Aerosol generator

Abstract

The one-sided aerosol generation device includes a substrate sensing unit whose capacitance is varied depending on the presence or absence of an aerosol generation substrate, a heating unit that heats the aerosol generation substrate when the aerosol generation substrate is inserted into the cavity, and a control unit that acquires a monitoring value from the substrate sensing unit based on the change in capacitance and controls the heating unit based on the monitoring value. The control unit determines, based on the monitoring value, whether or not the aerosol generation substrate has been extracted when the aerosol generation substrate is inserted into the cavity and the aerosol generation substrate is being heated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly to an aerosol generating device that accurately determines whether an aerosol generating substrate has been extracted.

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 an aerosol generating substrate using an aerosol generating device, rather than by burning a cigarette to generate an aerosol.

[0003] Such an aerosol generating system can automatically heat a heating unit by inserting an aerosol generating substrate and automatically stop heating the heating unit by extracting the aerosol generating substrate, even without user input, for the convenience of the user. Further, such an automatic heating system requires a sensor that senses the presence or absence of an aerosol generating substrate. However, such a sensor is easily disturbed by internal or external factors. Therefore, if there is no method for accurately recognizing the aerosol generating substrate, the heating of the heating unit may be stopped even though the aerosol generating substrate has not been extracted from the cavity, causing inconvenience to the user, or the heating of the heating unit may be maintained even after the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted from the cavity, resulting in overheating of the device.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] A technical problem of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating device that more accurately determines whether an aerosol generating substrate has been extracted through a sensor.

[0005] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other technical problems may be inferred from the following embodiments.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The one-sided aerosol generating device includes a substrate sensing unit whose capacitance is varied by the insertion and extraction of an aerosol generating substrate into a cavity, a heating unit that heats the aerosol generating substrate when the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity, and a control unit that acquires a monitoring value of the substrate sensing unit based on the change in capacitance and controls the heating unit based on the monitoring value. The control unit determines whether the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted based on a first change in the monitoring value before a reference time and a second change in the monitoring value after the reference time, while the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity and the aerosol generating substrate is being heated. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The aerosol generating device of the present invention determines whether or not the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted based on the change in the sensor output value, rather than on an absolute reference value of the sensor output value. Therefore, it can more accurately sense whether or not the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted from its cavities.

[0008] Furthermore, the aerosol generator does not simply use the change in sensor output value in any single interval, but rather determines whether or not the aerosol-generating substrate has been extracted based on the change in the interval before and after the reference time. This allows for more accurate detection of whether or not the aerosol-generating substrate has been extracted from its cavities.

[0009] Furthermore, the aerosol generator accurately determines whether or not the aerosol-generating substrate has been extracted, thereby eliminating unintended heating interruptions and heating maintenance situations, and thus increasing user satisfaction.

[0010] The effects of the invention are not limited to those exemplified above, and a wider variety of effects are included herein. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a drawing showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a drawing showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view showing the upper case and main body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention joined together. [Figure 5] This is a drawing showing a sensing unit related to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is an internal block diagram of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates how monitoring values ​​change due to various events. [Figure 8] This is a drawing illustrating a method for determining a reference point according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates the changes in monitoring values ​​for events other than the extracted events according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This diagram illustrates the change in monitoring values ​​due to an extracted event according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The one-sided aerosol generating device includes a substrate sensing unit whose capacitance is varied by the insertion and extraction of an aerosol generating substrate into a cavity, a heating unit that heats the aerosol generating substrate when the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity, and a control unit that acquires a monitoring value of the substrate sensing unit based on the change in capacitance and controls the heating unit based on the monitoring value. The control unit determines whether the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted based on a first change in the monitoring value before a reference time and a second change in the monitoring value after the reference time, while the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity and the aerosol generating substrate is being heated.

[0013] Furthermore, the control unit sets the reference time based on the monitoring value which is equal to or greater than the previously set reference increase amount.

[0014] Furthermore, the control unit sets a monitoring interval before and after the point in time when the monitoring value reaches the reference increase amount, and sets the point in time when the monitoring value reaches the maximum value within the monitoring interval as the reference time.

[0015] Furthermore, the control unit acquires the first change amount in a first interval selected between a first time point before the reference time and the reference time, and acquires the second change amount in a second interval selected between the reference time and a second time point after the reference time, with the lengths of the first and second intervals being set to be the same.

[0016] Furthermore, the control unit determines that the aerosol-generating substrate has been extracted from the cavity if, in the first section, the first change amount gradually decreases over time, and in the second section, the second change amount is maintained within the reference range.

[0017] Furthermore, the control unit controls the heating unit to maintain the heating state of the aerosol-generating substrate when the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first section and the second change amount gradually decreases over time in the second section.

[0018] Further, the substrate sensing unit includes at least one electrode disposed on an insulating substrate, and the monitoring value is set to at least one of the charging time, discharging time, number of charge and discharge cycles, and capacitance value of the electrode.

[0019] Further, the heating unit includes an induction coil that surrounds an outer peripheral surface of a housing space in which the aerosol generating substrate is accommodated and generates an alternating magnetic field, and a susceptor that is disposed in the housing space and is heated by the alternating magnetic field, and the substrate sensing unit is disposed between the outer peripheral surface of the housing space and the induction coil.

