosol products based on sensing values ​​from the identification substance.

[0043] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and any effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art in which the embodiments pertain from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0044] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol product. [Figure 2] This is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol product. [Figure 3] This is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol product. [Figure 4A] This is a side cross-sectional view of an aerosol product to illustrate an example of the placement / method of identifying substances. [Figure 4B] This is a side cross-sectional view of an aerosol product to illustrate an example of the placement / method of identifying substances. [Figure 4C] This is a side cross-sectional view of an aerosol product to illustrate an example of the placement / method of identifying substances. [Figure 4D] This is a side cross-sectional view of an aerosol product to illustrate an example of the placement / method of identifying substances. [Figure 5A] This is a perspective view of an aerosol product to illustrate an example of the placement / method of identifying substances. [Figure 5B] This is a perspective view of an aerosol product to illustrate an example of the placement / method of identifying substances. [Figure 5C] This is a perspective view of an aerosol product to illustrate an example of the placement / method of identifying substances. [Figure 5D] This is a perspective view of an aerosol product to illustrate an example of the placement / method of identifying substances. [Figure 6A] This is a diagram showing the tobacco rod, filter rod, and ferrule separated from the aerosol product. [Figure 6B] This is a diagram showing the tobacco rod, filter rod, and ferrule separated from the aerosol product. [Figure 7]This is a schematic side view of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a schematic side view of an aerosol generation system with a different heating method than the aerosol generation system shown in Figure 7. [Figure 9A] This is a perspective view showing an example of an aerosol generating device to which a sensor module is applied. [Figure 9B] Figure 9A is a perspective view showing some of the components of the aerosol generating apparatus shown in the diagram, separated from the main view. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view showing another example of an aerosol generating device to which a sensor module is applied. [Figure 11] This perspective view shows yet another example of an aerosol generator to which a sensor module is applied. [Figure 12] This is a flowchart showing how an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment determines information about the aerosol product and controls the power supply to the heater. [Figure 13A] This is an example of a wavelength graph showing the wavelengths emitted from the first identified substance when irradiated with wavelengths within the first wavelength range. [Figure 13B] This is an example of a wavelength graph showing the wavelengths emitted from the second identification substance when irradiated with wavelengths within the first wavelength range. [Figure 14A] This is an example of a wavelength graph showing the wavelengths emitted from the third identification substance when irradiated with wavelengths within the first wavelength range. [Figure 14B] This is an example of a wavelength graph showing the wavelengths emitted from the third identification substance when irradiated with wavelengths within the first wavelength range. [Figure 15] This is a flowchart illustrating another specific example of how an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment determines information about the aerosol product. [Figure 16] This is a schematic side view of an aerosol generation system, including an example of a sensor module. [Figure 17] This is a schematic side view of an aerosol generation system including multiple sensor modules. [Figure 18]This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system, including other examples of sensor modules. [Figure 19] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system including multiple sensor modules. [Figure 20] This is a schematic side view of the aerosol generation system, including the shielding section. [Figure 21] This is a schematic plan view of an aerosol generation system including a support unit, a fixing unit, and a partition wall. [Figure 22] This is a schematic planar cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system including a lens. [Figure 23A] This is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment. [Figure 23B] This is a plan view of a sensor module according to one embodiment. [Figure 23C] This is a block diagram of a sensor module according to one embodiment. [Figure 24A] This graph shows the sensing results of a sensor module according to one embodiment. [Figure 24B] This graph shows the sensing results of a sensor module according to one embodiment. [Figure 25] This is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment. [Figure 26] This is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment. [Figure 27] This is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment. [Figure 28] This is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment. [Figure 29] This is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment. [Figure 30] This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0045] An aerosol product according to one embodiment includes an aerosol-generating substance that generates an aerosol when heated, and the aerosol product includes an identification substance that absorbs light of a first wavelength irradiated from outside the aerosol product and emits light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength, and the identification substance may include organic matter.

[0046] The first wavelength is 10 nm to 340 nm, and the second wavelength is 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0047] The aforementioned organic substance may include one or more organic substances selected from the group consisting of quinazolinone compounds, thiophene compounds, sulfobenzoic acid compounds, and naphthyridine compounds.

[0048] The maximum absorption wavelength (Abs) of the aforementioned identifying substance max The difference between the main wavelength (DWL) of light emitted from the identification substance is 20% or more, based on the maximum absorption wavelength.

[0049] The identification substance may contain a plurality of particles having a diameter of 0.1 μm to 10 μm.

[0050] The system includes a trumpet for packaging the aerosol product, and the identifying substance may be placed on the outer surface of the trumpet.

[0051] The system includes a plurality of trumpets for superimposing and packaging the aerosol product, and the identification substance may be placed between the plurality of trumpets.

[0052] The identifying substance is arranged along the circumferential direction of the aerosol product, and the region in which the identifying substance is arranged may extend 1 mm to 10 mm along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product.

[0053] The aerosol product includes aerosol generating rods and filter rods that are sequentially aligned along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product, and the length from the downstream end of the region where the identification substance is placed to the boundary between the aerosol generating rods and the filter rods is 0 mm to 5 mm.

[0054] The identification substance comprises a first identification substance and a second identification substance, the first identification substance and the second identification substance emit light of different wavelengths, and the difference between the wavelength of light emitted by the first identification substance and the wavelength of light emitted by the second identification substance is 15 nm or more.

[0055] The identifying substance comprises a first identifying substance and a second identifying substance, and the first identifying substance and the second identifying substance may be separated along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product.

[0056] A method for producing an aerosol product according to one embodiment may include the steps of: preparing an identification substance containing organic matter; mixing the identification substance and OP varnish (overprint varnish) to produce a primary solution; mixing the primary solution and a diluent to produce an identification substance solution; and applying the identification substance solution to the aerosol product.

[0057] The aforementioned organic substance may include one or more organic substances selected from the group consisting of quinazolinone compounds, thiophene compounds, sulfobenzoic acid compounds, and naphthyridine compounds.

[0058] The identification substance solution may contain 0.01% to 20% by weight of the identification substance, 10% to 40% by weight of the OP varnish, and 50% to 85% by weight of the diluent.

[0059] The OP varnish may contain one or more substances selected from the group consisting of nitrocellulose, polyamide, propyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, and 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH).

[0060] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment may include: a cavity into which an aerosol product is inserted, the aerosol product containing an identification substance that emits light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength when excited by light of a first wavelength; a heater for heating the aerosol product inserted in the cavity; a sensor module including a light-emitting unit that emits light of the first wavelength toward the identification substance in the aerosol product inserted in the cavity, and a light-receiving unit positioned at a predetermined angle with the light-emitting unit to receive the light of the second wavelength emitted from the identification substance; and a control unit that determines information about the aerosol product based on a sensing value sensed via the light-receiving unit and controls the power supply to the heater based on the determined information about the aerosol product. The light-receiving unit is capable of receiving the light of the second wavelength emitted from the identification substance as well as emitting light of the first wavelength from the light-emitting unit.

[0061] The paths of the first wavelength of light emitted by the light-emitting unit and the paths of the second wavelength of light received by the light-receiving unit are offset from each other.

[0062] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment may further include a partition wall positioned between the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit and extending toward the cavity.

[0063] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment may further include a sensor support unit fixed to the aerosol generating apparatus body having the cavity and supporting the sensor module.

[0064] The sensor support unit may include a light-emitting support unit that supports the light-emitting unit, and a light-receiving support unit that is at a predetermined angle with the light-emitting support unit and supports the light-receiving unit.

[0065] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment may further include a shielding section arranged to surround the sensor module and block externally generated electric or magnetic field signals.

[0066] The shielding portion may include a first portion that covers the upper part of the sensor module, a second portion that covers the lower part of the sensor module, and a third portion that connects the first portion and the second portion and covers the side of the sensor module.

[0067] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment may further include a lens positioned between the sensor module and the cavity, through which the light of the first wavelength emitted by the light-emitting unit and the light of the second wavelength emitted by the identification substance pass.

[0068] The lens may include a first lens that focuses light of the first wavelength onto the identifying substance, and a second lens that focuses light of the second wavelength onto the light receiving unit.

[0069] The first lens allows light of the first wavelength to pass through but absorbs light of other wavelengths, and the second lens allows light of the second wavelength to pass through but may absorb light of other wavelengths.

[0070] The sensor module may be positioned to be movable along the extension direction of the cavity.

[0071] The sensor module may be positioned to be movable along the circumferential direction of the cavity.

[0072] The first wavelength ranges from 10 nm to 340 nm, and the second wavelength ranges from 380 nm to 780 nm.

[0073] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment may further include a filter that filters out the light of the first wavelength from the light received by the light receiving unit.

[0074] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment may include: a cavity into which an aerosol product is inserted, the aerosol product having an identification substance that emits light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength when excited by light of a first wavelength; a heater for heating the aerosol product inserted in the cavity; a sensor module including a light-emitting unit that emits light of the first wavelength toward the identification substance in the aerosol product inserted in the cavity, and a light-receiving unit positioned at a predetermined angle with the light-emitting unit to receive the light of the second wavelength emitted from the identification substance; and a control unit that determines information about the aerosol product based on a sensing value sensed via the light-receiving unit after the light emission of the light-emitting unit is interrupted, and controls the power supply to the heater based on the determined information about the aerosol product.

[0075] The terminology used in the embodiments has been selected, as far as possible, to be widely used and general terms, while taking into account the function of the present invention. However, this may vary depending on the intent of the articulators, case law, or the emergence of new technologies. In certain cases, the applicant may have arbitrarily selected terms, in which case their meaning will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terminology used in the present invention is not simply a set of names, but must be defined based on the meaning of the term and the overall content of the present invention.

[0076] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a component, it means, unless otherwise specified, that it does not exclude other components, but rather that it may include other components. Furthermore, terms such as "...part" and "...module" used in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be embodied by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0077] As used herein, when an expression such as “at least one of the following” precedes an array of components, it modifies the entire group of components, not each of the individual components in the array. For example, the expression “at least one of a, b, and c” must be interpreted as including a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0078] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device is also a device that generates an aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette contained in an internal space.

[0079] The aerosol generator may include a heater. In one embodiment, the heater is also an electrical resistive heater. For example, the heater includes a conductive track, and the heater can be heated when an electric current flows through the conductive track.

[0080] The heater includes a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and the pattern of the heating element can heat the inside or outside of the cigarette.

[0081] A cigarette may include a tobacco rod and a filter rod. The tobacco rod may be made in sheet or strand form and may be made from shredded tobacco obtained by cutting tobacco sheets into small pieces. The tobacco rod may also be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material may be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil.

[0082] The filter rod is also a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod may consist of at least one segment. For example, the filter rod may include a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering out a predetermined component contained in the aerosol.

[0083] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is also a device that generates aerosols using a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance.

[0084] An aerosol generator may include a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating substance and a main body supporting the cartridge. The cartridge may, but is not limited to, be detachably coupled to the main body. The cartridge may be formed integrally with the main body or assembled and fixed so as not to be detached by the user. The cartridge may be mounted on the main body with the aerosol-generating substance contained inside, but is not limited to this; the aerosol-generating substance may be injected into the cartridge while the cartridge is coupled to the main body.

[0085] The cartridge may contain an aerosol-generating substance that exists in one of several states, such as liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0086] The cartridge can perform the function of generating aerosols by converting the phase of the aerosol-generating material inside the cartridge to a gas phase, through operation by electrical or wireless signals transmitted from the main unit. An aerosol refers to a gaseous state in which vaporized particles generated from the aerosol-generating material and air are mixed.

[0087] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generator heats a liquid composition to generate an aerosol, which can then be delivered to the user through a cigarette. That is, the aerosol generated from the liquid composition moves along an airflow passage in the aerosol generator, and the airflow passage can be configured so that the aerosol is delivered to the user through a cigarette.

[0088] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is also a device that generates aerosols from aerosol-generating material using an ultrasonic vibration method. In this case, the ultrasonic vibration method refers to a method of generating aerosols by atomizing the aerosol-generating material with ultrasonic vibrations generated by a transducer.

[0089] The aerosol generator includes a transducer, which generates short-period vibrations to atomize aerosol-generating materials. The vibrations generated by the transducer are ultrasonic vibrations, and while the frequency range of ultrasonic vibrations is approximately 100 kHz to 3.5 MHz, it is not limited to this range.

[0090] The aerosol generator may further include a core that absorbs the aerosol-generating material. For example, the core may be positioned to surround at least one region of the oscillator, or to be in contact with at least one region of the oscillator.

[0091] When a voltage (e.g., an AC voltage) is applied to the transducer, heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations are generated from the transducer, and these heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations can be transmitted to the aerosol-generating material absorbed in the core. The aerosol-generating material absorbed in the core is converted into a gas phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations transmitted from the transducer, and as a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0092] For example, aerosols can be generated when the viscosity of the aerosol-generating material absorbed into the core decreases due to the heat generated from the transducer, and the aerosol-generating material with reduced viscosity is further atomized by the ultrasonic vibrations generated from the transducer, but this is not the only way in which aerosols can be generated.

[0093] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generator is also a device that generates aerosols by heating the aerosol product contained within the aerosol generator using induction heating.

[0094] The aerosol generator may include a susceptor and a coil. In one embodiment, the coil can apply a magnetic field to the susceptor. By supplying power to the coil from the aerosol generator, a magnetic field can be formed inside the coil. In one embodiment, the susceptor is also a magnetic material that generates heat due to an external magnetic field. When the susceptor is located inside the coil and a magnetic field is applied, it generates heat, which can heat the aerosol product. Furthermore, the susceptor may be selectively located within the aerosol product.

[0095] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include a cradle.

[0096] The aerosol generator can be configured with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may charge the aerosol generator's battery, or the heater may be heated while the cradle and aerosol generator are coupled together.

[0097] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that they can be easily implemented by a person skilled in the art. The present invention can be implemented in a form that can be embodied in the aerosol generating apparatus of the various embodiments described above, or in a variety of different forms, and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0098] Examples of aerosol products will be described below based on Figures 1 to 3.

[0099] Figures 1 to 3 are diagrams showing examples of aerosol products.

[0100] Although Figure 1 illustrates the filter rod 22 as a single segment, it is not limited to this. That is, the filter rod 22 may consist of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering out predetermined components contained in the aerosol. Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may include at least one additional segment performing other functions, as needed.

[0101] The aerosol product 2 may be packaged by at least one trumpet 24. The trumpet 24 may have at least one hole through which external air enters or internal gas exits. For example, the aerosol product 2 may be packaged by one trumpet 24. As another example, the aerosol product 2 may be packaged in layers by two or more trumpets 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be packaged by the first trumpet 24a, and the filter rod 22 may be packaged by trumpets 24b, 24c, and 24d. The entire aerosol product 2 may then be repackaged by a single trumpet 24e. If the filter rod 22 consists of multiple segments, each segment may be packaged by trumpets 24b, 24c, and 24d.

[0102] The tobacco rod 21 contains an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance 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. The tobacco rod 21 may also contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. In addition, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying it.

[0103] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various forms. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in sheet form or strand form. Alternatively, the tobacco rod 21 can be made from shredded tobacco obtained by finely cutting tobacco sheets. Furthermore, the tobacco rod 21 can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can uniformly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21, improving the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod and thereby improving the tobacco flavor. Additionally, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. Although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may further include additional susceptors in addition to the heat-conducting material surrounding its exterior.

[0104] The filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, there are no restrictions on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 can be a cylindrical rod, a tubular rod containing a hollow interior, or a recessed rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments may be made to have a different shape.

[0105] The filter rod 22 is also designed to generate flavor. For example, a fragrance solution may be sprayed onto the filter rod 22, and a separate fiber coated with the fragrance solution may be inserted into the filter rod 22.

[0106] Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may contain at least one capsule 23, where the capsule 23 may generate flavor or an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may also be a structure that encloses a liquid containing a flavor in a coating. The capsule 23 may be spherical or cylindrical, but is not limited to these shapes.

[0107] If the filter rod 22 includes a segment for cooling the aerosol, the cooling segment may be made of a polymer or a biodegradable polymer. For example, the cooling segment may be made of pure polylactic acid alone, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the cooling segment may be made of a cellulose acetate filter with multiple pores formed therein. However, the cooling segment is not limited to the examples described above and may be any material that can perform the function of cooling the aerosol.

[0108] Referring to Figure 2, the aerosol product 3 may further include a front plug 33. The front plug 33 may be located on the tobacco rod 31 on one side opposite to the filter rod 32. The front plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching to the outside and prevent liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 31 into the aerosol generator during smoking.

[0109] The filter rod 32 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in Figure 1, and the second segment 322 may correspond to the second segment of the filter rod 22 in Figure 1.

[0110] The diameter and overall length of aerosol product 3 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of aerosol product 2 in Figure 1. For example, the length of the front plug 33 is approximately 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 is approximately 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is approximately 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is approximately 14 mm, but is not limited to these.

[0111] The aerosol product 3 may be packaged by at least one flap 35. The flap 35 may have at least one hole through which external air enters or internal gas exits. For example, the front plug 33 may be packaged by a first flap 35a, the tobacco rod 31 by a second flap 35b, the first segment 321 by a third flap 35c, and the second segment 322 by a fourth flap 35d.

[0112] The entire aerosol product 3 can then be repackaged by the fifth wrapper 35e. The fifth wrapper 35e may also have at least one perforation 36. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in the region surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 may serve to transfer the heat generated by the heater into the interior of the tobacco rod 31.

[0113] Furthermore, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 34, where the capsule 34 may generate flavor or an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may also be a structure that encloses a liquid containing a flavor in a coating. The capsule 34 may be spherical or cylindrical, but is not limited thereto.

[0114] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol product.

[0115] Referring to Figure 3, the aerosol product 4 may include a first aerosol generating rod 41, a second aerosol generating rod 42, a cooling rod 43, and a filter rod 44. The aerosol product 4 may also be packaged by at least one trumpet 45.

[0116] The first aerosol generating rod 41, the second aerosol generating rod 42, the cooling rod 43, and the filter rod 44 can be sequentially aligned along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 4. Here, the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 4 is also the direction in which the length of the aerosol product 4 extends. For example, the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 4 is also the direction from the first aerosol generating rod 41 to the filter rod 44.

[0117] The aerosols generated by the first aerosol generating rod 41 and the second aerosol generating rod 42 pass sequentially through the first aerosol generating rod 41, the second aerosol generating rod 42, the cooling rod 43, and the filter rod 44 to form an airflow, thereby allowing the smoker to inhale the aerosols from the filter rod 44.

[0118] The first aerosol generating rod 41 can be heated to generate an aerosol. The first aerosol generating rod 41 may contain an aerosol generating substance. The first aerosol generating rod 41 may also contain a wetting agent and / or other additives such as an organic acid, and may contain a fragrance liquid such as menthol. For example, the aerosol generating substance may contain at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol.

