Method for determining the state of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article.

Abstract

The aerosol generator includes a housing with an internal space formed therein, a first sensor positioned adjacent to the internal space, a second sensor positioned adjacent to the internal space at a different location from the first sensor, and a control unit housed within the housing and including at least one processor. The control unit determines whether the aerosol generating article is over-humidified based on first information received from the first sensor, and determines whether the aerosol generating article is reusable based on second information received from the second sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following various embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device and a method for determining the state of an aerosol generating article.

Background Art

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

[0003] The background art described above is what the inventor held or acquired during the derivation process of the present invention, and it cannot necessarily be said to be prior art publicly disclosed to the general public before the filing of the present invention.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

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

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

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

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

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

[0009] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a housing having a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side surface between the first surface and the second surface, the first surface having an internal space into which an aerosol generating article is inserted, a first sensor disposed adjacent to the internal space, a second sensor disposed adjacent to the internal space at a different position from the first sensor, and a control unit housed in the housing and including at least one processor, the control unit can determine whether the aerosol generating article is over-humidified based on first information received from the first sensor, and determine whether the aerosol generating article is reusable based on second information received from the second sensor.

[0010] A method for determining the state of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment may include the steps of: providing an aerosol-generating article including a first filter segment, a medium segment disposed downstream of the first filter segment and containing a medium, and a second filter segment disposed downstream of the medium segment; measuring the change in capacitance of the medium segment of the aerosol-generating article using a first capacitance sensor; measuring the change in capacitance of the first filter segment using a second capacitance sensor; and determining whether or not the aerosol-generating article can be reused based on the change in capacitance. [Effects of the Invention]

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

[0012] According to one embodiment, it is possible to accurately determine whether an aerosol generating article can be reused even under over-wet conditions.

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

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

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

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

Brief Description of the Drawings

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

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

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

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

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

[0022] [Figure 6] It is an exploded view showing a state where an aerosol-generating article is inserted into a part of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

[0023] [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing a method for discriminating the state of an aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment.

[0024] [Figure 8] It is an exploded view showing a part of an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment.

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

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

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

[0028] [Figure 12] An aerosol-generating system according to an embodiment is shown.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0029] In the embodiments, the terms used are selected as general terms that are currently widely used as much as possible while considering the functions in the embodiments. However, this may change depending on the intentions or precedents of those skilled in the art, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Also, in specific cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, the meaning will be described in detail in the part of the description of the corresponding invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based not on the simple names of the terms but on the meaning they have and the overall content of the present invention. <0​Throughout the specification, where any part is described as "containing" any component, unless otherwise stated, this does not exclude other components, but rather means that other components may be further included. Furthermore, terms such as "~part" and "~module" as used herein mean a unit that performs at least one function or operation, which may be embodied in hardware or software, or in a combination of hardware and software.

[0031] As used herein, when an expression such as “at least one” precedes a set of elements, it modifies the set of elements as a whole, rather than each of the elements themselves. For example, the expression “at least one of a, b, and c” should be interpreted as including a, b, c, or a and b, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b and c.

[0032] Figures 1 and 2 show an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an aerosol generating article included in an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is an exploded view showing a part of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, and Figure 6 is an exploded view showing a part of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment with an aerosol generating article inserted. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a method for determining the state of an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment. Figure 8 is an exploded view showing a part of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0033] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, an aerosol generating system 100 according to one embodiment includes an aerosol generating device 1 and an aerosol generating article S.

[0034] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the aerosol generator 1 may include at least one of a power source 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and a vaporizer 19. At least one of the power source 11, the control unit 12, and the sensor 13 may be located inside the housing 10 of the aerosol generator 1. The housing 10 provides a space that opens on one side into which an aerosol generating article S is inserted. The space that opens on one side may be referred to as the internal space 104. The internal space 104 may be recessed inward to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the aerosol generating article S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space corresponds to the length of the region in the aerosol generating article S that contains the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The upstream end of the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the housing 10, and the downstream end of the aerosol generating article S may protrude outward from the housing 10. The user can bite down on the downstream end of the aerosol generating article S that is exposed to the outside and inhale air.

[0035] The vaporizer 19 may contain an aerosol-generating substance having one of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid-phase composition. For example, the liquid-phase composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. For example, the liquid-phase composition 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 vaporizer 19 may be integrally formed with the housing 10 or detachably coupled to the housing 10.

[0036] For example, referring to Figure 1, the steam generator 19 is integrally formed with the housing 10 and can communicate with the internal space 104 via an airflow channel CN.

[0037] For example, referring to Figure 2, a space may be formed on one side of the housing 10, and at least a portion of the steam maker 19 may be inserted into the space formed on one side of the housing 10, and the steam maker 19 may be mounted in the housing 10. The airflow channel CN ​​is defined by a portion of the steam maker 19 and / or a portion of the housing 10, and the steam maker 19 can communicate with the internal space 104 through the airflow channel CN.

[0038] The housing 10 may be constructed such that outside air flows into the housing 10 with the vaporizer 19 inserted. Here, the outside air that flows into the housing 10 passes through the vaporizer 19 and flows into the user's mouth.

[0039] The vaporizer 19 includes a heater 191 for heating the containment CO containing the aerosol-generating material and / or the aerosol-generating material in the containment CO. A liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating material may be located inside the containment CO. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic. The electrically conductive track of the heater 191 may be formed in the form of a coil that winds the liquid transfer means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means. The heater 191 may be referred to as the vaporizer heater 191.

[0040] The vaporizer 19 generates an aerosol. The aerosol may also be generated by heating the liquid transfer means with the vaporizer heater 191. As the aerosol generated by the vaporizer heater 191 passes through the aerosol generating article S, tobacco substances may be added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with the added tobacco substances may be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the aerosol generating article S.

[0041] The aerosol generator 1 may include a cap (not shown). The cap may be detachably bonded to the housing 10 so as to cover at least a portion of the vaporizer 19 which is coupled to the housing 10. The aerosol generating article S may be inserted into the housing 10 through the cap.