[0020] Further, the control unit controls the heating unit to heat the aerosol generating substrate in a preheating section and a smoking section after the preheating section, and determines whether or not the aerosol generating substrate is extracted from the cavity in the smoking section.

[0021] Further, when the aerosol generating substrate is extracted from the cavity, the control unit cuts off the power supplied to the heating unit.

[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Without regard to the reference numerals, the same or similar components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0023] The suffixes "module" and "unit" for the components used in the following description are given or mixed only for the ease of preparing the specification, and do not have a meaning or role that distinguishes them from each other as such.

[0024] Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed herein, if a specific description of such prior art is deemed to obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed herein, such detailed description will be omitted. In addition, the accompanying drawings are merely for the purpose of facilitating the understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and it should be understood that the accompanying drawings do not limit the technical ideas disclosed herein and include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes that fall within the concept and technical scope of the present invention.

[0025] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe a variety of components, but the components are not limited by such terms. The terms are simply used to distinguish one component from another.

[0026] When it is mentioned that one component is "linked" or "connected" to another component, it must be understood that it is either directly linked to the other component, or connected but with other components in between. On the other hand, when it is mentioned that one component is "directly linked" or "directly connected" to another component, it must be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0027] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0028] Figure 1 is a drawing showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 is a drawing showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, an aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include at least one of a battery 11, a control unit 12, a sensing unit 13, and a heater 18. At least one of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the sensing unit 13, and the heater 18 may be located inside the main body 10 of the aerosol generator 1. The main body 10 can provide an upwardly open space into which an aerosol generating substrate S, which is an aerosol product, can be inserted. The upwardly open space is also referred to as an insertion space or cavity. The insertion space is formed by recessing into the main body 10 to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the aerosol generating substrate S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space corresponds to the length of the region in the aerosol generating substrate S that contains the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the aerosol generating substrate S is inserted into the main body 10, and the upper end of the aerosol generating substrate S protrudes outside the main body 10. The user can inhale air by putting the upper end of the aerosol generating substrate S, which is exposed to the outside, into their mouth. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator 1 further includes a vaporizer (not shown), and the aerosol generated by the vaporizer may be transmitted to the user through an aerosol generating substrate S. For this purpose, the vaporizer may include a liquid storage section, a liquid transfer means, and an additional heating element.

[0030] The heater 18 can heat the aerosol-generating substrate S. The heater 18 may extend upward in the space into which the aerosol-generating substrate S is inserted. For example, the heater 18 may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element. The heater 18 may be inserted below the aerosol-generating substrate S. In some embodiments, unlike in Figures 1 and 2, the heater 18 includes a cylindrical heating element, which accommodates the aerosol-generating substrate S and can heat at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol-generating substrate S.

[0031] The heater 18 includes an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater.

[0032] For example, referring to Figure 1, the heater 18 is also a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 includes a conductive track, and the heater 18 is heated when an electric current flows through the conductive track. The heater 18 may be electrically connected to the battery 11. The heater 18 may be directly heated by an electric current supplied from the battery 11. The heater 18 may also be referred to as a heating unit 180, given its configuration for heating the aerosol-generating substrate S.

[0033] For example, heater 18 is also a multiple heater. Heater 18 may include a first heater 18A and a second heater 18B. The first and second heaters 18A and 18B may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. The first and second heaters 18A and 18B may be heated sequentially or simultaneously.

[0034] For example, referring to Figure 2, the aerosol generator 1 may include an induction coil 181 surrounding a susceptor 182. The induction coil 181 can generate heat in the susceptor 182. In the example where the heater 18 of the aerosol generator 1 is an induction heating type heater, the induction coil 181 and the susceptor 182 can be referred to as heater 18. In the embodiment, only the susceptor 182 may be referred to as heater 18. Also, since the induction coil 181 and the susceptor 182 contribute to heating, the induction coil 181 and the susceptor 182 may be referred to as heating section 180.

[0035] The susceptor 182 can be heated by a magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 181. The magnetic field penetrates the susceptor 182, generating eddy currents within it. The current generates heat in the susceptor 182. As shown in Figure 2, the susceptor 182 is a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element. However, in some embodiments, the susceptor 182 may be cylindrical, contain the aerosol-generating substrate S, and heat at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol-generating substrate S. In other embodiments, the susceptor 182 is also a component included in the aerosol-generating substrate S, rather than being part of the aerosol-generating device 1.

[0036] The battery 11 can supply power to the components of the aerosol generator 1 so that they can operate. The battery 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, the sensing unit 13, and the heater 18.

[0037] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. The control unit may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the following: the battery 11, the sensing unit 13, and the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the induction coil 181. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the display, motor, and other components provided in the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 12 can check the state of each component of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether the aerosol generator 1 is in an operational state.

[0038] The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 13 and control subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 13, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 so that the operation of the heater 18 starts or stops. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 18 and the power supply time so that the heater 18 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0039] The sensing unit 13 includes at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, and an acceleration sensor. For example, the sensing unit 13 can sense at least one of the following: the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the battery 11, and the internal and external temperatures of the main body 10. For example, the sensing unit 13 can sense the user's puff. For example, the sensing unit 13 can sense whether or not the aerosol generating substrate S has been inserted into the insertion space. For example, the sensing unit 13 can sense the movement of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0040] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figures 3 and below primarily describe the case where heater 18 is an induction heater, but the following explanation can also be applied to the case of the electrical resistance heater shown in Figure 1.