[0119] The first aerosol generating rod 41 may include an aerosol generating substrate impregnated with an aerosol generating substance. The aerosol generating substrate may include a crimped sheet, and the aerosol generating substance may be included in the first aerosol generating rod 41 in a state impregnated with the crimped sheet. In addition, other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants and / or organic acids, and flavoring liquids may be included in the first aerosol generating rod 41 in a state absorbed with the crimped sheet.

[0120] The aerosol-generating substrate can be placed inside the first aerosol-generating rod 41 in a wound state. The wound aerosol-generating substrate is wound around an axis extending along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 4, but is not limited to this.

[0121] The rolled-up sheet is also a sheet composed of polymer materials. For example, the polymer material may include at least one of the following: paper, cellulose acetate, lyocell, or polylactic acid. For example, the rolled-up sheet is also a paper sheet that does not produce an unpleasant odor when heated to high temperatures.

[0122] The first aerosol generating rod 41 extends to a point approximately 7 mm to 20 mm from the end of the aerosol product 4, and the second aerosol generating rod 42 may extend to a point approximately 7 mm to 20 mm from the end of the first aerosol generating rod 41. However, it is not necessarily limited to such numerical ranges, and the extending lengths of the first aerosol generating rod 41 and the second aerosol generating rod 42 can be appropriately adjusted within a range that can be easily changed by an ordinary technician.

[0123] The second aerosol generating rod 42 can be heated to produce a nicotine-containing aerosol. For example, the second aerosol generating rod 42 may contain tobacco material. The tobacco material may, but is not limited to, tobacco strands, tobacco particles, tobacco sheets, tobacco beads, tobacco granules, tobacco powder, or tobacco extract.

[0124] For example, the second aerosol-generating rod 42 may contain multiple tobacco strands, and these multiple tobacco strands may contain flat-leaf shredded tobacco. Flat-leaf shredded tobacco can be produced by finely shredding flat-leaf sheets. Flat-leaf shredded tobacco can be produced by the following process: Tobacco raw materials are crushed to produce a slurry mixed with aerosol-generating substances (e.g., glycerin, propylene glycol, etc.), flavoring liquid, binders (e.g., guar gum, xanthan gum, carboxymethylcellulose, etc.), water, etc. Natural pulp or cellulose may be added to the slurry, and one or more binders may be mixed in. The slurry may be cast to form sheets, which are then dried to produce flat-leaf sheets. Flat-leaf shredded tobacco can be produced by cutting or finely shredding the produced flat-leaf sheets. Tobacco raw materials are tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, and / or tobacco powder generated during tobacco processing. The flat-leaf sheets may also contain other additives such as wood cellulose fibers.

[0125] Furthermore, the second aerosol generating rod 42 may contain shredded tobacco, which is produced by blending and processing various types of tobacco leaves and then finely cutting them. In addition, the second aerosol generating rod 42 may contain a mixture of flat-leaf shredded tobacco and shredded tobacco.

[0126] As another example, the second aerosol generating rod 42 may contain multiple tobacco granules. Tobacco granules are particles having a diameter of approximately 100 μm to 2,000 μm. Tobacco granules can be produced by extruding a mixture of crushed tobacco leaves, a pH adjuster, and a solvent.

[0127] Multiple tobacco granules may be arranged between the filter material. The filter material may, for example, include bundles of cellulose acetate fiber strands. The multiple tobacco granules may be arranged in a form uniformly dispersed between multiple cellulose fibers. As another example, the filter material may include a rolled paper sheet. The rolled paper sheet may be placed inside the second aerosol generating rod 42 in a wound state. The rolled paper sheet is wound around an axis extending along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 4. Multiple tobacco granules may be dispersed inside the wound paper sheet.

[0128] Furthermore, the second aerosol generating rod 42 may include an aerosol generating substrate impregnated with a liquid aerosol generating composition. The aerosol generating substrate may include a rolled sheet, and the liquid aerosol generating composition may be included in the second aerosol generating rod 42 in a state impregnated with the rolled sheet. The same provisions described above apply to the aerosol generating substrate included in the first aerosol generating rod 41 as apply to the aerosol generating substrate included in the second aerosol generating rod 42.

[0129] Liquid aerosol-generating compositions may contain nicotine. Nicotine may include freebase nicotine and nicotine salt. Freebase nicotine refers to neutral nicotine without added protons. For example, if a strong base such as ammonia is added to a positively charged nicotine salt, the strong base is converted into a cation, and the nicotine salt becomes neutral freebase nicotine.

[0130] Furthermore, the liquid aerosol generating composition may contain an aerosol generating substance. The same provisions described above may apply to the aerosol generating substrate contained in the first aerosol generating rod 41.

[0131] The liquid aerosol generating composition can be impregnated at a concentration of approximately 0.05 g to 1.0 g per gram of aerosol generating substrate. For example, the liquid aerosol generating composition can be impregnated at a concentration of approximately 0.1 g to 0.8 g per gram of aerosol generating substrate.

[0132] The cooling rod 43 can cool the aerosols generated by the first aerosol generating rod 41 and the second aerosol generating rod 42. The cooling rod 43 may be made from a biodegradable polymer material and may have a cooling function. For example, the cooling rod 43 may be made from polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, but is not limited to that.

[0133] Alternatively, the cooling rod 43 may be made of a cellulose acetate filter. However, the cooling rod 43 is not limited to the examples given above, and any material that performs the function of cooling an aerosol may be included without limitation. For example, the cooling rod 43 may be a tube filter containing a hollow or a paper tube made of paper.

[0134] At least one hole 431 may be formed on the outer surface of the cooling rod 43. The at least one hole 431 may be formed along the circumferential direction of the cooling rod 43 to form one or more rows. The at least one hole 431 may allow outside air to flow into the inside of the cooling rod 43. The outside air that flows into the inside of the cooling rod 43 may mix with the high-temperature aerosol generated by the first aerosol generating rod 41 and the second aerosol generating rod 42 to cool the aerosol.

[0135] The filter rod 44 can filter out certain components contained in the aerosol passing through it. The filter rod 44 may contain a filter material. For example, the filter rod 44 is also a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod 44 may be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow.

[0136] There are no restrictions on the shape of the filter rod 44. For example, the filter rod 44 can be a cylindrical rod, a tubular rod with a hollow interior, or a recessed rod with an open end. If the filter rod 44 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments may be made to have a different shape.

[0137] The filter rod 44 is also designed to generate flavor. For example, the filter rod 44 may contain a flavoring liquid, and a separate fiber containing the flavoring liquid may be inserted into the filter rod 44.

[0138] Furthermore, the filter rod 44 may include at least one capsule, which may generate flavor or an aerosol. For example, the capsule may also be a structure that encloses a liquid containing a flavor in a film. The capsule may be spherical or cylindrical, but is not limited to these shapes.

[0139] The aerosol product 4 may include a trumpet 45 that surrounds at least a portion of the first aerosol generating rod 41 or the filter rod 44. The aerosol product 4 may also include a trumpet 45 that surrounds both the first aerosol generating rod 41 or the filter rod 44. The trumpet 45 is located on the outermost edge of the aerosol product 4, and the trumpet 45 may be a single trumpet or a combination of multiple trumpets.

[0140] The aerosol product 4 can be packaged by overlapping two or more trumpets. For example, the first aerosol generating rod 41 can be packaged by the first trumpet 45a, the second aerosol generating rod 42 by the second trumpet 45b, the cooling rod 43 by the third trumpet 45c, and the filter rod 44 by the fourth trumpet 45d. The entire aerosol product 4 can then be repackaged by the fifth trumpet 45e.

[0141] The first trumpet 45a may surround the first aerosol generating rod 41, and the second trumpet 45b may surround the second aerosol generating rod 42. The first trumpet 45a and the second trumpet 45b may also be made of paper and a metal foil such as aluminum foil bonded together. For example, the first trumpet 45a and the second trumpet 45b may also be laminated sheets in which paper and metal foil are laminated. The first trumpet 45a and the second trumpet 45b may also be laminated sheets in which paper is placed on one side of the metal foil, or laminated sheets in which paper is placed on both sides of the metal foil.

[0142] The paper of the first flap 45a may contain an oil-resistant substance. For example, the paper of the first flap 45a may contain polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or silicone. The surface of the paper of the first flap 45a may be coated with polyvinyl alcohol or silicone.

[0143] The third wrapper 45c may surround the cooling rod 43. The third wrapper 45c may include a wrapping paper. The wrapping paper of the third wrapper 45c may be porous or non-porous wrapping paper. The third wrapper 45c may have at least one perforation 45f formed therein. For example, the third wrapper 45c may wrap a cooling rod 43 having at least one hole 431 formed therein, and the at least one perforation 45f formed in the third wrapper 45c may be formed in a position corresponding to the at least one hole 431 formed in the cooling rod 43.

[0144] The fourth wrapper 45d may surround the filter rod 44. The fourth wrapper 45d may include hard wrapping paper, which has greater thickness and basis weight than typical wrapping paper. For example, the thickness of hard wrapping paper can be about 70 μm to 150 μm, and the basis weight can be about 50 g / m². 2 ~100g / m 2 Furthermore, hard wrapping paper may contain oil-resistant substances. For example, hard wrapping paper may include surface treatment with an oil-resistant substance such as polyvinyl alcohol or silicone.

[0145] The fifth trumpet 45e can enclose the first aerosol generating rod 41, which is enclosed by the first trumpet 45a; the second aerosol generating rod 42, which is enclosed by the second trumpet 45b; the cooling rod 43, which is enclosed by the third trumpet 45c; and the filter rod 44, which is enclosed by the fourth trumpet 45d. The fifth trumpet 45e can prevent the outside of the aerosol product 4 from being contaminated by the aerosol generated in the aerosol product 4. Liquid substances may be generated within the aerosol product 4 by the user's puffing. For example, liquid substances (e.g., water) may be generated when the aerosol generated in the aerosol product 4 is cooled by outside air. By enclosing the outer surface of the aerosol product 4 with the fifth trumpet 45e, the generated liquid substances may be prevented from leaking outside the aerosol product 4.

[0146] Embodiments of the present invention relate to aerosol products and an aerosol generator that can distinguish between different types of aerosol products and identify aerosol products suitable for use with an aerosol generator and aerosol products unsuitable for use with an aerosol generator.

[0147] For this reason, an aerosol product according to one embodiment may contain an identification substance. The identification substance may be placed in one of the components of the aerosol product. For example, the identification substance may be placed in the trumpet, filter rod, tobacco rod, front plug, and / or aerosol generating rod. The following embodiments will be described based on an example in which the identification substance is placed in the trumpet, but as described above, the component in which the identification substance is placed may be modified.

[0148] Identifying substances may have physical, chemical, or optical properties. Identifying substances are also substances that emit light while changing the properties of the wavelength of transmitted light. Specifically, identifying substances can be excited by the absorption of light in a predetermined wavelength range. In this invention, "excitation of a substance" means that the state of the substance changes from the ground state to the excited state. Thereafter, during the process in which the state of the identifying substance changes from the excited state to the ground state, light in a predetermined wavelength range may be emitted from the identifying substance. For example, identifying substances may include substances belonging to the lantanide series and may include substances composed of at least one element with atomic numbers 57 to 71.

[0149] In one embodiment, the identifying substance may include a tagant. The tagant may include a spectral signature that is identifiable when absorbing and / or emitting light. When the tagant is irradiated with light by the light-emitting unit of an aerosol generator, it may absorb a specific range of wavelengths. The tagant may be excited by absorbing light and emit at least one wavelength of light transitioned from the wavelength of the excited light. In this case, the light emitted by the tagant may be in the form of photoluminescence, phosphorescence, or fluorescence.

[0150] Light emitted by the Tagant with a specific range of wavelengths can be received by the light-receiving unit of the aerosol generator. Based on the wavelength of the light received by the light-receiving unit, the aerosol generator can identify the type of aerosol product.

[0151] The specific range of wavelengths emitted by Tagant can be determined by the amount, concentration, type, and / or composition ratio of the Tagant substance.

[0152] Tagant may contain organic substances. In one embodiment, tagant may contain one or more organic substances selected from the group consisting of quinazolinone compounds, thiophene compounds, sulfobenzoic acid compounds, and naphthyridine compounds.

[0153] Quinazolinone compounds may include quinazolinone derivatives or salts thereof. For example, quinazolinone compounds may include 4(3H)-quinazolinone, 6-chloro-2-(5-chloro-2-hydroxyphenyl); 4(3H)-quinazolinone, 6-chloro-2-(4-chloro-2-hydroxyphenyl); 4(3H)-quinazolinone, 7-chloro-2-(5-chloro-2-hydroxyphenyl); 2-(5-chloro-2-hydroxyphenyl)-3H-quinazolin-4-one.

[0154] Thiophene compounds may include thiophene derivatives or salts thereof. For example, thiophene compounds may include 2,5-bis(5-tert-butyl-2-benzoxazolyl)thiophene.

[0155] Sulfobenzoic acid compounds may include sulfobenzoic acid derivatives or salts thereof. For example, sulfobenzoic acid compounds may include benzoic acid, 2-[(2-hydroxy-5-sulfobenzoyl)amino]-, and monosodium salts.

[0156] Naphthyridine compounds may include naphthyridine derivatives or salts thereof. For example, naphthyridine compounds may include 1,8-naphthyridine derivatives and 1,5-naphthyridine derivatives.

[0157] Furthermore, Tagant may contain inorganic substances. In one embodiment, Tagant may contain one or more inorganic substances selected from the group consisting of rare earth elements, actinide metal oxides, and ceramics. For example, the rare earth elements may include one or more lanthanum group elements selected from the group consisting of lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, neodymium, promethium, samarium, europium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium, erbium, thulium, ytterbium, nitrides, and lutetium.

[0158] Furthermore, Tagant is also a substance that is a mixture of organic and inorganic substances. In one embodiment, Tagant may include a substance in which organic and inorganic substances are covalently bonded, coordinately bonded, ionically bonded, or covalently bonded. For example, Tagant may also be a substance in which lanthanum inorganic and organic substances are coordinately bonded. For example, Tagant may include europium, tris[7-chloro-1-cyclopropyl-6-fluoro-1,4-dihydro-4-(oxo-kappaO)-1,8-naphthyridine;

[0159] The identifying substance is defined by the wavelength at which it has the greatest absorption (Abs) when irradiated with light. max The difference between the maximum absorption wavelength and the dominant wavelength (DWL) of the emitted light is approximately 20% or more relative to the maximum absorption wavelength. If the difference between the maximum absorption wavelength and the dominant wavelength of the identifiable substance falls within the aforementioned numerical range, it can have a meaningful level of identification accuracy. If the difference between the maximum absorption wavelength and the dominant wavelength of the identifiable substance is less than approximately 20%, light reflected by other components that are not the identifiable substance may act as noise, reducing the level of identification accuracy. For example, for an identifiable substance, the difference between the maximum absorption wavelength and the dominant wavelength of the emitted light relative to the light irradiated onto the identifiable substance is approximately 25% to 70% relative to the maximum absorption wavelength. Also, for an identifiable substance, the difference between the maximum absorption wavelength and the dominant wavelength of the emitted light relative to the light irradiated onto the identifiable substance is approximately 30% to 65% relative to the maximum absorption wavelength.

[0160] Experimental example: Photo-emitting experiment of a discriminant containing Tagant

[0161] After irradiating the identification substance containing Tagant with light, the wavelength of the emitted light was confirmed. The wavelength of the irradiated light was 365 nm, and the dominant wavelength (DWL) of the emitted light was measured. The results are shown in Table 1 below.

[0162] Example 1, described in Table 1, is a quinazolinone compound, specifically 4(3H)-quinazolinone and 6-chloro-2-(5-chloro-2-hydroxyphenyl). Example 2 is a quinazolinone compound, specifically 2-(5-chloro-2-hydroxyphenyl)-3H-quinazolin-4-one. Example 3 is a thiophene compound, specifically 2,5-bis(5-tert-butyl-2-benzoxazolyl)thiophene and a sulfobenzoic acid compound, which is a mixture of benzoic acid, 2-[(2-hydroxy-5-sulfobenzoyl)amino]-, and a monosodium salt (85-90:10-15 weight ratio). Example 4 is europium and tris[7-chloro-1-cyclopropyl-6-fluoro-1,4-dihydro-4-(oxo-kappaO)-1,8-naphthyridine].

[0163] [Table 1]

[0164] As shown in Table 1, Examples 1 to 4 can be confirmed to absorb light, be excited, and emit light of a wavelength different from the wavelength of the absorbed light. Furthermore, Examples 1 to 4 have a maximum absorption wavelength (Abs) relative to the irradiated light. max ) and the difference between the main wavelength of the emitted light and the maximum absorption wavelength can be confirmed to be approximately 20% or more (Example 1: approximately 38%, Example 2: approximately 36%, Example 3: approximately 29%, Example 4: approximately 63%).

[0165] Tagant can be produced by adding it to a paper slurry or paste before drying the components of the aerosol product (e.g., a trumpet), or by painting or spraying it onto the components. Tagant may be present in nanogram quantities within the components of the aerosol product.

[0166] In one embodiment, the aerosol product 5 may contain a predetermined first content or more of Tagant. This ensures that the aerosol product 5 contains a sufficient amount of Tagant to emit light at wavelengths in a specific range. For example, when Tagant is sprayed onto a surface, the sprayed solution may contain Tagant at concentrations between approximately 1 ppm and approximately 1000 ppm. As another example, Tagant may be present at 6 mg / mm³. 2 The above can be included on the trumpet.

[0167] In one embodiment, the identification substance solution may be applied to the surface of a component of the aerosol product. Here, the identification substance solution means a liquid composition containing the identification substance. For example, the identification substance solution may be used to coat the surface of the trumpet of the aerosol product. As another example, the identification substance solution may be printed on the surface of the trumpet of the aerosol product.

[0168] For example, an identification substance solution may be produced by a manufacturing method that includes the steps of preparing the identification substance, mixing the identification substance and OP varnish to produce a primary solution, and mixing the primary solution and a diluent to produce an identification substance solution. The produced identification substance may be applied as a component of an aerosol product.

[0169] The step of preparing the identification substance also involves pre-treating the identification substance to have a shape and physical properties suitable for application to the components of the aerosol product. For example, the identification substance contained in the identification substance solution may be multiple particles having a diameter of approximately 0.1 μm to 10 μm. The identification substance may be milled to have a diameter within the aforementioned range. When the identification substance has a diameter within the aforementioned range, it can be uniformly dispersed on the surface of the aerosol generating article coated with the identification substance solution, potentially improving printability. If the identification substance has a diameter of less than approximately 0.1 μm, it is difficult to detect the light emitted by the identification substance. If the identification substance has a diameter exceeding approximately 10 μm, uniform dispersion of the identification substance is difficult, potentially reducing printability. The identification substance may have a diameter of, for example, approximately 0.5 μm to 5 μm, or approximately 0.7 μm to 3 μm.