[0042] The power supply 11 provides power to the components of the aerosol generator 1 so that they can operate. The power supply 11 may also be referred to as a battery. The power supply 11 may supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the vaporizer heater 191.

[0043] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 12 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 12 may control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, sensor 13, and vaporizer 19. The control unit 12 may also control the operation of a display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 12 checks the status of each component of the aerosol generator 1 and determines whether the aerosol generator is in an operational state.

[0044] The control unit 12 analyzes the results detected by the sensor 13 and controls the processing to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit 12 may control the power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 so that the operation of the vaporizer heater 191 is disclosed or terminated based on the results detected by the sensor 13. For example, the control unit 12 may control the amount of power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 and the duration of power supply so that the vaporizer heater 191 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature, based on the results detected by the sensor 13.

[0045] Sensor 13 includes at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a cap detection sensor. For example, sensor 13 may detect at least one of the following: the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the temperature inside and outside the housing 10. For example, sensor 13 may detect a user's puff. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether or not an aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space 104. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether or not the vaporizer 19 is installed. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether or not the cap is installed.

[0046] The housing 10 includes a first surface 101, a second surface 102 opposite to the first surface 101, and a side surface 103 between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102. An internal space 104 may be formed in the first surface 101. The internal space 104 includes an end surface 1042 of the internal space located between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102, and a side surface 1043 of the internal space extending from the end of the end surface 1042 to the first surface 101.

[0047] The first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space 104 (for example, along the -X direction in Figures 1 and 2).

[0048] The control unit 12 may receive first information measured by the first sensor 13-1 and second information measured by the second sensor 13-2, and determine the state of the aerosol-generating article S based on the first and second information. The first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 will be described in detail later.

[0049] Referring to Figure 3, the aerosol generator 1 includes a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and at least one heater 191. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to what is shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2. That is, depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1, some of the components shown in Figure 1 or Figure 2 may be omitted, or new components may be added, as can be understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment.

[0050] Sensor 13 detects the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the surrounding environment of the aerosol generator 1 and transmits the detected information to the control unit 12. Based on the detected information, the control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the vaporizer heater 191, restricting smoking, determining whether or not to insert the aerosol generating article S and / or vaporizer 19, and displaying notifications.

[0051] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: temperature sensor 131, puff sensor 132, insertion detection sensor 133, reuse detection sensor 134, cartridge detection sensor (vaporizer detection sensor) 135, cap detection sensor 136, and motion detection sensor 137.

[0052] The temperature sensor 131 detects the temperature at which the vaporizer heater 191 is heated. The aerosol generator 1 may include a separate temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191, or the vaporizer heater 191 itself may perform the role of a temperature sensor.

[0053] The temperature sensor 131 outputs a signal corresponding to the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element whose resistance changes in response to temperature changes in the vaporizer heater 191. The temperature sensor 131 can be implemented using a thermistor or other element that utilizes the property that resistance changes with temperature. Here, the temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be composed of a sensor that detects the resistance value of the vaporizer heater 191. Here, the temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the vaporizer heater 191 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191.

[0054] The temperature sensor 131 may be positioned around the power supply 11 to monitor its temperature. The temperature sensor 131 may be positioned adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one side of the battery of the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0055] The temperature sensor 131 is located inside the housing 10 and can detect the internal temperature of the housing 10.

[0056] The puff sensor 132 detects the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 132 outputs a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor 132 may be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 132 outputs a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1 corresponds to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 132 may be positioned in the aerosol generator 1 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0057] The insertion detection sensor 133 detects the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article S. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect signal changes caused by the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article S. The insertion detection sensor 133 may be provided around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article S in accordance with changes in dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor 133 may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitive sensor (capacitance sensor).

[0058] An induction sensor may include at least one coil. The coils of the induction sensor may be arranged adjacent to each other in the internal space. For example, if the magnetic field around a coil through which current flows changes, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0059] An inductive sensor outputs a signal that corresponds to the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil. For example, an inductive sensor may output a signal that corresponds to the inductance value of the coil.

[0060] The capacitive sensor includes a conductor. The conductor of the capacitive sensor may be positioned adjacent to the internal space (for example, the internal space 104 in Figure 1 or Figure 2). The capacitive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the surrounding electromagnetic properties, such as the capacitance around the conductor. For example, when an aerosol generating article S including a metal wrapper is inserted into the insertion space, the wrapper of the aerosol generating article S may alter the electromagnetic properties around the conductor.

[0061] The reuse detection sensor 134 detects whether the aerosol-generating article S is being reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 may also be a color sensor. The color sensor detects the color of the aerosol-generating article S. The color sensor can detect the color of a portion of the wrapper surrounding the outside of the aerosol-generating article S. The color sensor can detect a value for an optical property corresponding to the color of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical property may be the wavelength of light. The color sensor may be implemented in one configuration with a proximity sensor, or in a separate configuration distinct from the proximity sensor.

[0062] At least a portion of the wrapper constituting the aerosol-generating article S may change color due to the aerosol. The reuse detection sensor 134 may be positioned corresponding to the location where at least a portion of the wrapper that changes color due to the aerosol is located when the aerosol-generating article S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the aerosol-generating article S is used by the user, at least a portion of the wrapper may be the first color. Here, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 1 passes through the aerosol-generating article S, at least a portion of the wrapper becomes wet with the aerosol, causing at least a portion of the wrapper to change color to the second color. On the other hand, at least a portion of the wrapper may remain the second color after changing from the first color to the second color.

[0063] The cartridge (vaporizer) detection sensor 135 can detect the installation and / or removal of the vaporizer 19. The cartridge detection sensor 135 may be implemented by an inductance substrate sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, or a Hall sensor (Hall IC) utilizing the Hall effect.