[0042] Referring to Figure 3, the upper case 40 can be detachably coupled to the main body 10. The upper case 40 can be coupled to the upper side of the main body 10. The upper case 40 can cover the upper periphery of the main body 10. The upper case 40 can be provided with an insertion opening 44. The aerosol-generating substrate S can be inserted into the insertion opening 44. The insertion opening 44 corresponds to the insertion space or cavity described in Figures 1 and 2. The upper case 40 may include a cover 45 that opens and closes the insertion opening 44. The cover 45 slides laterally and can open and close the insertion opening 44.

[0043] The upper case 40 may include upper case wings 42. The upper case wings 42 may extend downward from both sides of the upper case body 41. The upper case wings 42 may be referred to as upper case grips 42.

[0044] The main body 10 may include main body wings 17. The main body wings 17 may extend upward from the upper end of the main body 10. The main body wings 17 consist of a pair of opposing wings centered on the upper part of the main body 10. The main body wings 17 may be formed in alternating positions with the upper case wings 42.

[0045] Once the upper case 40 is coupled to the main body 10, the upper case 40 can form the upper exterior of the aerosol generator. Once the upper case 40 is coupled to the main body 10, the main body wing 17 can cover the exposed sides of the upper case 40 between the upper case wings 42. Once the upper case 40 is coupled to the main body 10, the upper case wings 42 can cover the outer walls of the main body 10.

[0046] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the upper case and main body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Referring to Figure 4, the upper case 40 can be detachably connected to the main body 10. The upper case 40 may include an insertion opening 44. The cover 45 is movably mounted on the upper case 40 and can open or close the insertion opening 44.

[0048] The aerosol-generating substrate S can be housed in the aerosol-generating device 1 through the inlet 44 when the inlet 44 is open. The susceptor 182 can be fixed to the main body 10 or, depending on the embodiment, can be interchangeably coupled to the main body 10. The susceptor 182 can be inserted into the aerosol-generating substrate S when the aerosol-generating substrate S is housed in the aerosol-generating device 1 through the inlet 44.

[0049] The induction coil 181 surrounds the outer surface of the housing space forming the insertion opening 44 and can generate a variable magnetic field by alternating current power. The variable magnetic field is supplied to the susceptor 182, which can be inductively heated by the variable magnetic field.

[0050] The sensing unit 13 may include a substrate sensing unit 131 and an upper case sensing unit 132. The substrate sensing unit 131 and the upper case sensing unit 132 may be formed as a single unit.

[0051] The substrate sensing unit 131 is positioned between the outer circumferential surface of the containment space and the induction coil 181, and can sense the presence or absence of an aerosol-generating substrate S inserted into the containment space through the insertion port 44. The substrate sensing unit 131 may be manufactured as a thin film so as to be positioned between the containment space and the induction coil 181. The substrate sensing unit 131 surrounds at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the containment space, and its output value can be varied by the insertion of the aerosol-generating substrate S. The substrate sensing unit 131 can also transmit the output value to the control unit (12 in Figure 6).

[0052] The upper case sensing unit 132 may be connected to the substrate sensing unit 131 and formed as an integral part. The upper case sensing unit 132 is located on the main body 10 and is located inside the surface where the upper case 40 contacts the main body 10, and may extend in one direction. This one direction is perpendicular to the insertion direction of the aerosol-generating substrate S. The upper case 40 includes at least one conductor 43 in the portion that contacts the upper case sensing unit 132, and the upper case sensing unit 132 can output an output value that is variable by the approach and retraction of at least one conductor 43. The upper case sensing unit 132 can transmit the output value to the control unit 12.

[0053] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Referring to Figure 5, the upper case sensing unit 132 and the substrate sensing unit 131 can be formed as a single unit. The integrated upper case sensing unit 132 and substrate sensing unit 131 can be referred to as a sensing module 130. The upper case sensing unit 132 and the substrate sensing unit 131 can be materialized in a pattern on an insulating substrate. For example, the upper case sensing unit 132 and the substrate sensing unit 131 can each be materialized in a pattern on a single flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0055] The upper case sensing unit 132 may include an inductive sensor. In embodiments in which the upper case sensing unit 132 includes an inductive sensor, the upper case sensing unit 132 may include a sensing coil 13b. The sensing coil 13b may be embodied in a pattern on an insulating substrate. The substrate sensing unit 131 has its inductance varied by the approach and retraction of the upper case 40 and can transmit the varied inductance value to the control unit 12. For this purpose, the sensing unit 13 may further include a signal transmission unit 13c. The signal transmission unit 13c includes a first channel ch1 and a second channel ch2, and the signal transmission unit 13c can transmit the varied inductance value to the control unit 12 through the first channel ch1.

[0056] The control unit 12 can determine whether or not the upper case 40 is attached to the main unit 10 based on the inductance value output by the upper case sensing unit 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the upper case 40 is attached to the main unit 10 if the amount of change per unit time of the inductance output by the upper case sensing unit 132 is greater than or equal to a previously set reference inductance.

[0057] The substrate sensing unit 131 may include at least one capacitor sensor. In embodiments in which the substrate sensing unit 131 includes a capacitor sensor, the substrate sensing unit 131 may include at least one electrode 13a. Figure 5 shows an embodiment in which there are three electrodes 13a, but the number of electrodes 13a is not limited thereto. The electrodes 13a may be materialized in a pattern on an insulating substrate. The electrodes 13a may contact the outer circumferential surface of the containment space and surround at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the containment space. In embodiments, the sensing unit 13 may be externally coated, and the external coating layer may be in direct contact with the outer circumferential surface of the containment space.