[0170] The identification substance solution may include overprint varnish. In the present invention, overprint varnish means a liquid coating that solidifies upon curing. For example, overprint varnish may contain one or more substances selected from the group consisting of nitrocellulose, polyamide, propyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, and 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH).

[0171] The identification substance solution may contain a diluent. The diluent may also be a diluent used in gravure or offset printing as is known in the art. For example, the diluent may include one or more substances selected from the group consisting of water, C1-C4 alcohols, vegetable oils, fatty amines, propyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, and ethyl acetate. The vegetable oil may include one or more oils selected from the group consisting of linseed oil, soybean oil, castor oil, corn oil, tung oil, otticita oil, and coconut oil. The fatty amine may also be one or more selected from the group consisting of oleylamine, stearylamine, and oleyldiamine.

[0172] For example, the identification substance solution may contain, but is not limited to, approximately 0.01% to 20% by weight of the identification substance, approximately 10% to 40% by weight of the OP varnish, and approximately 50% to 85% by weight of the diluent. The identification substance solution may also contain approximately 0.05% to 10% by weight of the identification substance, approximately 15% to 30% by weight of the OP varnish, and approximately 60% to 80% by weight of the diluent.

[0173] Hereinafter, various embodiments regarding the placement / method of the identification substance will be described sequentially based on Figures 4A to 5D.

[0174] Figures 4A to 4D are side cross-sectional views of aerosol product 5 to illustrate examples of the arrangement / method of the identification substance.

[0175] Referring to Figures 4A to 4D, the aerosol product 5 may include the identification substance 10, the tobacco rod 51, the filter rod 52, and the trumpet 53. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol product 5 shown in Figures 4A to 4D is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol product described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0176] Referring to Figure 4A, the identification substance 10 (tagant) can be uniformly distributed across the entire area of ​​the trumpet 53 along its longitudinal direction. This allows the sensor module of the aerosol generator to sense the entire area of ​​the trumpet 53 where the identification substance 10 is arranged, thus increasing the flexibility of the sensor module's arrangement structure. This, in turn, can improve the ease of the manufacturing process of the aerosol generator.

[0177] Furthermore, since the identification substance 10 is exposed on the outer surface of the trumpet 53, the sensor module of the aerosol generator can easily recognize the identification substance 10. In other words, the sensitivity of the sensor module can be improved.

[0178] The identification substance 10 shown in Figure 4A can be uniformly distributed throughout the entire area of ​​the trumpet 53 by being added to the paper slurry or paste during the manufacturing process of the trumpet 53.

[0179] Referring to Figure 4B, the identification substance 10 can be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the trumpet 53 on the outer surface of the trumpet 53. This allows the sensor module of the aerosol generator to sense the entire longitudinal area of ​​the trumpet 53 on which the identification substance 10 is arranged, thus improving the degree of freedom in the arrangement structure of the sensor module.

[0180] Furthermore, since the identification substance 10 is exposed on the outer surface of the trumpet 53, the sensor module of the aerosol generator can easily recognize the identification substance 10. In other words, the sensitivity of the sensor module can be improved.

[0181] Furthermore, based on the improved sensitivity, the amount of identification substance 10 used can be reduced compared to the embodiment shown in Figure 4A.

[0182] The identification substance 10 shown in Figure 4B can be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the trumpet 53 in a manner that it is sprayed onto the surface of the trumpet 53.

[0183] Referring to Figure 4C, the identification substance 10 can be positioned along the longitudinal direction of the trumpet 53 on the inner surface of the trumpet 53. This prevents the identification substance 10 from separating from the trumpet 53 without the need for a separate adhesive. Consequently, the accuracy of the aerosol generator's identification of the identification substance 10 is improved, and the step of adhering the identification substance 10 to the trumpet 53 in the manufacturing process of the aerosol product 5 can be omitted.

[0184] The identification substance 10 shown in Figure 4C can be placed on the inner surface of the trumpet 53 by being sprayed onto its inner surface. In this case, the thickness of the trumpet 53 can be set to an appropriate range so that the sensor module of the aerosol generator can identify the identification substance 10 placed on the inner surface of the trumpet 53. For example, the thickness of the trumpet 53 may be in the range of approximately 10 μm to 200 μm.

[0185] Referring to Figure 4D, two trumpets 53 can overlap and surround the aerosol product 5. The identification substance 10 can be positioned longitudinally between the two overlapping trumpets 53. As a result, the identification substance 10 will not separate from the trumpets 53 without the need for a separate adhesive. Therefore, the accuracy of the aerosol generator's identification of the identification substance 10 is improved, and the step of adhering the identification substance 10 to the trumpets 53 in the manufacturing process of the aerosol product 5 can be omitted.

[0186] Furthermore, compared to the embodiment shown in Figure 4C, the identification substance 10 is positioned closer to the outer surface of the trumpet 53, so the sensor module of the aerosol generator can easily recognize the identification substance 10. In other words, the sensitivity of the sensor module can be improved compared to the embodiment shown in Figure 4C.

[0187] Figures 5A to 5D are perspective views of aerosol product 5 to illustrate examples of the arrangement / configuration of the identification substance.

[0188] Since the aerosol product 5 shown in Figures 5A to 5D is at least one of the aerosol products described above, we will omit further explanation below.

[0189] Furthermore, at least one configuration or feature of the embodiments described above may be attached to the aerosol product 5, unless it is technically obviously impossible. For example, the embodiments described in Figures 5A to 5D are described on the basis that the identification substance 10 is placed on the outer surface of the trumpet, but are not limited thereto, and the identification substance 10 shown in Figures 5A to 5D may be placed on the inner surface of the trumpet.

[0190] Referring to Figure 5A, the identification substance 10 is arranged along the circumferential direction of the aerosol product 5, but it may also be arranged only in a portion along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 5. In that case, the sensor module of the aerosol generator can be positioned at a predetermined location along the circumferential direction of the aerosol product 5 to recognize the identification substance 10, thus increasing the degree of freedom in the arrangement structure of the sensor module.

[0191] Furthermore, compared to embodiments in which the identification substance 10 is arranged throughout the entire area along the longitudinal direction of the trumpet, the amount of identification substance 10 used can be reduced.

[0192] For example, the region where the identification substance 10 is located may extend approximately 1 mm to 10 mm along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 5. For example, the region where the identification substance 10 is located may extend approximately 2 mm to 7 mm along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 5.

[0193] Furthermore, the aerosol product 5 includes aerosol generating rods and filter rods that are sequentially aligned along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 5, and the identification substance 10 may be placed in a region extending from the boundary between the aerosol generating rods and filter rods toward the aerosol generating rods.

[0194] The length from the downstream end of the region where the identification substance 10 is placed to the boundary between the aerosol generation rod and the filter rod is approximately 0 mm to 5 mm. Within the aforementioned range, it is possible to prevent the heat applied to the aerosol product 5 from being transferred to the identification substance 10. For example, the length from the downstream end of the region where the identification substance 10 is placed to the boundary between the aerosol generation rod and the filter rod is approximately 1 mm to 3 mm.

[0195] Here, "upstream" and "downstream" can be determined based on the direction of airflow when a user inhales an aerosol using the aerosol product 5. For example, when a user inhales an aerosol using the aerosol product 5 illustrated in Figure 5A, the air may move from the bottom to the top of the aerosol product 5, relative to Figure 5A. On the other hand, a person of ordinary skill in the art would readily understand that "upstream" and "downstream" are relative due to the relationship between their components.

[0196] Referring to Figure 5B, the identification substance 10 can be positioned only in a portion of the aerosol product 5 along its circumferential and longitudinal directions. This allows for a further reduction in the amount of identification substance 10 used compared to the embodiment shown in Figure 5A.

[0197] Referring to Figure 5C, the identification substance 10 extends along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 5, but may be positioned only in a portion of the aerosol product 5 along its circumferential direction. In this case, the sensor module of the aerosol generator can be positioned at a predetermined location along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 5 to recognize the identification substance 10, thus improving the flexibility of the sensor module's placement structure.

[0198] Furthermore, compared to embodiments in which the identification substance 10 is arranged throughout the entire area along the longitudinal direction of the trumpet, the amount of identification substance 10 used can be reduced.

[0199] On the other hand, since the identification substance 10 described in Figures 5A to 5C is located in only one region of the aerosol product 5, the structure of the sensor module of the aerosol generator for recognizing the identification substance 10 is not fixed in a specific position but can be modified. A detailed explanation of this will be given later in Figures 16 to 19.

[0200] Referring to Figure 5D, the identification substance 10 may include a first identification substance 10a and a second identification substance 10b that are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction. Each of the first identification substance 10a and the second identification substance 10b is also a tagant, and the arrangement of the first identification substance 10a and the second identification substance 10b is not limited to that shown in Figure 5D, but can be arranged in the embodiments described in Figures 4A to 5C.

[0201] The first identifying substance 10a and the second identifying substance 10b may have different functions. For this reason, the amount, concentration, type, and / or composition ratio of the first identifying substance 10a and the second identifying substance 10b may be set to be different from each other. As a result, the specific wavelength ranges emitted by the first identifying substance 10a and the second identifying substance 10b are different from each other, and the sensor module of the aerosol generator may recognize the specific wavelength ranges emitted by the first identifying substance 10a and the second identifying substance 10b, respectively.

[0202] The difference between the wavelength emitted from the first identifying substance 10a and the wavelength emitted from the second identifying substance 10b is approximately 15 nm or more. If the wavelength emitted from the first identifying substance 10a and the wavelength emitted from the second identifying substance 10b is less than approximately 15 nm, the accuracy of the control unit in distinguishing the types of identifying substances decreases. Here, the wavelength emitted from the first identifying substance 10a and the wavelength emitted from the second identifying substance 10b refer to the dominant wavelength (DWL), respectively. For example, the difference between the wavelength emitted from the first identifying substance 10a and the wavelength emitted from the second identifying substance 10b is also approximately 30 nm or more, approximately 50 nm or more, or approximately 100 nm or more.

[0203] On the other hand, since multiple instances of the identification substance 10 described in Figure 5D are arranged in one region of the aerosol product 5, the sensor module of the aerosol generator for recognizing multiple instances of the identification substance 10 may be implemented in multiple locations, or it may be implemented in a way that allows it to be changed rather than being fixed in a specific position. A detailed explanation of this will be given later in Figure 17.

[0204] In the following description, based on the attached drawings, a separation prevention unit that prevents the identification substance from separating from the trumpet will be explained in an embodiment in which the identification substance is arranged on the outer surface of the trumpet.

[0205] Figures 6A and 6B show the tobacco rod, filter rod, and trumpet separated from the aerosol product.

[0206] Referring to Figures 6A and 6B, the aerosol product 5 may include an identification substance 10, a separation prevention unit 20, a tobacco rod 51, a filter rod 52, and a trumpet 53. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol product 5 shown in Figures 6A and 6B is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol product described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0207] The separation prevention unit 20 can perform the function of preventing the identification substance 10 from falling out of the trumpet 53. The separation prevention unit 20 can be positioned on the trumpet 53 so as to cover the area where the identification substance 10 is placed. The separation prevention unit 20 may be transparent so as not to block the light irradiated onto the identification substance 10 even when covering the area where the identification substance 10 is placed.

[0208] As shown in Figure 6B, the separation prevention section 20 may change color at the temperature at which the tobacco rod 51 is heated. For example, the separation prevention section 20 may contain a thermochromic substance that is transparent before heating but changes color after exposure to heat. Since the separation prevention section 20 is positioned to cover the identification substance 10, if the separation prevention section 20 changes color, it can shield the identification substance 10. This allows the user to easily determine with the naked eye whether or not the aerosol product 5 has been used. For example, when heated to a temperature of 200°C to 400°C, the separation prevention section 20 may change color from transparent to opaque brown.

[0209] The temperature at which the separation prevention unit 20 changes color is higher than the activation temperature of the identification substance 10. In this invention, the activation temperature of the identification substance 10 is also the threshold temperature at which the identification substance 10 emits light having a different wavelength from the light irradiated to it. If the temperature at which the separation prevention unit 20 changes color is lower than or equal to the activation temperature of the identification substance 10, the separation prevention unit 20 changes color before the identification substance 10 emits light, thereby blocking the light irradiated to the identification substance 10, and thus the sensor module does not recognize the identification substance 10. According to one embodiment, the temperature at which the separation prevention unit 20 changes color is higher than the activation temperature of the identification substance 10, so the integrity of the sensor module's work in recognizing the identification substance 10 can be ensured.

[0210] In one embodiment, the area of ​​the separation prevention section 20 is larger than the area of ​​the region where the identification substance 10 is placed, and the separation prevention section 20 may be positioned so that the region where the identification substance is placed is not exposed to the outside. For example, the end of the separation prevention section 20 may be separated from the end of the identification substance 10 by a predetermined distance of about 20L. The aforementioned predetermined distance 20L is also about 1 mm to 10 mm.

[0211] If the default distance of 20L is less than approximately 1mm, there is a higher possibility that the identification substance 10 will fall off the trumpet 53. Also, if the default distance of 20L exceeds approximately 10mm, the area of ​​the separation prevention section 20 may be excessively enlarged, potentially leading to unintended heating.

[0212] In one embodiment, the separation prevention section 20 may contain an adhesive material. The separation prevention section 20 may contain the same substance as the OP varnish of the identification substance solution. For example, the separation prevention section 20 may contain one or more substances selected from the group consisting of nitrocellulose, polyamide, propyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, and 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH).

[0213] The aerosol generating apparatus using the aerosol products described above will be explained below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0214] Figure 7 is a schematic side view of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment. In the present invention, the term "aerosol generation system" may be used to include the aerosol product and the aerosol generation apparatus.

[0215] Referring to Figure 7, the aerosol generator 1 may include an aerosol generator body 100, a control unit 110, a battery 120, a memory 130, a heater 140, and a sensor module 150. However, the components of the aerosol generator 1 are not limited thereto, and other components may be added or at least one component may be omitted depending on the embodiment.

[0216] Furthermore, since at least one of the components of the aerosol generation system shown in Figure 7 is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generation system described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0217] The aerosol generator body 100 can form the overall appearance of the aerosol generator 1. The aerosol generator body 100 can house the components of the aerosol generator 1.

[0218] A cavity 100a may be formed in the aerosol generating apparatus body 100, in which the aerosol product 5 can be contained. The aerosol product 5 contained in the cavity 100a may be heated by a heater 140. The cavity 100a is also an elongated cavity, bonding region, insertion region, or heating region that contains the aerosol product 5. The cavity 100a may have a shape that corresponds to at least a portion of the aerosol product 5. For example, the cavity 100a may have a shape that extends in one direction (e.g., the -Z direction) from the opening. The aerosol product 5 may be inserted longitudinally into the cavity 100a by passing through the opening.

[0219] The aerosol product 5 contained in the cavity 100a may include the identification substance 10 described above. The identification substance 10 may be provided in at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol product 5. When the aerosol product 5 is contained in the cavity 100a, the identification substance 10 may be located inside the aerosol generator body 100.

[0220] The control unit 110 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 110 may be implemented as an array of numerous logic gates, and may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller and a memory in which a program that can be executed by the microcontroller is stored, but is not limited to that.

[0221] The control unit 110 can control the power supplied from the battery 120 to the heater 140. For example, the control unit 110 can control the amount of power supplied from the battery 120 to the heater 140 and the duration of power supply so that the heater 140 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains a specified temperature.

[0222] In one embodiment, the control unit 110 may receive sensing results from the sensor module 150. The memory 130 is connected to the control unit 110 and can store executable instructions. The control unit 110 can control the operation of the aerosol generator 1 by executing the instructions stored in the memory 130.

[0223] In one embodiment, the control unit 110 receives sensing results from the sensor module 150 and executes commands related to the sensor module 150 from among the commands stored in the memory 130, thereby recognizing identification information related to the aerosol product 5 based on the amount of light emitted from the identification substance 10. For example, the identification information may also include information relating to the type of aerosol product 5, whether it is a genuine product or not, and / or the substances it contains. The control unit 110 can control the operation of the aerosol generator 1 based on the recognized identification information.

[0224] Specifically, the control unit 110 can control the power supply to the heater 140 based on the determined information about the aerosol product 5. The control unit 110 can control the operation of the heater 140 in a manner that differs from one another based on the identification information by executing the instruction words related to the operation of the heater 140 from among the instruction words stored in the memory 130.

[0225] The battery 120 can supply power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. For example, the battery 120 can be electrically connected to the heater 140 and supply power to heat the heater 140. The battery 120 can also supply power necessary for the operation of other components of the aerosol generator 1 (e.g., the control unit 110). The battery 120 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 120 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but the type of battery 120 is not limited to that.

[0226] The memory 130 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 110 and data being processed.

[0227] The memory 130 may hold appropriate temperature profiles and driving information based on various information such as the type of aerosol product 5, the types of substances it contains, the ratio of substance content, the amount of substance, and the degree of humidity. The control unit 110 can execute operations corresponding to the aerosol product 5 by issuing commands (e.g., driving cycle, driving intensity, etc.) from the memory 130 based on the identified substance 10.

[0228] The heater 140 is powered by the battery 120 and can heat at least a portion of the aerosol product 5. For example, the heater 140 may be positioned outside the tobacco rod of the aerosol product 5 and heat the tobacco rod.

[0229] The heater 140 is not limited to the example shown in Figure 7. That is, although the heater 140 shown in Figure 7 is located on the outside of the aerosol product 5, the heater 140 may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element. In this case, the heater 140 may be inserted into the aerosol product 5 and heat the inside of the aerosol product 5.

[0230] The sensor module 150 can detect the identification substance 10 of the aerosol product 5. The sensor module 150 can also detect whether or not the aerosol product 5 has been inserted into the cavity 100a.

[0231] The sensor module 150 may be positioned in the aerosol generator body 100 to recognize the identification substance 10 of the aerosol product 5. The sensor module 150 may be positioned in the cavity 100a to be located at the corresponding location of the identification substance 10.

[0232] The sensor module 150 may include a light-emitting unit 151 and a light-receiving unit 155.

[0233] The light-emitting unit 151 can emit light of a first wavelength toward the cavity 100a. For example, the light-emitting unit 151 may consist of at least one light-emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows through it.

[0234] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the light of a first wavelength emitted by the light-emitting unit 151 may be transmitted to the identification substance 10 of the aerosol product 5. The light of the first wavelength is excited by the identification substance 10, which may emit light of a second wavelength distinct from the first wavelength. Optical properties such as the wavelength and amount of light emitted from the identification substance 10 may be determined by the amount, concentration, type and / or composition ratio of the identification substance 10.

[0235] The light-receiving unit 155 can receive light emitted from the identification substance 10 of the aerosol product 5. For example, the light-receiving unit 155 may consist of at least one photodetector diode that conducts current when irradiated with light.