[0064] The cap detection sensor 136 detects the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the housing 10, the vaporizer 19 and a portion of the housing 10 that were covered by the cap are exposed to the outside. The cap detection sensor 136 may be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0065] The motion detection sensor 137 detects the movement of the aerosol generator 1. The motion detection sensor 137 may be implemented as at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0066] Sensor 13 may further include at least one of the following in addition to the aforementioned sensors 131 to 137: a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor. The function of the angle sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, so a specific explanation may be omitted.

[0067] The output unit 14 can output and provide to the user information regarding the status of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 14 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the acoustic output unit 143. If the display 141 and the touchpad are arranged in a layered structure to form a touchscreen, the display unit 141 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0068] The display 141 can visually provide the user with information regarding the aerosol generator 1. For example, information regarding the aerosol generator 1 could include various pieces of information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the vaporizer heater 191, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating item S and / or vaporizer 19, the attachment / removal status of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 1 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the display 141 may output this information to the outside. For example, the display 141 may be in an LED light-emitting state. For example, the display 141 may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0069] The haptic unit 142 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli, providing the user with tactile information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, if initial power is supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 during a set time, the haptic unit 142 may generate vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating. The haptic unit 142 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0070] The acoustic output unit 143 can provide the user with information about the aerosol generator 1 audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit 143 may convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0071] The power supply 11 can supply the power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. The power supply 11 can supply power to heat the vaporizer heater 191. The power supply 11 also supplies the power necessary for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator 1, namely the sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. The power supply 11 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 11 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium polymer battery (depending on the conditions).

[0072] Although not shown in Figure 3, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may include a switching element and be electrically connected to the power supply 11.

[0073] The power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 according to predetermined conditions. For example, the power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 if the voltage level of the power supply 11 is equal to or greater than a first voltage corresponding to overcharging. For example, the power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 if the voltage level of the power supply 11 is less than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharge.

[0074] The control unit 12, sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17 can function by receiving power from the power supply 11. Although not shown in Figure 1 or 2, the system may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power from the power supply 11 and supplies it to each component. Also, although not shown in Figure 3, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the vaporizer heater 191. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter includes at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter corresponds to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 11 to the vaporizer heater 191. The low-pass filter prevents high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor 13, such as the insertion detection sensor 133.

[0075] In one embodiment, the vaporizer heater 191 may be formed from any suitable electrical resistant material. For example, suitable electrical resistant materials may include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys, such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The vaporizer heater 191 may also be implemented as, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which an electrical conductive track is arranged, or a ceramic heating element.

[0076] In other embodiments, the vaporizer heater 191 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the vaporizer heater 191 may include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0077] The input unit 15 receives information input from the user and outputs information to the user. For example, the input unit 15 may be a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor for detecting touches. For example, the touch sensor may include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, an ultrasonic touch sensor (surface acoustic wave touch sensor), or an infrared touch sensor.

[0078] The display 141 and the touch panel can be implemented in a single panel. For example, the touch panel may be embedded within the display 141 (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added on top of the display panel 141 (add-on type).

[0079] On the other hand, the input section 15 includes, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0080] Memory 17, as hardware for storing various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. Memory 17 may include at least one type of storage medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 17 may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data on the user's smoking pattern.

[0081] The communication unit 16 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0082] The short-range wireless communication unit includes, but is not limited to, Bluetooth communication units, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication units, Near Field Communication units, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication units, Zigbee communication units, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication units, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication units, UWB (ultra wideband) communication units, Ant+ communication units, etc.

[0083] The wireless communication section includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication section, an Internet communication section, and a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication section.

[0084] Although not shown in Figure 3, the aerosol generator 1 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can connect to other external devices via the connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0085] The control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing the program run on that microprocessor. It will be understood by those ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may also be implemented as other forms of hardware.

[0086] The control unit 12 controls the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 by controlling the supply of power from the power supply 11 to the vaporizer heater 191. The control unit 12 controls the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 based on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 detected by the temperature sensor 131. The control unit 12 adjusts the power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 based on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191. For example, the control unit 12 may determine a target temperature for the vaporizer heater 191 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0087] The aerosol generator 1 includes a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11 between the power supply 11 and the vaporizer heater 191. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the vaporizer heater 191. The power supply circuit includes at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 12 can control the power supply circuit.

[0088] The control unit 12 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts the DC power output from the power supply 11 into AC power. For example, the inverter may consist of a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit that includes multiple switching elements.

[0089] The control unit 12 may turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power supply 11 to the vaporizer heater 191. The control unit 12 may turn off the switching element so that the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191 is cut off. The control unit 12 can adjust the current supplied by the power supply 11 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0090] The control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit converts the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter that boosts the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may be implemented via a buck boost converter, Zener diode, etc.

[0091] The control unit 12 controls the on / off operation of the switching elements included in the power conversion circuit and adjusts the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit. When the switching elements remain in the on state, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit corresponds to the voltage level output from the power supply 11. The duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching elements corresponds to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power supply 11. The lower the duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching elements, the lower the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit. The vaporizer heater 191 can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0092] The control unit 12 can control the power supply circuit to supply power to the vaporizer heater 191 using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID).

[0093] For example, the control unit 12 may control the power supply circuit so that current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle are supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 using a PWM method. The control unit 12 can adjust the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses to control the power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0094] For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 and the target temperature, the integral of the difference over time, and the derivative of the difference over time.

[0095] The control unit 12 prevents the vaporizer heater 191 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit so that the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191 is interrupted based on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 may reduce the amount of power supplied to the vaporizer heater 191 by a certain percentage based on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 may determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the vaporizer 19 has been consumed based on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 exceeding the limit temperature and cut off the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0096] The control unit 12 controls the charging / discharging of the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can check the temperature of the power supply 11 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0097] If a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator 1, the control unit 12 checks whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or above a first limit temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the charging of the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the first limit temperature, the control unit 12 controls the power supply 11 to be charged based on a preset charging current. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or above the first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can shut off the charging of the power supply 11.