[0058] Since electrode 13a surrounds the containment space, the containment space can be understood as a dielectric space that causes a change in capacitance. In other words, when an aerosol-generating substrate S is inserted into the containment space, the dielectric constant of electrode 13a is varied, and the capacitance of the substrate sensing unit 131 can be varied. Thus, the substrate sensing unit 131 does not have a transmitting electrode and a receiving electrode separately, and can output a capacitance value that is varied by the capacitance change of electrode 13a itself. The substrate sensing unit 131 can transmit the capacitance value to the control unit 12. The signal transmission unit 13c can transmit the capacitance value to the control unit 12 through the first channel ch1 and a second channel ch2 which are different from each other.

[0059] The control unit 12 can determine the presence or absence of an aerosol-generating substrate S inserted into the containment space based on the capacitance value output by the substrate sensing unit 131. For example, the control unit 12 can obtain a monitoring value based on the capacitance change of the substrate sensing unit 131 and determine the presence or absence of an aerosol-generating substrate S inserted into the containment space based on the monitoring value. The monitoring value may include the charging time, discharge time, number of charge / discharge cycles, and capacitance change amount of the electrode 13a based on the capacitance change of the substrate sensing unit 131. For example, if the monitoring value decreases by more than a predetermined amount within a set time, the control unit 12 can determine that an aerosol-generating substrate S has been inserted into the cavity. On the other hand, a method for determining whether or not an aerosol-generating substrate S has been extracted from the cavity when the aerosol-generating substrate S is heated will be described later with reference to Figure 7 and subsequent figures.

[0060] Figure 6 is an internal block diagram of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Referring to Figure 6, the aerosol generator 1 may include at least one of the following: battery 11, heating unit 180, sensing unit 13, control unit 12, memory 14, input unit 15, and output unit 16. On the other hand, the aerosol generator 1 of the present invention may further include other general-purpose components in addition to the components shown in Figure 6. For example, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a communication unit (not shown) for communicating with an external device.

[0062] The battery 11 supplies power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. For example, the battery 11 can supply power to at least one of the heating unit 180, sensing unit 13, control unit 12, memory 14, input unit 15, and output unit 16. The aerosol generator 1 may further include a power conversion unit (not shown) to supply power to the internal components of the aerosol generator 1. The power conversion unit may include a DC / DC converter. The DC / DC converter can boost or step down the DC power supplied from the battery 11 to supply power to the internal components of the aerosol generator 1. If the heating unit 180 is an induction heater, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a DC / AC converter. The DC / AC converter can convert the DC power supplied from the battery 11 into AC power and supply it to the heating unit 180.

[0063] The battery 11 consists of a removable battery that is detachably positioned in the aerosol generator 1. Alternatively, the battery 11 may be fixed to the aerosol generator 1. In this case, the battery 11 is either rechargeable or disposable. For example, the battery 11 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to this.

[0064] The heating section 180 may include an induction coil 181 and a susceptor 182. The induction coil 181 can generate a variable magnetic field when supplied with alternating current power. The susceptor 182 is heated by the variable magnetic field, which can generate an aerosol.

[0065] The sensing unit 13 can sense various state information of the aerosol generator 1. The results sensed by the sensing unit 13 are transmitted to the control unit 12, and the control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 so that various functions are performed based on the sensing results, such as controlling the operation of the heating unit 180, restricting smoking, determining whether or not to insert the heating unit 180, and displaying notifications.

[0066] The sensing unit 13 may include a substrate sensing unit 131, an upper case sensing unit 132, and a puff sensing unit 133.

[0067] The substrate sensing unit 131 and the upper case sensing unit 132 may be embodied in a pattern on a single insulating substrate. The substrate sensing unit 131 may include a capacitance sensor containing at least one electrode 13a. Therefore, the capacitance of the substrate sensing unit 131 can be varied by inserting and removing an aerosol-generating substrate S into the cavity. The substrate sensing unit 131 can transmit the capacitance value to the control unit 12 in real time or periodically.

[0068] The upper case sensing unit 132 may include an inductive sensor. Therefore, the inductance of the upper case sensing unit 132 can be varied as the upper case 40 approaches and retracts from the main body 10. The upper case sensing unit 132 can transmit the inductance value to the control unit 12 in real time or periodically.

[0069] The puff sensing unit 133 can detect the user's puff. For this purpose, the puff sensing unit 133 may include a pressure sensor, a flow sensor, an airflow sensor, and a microphone.

[0070] On the other hand, the sensing unit 13 in Figure 6 shows components related to this embodiment. Therefore, a person with ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment can understand that the sensing unit 13 may also include other general-purpose components in addition to those shown in Figure 6. For example, the sensing unit 13 may further include a water sensing sensor for detecting water inside and / or outside the aerosol generator 1, a battery temperature sensor, and the like.