[0236] The light receiving unit 155 can sense the optical properties of the light emitted from the aerosol product 5 (for example, the amount of light at the second wavelength) and recognize identification information related to the aerosol product 5. The light receiving unit 155 can provide the sensing result to the control unit 110.

[0237] The following describes the first wavelength of light emitted by the light-emitting unit 151 and the second wavelength of light received by the light-receiving unit 155.

[0238] In one embodiment, the first wavelength of light is infrared radiation, and the second wavelength of light is infrared radiation having a different wavelength from the first wavelength. For example, the first wavelength may be in the range of 930 nm to 990 nm. The second wavelength may be in the range of 1000 nm to 1020 nm. For example, the first wavelength may be 980 nm, and the second wavelength may be 1012 nm.

[0239] As a result, the sensor module 150 can recognize identification information of the aerosol product 5 without being visually exposed to the user by using first and second wavelengths of light consisting of infrared light.

[0240] In one embodiment, the first wavelength of light is ultraviolet light, and the second wavelength of light is infrared light. For example, the first wavelength is also a wavelength in the range of 300 nm to 340 nm. The second wavelength is also a wavelength in the range of 1000 nm to 1020 nm. For example, the first wavelength is also a wavelength of 320 nm, and the second wavelength is also a wavelength of 1012 nm.

[0241] In one embodiment, the first wavelength of light is ultraviolet light, and the second wavelength of light is visible light. In this case, the light receiving unit 155 is also a color sensor. The color sensor may include an RGB (Red Green Blue) sensor or an xYZ optical sensor for measuring, discriminating, or classifying the colors of an identification display. The RGB sensor includes a three-color light source and can detect color information by reflecting light off an object. The XYZ optical sensor includes an optical-to-digital converter and can detect xy chromaticity coordinates in the CIE (Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage) 1931 color space.

[0242] For example, the first wavelength is in the range of 340nm to 375nm, and the second wavelength is in the range of 380nm to 780nm. For example, the first wavelength is 365nm, and the second wavelength is 613nm to 627nm (red light). Another example is that the first wavelength is 365nm, and the second wavelength is 540nm to 551nm (yellow light). Also, the first wavelength is 365nm, and the second wavelength is 513nm to 537nm (green light). Furthermore, the first wavelength is 365nm, and the second wavelength is 437nm to 477nm (blue light).

[0243] As another example, the first wavelength is also a wavelength in the 250nm to 260nm range, and the second wavelength is also a wavelength in the 400nm to 750nm range. For example, the first wavelength is also a wavelength of 255nm, and the second wavelength is also a wavelength of 580nm (yellow light).

[0244] In one embodiment, the first wavelength is in the range of 600 nm to 900 nm, and the second wavelength is in the range of 1000 nm to 1020 nm. For example, the first wavelength is 700 nm, and the second wavelength is 1012 nm. In this case, the sensor module 150 may include a near-infrared (NIR) sensor.

[0245] As described above, the sensor module 150 can improve the identification accuracy of the aerosol product 5 by using different types of light (or light with relatively large wavelength changes) as the first wavelength and the second wavelength.

[0246] For example, based on a sensing value of approximately 1012 nm received through the light receiving unit 155, the control unit 110 may determine that the aerosol product 5 inserted into the aerosol generator 1 is a first-type aerosol product 5. As another example, based on a sensing value of approximately 1012 nm received through the light receiving unit 155, the control unit 110 may determine that the aerosol product 5 inserted into the aerosol generator 1 is a genuine product that has not been counterfeited or altered.

[0247] If the type of aerosol product 5 is determined to be a first type of aerosol product, the control unit 110 may control the power supply to the heater 140 based on the temperature profile corresponding to the first type of aerosol product. As another example, if the aerosol product 5 is determined to be a counterfeit article, the control unit 110 may not supply power to the heater 140 or may cut off the power supply that is currently being supplied.

[0248] If the type of aerosol product 5 is detected based on the sensing value sensed via the light receiving unit 155, the battery 120 may power the heater 140 with a temperature profile corresponding to the detected type of aerosol product 5. As another example, if the aerosol product 5 is determined to be a counterfeit article based on the sensing value sensed via the light receiving unit 155, the battery 120 will not power the heater 140.

[0249] The light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 may be positioned adjacent to the cavity 100a. For example, the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 may be positioned at a predetermined distance apart in the z-axis direction along the extension direction of the cavity 100a. As another example, the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 may be positioned at a predetermined distance apart in the x-axis direction that crosses the direction in which the cavity 100a extends, surrounding at least one region of the cavity 100a. In this case, "at least one region of the cavity" means the region corresponding to the region in the aerosol product 5 where the identification substance 10 is positioned when the aerosol product 5 is contained in the cavity 100a.

[0250] Figure 8 is a schematic side view of an aerosol generation system having a different heating method than the aerosol generation system in Figure 7.

[0251] Referring to Figure 8, the aerosol generator 1 may include the aerosol generator body 100, control unit 110, battery 120, memory 130, heater 140, and sensor module 150. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system shown in Figure 8 (for example, the sensor module 150) is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system shown in Figure 7, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0252] The aerosol generator 1 can generate aerosols by heating the aerosol product 5 contained in the cavity 100a using an induction heating method. The induction heating method refers to a method of heating a magnetic material that generates heat in response to an external magnetic field by applying an alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically.

[0253] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy loss occurs in the magnetic material due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss, and the lost energy can be released from the magnetic material as thermal energy. The larger the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field applied to the magnetic material, the more thermal energy can be released from the magnetic material. The aerosol generator 1 can cause the magnetic material to release thermal energy by applying an alternating magnetic field, and can transfer the thermal energy released from the magnetic material to the aerosol product 5.

[0254] For this purpose, the heater 140 may include a susceptor 140a and a coil 140b.

[0255] The susceptor 140a is a magnetic material that generates heat in response to a magnetic field. The susceptor 140a may be placed inside the aerosol generating device body 100 and positioned to surround the aerosol product 5 contained in the cavity 100a. In this case, the susceptor 140a may be formed from a hollow cylindrical shape as a whole, but its shape is not limited thereto.

[0256] In a modified embodiment, the susceptor 140a may be located inside the aerosol product 5 housed in the cavity 100a. In this case, the susceptor 140a may be contained in the aerosol product 5 in the form of a section, flake, or strip.

[0257] At least a portion of susceptor 140a may consist of a ferromagnetic substance. For example, susceptor 140a may contain metal or carbon. Susceptor 140a may contain at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al). Susceptor 140a may also contain at least one of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, nickel alloy, metal film, ceramics such as zirconia, transition metals such as nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co), and metalloids such as boron (B) and phosphorus (P).

[0258] The coil 140b can apply an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor 140a, causing the susceptor 140a to heat up. The coil 140b may be arranged to surround the outside of the susceptor 140a. The battery 120 may include a battery unit that supplies DC current to the coil 140b and a conversion unit that converts the DC current supplied from the battery unit into AC current supplied to the coil 140b.

[0259] The sensor module 150 recognizes the identification substance 10 of the aerosol-generating article 5 housed in the cavity 100a, and the control unit 110 can control the power supply to the coil 140b based on the information of the aerosol-generating article 5.

[0260] Hereinafter, an example of an aerosol generation system to which the sensor module 150 is applied will be sequentially described based on FIGS. 9A to 11B.

[0261] FIG. 9A is a perspective view showing an example of an aerosol generation device to which a sensor module is applied.

[0262] Referring to FIG. 9A, the aerosol generation device 1 may include an aerosol generation device main body 100, a sensor module 150, a cartridge 200, a heater assembly 300, and a cap 400. Among the components of the aerosol generation system shown in FIG. 9A (for example, the sensor module 150), at least one is the same or similar to at least one of the components of the above-described aerosol generation system, so duplicate descriptions will be omitted hereinafter. Also, it is needless to say that some components and structures may be exchanged, added, or omitted within the scope that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0263] Inside the aerosol generation device main body 100, components for the operation of the aerosol generation device 1 may be arranged. For example, a battery (not shown) and a control unit (not shown) may be arranged inside the aerosol generation device main body 100. However, the battery and the control unit are merely examples of the components arranged inside the aerosol generation device main body 100, and other components (for example, a user interface, a sensor light) may be further arranged inside the aerosol generation device main body 100 in addition to the above-described components. The aerosol generation device main body 100 is located below the cartridge 200 and the cap 400 (for example, the portion facing the -z direction) and can support the cartridge 200 and the cap 400.

[0264] Inside the cartridge 200, an aerosol product substance is stored, and the aerosol product substance stored in the cartridge 200 can be supplied to a heating part (not shown) included in the cartridge 200. Thereby, the aerosol product substance can be aerosolized in a chamber (not shown) included in the cartridge 200 by the heating part. In the present invention, "aerosol" means particles formed by mixing vapor generated by heating the aerosol product substance and air, and this expression can be used with the same meaning hereinafter.

[0265] The aerosol product substance stored inside the cartridge 200 may contain a tobacco-containing substance containing a volatile tobacco flavor component or a liquid composition containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0266] According to one embodiment, the liquid composition may include any one component of water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, and a vitamin mixture, or a mixture of these components. The fragrance may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, fragrance components of various fruits, etc., but is not limited thereto. The flavoring agent may include components that can provide various fragrances or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture is also a mixture in which at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E is mixed, but is not limited thereto. Further, the liquid composition may include an aerosol forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0267] For example, the liquid composition may include a glycerin and propylene glycol solution in an arbitrary weight ratio to which a nicotine salt is added. The liquid composition may contain two or more types of nicotine salts. The nicotine salt can be formed by adding an appropriate acid containing an organic acid or an inorganic acid to nicotine. The nicotine is natural nicotine or synthetic nicotine and can have an arbitrary appropriate weight concentration with respect to the total solution weight of the liquid composition.

[0268] The acid for forming the nicotine salt can be appropriately selected considering the rate of nicotine absorption in the blood, the operating temperature of the aerosol generator 1, flavor or aroma, solubility, etc. For example, the acid for forming the nicotine salt may be a single acid selected from the group consisting of benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharic acid, malonic acid, or malic acid, or a mixture of two or more acids selected from the group, but is not limited to these.

[0269] The heater assembly 300 may include a cavity 100a containing the aerosol product 5. The heater assembly 300 may also include a heater 140 as shown in Figure 7 or Figure 8, which can heat the tobacco rod of the aerosol product 5 contained in the cavity 100a.

[0270] The heater assembly 300 can be connected to the chamber of the cartridge 200. This allows the aerosol generated in the chamber to move to the heater assembly 300. The aerosol that has moved to the heater assembly 300 can be discharged to the outside by passing through the aerosol product 5 contained in the cavity 100a formed in the heater assembly 300. The user can contact the aerosol product 5 with their mouth and inhale the aerosol that is discharged to the outside of the aerosol generator 1 through the aerosol product 5.

[0271] According to one embodiment, the sensor module 150 recognizes the identification substance 10 of the aerosol product 5, which is placed in the heater assembly 300 and contained in the cavity 100a, and the control unit 110 can control the power supply to the heater assembly 300 based on the information of the aerosol product 5.

[0272] Although not shown in the figures, the sensor module 150 may include a light-emitting unit that irradiates the aerosol product 5 with light of a first wavelength as the identification substance 10, and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the identification substance 10.

[0273] The cap 400 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the cartridge 200, at least a portion of the aerosol generator body 100, and at least a portion of the heater assembly 300. For example, the cap 400 may be coupled to the aerosol generator body 100 so as to surround the outside of both the cartridge 200 and the outside of the heater assembly 300. The cap 400 can protect the cartridge 200, the aerosol generator body 100, and the heater assembly 300 from external impacts or the inflow of external foreign matter. The cap 400 may be detachably coupled to the aerosol generator body 100.

[0274] The cap 400 may include a cap body 401, a door 402, and a cap hole 403.

[0275] The cap body 401 functions as the body of the cap 400 and can be detachably coupled to the aerosol generating device body 100. The cap body 401 may have a door guide hole (not shown) into which at least a portion of the door 402 is inserted to guide the movement of the door.

[0276] The door 402 is located on the upper part of the cap body 401 (for example, the part facing the +z direction) and can open or close the cap hole 403. The door 402 can be inserted into a door guide hole in the cap body 401 and move along one direction (for example, the x-axis direction).

[0277] The cap hole 403 is formed in the upper part of the cap body 401 (for example, the part facing the +z direction) and can communicate with the cavity 100a of the heater assembly 300. With the cap 400 coupled to the aerosol generator body 100, the aerosol product 5 can pass through the cap hole 403 and be contained in the cavity 100a of the heater assembly 300.

[0278] The cap 400 may further include a window 450.

[0279] The window 450 may include a transparent material, such as acrylic or glass. The window 450 may be formed on the outer surface of the cap body 401 along one direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) at a corresponding position on the cartridge 200. The user can check the remaining amount of aerosol-generating material stored in the cartridge 200 through the window 450.

[0280] Figure 9B is a perspective view showing some of the components of the aerosol generating apparatus shown in Figure 9A, separated from each other.

[0281] Referring to Figure 9B, the cartridge 200 can be detachably coupled to the aerosol generator body 100. The cartridge 200 can be coupled to the aerosol generator body 100 by being inserted into the insertion section 100b of the aerosol generator body 100.

[0282] When the cartridge 200 is connected to the aerosol generator body 100, the cartridge 200 can communicate with the heater assembly 300 via the connecting portion 100c of the aerosol generator body 100. The aerosol generated in the chamber of the cartridge 200 flows to the heater assembly 300 via the connecting portion 100c, and as a result can be discharged outside the aerosol generator 1 by passing through the aerosol product inserted into the cavity 100a.

[0283] Once the cartridge 200 is coupled to the aerosol generator body 100, the cartridge 200 can be electrically connected to the components of the aerosol generator 1 via the terminals 100d of the aerosol generator body 100. For example, the cartridge 200 can be connected to a control unit and a battery via the terminals 100d. The control unit can control the power supply to the heating unit (not shown) of the cartridge 200. At least a portion of the terminals 100d can be exposed toward the insertion portion 100b.

[0284] According to one embodiment, the sensor module 150 is disposed on one surface of the aerosol generator main body 100 facing the insertion part 100b and can recognize the identification substance 10 disposed in the cartridge 200. The amount, concentration, type, and / or composition ratio of the identification substance 10 are determined according to the type of the aerosol generating substance stored in the cartridge 200, and the control unit 110 can control the power supply to the heating part of the cartridge 200 based on the information of the aerosol generating substance inside the cartridge 200.

[0285] Although not shown, the sensor module 150 may include a light emitting unit that irradiates the identification substance 10 with light of a first wavelength and a light receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the identification substance 10.

[0286] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing another example of an aerosol generator to which the sensor module is applied.

[0287] Referring to FIG. 10, the aerosol generator 1 may include an aerosol generator main body 100, a sensor module 150, a cartridge 200, a heater assembly 300, and a cover 500. At least one of the components (for example, the sensor module 150) of the aerosol generator illustrated in FIG. 10 is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator described above, and thus the overlapping description will be omitted hereinafter. Needless to say, some components and structures may be exchanged, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art based on the following drawings and description.

[0288] The aerosol generator main body 100 is located at the lower end of the heater assembly 300 to support the heater assembly 300, and components for the operation of the aerosol generator 1 may be disposed inside the aerosol generator main body 100. The components are also a control unit, a battery, and a memory, and the description thereof has been given above and will be omitted.

[0289] The cartridge 200 stores the aerosol-generating material, which can be supplied to the heater assembly 300 located at the lower end of the cartridge 200 (for example, the part facing the -z direction). The aerosol-generating material stored inside the cartridge 200 is the same as or similar to the aerosol-generating material described in Figure 9A, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0290] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 200 may include a mouthpiece 200m for supplying aerosol to the user. For example, the mouthpiece 200m may connect or fluidly connect the inside of the heater assembly 300 to the outside of the aerosol generator 1, and the aerosol generated inside the heater assembly 300 may be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generator 1 via the mouthpiece 200m. In this case, the user may contact the mouthpiece 200m with their mouth and inhale the aerosol discharged to the outside of the aerosol generator 1.

[0291] In this invention, "fluid connection" means that the components are connected to each other so that a fluid, such as air or liquid, can pass through and flow through them.

[0292] The heater assembly 300 is located between the cartridge 200 and the aerosol generator main body 100 and can perform the function of converting the phase of the aerosol-generating material to the gas phase to generate an aerosol. The heater assembly 300 can generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material supplied from the cartridge 200.

[0293] For example, the heater assembly 300 can heat the aerosol-generating material supplied from the cartridge 200 to generate vapor from the aerosol-generating material. The generated vapor mixes with outside air that flows into the heater assembly 300 outside the heater assembly 300, and as a result, an aerosol may be generated.

[0294] The heater assembly 300 may include a chamber that provides a space for aerosol generation, a core that absorbs aerosol-generating material, and a heating section that heats the aerosol-generating material absorbed into the core.

[0295] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 allows for the replacement of the cartridge 200 and / or the heater assembly 300 through a structure in which the cartridge 200 and the heater assembly 300 are detachably coupled, and the heater assembly 300 and the aerosol generator body 100 are detachably coupled.

[0296] If the aerosol-generating material stored in cartridge 200 is depleted, the user can continue smoking by replacing the existing cartridge 200 with a new one. As another example, if the performance of a component of heater assembly 300 (e.g., heating element or wick) deteriorates and a sufficient amount of aerosol is not generated, the user can replace the existing heater assembly 300 with a new one to generate a sufficient amount of aerosol.

[0297] When the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 200 is consumed and the cartridge 200 needs to be replaced, the aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment can be designed so that only the cartridge 200 is replaced and the heater assembly 300 can be reused. As a result, even when the cartridge 200 needs to be replaced, it is not necessarily required to replace parts such as the heating element included in the heater assembly 300, and the overall operating costs of the aerosol generating device 1 according to the embodiment can be reduced.

[0298] According to one embodiment, the sensor module 150 can recognize an identification substance 10 placed on one surface of the cartridge 200. The amount, concentration, type, and / or composition ratio of the identification substance 10 is determined by the type of aerosol-generating substance stored in the cartridge 200, and the control unit 110 can control the power supply to the heating section of the cartridge 200 based on information about the aerosol-generating substance inside the cartridge 200.

[0299] Although not shown in the figures, the sensor module 150 may include a light-emitting unit that irradiates the cartridge 200 with light of a first wavelength as the identification material 10, and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the identification material 10.

[0300] Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment in which the identification substance 10 is located on the underside of the cartridge 200 (e.g., the portion facing the -z direction) and the sensor module 150 is positioned between the cartridge 200 and the heater assembly 300, but is not limited thereto. That is, in another example, the identification substance 10 may be located on the side of the cartridge 200 (e.g., the surface facing the +y direction), and the sensor module 150 may be positioned in the aerosol generator 1 in a corresponding manner.

[0301] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a cover 500 for protecting the components of the aerosol generator 1.