[0098] With the aerosol generator 1 powered on, the control unit 12 checks whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the second limiting temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the discharge of the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the second limiting temperature, the control unit 12 controls the power supply 11 to be used. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the second limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can interrupt the use of the power supply 11.

[0099] The control unit 12 calculates the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 relative to the power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the detected voltage and / or current values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0100] The control unit 12 determines whether or not an aerosol-generating article S is inserted into the insertion space via the insertion detection sensor 133. Based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor 133, the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article S has been inserted. If it determines that the aerosol-generating article S has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 controls the supply of power to the vaporizer heater 191. For example, the control unit 12 may supply power to the vaporizer heater 191 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0101] The control unit 12 determines whether or not the aerosol-generating item S is removed from the internal space. For example, the control unit 12 may determine whether or not the aerosol-generating item S is removed from the internal space via the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating item S has been removed from the internal space if the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 is above a limit temperature, or if the slope of the temperature change of the vaporizer heater 191 is above a set slope. If the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating item S has been removed from the internal space, it can cut off the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0102] The control unit 12 controls the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the vaporizer heater 191 according to the state of the aerosol-generating article S detected by the sensor 13. Based on the lookup table, the control unit 12 can confirm the level range that includes the signal level of the capacity sensor. Based on the confirmed level range, the control unit 12 can determine the amount of moisture in the aerosol-generating article S.

[0103] When the aerosol-generating article S is in an over-humid state, the control unit 12 controls the power supply time to the vaporizer heater 191, and may increase the preheating time of the aerosol-generating article S compared to normal conditions.

[0104] The control unit 12 determines whether the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the insertion space can be reused via the reuse detection sensor 134. For example, the control unit 12 compares the detected value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor 134 with a first reference range that includes a first color, and determines that the aerosol-generating article S has not been used if the detected value falls within the first reference range. For example, the control unit 12 compares the detected value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor 134 with a second reference range that includes a second color, and determines that the aerosol-generating article S has been used if the detected value falls within the second reference range. If it is determined that the aerosol-generating article S has been used, the control unit 12 can shut off the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0105] The control unit 12 can determine whether the vaporizer 19 can be connected and / or removed via the cartridge detection sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the vaporizer 19 can be connected and / or removed based on the detected value of the signal from the cartridge detection sensor 135.

[0106] The control unit 12 determines whether the aerosol-generating material in the vaporizer 19 has decreased. For example, the control unit 12 preheats the vaporizer heater 191 by applying power, determines whether the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period, and determines that the aerosol-generating material in the vaporizer 19 has been consumed if the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 exceeds the limit temperature. If it determines that the aerosol-generating material in the vaporizer 19 has been consumed, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0107] The control unit 12 determines whether the steam maker 19 is usable or not. For example, based on the data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 determines that the steam maker 19 is not usable if the current number of puffs is equal to or greater than the maximum number of puffs set for the steam maker 19. For example, the control unit 12 determines that the steam maker 19 cannot be used if the total time the heater 191 has been heated is equal to or greater than the preset maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the heater 191 is equal to or greater than the preset maximum amount of power.

[0108] The control unit 12 can make decisions regarding the user's inhalation via the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether or not a puff has occurred based on the detected signal value of the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 may determine the intensity of the puff based on the detected signal value of the puff sensor 132. If the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs, or if no puff has been detected for a preset period of time or longer, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0109] The control unit 12 determines whether the cap can be attached and / or removed via the cap detection sensor 136. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the cap can be attached and / or removed based on the detected value of the signal from the cap detection sensor 136.

[0110] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results detected by the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 132 reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 1 will immediately shut down via at least one of the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the acoustic output unit 143. For example, the control unit 12 may notify the user via the output unit 14 based on the determination that there are no aerosol generating articles S in the internal space. For example, the control unit 12 may notify the user via the output unit 14 based on the determination that there are no aerosol generating articles S in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 may notify the user via the output unit 14 based on the determination that the vaporizer 19 and / or cap are not installed. For example, the control unit 12 may transmit information regarding the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191 to the user via the output unit 14.

[0111] The control unit 12 stores and updates the history of events in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. Events may include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1, such as the insertion detection of an aerosol generating item S, the start of heating of the aerosol generating item S, puff detection, puff completion, overheating detection of the vaporizer heater 191, overvoltage application detection to the vaporizer heater 191, completion of heating of the aerosol generating item S, turning the power of the aerosol generator 1 on / off, the start of charging of the power supply 11, overcharge detection of the power supply 11, and completion of charging of the power supply 11. The history of events may include the date and time the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the insertion detection of an aerosol generating item S, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the detection value of the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating of the vaporizer heater 191, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the vaporizer heater 191, the voltage applied to the vaporizer heater 191, and the current flowing through the vaporizer heater 191.

[0112] The control unit 12 controls the aerosol generator 1 to form a communication link with an external device, such as the user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 may release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. Here, the authentication data may include data indicating the completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. The user may perform user authentication via the external device. The external device determines whether the user data is valid based on the user's date of birth, a unique number identifying the user, etc., and receives data from the external server regarding the right to use the aerosol generator 1. Based on the data regarding the right to use, the external device sends data to the aerosol generator 1 indicating the completion of user authentication. If user authentication is complete, the control unit 12 can release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. For example, if user authentication is complete, the control unit 12 may release the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the vaporizer heater 191.

[0113] The control unit 12 transmits data regarding the status of the aerosol generator 1 to the external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the operating mode, etc., via the external device's display.

[0114] An external device can send a location search request to the aerosol generator 1 based on an input disclosing the location search of the aerosol generator 1. When the control unit 12 receives a location search request from the external device, it can control at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, the haptic unit 142 may generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 may output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0115] When the control unit 12 receives firmware data from an external device, it controls the system to perform a firmware update. The external device can check the current firmware version of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether a new firmware version exists. When the external device receives an input requesting a firmware download, it receives the new firmware version data and transmits the new firmware version data to the aerosol generator 1. Upon receiving the new firmware version data, the control unit 12 can control the system to perform a firmware update of the aerosol generator 1.