[0071] Memory 14 is hardware that stores various types of data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data being processed. Memory 14 can be implemented in various forms such as RAM (random access memory) such as DRAM (dynamic random access memory) and SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), and EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory). In one embodiment, memory 14 can store capacitance values ​​output by the substrate sensing unit 131 in real time. Alternatively, memory 14 can store monitoring values ​​from the substrate sensing unit 131 acquired by the control unit 12 in real time. The capacitance values ​​and monitoring values ​​stored in memory 14 can be used to calculate the change in their respective values ​​before and after a reference time.

[0072] The input unit 15 can receive user input. The input unit 15 can be embodied by physical keys and / or touch sensors for receiving user input. In some embodiments, the input unit 15 may be omitted, in which case heating of the heating unit 180 is possible by user inhalation. For example, the input unit 15 may include, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0073] The output unit 16 may include a display that outputs visual information related to the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 16 may also include a motor that outputs tactile information related to the aerosol generator 1. Here, the visual and tactile information related to the aerosol generator 1 includes all information related to the operation of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the output unit 16 can output information regarding the insertion and extraction of the aerosol generating substrate S visually and tactilely through predetermined means. For this purpose, the output unit 16 may include a display and a haptic motor. The display may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD) or an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED). On the other hand, if the display and touchpad form a layered structure to constitute a touchscreen, the display can be used as an input device in addition to an output device. The haptic motor can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli, providing the user with tactile information regarding the aerosol generator 1.

[0074] The control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be embodied as an array of numerous logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. It can be understood by those ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0075] The control unit 12 can control the heating unit 180 to heat the aerosol-generating substrate S when it is inserted into the cavity. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the DC power output from the battery 11 or the AC power supplied to the induction coil 181 so that the induction coil 181 generates a variable magnetic field. The susceptor 182 is heated by the variable magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181, thereby generating an aerosol. Thus, the aerosol generator 1 of the present invention can automatically heat the aerosol-generating substrate S when it is inserted into the cavity, even without user input.

[0076] On the other hand, automatic heating of the aerosol-generating substrate S is only possible when the upper case sensing unit 132 senses the upper case 40. In other words, the control unit 12 determines whether the upper case 40 is mounted on the main body 10 based on the inductance value provided by the upper case sensing unit 132 through the first channel ch1. Until the control unit 12 determines that the upper case 40 is mounted on the main body 10, it does not automatically heat the aerosol-generating substrate S even if it receives a capacitance value greater than or equal to the reference change amount provided by the substrate sensing unit 131 through the second channel ch2. This is to prevent the heating unit 180 from being heated by mistakenly determining that the aerosol-generating substrate S is not inserted into the cavity.

[0077] When the upper case 40 is attached to the main body 10, the control unit 12 can control the heating unit 180 to heat the aerosol-generating substrate S when the substrate sensing unit 131 detects the aerosol-generating substrate S inserted into the cavity. Furthermore, when the aerosol-generating substrate S is heated, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supplied to the heating unit 180 when the substrate sensing unit 131 detects the extraction of the aerosol-generating substrate S.

[0078] On the other hand, if the substrate sensing unit 131 includes a capacitance sensor and is positioned adjacent to the heating unit 180, the capacitance output value will gradually decrease over time due to heating of the heating unit 180, even if no specific event occurs. This is caused by the temperature increase of the capacitance sensor due to heating of the heating unit 180. The present invention can accurately determine whether or not an aerosol-generating substrate S has been extracted by utilizing the transition of the output change of the capacitance sensor due to heating of the heating unit 180. This transition of change is determined by comparing the amount of change before a reference time point with the amount of change after a reference time point.

[0079] More specifically, the control unit 12 can acquire monitoring values ​​from the substrate sensing unit 131 based on changes in capacitance and control the heating unit 180 based on these monitoring values. Furthermore, when the aerosol-generating substrate S is inserted into the cavity and heated, the control unit 12 can determine whether or not the aerosol-generating substrate has been extracted based on a first change in the monitoring value before a reference time and a second change in the monitoring value after the reference time. Figure 7 illustrates the changes in the capacitance sensor output due to various events, and Figures 7 to 9 illustrate a comparison of the changes before and after a reference time.

[0080] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating how monitoring values ​​change due to various events.

[0081] In Figure 7, the x-axis represents time (sec), and the y-axis represents the monitoring value of the substrate sensing unit 131 due to the change in capacitance. The monitoring value is the capacitance value output by the substrate sensing unit 131, but it is also at least one of the charging time, discharging time, and number of charge / discharge cycles of the electrode 13a. In one embodiment, the monitoring value is at least one or a combination of the capacitance value itself, charging time, discharging time, and number of charge / discharge cycles, which is determined by the manufacturing specifications of the substrate sensing unit 131 and the control unit 12, or can be selected from the aforementioned monitoring values ​​in order to clearly distinguish the changes in capacitance.

[0082] Referring to Figure 7, the aerosol-generating substrate S is inserted at the first time point t1. Since the heating unit 180 is not heated before the first time point t1, the monitoring value of the substrate sensing unit 131 does not substantially change from the initial value A1.