[0302] The cover 500 is positioned to surround at least one area of ​​the cartridge 200, the aerosol generator body 100, and the heater assembly 300, thereby fixing the positions of the aerosol generator body 100, the cartridge 200, and the heater assembly 300, and protecting them from external impacts or the ingress of foreign matter.

[0303] In one embodiment, the cover 500 may be formed integrally with the aerosol generator body 100, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the cover 500 may be detachably coupled to the aerosol generator body 100.

[0304] Figure 11 is a perspective view showing yet another example of an aerosol generator to which a sensor module is applied.

[0305] Referring to Figure 11, the aerosol generator 1 may include an aerosol generator body 100, a sensor module 150, a cartridge 200, and a cap 400. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 11 (for example, the sensor module 150) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0306] The aerosol generator body 100 is located at the lower end of the cartridge 200 and supports the cartridge 200. Components for the operation of the aerosol generator 1 may be arranged inside the aerosol generator body 100. Components arranged inside the aerosol generator body 100 include a control unit, a battery, and a memory, and a description of these has been given above and will be omitted here.

[0307] The cartridge 200 may include a storage section 210, a cavity 220, and a chamber 230.

[0308] The storage unit 210 stores the aerosol-generating material and is located at the top of the chamber 230 (for example, in the +z direction) and may be connected or fluidly connected to the internal space of the chamber 230. For example, if the aerosol-generating material stored in the storage unit 210 is depleted, the user can continue smoking by replacing the existing cartridge 200 with a new cartridge 200. As another example, if the performance of the components of the cartridge 200 (for example, the heating element) deteriorates and a sufficient amount of aerosol is not generated, or if leakage of the aerosol-generating material occurs, the user can replace the existing cartridge 200 with a new cartridge 200 to generate a sufficient amount of aerosol or prevent leakage of the aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material stored in the storage unit 210 is the same as the aerosol-generating material described in Figure 9A, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0309] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 allows for the replacement of the cartridge 200 via a structure in which the cartridge 200 is detachably coupled to the aerosol generator body 100. That is, in one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 may have a structure in which both the storage section 210 for storing the aerosol-generating material and the cavity 220 for housing the aerosol product 2 are replaced by replacing the cartridge 200.

[0310] The cavity 220 includes an outer wall 220a, and the internal space of the cavity 220 and the aerosol generating device body 100 can be spatially separated via the outer wall 220a.

[0311] Chamber 230 is positioned below the storage unit 210 (for example, the portion facing the -z direction) and below the cavity 220 (for example, the portion facing the -z direction), and can communicate with the storage unit 210 and the cavity 220. As a result, aerosol-generating material stored in the storage unit 210 can flow into the internal space of chamber 230, and aerosols generated in the internal space of chamber 230 can move to the cavity 220.

[0312] A coupling groove 200a and a coupling surface 200b may be formed on the outer surface of the chamber 230 for coupling the cartridge 200 and the aerosol generator body 100. The coupling surface 200b may be formed at an angle along the extension direction of the aerosol generator 1 (for example, the z-axis direction).

[0313] The aerosol generating device body 100 may include an insertion section 100b into which the cartridge 200 is inserted, and a connecting projection 101 that protrudes toward the insertion section 100b.

[0314] For example, if the cartridge 200 moves toward the insertion section 100b and the coupling projection 101 is inserted into the coupling groove 200a along the coupling surface 200b formed at an angle on the outer surface of the chamber 230, the cartridge 200 can be coupled to the aerosol generator body 100. Alternatively, if the cartridge 200 moves toward a direction away from the insertion section 100b and the coupling projection 101 is separated from the coupling groove 200a, the cartridge 200 can be separated from the aerosol generator body 100.

[0315] While the cartridge 200 can be detachably coupled to the aerosol generator body 100 in the manner described above, the coupling method between the cartridge 200 and the aerosol generator body 100 is not limited to this.

[0316] The aerosol generating device body 100 may include terminals 100d and a guide plate 102.

[0317] Terminal 100d can perform the function of electrically connecting the cartridge 200 and the aerosol generator body 100. For example, terminal 100d can electrically connect the heating element of the cartridge 200 to the battery of the aerosol generator body 100. When the cartridge 200 is inserted into the insertion section 100b and coupled to the aerosol generator body 100, terminal 100d can be electrically connected to the cartridge 200. At least a portion of terminal 100d is exposed to the insertion section 100b, and a hole may be formed in the aerosol generator body 100 for the terminal 100d to be exposed.

[0318] The guide plate 102 may be positioned between the cartridge 200 and the aerosol generator body 100. The guide plate 102 may perform the function of guiding the air flowing into the aerosol generator 1 to flow inside the chamber 230. The guide plate 102 may be positioned at an inclination with respect to the extension direction of the aerosol generator 1 (for example, the z-axis direction).

[0319] According to one embodiment, the sensor module 150 may include a first sensor module 150a and a second sensor module 150b.

[0320] The first sensor module 150a is located in the cavity 220 and recognizes the identifying substance of the aerosol product contained in the cavity 220, and the control unit 110 can control the power supply to the heating section of the cartridge 200 based on the information of the aerosol product.

[0321] Although not shown in the figures, the first sensor module 150a may include a light-emitting unit that irradiates the identification substance of the aerosol product with light of a first wavelength, and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the identification substance.

[0322] The second sensor module 150b can recognize the identification substance 10 placed on one surface of the cartridge 200. The second sensor module 150b may be positioned toward the insertion section 100b of the aerosol generator body 100. The amount, concentration, type and / or composition ratio of the identification substance 10 is determined by the type of aerosol generating substance stored in the storage section 210, and the control unit 110 can control the power supply to the heating section of the cartridge 200 based on the information of the aerosol generating substance inside the storage section 210.

[0323] Although not shown in the figures, the second sensor module 150b may include a light-emitting unit that irradiates the cartridge 200 with light of a first wavelength as the identification material 10, and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the identification material 10.

[0324] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing how an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment determines information about the aerosol product and controls the power supply to the heater. In the explanation relating to Figure 12, at least one of the components of the aerosol generation system is the same as or similar to what has been described above, so redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0325] Referring to Figure 12, the operation method of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment may include four steps.

[0326] First, the control unit of the aerosol generator may irradiate the identification substance with light via the light-emitting unit during operation S100.

[0327] In one embodiment, if the insertion of an aerosol product is detected, the control unit may irradiate it with light having a predetermined wavelength via a light-emitting unit. For example, the aerosol generator includes an insertion sensing sensor such as an inductive sensor, a capacitance sensor, or a pressure sensor, and if the insertion of an aerosol product is detected via the insertion sensing sensor, the control unit may irradiate it with light having a predetermined wavelength via a light-emitting unit.

[0328] In another embodiment, when user input is received to the aerosol generator, the control unit may irradiate light having a predetermined wavelength via a light-emitting unit. For example, the aerosol generator includes a physical button that allows the user to select the state of the device (e.g., power on / off), and when user input is received to the physical button, the control unit may irradiate light having a predetermined wavelength via a light-emitting unit.

[0329] In one embodiment, the wavelength of light irradiated through the light-emitting unit corresponds to a first wavelength range. In this case, the first wavelength range refers to the wavelength range of light that excites the identification substance, and can be preset to correspond to the identification substance. For example, in order to identify an aerosol product containing an identification substance excited at a wavelength of approximately 365 nm, the first wavelength range can be preset to a range of approximately 340 nm to 375 nm.

[0330] In one embodiment, the first wavelength range for exciting the identification substance may include at least one of the following wavelength ranges: approximately 250 nm to 260 nm, approximately 300 nm to 340 nm, approximately 350 nm to 390 nm, approximately 600 nm to 900 nm, or approximately 930 nm to 990 nm.

[0331] For example, if the first wavelength range includes a wavelength range of approximately 300 nm to 340 nm, the control unit can irradiate the identification substance of the aerosol product with ultraviolet light of approximately 320 nm via the light-emitting unit.

[0332] As another example, if the first wavelength range includes a wavelength range of approximately 340 nm to 375 nm, the control unit may irradiate the identification substance of the aerosol product with ultraviolet light of approximately 365 nm via the light-emitting unit.

[0333] As another example, if the first wavelength range includes a wavelength range of approximately 930 nm to 990 nm, the control unit may irradiate the identification substance of the aerosol product with infrared light of approximately 980 nm via the light-emitting unit.

[0334] Next, in operation S200, the control unit may sense the light emitted from the identification substance via the light receiving unit.

[0335] In one embodiment, the wavelength of light sensed via the light-receiving unit corresponds to a second wavelength range. In this case, the second wavelength range refers to the wavelength range of light emitted from the identification substance excited by irradiation with light in the first wavelength range. For example, when the identification substance is excited at a wavelength of approximately 320 nm, it emits light in the range of approximately 1000 nm to 1020 nm, and the control unit can determine the wavelength range of approximately 1000 nm to 1020 nm obtained via the light-receiving unit as the second wavelength range emitted from the identification substance.

[0336] In one embodiment, the control unit can sense light emitted from the identification substance by receiving an ADC value from the light receiving unit. In this case, when light is received from the identification substance, the light receiving unit acquires an analog signal, and the "ADC value" refers to the digital value obtained by converting the analog signal acquired by the light receiving unit so that the control unit recognizes it. For example, based on the ADC value received from the light receiving unit, the control unit can determine the wavelength range of the light emitted from the identification substance.

[0337] Next, in operation S300, the control unit may determine information about the aerosol product based on the sensing value sensed via the light receiving unit. In this case, the information about the aerosol product may include the type of aerosol product, counterfeiting of the aerosol product, etc.

[0338] In one embodiment, the control unit can determine information about the aerosol product based on different sensing values ​​sensed depending on the type of identification substance.

[0339] For example, the identification substance may include a first identification substance that emits light at approximately 10¹² nm and a second identification substance that emits light at approximately 700 nm.

[0340] In this case, if the sensing value sensed via the light receiving unit corresponds to the wavelength value (approximately 10¹² nm) emitted from the first identification substance, the control unit can determine that the aerosol product is a first type of aerosol product containing the first identification substance.

[0341] Alternatively, if the sensing value detected via the light-receiving unit corresponds to the wavelength value (approximately 700 nm) emitted from the second identification substance, the control unit may determine that the aerosol product is a second type of aerosol product containing the second identification substance.

[0342] The difference between the wavelength emitted from the first identifying substance and the wavelength emitted from the second identifying substance is approximately 15 nm or more. If the difference between the wavelength emitted from the first identifying substance and the wavelength emitted from the second identifying substance is less than approximately 15 nm, the accuracy of the control unit in distinguishing the types of identifying substances decreases. Here, the wavelength emitted from the first identifying substance and the wavelength emitted from the second identifying substance refer to the dominant wavelength (DWL), respectively. For example, the difference between the wavelength emitted from the first identifying substance and the wavelength emitted from the second identifying substance is also approximately 30 nm or more, approximately 50 nm or more, or approximately 100 nm or more.

[0343] In one embodiment, the control unit can determine information about the aerosol product based on different sensing values ​​sensed by different concentrations of the identification substance.

[0344] For example, the identifying substance may include the same type of substance, but may also include an identifying substance at a first concentration (e.g., 20%) and an identifying substance at a second concentration (e.g., 30%).

[0345] In this case, if the sensing value sensed via the light receiving unit exceeds a first threshold, the control unit may determine that the aerosol product is a first type of aerosol product containing a first concentration of the identifying substance.

[0346] Alternatively, if the sensing value sensed via the light receiving unit exceeds a second threshold that is greater than the first threshold, the control unit may determine that the aerosol product is a second type of aerosol product containing a second concentration of the identifying substance.

[0347] Next, in operation S400, the control unit 110 can control the power supply to the heater based on information about the aerosol product.

[0348] In one embodiment, the control unit can control the power supply to the heater based on the type of aerosol product. For example, if the type of aerosol product is determined to be a first type of aerosol product, the control unit can control the power supply to the heater based on a pre-configured first temperature profile for the first type of aerosol product. As another example, if the type of aerosol product is determined to be a second type of aerosol product, the control unit can control the power supply to the heater based on a pre-configured second temperature profile for the second type of aerosol product. In this case, the pre-configured first temperature profile and the second temperature profile may be different from each other.

[0349] In one embodiment, the control unit may control the power supply to the heater based on the counterfeiting of the aerosol product. For example, if the aerosol product is determined to be genuine, the control unit may control the power supply to the heater based on a pre-set temperature profile for the aerosol product 5. As another example, if the aerosol product is determined to be a counterfeit article, the control unit may not supply power to the heater or may cut off the power supply while it is in operation.

[0350] Figure 13A is an example of a wavelength graph showing the emission from a first identification substance when irradiated with wavelengths in the first wavelength range. Figure 13B is an example of a wavelength graph showing the emission from a second identification substance when irradiated with wavelengths in the first wavelength range.

[0351] Referring to Figure 13A, the first identifying substance contained in the aerosol product can emit light having a predetermined wavelength range when irradiated from the light-emitting unit with light in a first wavelength range. In this case, the first wavelength range is also the wavelength range of approximately 300 nm to 340 nm.

[0352] In one embodiment, the control unit of the aerosol generator may determine the wavelength range 520 that exceeds the threshold 510 in the first graph 500a, which is a wavelength graph of the wavelengths emitted from the first identified substance, as the second wavelength range. For example, the control unit receives a sensing value corresponding to the wavelength range 520 via a light receiving unit, and the wavelength range 520, which is the second wavelength range, is also a wavelength range of approximately 1000 nm to 1020 nm.

[0353] Referring to Figure 13B, the second identifying substance contained in the aerosol product can emit light having a predetermined wavelength range when irradiated from the light-emitting unit with light in the first wavelength range. In this case, the first wavelength range is also the wavelength range of approximately 930 nm to 990 nm.

[0354] In one embodiment, the control unit 110 of the aerosol generator may determine the wavelength range 520 that exceeds the threshold 510 in the second graph 500b, which is a wavelength graph of the second identified substance, as the second wavelength range. For example, the control unit receives a sensing value corresponding to the wavelength range 520 via a light receiving unit, and the wavelength range 520, which is the second wavelength range, is also a wavelength range of approximately 1000 nm to 1020 nm.

[0355] The first graph 500a in Figure 13A and the second graph 500b in Figure 13B are illustrated in the same form for ease of explanation, but are not limited to this. For example, the wavelength ranges exceeding the threshold 510 are somewhat similar in the first graph 500a in Figure 13A and the second graph 500b in Figure 13B, but their overall graph forms may differ from each other.

[0356] Figure 14A is an example of a wavelength graph showing the emission from the third identification substance when irradiated with wavelengths in the first wavelength range. Figure 14B is an example of a wavelength graph showing the emission from the third identification substance when irradiated with wavelengths in the first wavelength range.

[0357] Referring to Figure 14A, the third identifying substance contained in the aerosol product can emit light having a predetermined wavelength range when irradiated from the light-emitting unit with light in the first wavelength range. In this case, the first wavelength range is also the wavelength range of approximately 340 nm to 375 nm.

[0358] In one embodiment, the control unit of the aerosol generator may determine the wavelength range 620 that exceeds the threshold 610 in the third graph 600a, which is a wavelength graph emitted from the third identification substance, as the second wavelength range. For example, the control unit receives a sensing value corresponding to the wavelength range 620 via a light receiving unit, and the wavelength range 620, which is the second wavelength range, is also a part of the wavelength range of approximately 400 nm to 750 nm.

[0359] For example, if the wavelength range 620 is approximately 450 nm to 490 nm, the control unit may determine that the sensing value sensed via the light receiving unit corresponds to "blue," and determine that the aerosol product in which the identified substance exhibits "blue" is the first type of aerosol product.

[0360] As another example, if the wavelength range 620 is approximately 490 nm to 570 nm, the control unit may determine that the sensing value sensed via the light receiving unit corresponds to "green," and determine that the aerosol product in which the identified substance exhibits "green" is a second type of aerosol product.

[0361] As another example, if the wavelength range 620 is approximately 630 nm to 750 nm, the control unit may determine that the sensing value sensed via the light receiving unit corresponds to "red," and determine that the aerosol product in which the identified substance exhibits "red" is a third type of aerosol product.

[0362] Referring to Figure 14B, the third identification substance contained in the aerosol product can emit light having a predetermined wavelength range when irradiated from the light-emitting unit with light in the first wavelength range. In this case, the first wavelength range is also the wavelength range of approximately 250 nm to 260 nm. That is, the third identification substance can be excited not only in the wavelength range of approximately 350 nm to 390 nm, but also in the wavelength range of approximately 250 nm to 260 nm.

[0363] In one embodiment, the control unit of the aerosol generator may determine the wavelength range 620 that exceeds the threshold 610 in the fourth graph 600b, which is a wavelength graph of the third identified substance, as the second wavelength range. For example, the control unit receives a sensing value corresponding to the wavelength range 620 via a light receiving unit, and the wavelength range 620, which is the second wavelength range, is also a part of the wavelength range of approximately 400 nm to 750 nm.

[0364] The third graph 600a in Figure 14A and the fourth graph 600b in Figure 14B are illustrated in the same form for illustrative purposes, but are not limited to this. For example, the wavelength ranges in which the third graph 600a in Figure 14A and the fourth graph 600b in Figure 14B exceed the threshold 610 are partially similar, but the overall graph forms may differ from each other.

[0365] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating another specific example of how an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment determines information about the aerosol product. Figure 15 is a flowchart that further elaborates on the operation shown in Figure 12. In the explanation relating to Figure 15, at least one of the components of the aerosol generation system is the same as or similar to what has been described above, so redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0366] Referring to Figure 15, operation S200 may include operations S210 and S220.

[0367] First, the control unit of the aerosol generator irradiates the identification substance with light via the light-emitting unit, and then in operation S210, it may interrupt the irradiation of the identification substance with light via the light-emitting unit.

[0368] For example, if a first hour has elapsed since the light was irradiated from the light-emitting unit, the state of the identification substance may change from the ground state to an excited state. In this case, "first hour" refers to the time after the identification substance has been excited by the absorption of light, during which no further changes in the state of the substance occur. The control unit irradiates the identification substance with light via the light-emitting unit for a period of first hour, and after the first hour has elapsed, it may interrupt the irradiation of the identification substance with light via the light-emitting unit.

[0369] Next, in operation S220, the control unit may sense the light emitted from the identification substance via the light receiving unit after a second time has elapsed since the irradiation of the identification substance with light from the light-emitting unit was interrupted. In this case, "second time" means the time from the interruption of the irradiation of light from the light-emitting unit until the light emitted from the light-emitting unit is no longer sensed by the light receiving unit.

[0370] In other words, the light-receiving unit needs to focus on sensing the light emitted from the identification substance, but because the light emitted from the light-emitting unit is also sensed by the light-receiving unit, some noise may be included in the sensed value.

[0371] However, the identification material according to the present invention can emit light (i.e., residual light emission) for a predetermined period of time even if the light irradiated from the light-emitting unit is blocked. Therefore, the control unit can sense the light emitted from the identification material via the light-receiving unit after a second time has elapsed from the point in time when the irradiation of light from the light-emitting unit is interrupted, so that the light-receiving unit can sense only the light emitted from the identification material.