[0116] The control unit 12 transmits data for the detection values ​​of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16, and receives and stores a learning model generated by learning the detection values ​​from the server via machine learning, such as deep learning. Using the learning model received from the server, the control unit 12 can perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 12 stores the detection value data of at least one sensor 13 and data for learning the artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 may store a database for each component provided in the aerosol generator 1, weights and biases that make up the ANN structure, for learning the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 12 can learn the data for the detection values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, the temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory 17, and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0117] Referring to Figure 4, an aerosol generating article S according to one embodiment includes a first filter segment S1, a medium segment S2, a second filter segment S3, and a wrapper S5.

[0118] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating article S may be wrapped by at least one wrapper S5. The wrapper S5 may have at least one hole formed therein for external air to flow in and internal gas to flow out. The wrapper S5 may contain a material with high thermal conductivity.

[0119] For example, the first filter segment S1 may be wrapped by the first wrapper S51, the medium segment S2 by the second wrapper S52, and the second filter segment S3 by the third wrapper S53. The entire aerosol generating article S may then be repackaged by the fifth wrapper S55.

[0120] In one embodiment, the first wrapper S51, the second wrapper S52, and the third wrapper S53 may be made of porous wrapping paper. For example, the porosity of the first wrapper S51, the second wrapper S52, and the third wrapper S53 may be 35,000 CU, but is not limited thereto. The thickness of the first wrapper S51, the second wrapper S52, and the third wrapper S53 may be within the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper S51, the second wrapper S52, and the third wrapper S53 may be 20 g / m². 2 ~25g / m 2 It may be included within the range.

[0121] In one embodiment, the fifth wrapper S55 may be made of sterile paper (MFW). For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper S55 is 57 g / m². 2 ~63g / m 2 It may fall within the range. Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper S55 may fall within the range of 64um to 70um.

[0122] In one embodiment, the first filter segment S1 may be composed of an acetylcellulose filter. Alternatively, the first filter segment S1 may be composed of a paper filter and a porous molded product. For example, the length of the first filter segment S1 is 4 to 15 mm, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the first filter segment S1 may be colored or flavored.

[0123] In one embodiment, the medium segment S2 is filled with a medium. For example, the medium segment S2 may include a cavity, and the cavity may be filled with a medium. In a different example, the medium segment S2 may include an acetylcellulose filter or a paper filter, and the acetylcellulose filter or paper filter may be filled with a medium inserted into it.

[0124] For example, the medium substrate filled in the medium segment S2 may contain at least one component from granular tobacco (tobacco granules), reconstituted tobacco, or shredded tobacco. For example, the length of the medium segment S2 is taken to be an appropriate length within the range of 6 mm to 18 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0125] Generally, tobacco granules contain significantly less moisture and / or aerosol-forming agents than other types of tobacco materials (e.g., shredded tobacco, recombined tobacco, etc.), thus greatly reducing the generation of noticeable smoke, and thus easily enabling the smokeless function of the aerosol generator 11. However, the diameter, density, packing rate, composition ratio of constituent materials, and heating temperature of the tobacco granules vary and can change depending on the embodiment. The diameter of the tobacco granules may be approximately 0.3 mm to 1.2 mm. Within this numerical range, appropriate hardness and ease of manufacture of the tobacco granules are ensured, and the probability of generating vortex airflow within the cavity is increased.

[0126] Furthermore, the medium segment S2 may contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Additionally, a fragrance liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the medium segment S2 by being released into it.

[0127] In one embodiment, the medium filled in the medium segment S2 may be pH-treated. For example, the medium substrate may be pH-treated to be basic with a pH adjusting agent. The pH adjusting agent is basic and may contain at least one of the following substances: potassium carbonate (K2CO3), sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), and calcium oxide (CaO). However, the substances contained in the pH adjusting agent are not limited to the examples above, and substances that produce less negative odor during smoking may be used. A basic pH adjusting agent can increase the pH of the medium substrate contained in the medium segment S2. Compared with a medium substrate that has not been treated with a basic pH adjusting agent, the amount of nicotine released increases in a medium substrate that has been pH-treated with a basic pH adjusting agent. That is, in the case of a medium substrate that has been pH-treated with a basic pH adjusting agent, a sufficient nicotine yield can be achieved from the medium segment S2 even at low temperatures.

[0128] In one embodiment, the medium segment S2 may contain a slurry or paper-made sheet tobacco with a pH adjusted to the range of 7.0 to 9.5, or tobacco granules with a pH adjusted to the range of 7.0 to 9.5. The medium substrate may contain nicotine, and by subjecting it to a basic pH treatment, free nicotine (gaseous nicotine) can be transferred from the medium substrate even under non-heating conditions or relatively low temperature conditions. That is, by adjusting the pH of the medium substrate of the medium segment S2 to the range of 7.0 to 9.5, volatile free nicotine can be transferred under non-heating conditions (or low-temperature heating conditions), and a sufficient level of flavor intensity can be achieved.

[0129] In one embodiment, the second filter segment S3 may be composed of an acetylcellulose filter. The second filter segment S3 may also contain at least one fragrance capsule. For example, the second filter segment S3 may be an acetylcellulose filter into which at least one fragrance capsule is inserted. Alternatively, the second filter segment S3 may be composed of an acetylcellulose filter mixed with a fragrance substance.

[0130] In one embodiment, nicotine may be adsorbed on at least one of the first filter segment S1 and the second filter segment S3. By treating the medium segment S2 with a pH in the range of 7.0 to 9.5, the nicotine in the medium segment S2 becomes actively free nicotine even under non-heating conditions and is transferred to the first filter segment S1 or the second filter segment S3. The nicotine transferred from the medium segment S2 can be adsorbed on at least one of the first filter segment S1 and the second filter segment S3. By including nicotine in both the medium segment S2 and the first filter segment S1 or the second filter segment S3, the aerosol generating article S can be used even without preheating the aerosol generator 1. This not only increases user convenience but also enables sufficient nicotine transfer even under non-heating (or low-temperature heating) conditions, thereby providing a satisfying smoking experience.