[0083] If the aerosol-generating substrate S is inserted at the first time point t1, the dielectric constant inside the containment space changes abruptly, and therefore the monitoring value also changes abruptly. For example, when the aerosol-generating substrate S is inserted, the dielectric constant of the containment space increases sharply, causing the monitoring value to decrease overall. Figure 7 shows an example where the monitoring value decreases from the initial value A1 to the changed value A2. The control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating substrate S has been inserted into the cavity if the monitoring value decreases by more than a reference decrease amount within a set time. In Figure 7, the decrease amount is initial value A1 - changed value A2, and the control unit 12 determines that this decrease amount is greater than or equal to the reference decrease amount and determines that the aerosol-generating substrate S has been inserted into the cavity. The reference decrease amount can be appropriately set depending on the capacitance of the substrate sensing unit 131 and the value to be monitored. For example, if the monitoring value is the number of charge / discharge cycles of the electrode 13a per unit time (sec), the reference decrease amount can be selected in the range of approximately 15,000 to approximately 22,000.

[0084] When the aerosol-generating substrate S is inserted into the cavity at the first time point t1, the control unit 12 controls the heating unit 180 to heat the aerosol-generating substrate S. Heating of the aerosol-generating substrate S is continued from the first time point t1 until the fourth time point t4 when the aerosol-generating substrate S is extracted. The period from the first time point t1 to the fourth time point t4 is referred to as the heating interval.

[0085] During the heating section, the user performs a puff. User puffs can be determined based on the output value of the puff sensing unit 133. In Figure 7, the first puff (puff 1) was detected at the second time point t2, and the second puff (puff 2) was detected at the third time point t3. User puffs can change the dielectric constant of the containment space. This occurs due to the vaporization of substances contained in the aerosol-generating substrate S, the release of the aerosol source into the containment space, and the inflow of air due to the user puff. In particular, at the time when a user puff occurs, the monitoring value temporarily increases sharply due to the vaporization of the aerosol source and the inflow of air that affect the dielectric constant. However, in the case of a user puff, the heating unit 180 is still heated, so the monitoring value of the substrate sensing unit 131 increases temporarily and then gradually decreases again. This can be observed in both the first puff (puff 1) and the second puff (puff 2).

[0086] At the fourth time point t4, if the aerosol-generating substrate S is extracted from the cavity, the dielectric constant inside the containment space changes abruptly, similar to the first time point t1, and the monitoring value also changes abruptly. However, at the fourth time point t4, the dielectric constant of the containment space decreases abruptly due to the extraction of the aerosol-generating substrate S, so the monitoring value increases overall. The control unit 12 cuts off the power supplied to the heating unit 180 when the aerosol-generating substrate S is extracted from the cavity. In the heating section, unlike the user puff, when the aerosol-generating substrate S is extracted from the cavity, the heating unit 180 is not heated any further, so the monitoring value of the substrate sensing unit 131 increases sharply at the fourth time point t4, which is the extraction point, maintains that value for a certain period of time, and then gradually increases over time. Due to the decrease in the temperature of the heating unit 180, the monitoring value of the substrate sensing unit 131 may increase to the initial value A1.

[0087] As described above, there is a clear difference in monitoring values ​​between the user's puff event and extraction event, with respect to the time of event occurrence. The present invention accurately determines whether or not the aerosol-generating substrate S has been extracted based on the changes in monitoring values ​​before and after such an event occurrence.

[0088] On the other hand, the heating section of the present invention is divided into a preheating section and a smoking section after the preheating section, and whether or not the following aerosol-generating substrate S has been extracted can be determined in the smoking section. This is because, in the preheating section, which is the initial stage of heating, the monitoring value decreases sharply, while in the smoking section, such a rapid change in the monitoring value is not observed, allowing for a more accurate observation of the changes in the monitoring value.

[0089] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a method for determining a reference time according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Referring to Figure 8, the reference time is the point at which a rapid change in the monitoring value occurs, and thus represents the event occurrence time. If the aerosol-generating substrate S is being heated, the event refers to the puff event and the extraction event, which cause a rapid change in dielectric constant. Although Figure 8 only describes how to set the puff event occurrence time, the following explanation naturally applies to how to set the extraction event occurrence time as well.

[0091] The control unit 12 can acquire monitoring values ​​for the substrate sensing unit 131 while the aerosol-generating substrate S is being heated. The control unit 12 can set a reference time based on a monitoring value that is equal to or greater than the reference increase amount Ri.

[0092] Memory 14 stores the monitoring values ​​in real time, and the control unit 12 reads the monitoring values ​​from memory 14 and can determine whether the monitoring values ​​have increased to or above the reference increase amount Ri for a set period of time. In Figure 8, the control unit 12 acquires a monitoring value at or above the reference increase amount Ri at the first observation time td1.

[0093] The control unit 12 can set a monitoring interval that includes the time when the monitoring value reaches the reference increase amount Ri, and before and after the time it reaches that point. In Figure 8, the first observation time td1 represents the time it reaches that point, and the monitoring interval tm1-tm2 is set before and after the first observation time td1. The monitoring interval is an equal interval before and after the first observation time td1. In other words, in Figure 8, the length from the first observation time td1 to the first monitoring time tm1 is the same as the length from the first observation time td1 to the second monitoring time tm2.

[0094] The control unit 12 can set the point in time when the monitoring value reaches its maximum value in the monitoring interval tm1-tm2 as the reference point. In Figure 8, the maximum value of the monitoring value in the monitoring interval tm1-tm2 is the first monitoring value m1, which has reached the second observation point td2. The control unit 12 can set the second observation point td2 as the reference point.

[0095] This invention makes it possible to identify the global peak by setting a monitoring interval based on the point at which the baseline increase Ri is reached. Therefore, the precise timing of an event can be identified. On the other hand, for the sake of explanation, the baseline time points in Figures 9 to 10 below show only the global peak explained in Figure 8 in a simplified form, and Figures 9 to 10 below naturally also include local peaks.