[0372] In one embodiment, the control unit can sense the light emitted from the identification substance via the light receiving unit approximately 200 μs to 2000 μs after the irradiation of the identification substance with light from the light-emitting unit has been interrupted.

[0373] For example, if the identification substance is a first type of substance that emits light for a relatively long time even after the light irradiated from the light-emitting unit is blocked, or a substance of a first concentration, the control unit can sense the light emitted from the identification substance via the light-receiving unit after a time of approximately 500 μs to 2000 μs has elapsed.

[0374] As another example, if the identification substance is a second type of substance that emits light for a relatively short time after the light irradiated from the light-emitting unit is blocked, or a substance at a second concentration lower than the first concentration, the control unit can sense the light emitted from the identification substance via the light-receiving unit after a time of approximately 200 μs to 500 μs has elapsed.

[0375] On the other hand, in another embodiment, the light-emitting unit emits light, and the light-receiving unit receives light emitted by the identification substance. This can shorten the time it takes for the sensor module to recognize the identification substance. However, since the light emitted by the light-emitting unit is sensed by the light-receiving unit, some noise may be included in the sensed value. A specific structure for blocking this noise will be described later based on Figures 21, 27 to 29.

[0376] Various embodiments of the sensor module will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0377] Figure 16 is a schematic side view of an aerosol generation system, including an example of a sensor module.

[0378] Referring to Figure 16, the aerosol generator 1 may include the aerosol generator body 100, control unit 110, battery 120, memory 130, heater 140, and sensor module 150. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system shown in Figure 16 (e.g., sensor module 150) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0379] The sensor module 150 can be movably positioned on the aerosol generator body 100 along the extension direction of the cavity 100a. In this case, the sensor module 150 can recognize the identification substance 10 even if it is not located in a determined position along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 5. Therefore, the degree of freedom in the operation of positioning the identification substance 10 on the aerosol product 5 can be improved.

[0380] The sensor module 150 may be moved using a motor and gear system, but is not limited to this. For example, the sensor module 150 may be moved by the control of the control unit 110. As another example, the sensor module 150 may be moved based on user input signals.

[0381] Although not shown in the figures, the sensor module 150 may include a light-emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength as the identification substance 10, and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the identification substance 10.

[0382] Figure 17 is a schematic side view of an aerosol generation system including multiple sensor modules.

[0383] Referring to Figure 17, the aerosol generator 1 may include the aerosol generator body 100, control unit 110, battery 120, memory 130, heater 140, and sensor module 150. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system shown in Figure 17 (e.g., sensor module 150) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0384] The sensor module 150 may include a first sensor module 150a and a second sensor module 150b that identify the first identification substance 10a and the second identification substance 10b of the aerosol product 5, respectively. The aerosol product 5 shown in Figure 17 is identical to the aerosol product 5 shown in Figure 5D.

[0385] In one embodiment, the first identifying substance 10a is for determining whether or not the aerosol product 5 is contained in the cavity 100a. The second identifying substance 10b is for determining the type of aerosol product 5.

[0386] Although not shown, the first sensor module 150a may include a light-emitting unit that irradiates the first identification substance 10a with light of a first wavelength and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the first identification substance 10a. The first sensor module 150a may be positioned in the aerosol generator body 100 so as to be located at the corresponding position of the first identification substance 10a.

[0387] Furthermore, the second sensor module 150b may include a light-emitting unit that irradiates the second identification substance 10b with light of a first wavelength and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the second identification substance 10b. The second sensor module 150b may be placed in the aerosol generator body 100 so as to be located at the corresponding position of the second identification substance 10b.

[0388] The second wavelength range of light emitted by the first identifying substance 10a may differ from the second wavelength range of light emitted by the second identifying substance 10b. For example, the second wavelength range of light emitted by the first identifying substance 10a may be in the 1000nm to 1020nm range, while the second wavelength range of light emitted by the second identifying substance 10b may be in the 400nm to 750nm range.

[0389] In one embodiment, the control unit can determine that the aerosol product 5 has been contained in the cavity 100a when the first sensor module 150a receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the first identification substance 10a. As a result, the control unit can activate a component of the aerosol generator 1 (for example, the heater 140).

[0390] Furthermore, when the second sensor module 150b receives light of the second wavelength emitted by the second identification substance 10b, the control unit can determine the type of aerosol product 5 or whether the aerosol product 5 has been counterfeited. Based on this, the control unit can control the power supply to the components of the aerosol generator 1 (e.g., heater 140) based on the information about the aerosol product 5.

[0391] According to one embodiment, the first sensor module 150a and the second sensor module 150b recognize the first identification substance 10a and the second identification substance 10b separately, thereby enabling a more accurate determination of whether or not an aerosol product 5 is inserted and the type of aerosol product 5.

[0392] In one embodiment, after the components of the aerosol generator 1 (e.g., heater 140) are activated by the light receiving unit 155 receiving light of a second wavelength emitted by the first identification substance 10a, the control unit can control the light receiving unit 155 to receive light of a second wavelength emitted by the second identification substance 10b. That is, the operation of the second sensor module 150b is performed when the first sensor module 150a determines that the aerosol product 5 has been contained in the cavity 100a, and not otherwise. In other words, by selectively operating the second sensor module 150b, the power consumed by the second sensor module 150b can be saved.

[0393] Either the first sensor module 150a or the second sensor module 150b may be positioned to be movable along the extension direction of the cavity 100a.

[0394] In other embodiments, either the first sensor module 150a or the second sensor module 150b may be omitted. In this case, the sensor module 150 may be movably arranged in the aerosol generator body 100 along the extension direction of the cavity 100a. Therefore, even if multiple identification substances 10 are arranged in the aerosol product 5, each identification substance 10 can be recognized by a single sensor module 150, thus realizing a simple sensor module structure.

[0395] Figure 18 is a schematic plan view of an aerosol generation system, including other examples of sensor modules.

[0396] Referring to Figure 18, the aerosol generator 1 may include the aerosol generator body 100 and the sensor module 150. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system shown in Figure 18 (e.g., the sensor module 150) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0397] The sensor module 150 can be movably positioned on the aerosol generator body 100 along the circumferential direction of the cavity 100a. In this case, even if the identification substance 10 is not always located in the same position along the circumferential direction of the aerosol product 5, the sensor module 150 can recognize the identification substance 10 by moving. Therefore, the degree of freedom in the operation of positioning the identification substance 10 on the aerosol product 5 can be improved.

[0398] Furthermore, regardless of the direction in which the aerosol product 5 is inserted into the cavity 100a, the sensor module 150 can move to a position corresponding to the identified substance 10 and recognize the identified substance 10, thus improving the ease of use of the aerosol generator 1.

[0399] Furthermore, even if the identification substance 10 is placed in only one area along the periphery of the aerosol product 5, the sensor module 150 can move and recognize the identification substance 10, thus reducing the amount of identification substance 10 used.

[0400] The sensor module 150 may be moved using a motor and gear system, but is not limited to this. For example, the sensor module 150 may be moved by the control of the control unit 110. As another example, the sensor module 150 may be moved based on user input signals.

[0401] Although not shown in the figures, the sensor module 150 may include a light-emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength as the identification substance 10, and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the identification substance 10.

[0402] Figure 19 is a schematic plan cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system including multiple sensor modules.

[0403] Referring to Figure 19, the aerosol generator 1 may include the aerosol generator body 100 and the sensor module 150. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system shown in Figure 19 (e.g., the sensor module 150) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0404] Multiple sensor modules 150 can be arranged along the periphery of the cavity 100a. In this case, even if the identification substance 10 is not always located in the same position along the periphery of the aerosol product 5, the sensor modules 150 can still recognize the identification substance 10. Therefore, the degree of freedom in the process of arranging the identification substance 10 on the aerosol product 5 can be improved.

[0405] Furthermore, regardless of the direction in which the aerosol product 5 is inserted into the cavity 100a, the sensor module 150, which is positioned along the periphery of the cavity 100a, can recognize the identification substance 10, thus improving the ease of use of the aerosol generator 1.

[0406] Furthermore, even if the identification substance 10 is placed in only one area along the periphery of the aerosol product 5, the sensor module 150 can recognize the identification substance 10, thus reducing the amount of identification substance 10 used.

[0407] Although not shown in the figures, each of the multiple sensor modules 150 may include a light-emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength as the identification material 10 and a light-receiving unit that receives light of a second wavelength emitted by the identification material 10.

[0408] Figure 19 shows four sensor modules 150, but the number of sensor modules 150 is not limited to that.

[0409] Figure 20 is a schematic side view of the aerosol generation system, including the shielding section.

[0410] Referring to Figure 20, the aerosol generator 1 may include the aerosol generator body 100, control unit 110, battery 120, memory 130, heater 140, sensor module 150, and shielding unit 160. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system shown in Figure 20 (for example, the sensor module 150) is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions.

[0411] The shielding section 160 can perform the function of blocking electric / magnetic field signals generated outside the aerosol generator 1. As a result, the sensor module 150 can accurately recognize the identification substance 10 without external noise from the aerosol generator 1.

[0412] In one embodiment, the shielding portion 160 can reduce electric / magnetic field signals generated outside the aerosol generator 1 by 90% or more. The shielding portion 160 can absorb or reflect electric / magnetic field signals.

[0413] The shielding portion 160 may include a conductive material or a thermally conductive material. For example, the shielding portion 160 may include at least one of aluminum material or stainless steel material.

[0414] The shielding portion 160 may be arranged to surround the sensor module 150. The shielding portion 160 may include a first portion that covers the upper part of the sensor module 150 (e.g., the portion facing the +z direction), a second portion that covers the lower part of the sensor module 150 (e.g., the portion facing the -z direction), and a third portion that connects the first and second portions to cover the side of the sensor module 150 (e.g., the portion facing the +x direction).

[0415] Figure 20 illustrates an embodiment in which the first part of the shielding portion 160 is located above the light-emitting unit 151 and the second part of the shielding portion 160 is located below the light-receiving unit 155, but the embodiment is not limited to this. That is, the positions of the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 can be changed relative to each other, in which case the first part of the shielding portion 160 may be located above the light-receiving unit 155 and the second part of the shielding portion 160 may be located below the light-emitting unit 151.

[0416] Figure 21 is a schematic plan cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system including a support unit, a fixing unit, and a partition wall.

[0417] Referring to Figure 21, the aerosol generator 1 may include a sensor module 150, a sensor support unit 170, a fixing unit 175, and a partition wall 178. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system shown in Figure 21 (e.g., the sensor module 150) is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions. For example, the sensor module 150 shown in Figure 21 may be arranged to be movable along the extension direction of the cavity or movable along the circumferential direction of the cavity. Also, the shielding part shown in Figure 20 may be arranged outside the sensor module 150 in Figure 21.

[0418] According to one embodiment, the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 are arranged at a predetermined angle, so that the light-emitting unit 151 emits light and the light-receiving unit 155 can receive light emitted by the identification substance 10. This is because the paths of the first wavelength of light and the paths of the second wavelength of light do not overlap with each other, but are offset at a predetermined angle. As a result, the time it takes for the sensor module 150 to recognize the identification substance 10 can be shortened.

[0419] The sensor support unit 170 can support the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155. The sensor support unit 170 can be fixed to the aerosol generating device body. The sensor support unit 170 may include a light-emitting support unit 171 that supports the light-emitting unit 151 and a light-receiving support unit 172 that supports the light-receiving unit 155. The light-emitting support unit 171 and the light-receiving support unit 172 can be connected to each other at a predetermined angle. Figure 21 shows an example in which the light-emitting support unit 171 and the light-receiving support unit 172 are connected at an obtuse angle, but is not limited to this. That is, the light-emitting support unit 171 and the light-receiving support unit 172 can be connected to each other at an acute angle or a right angle. The light-emitting support unit 171 and the light-receiving support unit 172 can be formed as a single unit.

[0420] In one embodiment, the sensor support unit 170 is also a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) or an FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Board).

[0421] The fixing unit 175 can perform the function of fixing the sensor support unit 170 to the aerosol generating device body (not shown in Figure 21). The fixing unit 175 may include a first fixing part 175a for fixing the light-emitting support unit 171 and a second fixing part 175b for fixing the light-receiving support unit 172. For example, the light-emitting support unit 171 may be inserted into and fixed in a first fixing groove 176a formed in the first fixing part 175a, and the light-receiving support unit 172 may be inserted into and fixed in a second fixing groove 176b formed in the second fixing part 175b.

[0422] The partition 178 may be placed between the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155. The partition 178 can perform the function of preventing the light-receiving unit 155 from immediately sensing the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 151, so that the light-receiving unit 155 can focus on sensing the light emitted from the identification substance 10. With the partition 178, even if the light-emitting unit 151 emits light and the light-receiving unit 155 receives the light emitted by the identification substance 10, the light-receiving unit 155 can recognize the light emitted by the identification substance 10 relatively accurately without noise.

[0423] The partition wall 178 may extend from the sensor support unit 170 toward the cavity. The partition wall 178 may extend from the sensor support unit 170 toward the cavity so as to protrude further than the sensor module 150. The partition wall 178 may include a conductive material. For example, the partition wall 178 may include at least one of aluminum or stainless steel.

[0424] Figure 21 shows one light-emitting unit 151 and one light-receiving unit 155 arranged at a predetermined angle, but this is illustrative. That is, the light-emitting unit 151 and light-receiving unit 155 of two sensor modules 150 arranged along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 5 may be arranged at a predetermined angle.

[0425] Figure 22 is a schematic plan view of an aerosol generation system including a lens.

[0426] Referring to Figure 22, the aerosol generator 1 may include a sensor module 150, a lens 180, and a lens support unit 185. Since at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system shown in Figure 22 (e.g., the sensor module 150) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator system described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted (e.g., the partition wall in Figure 21) to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and descriptions. For example, the sensor module 150 shown in Figure 22 may be arranged to be movable along the extension of the cavity or movable along the circumferential direction of the cavity. Also, the shielding part shown in Figure 20 may be arranged outside the sensor module 150 in Figure 22.

[0427] According to one embodiment, the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 are arranged at a predetermined angle, so that the light-emitting unit 151 emits light and the light-receiving unit 155 can receive light emitted by the identification substance 10. This is because the paths of the first wavelength of light and the paths of the second wavelength of light do not overlap with each other, but are offset at a predetermined angle. As a result, the time it takes for the sensor module 150 to recognize the identification substance 10 can be shortened.

[0428] Figure 22 illustrates an example in which the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 are connected at a right angle, but the design is not limited to this. That is, the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 can be connected to each other at an acute or obtuse angle.

[0429] The lens 180 may be positioned adjacent to the sensor module 150. The lens 180 may be positioned between the sensor module 150 and the cavity. Light of the first wavelength emitted by the light-emitting unit 151 and light of the second wavelength emitted by the identification material 10 may pass through the lens 180. For example, the lens 180 may be either a concave lens or a convex lens.

[0430] Lens 180 may include a first lens 181 and a second lens 182.

[0431] The first lens 181 can concentrate the light irradiated by the light-emitting unit 151 onto the identification substance 10 of the aerosol product 5. The size of the first lens 181 can be larger than that of the light-emitting unit 151. This allows the first lens 181 to increase the amount of light of the first wavelength reaching the identification substance 10.

[0432] The second lens 182 can concentrate the light emitted by the identification substance 10 onto the light receiving unit 155. The size of the second lens 182 can be larger than that of the light receiving unit 155. This allows the second lens 182 to increase the amount of light of the second wavelength reaching the light receiving unit 155.

[0433] The first lens 181 and the second lens 182 can pass through a specific range of wavelengths and absorb a specific range of wavelengths. The specific range of wavelengths that the first lens 181 passes through is the range of the first wavelength described above, and the specific range of wavelengths that the first lens 181 absorbs is also wavelengths other than the first wavelength. Similarly, the specific range of wavelengths that the second lens 182 passes through is the range of the second wavelength described above, and the specific range of wavelengths that the second lens 182 absorbs is also wavelengths other than the second wavelength.

[0434] According to one embodiment, the first lens 181 and the second lens 182 can improve the recognition accuracy of the sensor module 150 by removing noise and filtering out wavelengths within a specific range, while allowing wavelengths within a specific range to pass through.

[0435] The lens support unit 185 can support a lens 180. The lens support unit 185 may include a first lens support unit 185a that supports a first lens 181 and a second lens support unit 185b that supports a second lens 182. The first lens support unit 185a and the second lens support unit 185b may be connected to each other at a predetermined angle. Figure 22 illustrates an example in which the first lens support unit 185a and the second lens support unit 185b are connected at a right angle, but is not limited thereto. That is, the first lens support unit 185a and the second lens support unit 185b may be connected to each other at an acute or obtuse angle. The first lens support unit 185a and the second lens support unit 185b may be formed integrally.

[0436] The lens support unit 185 may contain resin. For example, the lens support unit 185 may contain polystyrene, polypropylene, or polyethylene.

[0437] The lens 180 can be connected to the lens support unit 185 by being inserted into the lens support unit 185, but the connection method is not limited to this.

[0438] Figure 22 shows one light-emitting unit 151 and one light-receiving unit 155 arranged at a predetermined angle, but this is illustrative. That is, the light-emitting unit 151 and light-receiving unit 155 of two sensor modules 150 arranged along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 5 may be arranged at a predetermined angle.

[0439] Figure 23A is a side view of the sensor module 150 according to one embodiment, Figure 23B is a top view of the sensor module 150 according to one embodiment, and Figure 23C is a block diagram of the sensor module 150 according to one embodiment.

[0440] Referring to Figures 23A, 23B, and 23C, a sensor module 150 according to one embodiment may include a light-emitting unit 151, a light-receiving unit 155, a substrate 158, a molding member 190, and a filter 195.

[0441] Since at least one of the components of the sensor module 150 (for example, the light-emitting unit 151) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the sensor module described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that in the sensor module 150, some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and description.

[0442] In one embodiment, the substrate 158 may include a substrate surface 158a and substrate terminals 159. The substrate surface 158a is also one of the surfaces of the substrate 158 on which the elements or chips are placed (for example, the surface in the +x direction). The substrate terminals 159 may be located on the surface opposite to the substrate surface 158a (for example, the surface in the -x direction).

[0443] In one embodiment, the substrate surface 158a is also the surface facing the object to be sensed by the sensor module 150 (e.g., an aerosol product or cartridge). The substrate terminals 159 can be electrically and / or physically connected to an aerosol generator.

[0444] The sensor module 150 may further include a first element 152, a first conductive member 153, a second element 156, and a second conductive member 157.

[0445] In one embodiment, the first element 152 and the second element 156 may be provided on the substrate surface 158a. The first element 152 may be connected to the light-emitting unit 151. The second element 156 may be connected to the light-receiving unit 155.