[0131] In one embodiment, a cooling segment (not shown) may be included between the medium segment S2 and the second filter segment S3. The cooling segment can cool the aerosol that has passed through the medium segment S2. For example, the cooling segment 112 may be made of acetylcellulose and may be a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. For example, the cooling segment 112 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to acetylcellulose tow. For example, the cooling segment 112 may be made of paper and may be a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. The diameter of the hollow contained in the cooling segment 112 is a suitable diameter within the range of 4 mm to 8 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0132] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing housing part 10-1, which constitutes the internal space 104 of housing 10.

[0133] Referring to Figure 5, the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space 104 (for example, the + / -X direction in Figure 5).

[0134] In one embodiment, the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 may be arranged sequentially along a direction from the first surface 101 toward the end surface 1042 of the internal space (for example, the -X direction in Figure 5).

[0135] At least a portion of the first sensor 13-1 is exposed to the internal space 104 and can detect the state of the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the internal space 104, and at least a portion of the second sensor 13-2 is exposed to the internal space 104 and can detect the state of the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the internal space 104. As an example, at least a portion of the first sensor 13-1 and / or the second sensor 13-2 may be exposed from the side surface 1043 of the internal space. As a different example, the first sensor 13-1 and / or the second sensor 13-2 may be housed inside the housing part 10-1 and not exposed to the internal space 104 when detecting the state of the aerosol-generating article S. As a further example, at least a portion of the first sensor 13-1 may be positioned to be exposed from the side surface 1043 of the internal space, and at least a portion of the second sensor 13-2 may be positioned to be exposed from the end surface 1042 of the internal space.

[0136] In one embodiment, the first sensor 13-1 may be composed of a first capacitance sensor, and the second sensor 13-2 may be composed of a second capacitance sensor. The first capacitance sensor and / or the second capacitance sensor include a conductor. The conductor may be arranged adjacent to the side surface 1043 of the internal space. The first capacitance sensor and / or the second capacitance sensor can output a signal corresponding to the capacitance of adjacent segments (sections) of the aerosol generating article S. For example, if the moisture content of each segment of the aerosol generating article S is different, the electromagnetic characteristics around the conductor change, and the first capacitance sensor and the second capacitance sensor indicate capacitance values ​​corresponding to each segment.

[0137] In one embodiment, the first sensor 13-1 may be composed of a first induction sensor, and the second sensor 13-2 may be composed of a second induction sensor. The first induction sensor and / or the second induction sensor may include at least one coil. The coil may be positioned adjacent to the side surface 1043 of the internal space. For example, if the magnetic field around a coil through which current flows changes, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. The first induction sensor and / or the second induction sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil. For example, if the moisture content of each segment of the aerosol-generating article S differs, the first induction sensor and the second induction sensor will show signal values ​​corresponding to each segment.

[0138] The signals measured by the first sensor 13-1 and / or the second sensor 13-2 can be transmitted to the control unit (for example, the control unit 12 in Figure 1 or Figure 2) via the connector 13-3.

[0139] Figure 6 shows the housing part 10-1 shown in Figure 5, with the aerosol-generating item S inserted into the internal space 104.

[0140] Referring to Figure 6, in one embodiment, with the aerosol-generating article S fully inserted into the internal space 104, the first sensor 13-1 may be positioned at a location corresponding to the medium segment S2 of the aerosol-generating article S. For example, the first sensor 13-1 may be positioned horizontally (for example, along the YZ plane in Figure 6) away from the medium segment S2.

[0141] With the aerosol-generating article S fully inserted into the internal space 104, the second sensor 13-2 may be positioned at a location corresponding to the first filter segment S1 of the aerosol-generating article S. For example, the second sensor 13-2 may be positioned horizontally (for example, along the YZ plane in Figure 6) away from the first filter segment S1.

[0142] If the first sensor 13-1 is composed of a first capacitance sensor and the second sensor 13-2 is composed of a second capacitance sensor, the first sensor 13-1 may detect the degree of wetting (over-humidity) of the medium segment S2, and the second sensor 13-2 may detect the degree of wetting (over-humidity) of the first filter segment S1.

[0143] In one embodiment, when the first sensor 13-1 is composed of a capacitive sensor and the second sensor 13-2 is composed of a capacitive sensor, the area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 exposed on the side surface 1043 of the internal space and the area of ​​the second sensor 13-2 exposed on the side surface 1043 of the internal space are the same. By making the exposed area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 and the exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-2 the same, interference between the two sensors can be minimized.

[0144] Here, the first sensor 13-1 is positioned adjacent to the first surface 101 and the second sensor 13-2 is positioned adjacent to the end surface 1042 of the internal space so as to minimize the influence between the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2. For example, the separation distance between the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 can be maximized by taking into account the determined size of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the second sensor 13-2 may be positioned at the innermost part of the internal space 104. Similarly, the first sensor 13-1 may be positioned adjacent to the first surface 101, but depending on the placement of the proximity sensor, the first sensor 13-1 may be positioned below the proximity sensor from the first surface 101.

[0145] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating article S is over-humidified based on first information received from the first sensor 13-1 (for example, the change in capacitance of the medium segment S2). The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating article S is to be reused based on second information received from the second sensor 13-2 (for example, the change in capacitance of the first filter segment S1).

[0146] In one embodiment, when the first sensor 13-1 is composed of a first capacitance sensor and the second sensor 13-2 is composed of a second capacitance sensor, electric fields of different frequency bands are applied to the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2.

[0147] For example, the first sensor 13-1 may be subjected to an electric field in a first frequency band that is sensitive to moisture detection. For example, the second sensor 13-2 may be subjected to an electric field in a second frequency band that is sensitive to the detection of aerosol-generating substances (e.g., glycerin, propylene glycol).