[0096] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the changes in monitoring values ​​for events other than extracted events according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the first puff 1 portion of Figure 7, representing an event other than the extraction event.

[0098] Referring to Figure 9, the control unit 12 can set the reference time tr. The reference time tr is as described in Figure 8.

[0099] The control unit 12 can acquire the first change in the monitoring value of the substrate sensing unit 131 in the first interval se1 selected between the first time point t1 prior to the reference time tr and the reference time tr. The reason for setting the length of the first interval se1 to be selectable between the first time point t1 and the reference time tr is that, as shown in Figure 8, the local peak portion is not included in the change amount calculation portion. However, the length of the first interval se1 does not necessarily have to be smaller than the distance between the first time point t1 and the reference time tr. Figure 9 shows an example where the length of the first interval se1 is the same as the distance between the first time point t1 and the reference time tr.

[0100] The control unit 12 can acquire the second change in the monitoring value of the substrate sensing unit 131 in the second interval se2 selected between the reference time tr and the second time point t2 after the reference time. The reason for setting the range of the second interval se2 is the same as the reason for setting the range of the first interval se1.

[0101] The lengths of the first interval se1 and the second interval se2 are the same. This is to observe the changes in the monitoring values ​​under identical conditions.

[0102] The control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating substrate S was not extracted from the cavity if the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first interval se1 and the second change amount gradually decreases over time in the second interval se2.

[0103] The decrease in the rate of change over time can be obtained from the decrease in the rate of change per unit time. This can be calculated by linearly approximating the monitoring value of the first interval se1. For example, if the monitoring value is P1 at the first time point t1, which is the start of the first interval se1, and the monitoring value is Pr' at the reference time point tr, which is the end of the first interval se1, then the first rate of change in the first interval se1 can be obtained from the linear gradient value (Pr'-P1) / (tr-t1). Similarly, the monitoring value of the second interval se2 can also be linearly approximated, and in this case, the second rate of change in the second interval se2 can be obtained from (Pr2-Pr") / (t2-tr).

[0104] The control unit 12 determines that the first and second change amounts gradually decrease over time if the change per unit time in both the first interval se1 and the second interval se2 is smaller than a previously set reference value, and that the aerosol-generating substrate S was not extracted from the cavity. When the first and second change amounts are linearly approximated, the reference value is the reference slope. In other words, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating substrate S was not extracted from the cavity if the first and second change amounts are smaller than the reference slope (however, in this case, both slopes are negative).

[0105] The control unit 12 can maintain heating of the heating unit 180 if the aerosol-generating substrate S has not been extracted from the cavity.

[0106] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the change in monitoring values ​​due to extracted events according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] The reasons for setting the reference time tr, the first interval se1, and the second interval se2 are the same as in Figure 9. Furthermore, the explanation for the decrease in the amount of change in Figure 9 also applies to Figure 10.

[0108] Referring to Figure 10, if the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first section se1 of the control unit 12, and the second change amount is maintained within the reference range in the second section se2, it can be determined that the aerosol-generating substrate S has been extracted from the cavity.

[0109] The change in the first interval se1 is obtained from a linear approximation of the monitoring value, as shown in Figure 9, and the first change in the first interval se1 can be obtained from the linear gradient value (Pr'-P1) / (tr-t1). The control unit 12 compares the reference gradient with the first change, and if the first change is smaller than the reference gradient (however, in this case, both gradients are negative), it can continue to obtain the second change in the second interval se2.

[0110] The control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating substrate S has been extracted from the cavity if the second change amount in the second interval se2 is maintained within the reference range, because the changes in the first change amount and the monitoring value are different from each other. In embodiments where the monitoring value is the number of charge / discharge cycles, the reference range is 500, but is not limited to this. On the other hand, if the second change amount is linearly approximated, the slope of the second change amount is substantially flat, and the control unit 12 can determine whether or not the aerosol-generating substrate S has been extracted through such a slope change.

[0111] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Referring to Figure 11, in S1110, the control unit 12 can heat the aerosol-generating substrate S by controlling the power supplied to the heating unit 180.

[0113] When the aerosol-generating substrate S is contained in the cavity, the capacitance of the substrate sensing unit 131 is varied, and the substrate sensing unit 131 can transmit such capacitance value to the control unit 12. Based on the capacitance value, the control unit 12 can determine whether or not the aerosol-generating substrate S has been contained in the cavity. If the monitoring value of the substrate sensing unit 131 decreases by more than a reference decrease, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating substrate S has been inserted into the cavity.

[0114] When the aerosol-generating substrate S is inserted into the cavity, the control unit 12 can control the heating unit 180 to heat the aerosol-generating substrate S.

[0115] In S1120, the control unit 12 can monitor the changes in the substrate sensing unit 131 due to the change in capacitance.

[0116] The changes in the substrate sensing unit 131 due to capacitance changes can be represented by a monitoring value. The monitoring value is at least one or a combination of the capacitance value itself, charging time, discharging time, and the number of charge / discharge cycles.

[0117] In S1130, the control unit 12 can obtain a first change in the monitoring value before the reference time and a second change in the monitoring value after the reference time.