[0446] In one embodiment, the first conductive member 153 can electrically connect the first element 152 and the light-emitting unit 151. The second conductive member 157 can electrically connect the second element 156 and the light-receiving unit 155.

[0447] For example, the first element 152 may include two terminals, including a negative terminal and a positive terminal. The light-emitting unit 151 may be directly coupled to one of the two terminals of the first element 152. The first conductive member 153 may connect the light-emitting unit 151 to the other of the two terminals.

[0448] For example, the second element 156 may include two terminals (e.g., a negative terminal and a positive terminal). The light receiving unit 155 may be directly coupled to one of the two terminals of the second element 156. The second conductive member 157 may connect the light receiving unit 155 to the other of the two terminals.

[0449] In one embodiment, the first element 152 and the second element 156 may be arranged adjacent to each other on the substrate surface 158a along one direction (for example, the z-axis direction). The light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 may also be arranged adjacent to each other on the substrate surface 158a. However, the arrangement direction of the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 is not limited to those shown in Figures 23A and 23B. That is, the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the x-axis or y-axis direction.

[0450] In one embodiment, the sensor module 150 can be realized in package form by arranging a light-emitting unit 151 and a light-receiving unit 155 on the substrate surface 158a of a single substrate 158. The package form of the sensor module 150 is advantageous for miniaturization and can provide space efficiency for the aerosol generating device.

[0451] In one embodiment, the molding member 190 may be placed on the substrate surface 158a. The molding member 190 can protect the substrate surface 158a and other components mounted on the substrate surface 158a. The molding member 190 may be made of a non-conductive material. The molding member 190 can reduce or prevent electrical short circuits or unintended splicing of the substrate surface 158a and other components mounted on the substrate surface 158a.

[0452] In one embodiment, the molding member 190 may include a base region 191. The base region 191 may be arranged so as to surround the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155 on the substrate surface 158a.

[0453] In one embodiment, the molding member 190 may be made of a light-transmitting material. The molding member 190 can guide the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 151 via the base region 191 to be transmitted to the object to be sensed by the sensor module 150.

[0454] In one embodiment, the base region 191 may consist of a single body formed by connecting regions surrounding the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155, respectively. The base region 191 may be coated substantially uniformly onto the substrate surface 158a and cured. A base region 191 consisting of a single body may provide efficiency in the manufacture of the sensor module 150.

[0455] In this invention, “substantially,” “approximately,” or “about” may mean the same level reflecting tolerances or errors in a typical manufacturing process. Alternatively, “substantially” may refer to a range that includes any one of the following ranges, based on 0%, which is literally identical: + / -0.1%, + / -0.5%, + / -1%, + / -3%, + / -5%, + / -7%, + / -10%, + / -15%, and + / -20%.

[0456] In one embodiment, the filter 195 can filter at least a portion of the light received by the light receiving unit 155. For example, the filter 195 can filter out light of a first wavelength from the light received by the light receiving unit 155. Alternatively, for example, the filter 195 can filter out a portion of the light received by the light receiving unit 155 that includes light of the first wavelength.

[0457] In one embodiment, the control unit can recognize identification information relating to an aerosol product or cartridge based on the amount of light filtered by the filter 195 by executing a command word stored in memory.

[0458] In one embodiment, the filter 195 can improve the identification accuracy of the sensor module 150 by blocking light of a first wavelength transmitted to the light receiving unit 155. In another embodiment, the sensor module 150 including the filter 195 can provide ease of design for at least one control unit and / or memory.

[0459] When the light receiving unit 155 receives light of the first wavelength, at least one control unit and / or memory must either select the light of the second wavelength from the light received by the light receiving unit 155, ignore the light of the first wavelength, or block it. The control unit and / or memory may require additional configuration or operation, either circuit-wise (or operationally, by program, or in a manner different from these), which can increase the design difficulty.

[0460] An aerosol generator according to one embodiment may have the advantage of not only providing identification accuracy by having the filter 195 block light of the first wavelength at the sensor module 150, but also reducing the design difficulty of the control unit and / or memory.

[0461] In one embodiment, the filter 195 may include at least a portion of the optical filter 196, the filter element 197, and the switching element 198. The filtering method and configuration of the filter 195 will be described illustratively below with reference to Figure 23C. However, the methods and configurations of the filter 195 described below are merely illustrative, and the filter 195 can filter the light received by the light receiving unit 155 in a variety of methods and configurations.

[0462] In one embodiment, the optical filter 196 may reflect (or absorb) light of a first wavelength. The optical filter 196 may be physically positioned to surround at least a portion of the area of ​​the light-receiving unit 155. The optical filter 196 may be positioned on the outer circumferential surface of the light-receiving unit 155. Alternatively, the optical filter 196 may be positioned on the molding member 190. By physically or structurally blocking light of the first wavelength, the optical filter 196 may provide an advantage in the design difficulty of the filter 195.

[0463] In one embodiment, the filter element 197 can controllly filter the sensing results of the sensor module 150. The filter element 197 can be controllly connected to the light receiving unit 155. For example, the filter element 197 can be implemented as a wafer filter.

[0464] In one embodiment, the filter element 197 can noise-process light of a first wavelength from the light received by the light receiving unit 155. The filter element 197 can be placed on the light receiving unit 155 or the substrate 158. For example, the filter element 197 is also part of the second element 156 or the substrate 158.

[0465] In one embodiment, the switching element 198 can controllly filter the sensing results of the sensor module 150. The switching element 198 can be controllly connected to the light-emitting unit 151 and / or the light-receiving unit 155. For example, the switching element 198 can be implemented as a wafer filter.

[0466] In one embodiment, the switching element 198 can block the light emission of the light-emitting unit 151 while the light-receiving unit 155 is receiving light. The switching element 198 can be located on the light-emitting unit 151 or the substrate 158. For example, the filter element 197 is also part of the first element 152 or the substrate 158.

[0467] Figures 24A and 24B are graphs showing the sensing results of a sensor module according to one embodiment. Specifically, Figures 24A and 24B are graphs showing the degree of response depending on the wavelength of light received by the light receiving unit when the light-emitting unit of the sensor module emits a first wavelength W1.

[0468] In explaining Figures 24A and 24B, at least one component of the aerosol generation system is the same as or similar to what has been described above, so redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0469] For example, Figure 24A also represents the responsiveness to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module before it is filtered by a filter (e.g., the filter in Figure 23C). Alternatively, Figure 24A also represents the responsiveness to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module when the sensor module does not include a filter. Responsiveness is a parameter that shows the relative values ​​of adjacent wavelengths of light, with the wavelength with the greatest light intensity among the light received by the light receiving unit set as the reference (1.0).

[0470] For example, Figure 24B also shows the responsiveness to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module after it has been filtered by the filter. Alternatively, Figure 24B also shows the responsiveness to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module when the sensor module includes a filter.

[0471] In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength W1 emitted from the light-emitting unit means light of wavelengths that substantially mainly include the light of the first wavelength W1. For example, the first wavelength W1 is also a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm.

[0472] Referring to Figure 24A, it can be confirmed that when the light-emitting unit emits light at the first wavelength W1, the light intensity at the first wavelength W1 is the greatest, and as the distance from the first wavelength W1 increases, there is a tendency for the light intensity to decrease substantially (or approximately) at different wavelengths.

[0473] In one embodiment, light of a first wavelength W1 is excited by an identification substance in the aerosol product or an identification substance in the cartridge, and the identification substance may emit light of a second wavelength W2 that is different from the first wavelength W1.

[0474] In one embodiment, the light of the second wavelength W2 emitted from the identifying substance means light of a wavelength that substantially includes the light of the second wavelength W2. For example, the second wavelength W2 is also a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

[0475] Referring to Figures 24A and 24B, it can be confirmed that when the identifying substance emits light at the second wavelength W2, the light intensity at the second wavelength W2 is the greatest, and as the distance from the second wavelength W2 increases, there is a tendency for the light intensity at wavelengths to decrease substantially (or approximately).

[0476] In one embodiment, the filter can filter wavelengths within a first filtering range Fw. The first filtering range Fw is also the range from a reference wavelength between a first wavelength W1 and a second wavelength W2 to include the first wavelength W1. For example, the first filtering range Fw is also wavelengths less than 1000 nm.

[0477] In one embodiment, the control unit can recognize identification information related to the aerosol product based on the amount of light of the second wavelength W2 outside the first filtering range Fw by executing a command word stored in memory.

[0478] In one embodiment, if the difference between the first wavelength W1 and the second wavelength W2 is not large, for example, if both the light of the first wavelength W1 and the light of the second wavelength W2 are infrared, the control unit may have difficulty recognizing identification information based on the amount of light of the second wavelength W2, potentially resulting in errors in the identification result or a decrease in accuracy. In one embodiment, the sensor module can reduce or eliminate errors in the identification result and improve identification accuracy by physically blocking the first filtering range Fw, which includes the light of the first wavelength W1, through a filter, or by controlling noise processing.

[0479] Figure 25 is a side view of a sensor module 150 according to one embodiment.

[0480] Referring to Figure 25, the sensor module 150 may include a light-emitting unit 151, a light-receiving unit 155, a substrate 158, a molding member 190, and a first dome-shaped molding region 192.

[0481] Since at least one of the components of the sensor module 150 (for example, the light-emitting unit 151) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the sensor module described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that in the sensor module 150, some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and description.

[0482] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region 192 may be positioned on one surface of the base region 191 facing the cavity (for example, the surface in the +x direction) corresponding to the light-emitting unit 151. The first dome-shaped molding region 192 can guide the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 151.

[0483] For example, the first dome-shaped molding region 192 can guide at least a portion of the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 151 to focus on the identification substance of the object to be sensed by the sensor module 150 (aerosol product or cartridge).

[0484] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region 192 provides light transmission efficiency for the light-emitting unit 151, and the sensor module 150 can improve sensing accuracy via the first dome-shaped molding region 192.

[0485] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region 192 may consist of a single body continuous with the base region 191. Alternatively, the first dome-shaped molding region 192 may have a discontinuous structure with respect to the base region 191 and be connected to the base region 191.

[0486] Figure 26 is a side view of a sensor module 150 according to one embodiment.

[0487] Referring to Figure 26, the sensor module 150 may include a light-emitting unit 151, a light-receiving unit 155, a substrate 158, a molding member 190, a first dome-shaped molding region 192, and a second dome-shaped molding region 193.

[0488] Since at least one of the components of the sensor module 150 (for example, the light-emitting unit 151) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the sensor module described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that in the sensor module 150, some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and description.

[0489] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region 193 may be positioned on one surface of the base region 191 facing the cavity (for example, the surface in the +x direction) at a location corresponding to the light-receiving unit 155. The second dome-shaped molding region 193 can guide the light transmitted to the light-receiving unit 155.

[0490] For example, the second dome-shaped molding region 193 can guide the light emitted from the identification material so that it is focused on the light-receiving unit 155.

[0491] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region 193 provides light absorption efficiency for the light receiving unit 155, and the sensor module 150 can improve sensing accuracy via the second dome-shaped molding region 193.

[0492] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region 193 may consist of a single body continuous with the base region 191. Alternatively, the second dome-shaped molding region 193 may have a discontinuous structure with respect to the base region 191 and be connected to the base region 191.

[0493] Figure 27 is a side view of a sensor module 150 according to one embodiment.

[0494] Referring to Figure 27, the sensor module 150 may include a light-emitting unit 151, a light-receiving unit 155, a substrate 158, a partition wall 178, and a molding member 190.

[0495] Since at least one of the components of the sensor module 150 (for example, the light-emitting unit 151) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the sensor module described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that in the sensor module 150, some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and description.

[0496] The base region 191 of the molding member 190 may be positioned on the substrate surface so as to surround the light-emitting unit 151 and the light-receiving unit 155.

[0497] The molding member 190 may contain a light-transmitting material. The molding member 190 can guide the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 151 via the base region 191 so that it is transmitted to the object to be sensed by the sensor module 150.

[0498] In one embodiment, the base region 191 may include a first molding region 191a and a second molding region 191b. The first molding region 191a may surround the light-emitting unit 151. The second molding region 191b may surround the light-receiving unit 155.

[0499] In one embodiment, the second molding region 191b may be separated from the first molding region 191a by being positioned at a distance from it. Alternatively, the first molding region 191a and the second molding region 191b may be arranged discontinuously from each other.

[0500] In one embodiment, the separation of the first molding region 191a and the second molding region 191b can prevent light emitted from the light-emitting unit 151 from being transmitted to the light-receiving unit 155 via the molding member 190. The sensor module 150 can improve its sensing accuracy through the first molding region 191a and the second molding region 191b.

[0501] In one embodiment, the partition wall 178 may demarcate a first molding area 191a and a second molding area 191b. The partition wall 178 may be positioned between the first molding area 191a and the second molding area 191b. The partition wall 178 may have a shape that extends along the first molding area 191a and the second molding area 191b.

[0502] In one embodiment, the partition wall 178 may include an EMC (epoxy molding compound) material. The partition wall 178 may be made of a material with relatively lower light transmittance compared to the molding member 190. The partition wall 178 can prevent light emitted from the light-emitting unit 151 from being transmitted to the light-receiving unit 155. The sensor module 150 can improve its sensing accuracy via the partition wall 178.

[0503] Figure 28 is a side view of a sensor module 150 according to one embodiment.

[0504] Referring to Figure 28, the sensor module 150 may include a light-emitting unit 151, a light-receiving unit 155, a substrate 158, a partition wall 178, a molding member 190, and a first dome-shaped molding region 192a.

[0505] Since at least one of the components of the sensor module 150 (for example, the light-emitting unit 151) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the sensor module described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that in the sensor module 150, some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and description.

[0506] The molding member 190 may include a base region 191 consisting of a first molding region 191a surrounding the light-emitting unit 151 and a second molding region 191b surrounding the light-receiving unit 155.

[0507] The first dome-shaped molding region 192a may be positioned on one face of the base region 191 facing the cavity (for example, the face in the +x direction) at a location corresponding to the light-emitting unit 151. For example, the first dome-shaped molding region 192a may be positioned on the first molding region 191a.

[0508] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region 192a can guide the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 151. For example, the first dome-shaped molding region 192a can guide at least a portion of the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 151 so that it is focused on the identification substance of the object to be sensed by the sensor module 150 (aerosol product or cartridge).

[0509] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region 192a provides light transmission efficiency for the light-emitting unit 151, and the sensor module 150 can improve sensing accuracy via the first dome-shaped molding region 192a.

[0510] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region 192a may consist of a single body continuous with the first molding region 191a. Alternatively, the first dome-shaped molding region 192a may have a discontinuous structure with respect to the first molding region 191a and may be coupled to the first molding region 191a.

[0511] Figure 29 is a side view of a sensor module 150 according to one embodiment.

[0512] Referring to Figure 29, the sensor module 150 may include a light-emitting unit 151, a light-receiving unit 155, a substrate 158, a partition wall 178, and a molding member 190, a first dome-shaped molding region 192, and a second dome-shaped molding region 193.

[0513] Since at least one of the components of the sensor module 150 (for example, the light-emitting unit 151) is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the sensor module described above, redundant explanations will be omitted below. It goes without saying that in the sensor module 150, some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them based on the following drawings and description.

[0514] In one embodiment, the molding member 190 may include a base region 191 consisting of a first molding region 191a surrounding the light-emitting unit 151 and a second molding region 191b surrounding the light-receiving unit 155.

[0515] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region 192b may be positioned on one surface of the base region 191 facing the cavity (for example, the surface in the +x direction) corresponding to the light-receiving unit 155. For example, the second dome-shaped molding region 192b may be positioned on the upper surface of the second molding region 191b.

[0516] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region 192b can guide the light transmitted to the light-receiving unit 155. For example, the second dome-shaped molding region 192b can guide the light emitted from the identification material so that it is focused on the light-receiving unit 155.

[0517] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region 192b provides light absorption efficiency for the light receiving unit 155, and the sensor module 150 can improve sensing accuracy via the second dome-shaped molding region 192b.

[0518] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region 192b may consist of a single body continuous with the second molding region 191b. Alternatively, the second dome-shaped molding region 192b may have a discontinuous structure with respect to the second molding region 191b and may be connected to the second molding region 191b.

[0519] Figure 30 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0520] The aerosol generator 1000 may include a power supply 1100, a control unit 1200, a sensor 1300, an output unit 1400, an input unit 1500, a communication unit 1600, a memory 1700, and at least one heater 1800, 2400. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1000 is not limited to that shown in Figure 30. That is, a person with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment will understand that depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1000, some of the components shown in Figure 30 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0521] The sensor 1300 can sense the state of the aerosol generator 1000 or the state of the area around the aerosol generator 1000 and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 1200. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 1200 can control the aerosol generator 1000 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800, restricting smoking, determining whether or not an aerosol product and / or cartridge 19 is inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0522] The sensor 1300 may include at least one of the following: a temperature sensor 1310, a puff sensor 1320, an insertion sensor 1330, a reuse sensor 1340, a cartridge sensor 1350, a cap sensor 1360, and a motion sensor 1370.

[0523] The temperature sensor 1310 can sense the temperature at which the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 are heated. The aerosol generator 1000 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800, or the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 themselves may perform the role of a temperature sensor.

[0524] The temperature sensor 1310 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800. For example, the temperature sensor 1310 may include a resistive element whose resistance changes in response to temperature changes in the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800. This can be embodied by a thermistor or other element that utilizes the property that resistance changes with temperature. In this case, the temperature sensor 1310 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800. For example, the temperature sensor 1310 may consist of a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800. In this case, the temperature sensor 1310 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800.

[0525] The temperature sensor 1310 may be positioned around the power supply 1100 to monitor its temperature. The temperature sensor 1310 may be positioned adjacent to the power supply 1100. For example, the temperature sensor 1310 may be attached to one side of the battery which is the power supply 1100. For example, the temperature sensor 1310 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0526] The temperature sensor 1310 is located inside the aerosol generator body and can sense the internal temperature of the aerosol generator body.

[0527] The puff sensor 1320 can detect user puffs based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 1320 can output a signal corresponding to a puff. For example, the puff sensor 1320 is also a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 1320 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1000 can correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 1320 can be positioned in the aerosol generator 1000 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0528] The insertion sensing sensor 1330 can detect the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products. The insertion sensing sensor 1330 can detect signal changes due to the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products. The insertion sensing sensor 1330 may be installed around the insertion space. The insertion sensing sensor 1330 can detect the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products by changes in dielectric constant within the insertion space. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 1330 is also an inductive sensor and / or capacitance sensor.

[0529] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. For example, if the magnetic field changes around a coil through which current flows, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0530] An inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through a coil. For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of a coil.

[0531] Capacitance sensors may include conductors. The conductor of a capacitance sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. Capacitance sensors may output signals corresponding to the surrounding electromagnetic properties, such as the capacitance around the conductor. For example, if an aerosol product including a metal casing is inserted into the insertion space, the casing of the aerosol product may alter the electromagnetic properties around the conductor.