[0148] The capacitance values ​​may be measured differently depending on the frequency of the electric field applied to the capacitance sensor. If the same frequency electric field is applied to the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2, there may be an overlap between the range between the maximum and minimum capacitance values ​​measured for the aerosol-generating item S in a humidified state and the range between the maximum and minimum capacitance values ​​measured for the aerosol-generating item S in a reused state. In this case, it is not clearly distinguishable whether the aerosol-generating item S is in a humidified state or a reused state.

[0149] To prevent this, the control unit 12 may apply an electric field in a first frequency band sensitive to moisture detection to the first sensor 13-1 and an electric field in a second frequency band sensitive to aerosol-generating substances to the second sensor 13-2, so that the range between the maximum and minimum capacitance values ​​measured by the first sensor 13-1 and the range between the maximum and minimum capacitance values ​​measured by the second sensor 13-2 do not overlap.

[0150] For example, in a humid environment such as the rainy season, the aerosol-generating article S may be subjected to excessive humidity. Excessive humidity can change the degree of wetting of the aerosol-generating article S. If the degree of wetting of the aerosol-generating article S changes, the dielectric constant changes, and therefore the measured capacitance value changes. In an excessively humid state, the first filter segment S1, the medium segment S2, and the second filter segment S3 of the aerosol-generating article S become wetted by all the moisture, and exhibit a capacitance value that converges to that humidity.

[0151] For example, aerosols generated in a vaporizer (e.g., vaporizer 19 in Figure 1 or Figure 2) may enter the first filter segment S1 of the aerosol-generating article S, move through the medium segment S2, and then move to the second filter segment S3. As the aerosols move downstream of the aerosol-generating article S (e.g., in the +X direction shown in Figure 6), the upstream side of the aerosol-generating article S is more thoroughly coated with aerosol-generating substances (e.g., glycerin, propylene glycol) than the downstream medium segment S2 of the aerosol-generating article S.

[0152] Alternatively, the control unit 12 may apply an electric field to the first sensor 13-1, and after stopping the application of the electric field to the first sensor 13-1, sequentially apply an electric field to the second sensor 13-2. If electric fields are applied to both the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 simultaneously, the measured values ​​at the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 will influence each other. If electric fields are applied to the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 with a time difference, interference between the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 can be prevented.

[0153] The control unit 12 determines that the aerosol generating item S is in an over-humidified state if the change in capacitance between a first time point (before the aerosol generating item S is inserted into the internal space 104) and a second time point (after the aerosol generating item S is inserted into the internal space 104), as measured by the first sensor 13-1, is greater than a first set value. The first set value may be the maximum value of the change in capacitance in the aerosol generating item S under normal conditions. Here, the normal state is defined as a non-over-humidified state.

[0154] If the aerosol-generating item S is determined to be in an over-humidified state, the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating item S is in an over-humidified reuse state if the change in capacitance between the first and second time points, as measured by the second sensor 13-2, is greater than the second set value. The second set value may be the maximum value of the change in capacitance in the aerosol-generating item S when it is in an over-humidified rice reuse state.

[0155] If the aerosol-generating item S is determined to be in a general (not over-wet) state, the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating item S is in a general reuse state if the change in capacitance between the first and second time points measured by the second sensor 13-2 is greater than the third set value. The third set value may be the maximum value of the change in capacitance for the aerosol-generating item S in a general rice use state.

[0156] Table 1 shows an example of how the control unit 12 of the aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment determines the state of the aerosol generating article S.

[0157] [Table 1]

[0158] Referring to Table 1, the top flag indicates the value based on the capacitance change measured by the first sensor 13-1, and the bottom flag indicates the value based on the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2.

[0159] The control unit 12 may set the top flag to 1 if the capacitance change measured by the first sensor 13-1 is greater than the first set value. The control unit 12 may set the top flag to 0 if the capacitance change measured by the first sensor 13-1 is less than the first set value. Here, top flag 1 indicates an over-humid state, and top flag 0 indicates a normal (not over-humid) state.

[0160] Next, with the top flag set to 1, the control unit 12 may set the bottom flag to 1 if the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2 is greater than the second set value. With the top flag set to 0, the control unit 12 may set the bottom flag to 1 if the capacitance change measured by the second sensor 13-2 is greater than the third set value. Here, the bottom flag 1 indicates the reuse state.

[0161] In the state where both the top flag 0 and the bottom flag 0 are present (case 1), the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating item S is in a state where general rice is being used. In this case, the control unit 12 can operate the vaporizer heater 191.

[0162] In the state where Top flag 0 and Bottom flag 1 are in effect (case 2), the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating item S is in a general reuse state. In this case, the control unit 12 does not operate the vaporizer heater 191.

[0163] In the state where Top flag 1 and bottom flag 0 are present (case 3), the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol generating item S is in a state where over-moistened rice is being used. In this case, the control unit 12 can operate the vaporizer heater 191.

[0164] When both the top flag 1 and bottom flag 1 are active (case 4), the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating item S is in a state of being over-moistened and reusable. In this case, the control unit 12 does not operate the vaporizer heater 191.

[0165] Referring to Figure 7, a method for determining the state of an aerosol-generating article S according to one embodiment includes: step 1001 providing the aerosol-generating article S; step 1002 measuring the change in capacitance of the medium segment S2 of the aerosol-generating article S using a first sensor 13-1 composed of a first capacitance sensor; step 1003 measuring the change in capacitance of the first filter segment S1 using a second sensor 13-2 composed of a second capacitance sensor; and step 1004 determining whether or not the aerosol-generating article S can be reused based on the change in capacitance.

[0166] In step 1002, the amount of change in capacitance of the medium segment S2 of the aerosol generating article S is measured by the first sensor 13-1, which is composed of a first capacitance sensor. In this step, an electric field in a first frequency band that is sensitive to moisture detection may be applied to the first sensor 13-1.