[0118] The reference point is the point in time when a rapid change in the monitoring value occurs, and thus represents the time when the event occurred. The control unit 12 can set the reference point based on a monitoring value that is equal to or greater than the reference increase amount.

[0119] The control unit 12 can set a monitoring interval that includes the point in time when the monitoring value reaches a reference increase, and includes the point in time before and after the point in time. The length of the monitoring interval from the start time to the point in time is the same as the distance from the point in time to the end time of the monitoring interval.

[0120] The control unit 12 can set the point in time when the monitoring value reaches its maximum value within the monitoring interval as the reference point. This allows the control unit 12 to set the peak across the entire range as the reference point.

[0121] The control unit 12 can compare the changes in the first change amount in the first section and the second change amount in the second section.

[0122] In S1140, the control unit 12 can determine whether the second change amount is maintained within the reference range while the first change amount is decreasing.

[0123] The first and second change amounts are linearly approximated, and the control unit 12 can compare the linearly approximated first and second change amounts with the reference gradient. The control unit 12 can determine whether the first change amount is smaller than the reference gradient in the first interval (however, in this case, the reference gradient and the linearly approximated first change amount are negative numbers), and whether the second change amount is substantially flat in the second interval.

[0124] In S1150, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating substrate S has been extracted from the cavity if the first change is smaller than the reference gradient and the second change is substantially flat.

[0125] In S1160, the control unit 12 can stop heating the heating unit 180 by cutting off the power supplied to the heating unit 180 when the aerosol-generating substrate S is extracted from the cavity.

[0126] In S1170, the control unit 12 can determine that if the first change amount and the second change amount do not satisfy the conditions of S1140, it is an event other than an extraction event.

[0127] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine that a user puff event has occurred if the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first interval and the second change amount gradually decreases over time in the second interval.

[0128] In S1180, if the control unit 12 detects an event other than the extraction event, it can control the heating unit 180 to maintain heating.

[0129] If the control unit 12 controls the heating unit 180 to maintain heating, the process returns to S1120, allowing for continuous monitoring of changes in the substrate sensing unit 131. In other words, the control unit 12 can monitor changes in the substrate sensing unit 131 due to capacitance changes.

[0130] When a capacitance sensor is positioned adjacent to the heating unit 180, the capacitance gradually decreases due to heating by the heating unit 180. In particular, if the capacitance sensor is positioned between the induction coil 181 and the outer surface of the containment space, it can only be formed as a thin film and is affected by the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181, making it difficult to set an absolute reference value that can be applied commonly to all capacitance sensors in order to determine whether or not the aerosol-generating substrate S has been extracted. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 of the present invention solves the above-mentioned problems by comparing the changes in monitoring values ​​before and after a reference time point with respect to a reference time point, thereby enabling more accurate detection of extraction events.

[0131] The embodiments of the present invention described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. The respective configurations or functions of the embodiments of the present invention described above may be used in combination or in combination with each other.

[0132] For example, it means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. In other words, even if the combination of configurations is not directly described, it means that combination is possible unless it is stated that such combination is impossible.

[0133] The detailed description set forth herein should not be interpreted restrictively in any way, but should be considered illustrative. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention shall be included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating device, A substrate sensing unit in which capacitance is variable is formed by inserting and extracting an aerosol-generating substrate into a cavity, When the aerosol-generating substrate is inserted into the cavity, a heating section is provided for heating the aerosol-generating substrate. The system includes a control unit that obtains a monitoring value for the substrate sensing unit based on the change in capacitance and controls the heating unit based on the monitoring value, The control unit, An aerosol generating apparatus in which the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity and the aerosol generating substrate is heated, and the apparatus determines whether or not the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted based on a first change in the monitoring value before a reference time and a second change in the monitoring value after the reference time.

2. The control unit, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the reference time is set based on the monitoring value which is greater than or equal to a previously set reference increase amount.

3. The control unit, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a monitoring interval is set before and after the point in time when the monitoring value reaches the reference increase, and the point in time when the monitoring value reaches the maximum value in the monitoring interval is set as the reference time.

4. The control unit, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first change amount is obtained in a first interval selected between a first time point prior to the reference time and the reference time, and the second change amount is obtained in a second interval selected between the reference time and a second time point after the reference time, and the lengths of the first interval and the second interval are the same.

5. The control unit, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein it is determined that the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted from the cavity when the first change gradually decreases over time in the first section and the second change is maintained within a reference range in the second section.

6. The control unit, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein when the first amount of change gradually decreases over time in the first section and the second amount of change gradually decreases over time in the second section, the heating section is controlled to maintain the heating state of the aerosol generating substrate.

7. The substrate sensing unit is It includes at least one electrode placed on an insulating substrate, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring value is at least one of the charging time, discharging time, number of charge / discharge cycles, and capacitance value of the electrode.

8. The heating section is The system includes an induction coil that surrounds the outer surface of the containment space in which the aerosol-generating substrate is contained and generates an alternating magnetic field, and a susceptor that is placed within the containment space and heated by the alternating magnetic field. The substrate sensing unit is The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, which is arranged between the outer surface of the containment space and the induction coil.

9. The control unit, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heating unit is controlled to heat the aerosol generating substrate in the preheating section and the smoking section thereafter, and it is determined in the smoking section whether or not the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted from the cavity.

10. The control unit, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the aerosol generating substrate is extracted from the cavity, the power supplied to the heating section is cut off.

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