[0532] The reuse detection sensor 1340 can detect whether an aerosol product is being reused. The reuse detection sensor 1340 is also a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the hue of the aerosol product. The color sensor can detect the hue of a portion of the flaps surrounding the aerosol product. The color sensor can detect values ​​for optical properties corresponding to the hue of an object, based on light reflected from the object. For example, optical properties are also wavelengths of light. The color sensor can be implemented in a single configuration with a proximity sensor, or in a separate configuration distinct from the proximity sensor.

[0533] At least a portion of the flaps constituting the aerosol product may change hue due to the aerosol. The reuse sensing sensor 1340 may be positioned in a location corresponding to where at least a portion of the flaps whose hue changes due to the aerosol are located when the aerosol product is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the aerosol product is used by the user, at least a portion of the flaps has a first hue. In this case, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 1000 passes through the aerosol product, at least a portion of the flaps may be wetted by the aerosol, causing at least a portion of the flaps to change to a second hue. On the other hand, at least a portion of the flaps may remain at the second hue after being changed from the first hue to the second hue.

[0534] The cartridge sensing sensor 1350 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge sensing sensor 1350 can be implemented as an inductance substrate sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, or a Hall sensor (Hall IC) utilizing the Hall effect.

[0535] The cap sensing sensor 1360 can detect the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the aerosol generator body, the cartridge 19 and a portion of the aerosol generator body that were covered by the cap may be exposed to the outside. The cap sensing sensor 1360 can be implemented as a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0536] The motion sensor 1370 can detect the movement of the aerosol generator. The motion sensor 1370 can be embodied in at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0537] Sensor 1300 may include, in addition to the aforementioned sensors 1310 to 1370, at least one of the following: a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), or a proximity sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an average engineer from its name, so a detailed explanation may be omitted.

[0538] The output unit 1400 may output and provide to the user information relating to the status of the aerosol generator 1000. The output unit 1400 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the display 1410, the haptic unit 1420, and the acoustic output unit 1430. If the display 1410 and the touchpad form a layered structure to constitute a touchscreen, the display 1410 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0539] The display 1410 can visually provide the user with information related to the aerosol generator 1000. For example, information related to the aerosol generator 1000 can include a variety of information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply 1100 of the aerosol generator 1000, the preheating status of the heater 1800, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol product and / or cartridge 19, the attachment / removal status of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 1000 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the display 1410 can output this information to the outside. For example, the display 1410 can also be an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display 1410 can also be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0540] The haptic unit 1420 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli to provide the user with tactile information related to the aerosol generator 1000. For example, the haptic unit 1420 may generate vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating when initial power has been supplied to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 for a set time. The haptic unit 1420 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0541] The acoustic output unit 1430 can provide the user with auditory information related to the aerosol generator 1000. For example, the acoustic output unit 1430 can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0542] The power supply 1100 can supply the power used to operate the aerosol generator 1000. The power supply 1100 can supply power so that the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 can be heated. The power supply 1100 can also supply the power necessary for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator 1000, namely the sensor 1300, output unit 1400, input unit 1500, communication unit 1600, and memory 1700. The power supply 1100 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 1100 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to these.

[0543] Although not shown in Figure 30, the aerosol generator 1000 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit is electrically connected to the power supply 1100 and may include a switching element.

[0544] The power protection circuit may interrupt the circuit to the power supply 1100 under predetermined conditions. For example, the power protection circuit may interrupt the circuit to the power supply 1100 if the voltage level of the power supply 1100 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 1100 if the voltage level of the power supply 1100 is less than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharge.

[0545] The heater 1800 may be powered by the power supply 1100 to heat the medium or aerosol-generating material within the aerosol product. Although not shown in Figure 30, the aerosol generator 1000 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the power supply 1100 and supplies it to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 1000 generates aerosols by induction heating, the aerosol generator 1000 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the power supply 1100 to AC power.

[0546] The control unit 1200, sensor 1300, output unit 1400, input unit 1500, communication unit 1600, and memory 1700 can perform their functions by being powered by the power supply 1100. Although not shown in Figure 30, the circuit 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 1100 and supplies it to each component. Also, although not shown in Figure 30, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 1100 and the heater 1800. The noise filter is also a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter may include at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 1100 to the heater 1800. The low-pass filter can prevent high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor 1300, such as the insertion sensing sensor 1330.

[0547] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 may consist of any suitable electrical resistant material. Suitable electrical resistant materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys, such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The heater 1800 may also be embodied by, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which conductive tracks are arranged, or a ceramic heating element.

[0548] In other embodiments, the heater 1800 is also an induction heating heater. For example, the heater 1800 may include a susceptor that generates heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0549] The input unit 1500 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit 1500 is also a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor that detects touch. For example, the touch sensor may include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, an ultrasonic touch sensor (surface acoustic wave touch sensor), or an infrared touch sensor.

[0550] The display 1410 and the touch panel can be realized as a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be inserted into the display 1410 (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel can be added on to the display 1410 panel (add-on type).

[0551] On the other hand, the input section 1500 includes, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0552] Memory 1700 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1000, and can store data processed by the control unit 1200 and data being processed. Memory 1700 may include at least one type of recording medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 1700 may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 1000, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data related to the user's smoking pattern.

[0553] The communication unit 1600 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 1600 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0554] The short-range wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth® communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee® communication unit, an infrared (IrDA: infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, and others.

[0555] The wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit.

[0556] Although not shown in Figure 30, the aerosol generator 1000 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, which can connect to other external devices to send and receive information or charge the power supply 1100 via the USB interface.

[0557] The control unit 1200 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1000. In one embodiment, the control unit 1200 may include at least one processor. The processor may be embodied as an array of numerous logic gates and may be embodied as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program that can be executed by the microprocessor. A person with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs will understand that it may also be embodied as other forms of hardware.

[0558] The control unit 1200 can control the temperature of the heater 1800 by controlling the supply of power from the power supply 1100 to the heater 1800. The control unit 1200 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 sensed by the temperature sensor 1310. The control unit 1200 can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800. For example, the control unit 1200 can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 1700.

[0559] The aerosol generator 1000 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 1100 between the power supply 1100 and the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 2400, heater 1800, or induction coil 18001. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be embodied by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 1200 may control the power supply circuit.

[0560] The control unit 1200 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit is also an inverter that converts the DC power output from the power supply 1100 into AC power. For example, the inverter may consist of a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit that includes multiple switching elements.

[0561] The control unit 1200 can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power supply 1100 to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800. The control unit 1200 can turn off the switching element so that the power supply to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 is cut off. The control unit 1200 can adjust the current supplied from the power supply 1100 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0562] The control unit 1200 can control the voltage output from the power supply 1100 by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power supply 1100. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the power supply 1100. For example, the power conversion circuit may be implemented through a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, etc.

[0563] The control unit 1200 can control the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit to adjust the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit. When the switching element remains in the on state, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit may correspond to the voltage level output from the power supply 1100. The duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power supply 1100. The lower the duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element, the lower the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit may be. The heater 1800 may be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0564] The control unit 1200 can control the supply of power to the heater 1800 using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID).

[0565] For example, the control unit 1200 can use a PWM method to control the supply of current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heater 1800. The control unit 1200 can adjust the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses to control the power supplied to the heater 1800.

[0566] For example, the control unit 1200 can determine a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile. The control unit 1200 can control the power supplied to the heater 1800 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the temperature of the heater 1800 and the target temperature, the integral of the difference over time, and the derivative of the difference over time.

[0567] The control unit 1200 can prevent overheating of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800. For example, the control unit 1200 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit so that the power supply to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 is interrupted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 exceeding a previously set limit temperature. For example, the control unit 1200 can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 by a certain percentage based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 exceeding a previously set limit temperature. For example, the control unit 1200 can determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 exceeding a limit temperature and cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 2400.

[0568] The control unit 1200 can control the charging and discharging of the power supply 1100. The control unit 1200 can check the temperature of the power supply 1100 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 1310.

[0569] When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator 1000, the control unit 1200 can check whether the temperature of the power supply 1100 is above a first limit temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the charging of the power supply 1100. If the temperature of the power supply 1100 is below the first limit temperature, the control unit 1200 can control the power supply 1100 to be charged based on a previously set charging current. If the temperature of the power supply 1100 is above the first limit temperature, the control unit 1200 can shut off the charging of the power supply 1100.

[0570] With the aerosol generator 1000 powered on, the control unit 1200 can check whether the temperature of the power supply 1100 is above the second limit temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the discharge of the power supply 1100. If the temperature of the power supply 1100 is below the second limit temperature, the control unit 1200 can control the system to use the power stored in the power supply 1100. If the temperature of the power supply 1100 is above the second limit temperature, the control unit 1200 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the power supply 1100.

[0571] The control unit 1200 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 1100 relative to the power stored in the power supply 1100. For example, the control unit 1200 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 1100 based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power supply 1100.

[0572] The control unit 1200 can determine whether or not an aerosol product has been inserted into the insertion space via the insertion sensing sensor 1330. Based on the output signal of the insertion sensing sensor 1330, the control unit 1200 can determine that an aerosol product has been inserted. If it determines that an aerosol product has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 1200 can control the supply of power to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800. For example, the control unit 1200 can supply power to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 1700.

[0573] The control unit 1200 can determine whether or not aerosol products have been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 1200 can determine whether or not aerosol products have been removed from the insertion space via the insertion sensing sensor 1330. For example, the control unit 1200 determines that aerosol products have been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the heater 1800 is above a limit temperature, or if the temperature change gradient of the heater 1800 is above a set gradient. If the control unit 1200 determines that aerosol products have been removed from the insertion space, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800.

[0574] The control unit 1200 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 1800 based on the state of the aerosol product sensed by the sensor 1300. The control unit 1200 can determine the level range that includes the signal level of the capacitance sensor based on a lookup table. Based on the determined level range, the control unit 1200 can determine the amount of moisture in the aerosol product.

[0575] If the aerosol product is in an overly humid state, the control unit 1200 can control the power supply time to the heater 1800 to increase the preheating time of the aerosol product compared to normal conditions.

[0576] The control unit 1200 can determine whether the aerosol product inserted into the insertion space is being reused via the reuse sensing sensor 1340. For example, the control unit 1200 compares the sensing value of the reuse sensing sensor signal with a first reference range that includes a first hue, and determines that the aerosol product is not being used if the sensing value falls within the first reference range. For example, the control unit 1200 compares the sensing value of the reuse sensing sensor signal with a second reference range that includes a second hue, and determines that the aerosol product has been used if the sensing value falls within the second reference range. If it is determined that the aerosol product has been used, the control unit 1200 may cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800.

[0577] The control unit 1200 can determine whether to connect and / or remove the cartridge 19 via the cartridge sensing sensor 1350. For example, the control unit 1200 can determine whether to connect and / or remove the cartridge 19 based on the sensing value of the signal from the cartridge sensing sensor.

[0578] The control unit 1200 can determine whether the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted. For example, the control unit 1200 preheats the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 by applying power, and determines whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period. If the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 exceeds the limit temperature, the control unit 1200 determines that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted. If the control unit 1200 determines that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800.

[0579] The control unit 1200 can determine whether the cartridge 19 is usable or not. For example, based on the data stored in the memory 1700, the control unit 1200 determines that the cartridge 19 is unusable if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge 19. For example, the control unit 1200 determines that the cartridge 19 is unusable if the total time the heater 2400 has been heated is greater than or equal to the previously set maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the heater 2400 is greater than or equal to the previously set maximum amount of power.

[0580] The control unit 1200 can make decisions regarding the user's inhalation through the puff sensor 1320. For example, the control unit 1200 can determine whether or not a puff has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor. For example, the control unit 1200 can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor 1320. If the number of puffs reaches a pre-set maximum number of puffs, or if no puff has been detected for a pre-set time or longer, the control unit 1200 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800.

[0581] The control unit 1200 can determine whether to attach and / or remove the cap via the cap sensing sensor 1360. For example, the control unit 1200 can determine whether to attach and / or remove the cap based on the sensing value of the signal from the cap sensing sensor.

[0582] The control unit 1200 can control the output unit 1400 based on the results sensed by the sensor 1300. For example, if the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 1320 reaches a pre-set number, the control unit 1200 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 1000 will soon shut down via at least one of the display 1410, the haptic unit 1420, and the acoustic output unit 1430. For example, the control unit 1200 can inform the user via the output unit 1400 based on the determination that there are no aerosol products in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 1200 can inform the user via the output unit 1400 based on the determination that the cartridge 19 and / or cap is not installed. For example, the control unit 1200 can transmit information related to the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800 to the user via the output unit 1400.

[0583] The control unit 1200 can save and update a history of events in the memory 1700 based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. Events may include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1000, such as sensing the insertion of an aerosol product, starting the heating of the aerosol product, detecting puffing, ending the puffing, sensing overheating of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800, sensing the application of overvoltage to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800, ending the heating of the aerosol product, turning the power of the aerosol generator 1000 on / off, starting charging of the power supply 1100, sensing overcharge of the power supply 1100, and ending charging of the power supply 1100. 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 the sensing of insertion of an aerosol product, the log data corresponding to the event may include data related to the sensing value of the insertion sensing sensor 1330, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating in the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800, the log data corresponding to the event may include data relating to the temperature of the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800, the current flowing through the cartridge heater 2400 and / or heater 1800, and so on.

[0584] The control unit 1200 can be controlled to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication-related data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 1200 can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1000. Here, the authentication-related data may include data indicating the completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. The user can perform user authentication via the external device. The external device can determine that the user data is valid based on the user's date of birth, a unique number identifying the user, etc., and can receive data from an external server regarding the right to use the aerosol generator 1000. Based on the data regarding the right to use, the external device can transmit data indicating the completion of user authentication to the aerosol generator 1000. Once user authentication is complete, the control unit 1200 can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1000. For example, once user authentication is complete, the control unit 1200 can remove restrictions on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the heater 1800.

[0585] The control unit 1200 can transmit data relating to the status of the aerosol generator 1000 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 1100 of the aerosol generator 1000, the operating mode, etc., via the external device's display.

[0586] An external device may transmit a location search request to the aerosol generator 1000 based on an input to initiate a location search for the aerosol generator 1000. When the control unit 1200 receives a location search request from the external device, it may control at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, the haptic unit 1420 may generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display 1410 may output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0587] The control unit 1200 can control the aerosol generator 1000 to perform a firmware update upon receiving firmware data from an external device. The external device can check the current firmware version of the aerosol generator 1000 and determine whether a new firmware version exists. If the external device receives an input requesting a firmware download, it can receive the new firmware version data and transmit the new firmware version data to the aerosol generator 1000. Upon receiving the new firmware version data, the control unit 1200 can control the aerosol generator 1000 to perform a firmware update.

[0588] The control unit 1200 can transmit data related to the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 1300 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 1600, and can receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensing values ​​from the server via machine learning such as deep learning. The control unit 1200 can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 1200 can store sensing value data from at least one sensor 1300 and data for learning the artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 1700. For example, the memory 1700 can store a database related to each component of the aerosol generator 1000, weights and biases that make up the ANN structure, for learning the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 1200 can learn data related to the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 1300, the user's inhalation pattern, temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory 1700, and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's inhalation pattern, generating a temperature profile, etc.

[0589] The above-described embodiments are merely illustrative examples, and a person with ordinary skill in the art will understand that a variety of modifications and equivalent other embodiments are possible therefrom. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention must be determined by the attached claims, and all differences that are equivalent to those described in the claims must be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection determined by the claims.

[0590] The embodiments described above, or other embodiments, are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. The respective configurations or functions of the embodiments described above, or other embodiments, may be used in combination or in combination with each other.

[0591] For example, this means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing may be combinable with configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. In other words, even if the combinability between configurations is not directly described, it means that combinability is possible unless it is stated that combinability is impossible.

[0592] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in any way, but should be considered illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. In an aerosol product containing an aerosol-generating substance that generates an aerosol when heated, The aerosol product includes an identification substance that absorbs light of a first wavelength irradiated from outside the aerosol product and emits light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength. The aforementioned identifying substance is an aerosol product containing organic matter.

2. The aerosol product according to claim 1, wherein the first wavelength is 10 nm to 340 nm, and the second wavelength is 380 nm to 780 nm.

3. The aerosol product according to claim 1, wherein the organic substance comprises one or more organic substances selected from the group consisting of quinazolinone compounds, thiophene compounds, sulfobenzoic acid compounds, and naphthyridine compounds.

4. The maximum absorption wavelength (Abs) of the aforementioned identifying substance ｍａｘ The aerosol product according to claim 1, wherein the difference between the light source and the dominant wavelength (DWL) of the light emitted from the identifying substance is 20% or more with respect to the maximum absorption wavelength.

5. The aerosol product according to claim 1, wherein the identifying substance comprises a plurality of particles having a diameter of 0.1 μm to 10 μm.

6. Includes a trumpet for packaging the aerosol product, The aerosol product according to claim 1, wherein the identifying substance is arranged on the outer surface of the trumpet.

7. The package includes a plurality of trumpets for superimposing and packaging the aerosol product, The aerosol product according to claim 1, wherein the identifying substance is arranged between the plurality of trumpets.

8. The aerosol product according to claim 1, wherein the identifying substance is arranged along the circumferential direction of the aerosol product, and the region in which the identifying substance is arranged extends 1 mm to 10 mm along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product.

9. The aerosol product includes aerosol generating rods and filter rods that are sequentially aligned along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product. The aerosol product according to claim 1, wherein the length from the downstream end of the region where the identifying substance is placed to the boundary between the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod is 0 mm to 5 mm.

10. The identification substance includes a first identification substance and a second identification substance. The first identifying substance and the second identifying substance emit light of different wavelengths from each other. The aerosol product according to claim 1, wherein the difference between the wavelength of light emitted by the first identifying substance and the wavelength of light emitted by the second identifying substance is 15 nm or more.

11. The identification substance includes a first identification substance and a second identification substance. The aerosol product according to claim 1, wherein the first identifying substance and the second identifying substance are separated along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product.

12. The steps include preparing an identification substance containing organic matter, The steps include: preparing a primary solution by mixing the aforementioned identification substance and OP varnish (overprint varnish); The steps include: mixing the primary solution and diluent to produce an identification substance solution; A method for producing an aerosol product, comprising the step of applying the identification substance solution to the aerosol product.

13. The method for producing an aerosol product according to claim 12, wherein the organic substance comprises one or more organic substances selected from the group consisting of quinazolinone compounds, thiophene compounds, sulfobenzoic acid compounds, and naphthyridine compounds.

14. The method for producing an aerosol product according to claim 12, wherein the identification substance solution comprises 0.01% to 20% by weight of the identification substance, 10% to 40% by weight of the OP varnish, and 50% to 85% by weight of the diluent.

15. The method for producing an aerosol product according to claim 12, wherein the OP varnish comprises one or more substances selected from the group consisting of nitrocellulose, polyamide, propyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, and 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH).

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