[0167] In step 1003, in which the change in capacitance of the first filter segment S1 is measured by the second sensor 13-2, which is composed of a second capacitance sensor, an electric field in a second frequency band sensitive to the detection of aerosol-generating substances may be applied to the second sensor 13-2.

[0168] Step 1004, which determines whether or not the aerosol-generating article S is to be reused based on the change in capacitance, may further include a step of determining that the aerosol-generating article S is in a state of being reused due to excessive moisture if the change in capacitance measured by the first sensor 13-1 is greater than a first set value and the change in capacitance measured by the second sensor 13-2 is greater than a second set value.

[0169] Step 1004, which determines whether or not the aerosol-generating article S can be reused based on the change in capacitance, may further include a step of determining that the aerosol-generating article S is in a general reuse state if the change in capacitance measured by the first sensor 13-1 is smaller than a first set value and the change in capacitance measured by the second sensor 13-2 is larger than a third set value.

[0170] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view showing housing part 10-1 which constitutes the internal space 104 of housing 10. In the following explanation referring to Figure 8, explanations of components that overlap with those in Figure 5 will be omitted for simplicity.

[0171] Referring to Figure 8, in one embodiment, when the first sensor 13-1 is configured as a capacitive sensor and the second sensor 13-22 is configured as a capacitive sensor, the area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 exposed on the side surface 1043 of the internal space is larger than the area of ​​the first sensor 13-1 exposed on the side surface 1043 of the internal space.

[0172] Capacitance is inversely proportional to the distance of the space containing the dielectric and proportional to the cross-sectional area of ​​the dielectric. Therefore, when an aerosol-generating item S is inserted into the internal space 104, a larger area of ​​the capacitance sensor exposed on the side surface 1043 of the internal space will allow it to accommodate a larger charge.

[0173] Since the exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 is larger than that of the first sensor 13-1, the degree of wetting of the first filter segment S2, which is heavily wetted by aerosols, can be measured more precisely.

[0174] Here, the width W2 of the second sensor 13-22 in the peripheral direction of the side surface 1043 of the internal space is greater than the width W1 of the first sensor 13-1 in the peripheral direction of the side surface 1043 of the internal space. If a part of the second sensor 13-22 approaches the first sensor 13-1 due to the larger exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-22, the second sensor 13-22 can also accommodate the magnetic field from the medium segment S2. Here, the exposed area of ​​the second sensor 13-22 can be increased by increasing the width W2 without increasing the length in the longitudinal direction of the second sensor 13-22 (for example, the + / -X direction in Figure 7). This is also useful for maximizing the separation between the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-22.

[0175] Figures 9 and 10 show an aerosol generating system 200 according to one embodiment.

[0176] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the aerosol generation system 200 includes an aerosol generator 2 and an aerosol generating article S. The aerosol generator 2 may include at least one of a power supply 21, a control unit 22, a sensor 23, a vaporizer 29, and a heater 28. At least one of the power supply 21, the control unit 22, the sensor 23, and the heater 28 may be located inside the housing 20 of the aerosol generator 2. The housing 20 can provide a space that is open on one side for the insertion of the aerosol generating article S.

[0177] The heater 28 heats the aerosol-generating article S. The heater 28 may extend upward around the space into which the aerosol-generating article S is inserted. For example, the heater 28 may be in the form of a tube containing a hollow interior. The heater 28 may be positioned around the internal space. The heater 28 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the internal space. The heater 28 may heat the internal space or the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the internal space. The heater 28 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0178] For example, heater 28 may be a resistive heater. For example, heater 28 may include an electrically conductive track, and heater 28 may be heated by current flowing through the electrically conductive track. Heater 28 may be electrically connected to a power supply 21. Heater 28 may be directly heated by current supplied from the power supply 21.

[0179] For example, the aerosol generator 2 may include an induction coil surrounding the heater 28. The induction coil can cause the heater 28 to heat up. The heater 28 may also act as a susceptor, and the heater 28 may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field may penetrate the heater 28 and generate eddy currents within it. The current may generate heat in the heater 28.

[0180] On the other hand, the aerosol generating article S may contain a susceptor, and the susceptor inside the aerosol generating article S may be heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil.

[0181] The vaporizer 29 may contain an aerosol-generating substance having one of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid-phase composition. For example, the liquid-phase composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The vaporizer 29 may be integrally formed with the housing 20 or detachably coupled to the housing 20.

[0182] For example, referring to Figure 9, the steam generator 29 may be integrally formed with the housing 20 and communicate with the internal space via an airflow channel CN.

[0183] For example, referring to Figure 10, a space may be formed on one side of the housing 20, and at least a portion of the steam maker 29 may be inserted into the space formed on one side of the housing 20, thereby mounting the steam maker 29 to the housing 20. The airflow channel CN ​​is defined by a portion of the steam maker 29 and / or a portion of the housing 20, and the steam maker 29 can communicate with the internal space through the airflow channel CN.

[0184] The housing 20 may be formed in such a way that outside air can flow into the housing 20 with the vaporizer 29 inserted. Here, the outside air that flows into the housing 20 can pass through the vaporizer 29 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0185] The vaporizer 29 includes a storage CO containing aerosol-generating material and / or a heater 291 for heating the aerosol-generating material in the storage CO. A liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating material may be located inside the storage CO. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic. The electrically conductive track of the heater 291 may be formed in the form of a coil that winds the liquid transfer means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means. The heater 291 may be referred to as the vaporizer heater 291.

[0186] The vaporizer 29 may generate an aerosol. The aerosol is generated by heating the liquid transfer means with the vaporizer heater 291. The aerosol may also be generated by heating the aerosol generating article S with the heater 291. Tobacco substances may be added to the aerosol generated by the vaporizer heater 291 as it passes through the aerosol generating article S, and the aerosol with tobacco substances added may be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the aerosol generating article S.

[0187] The aerosol generator 2 may include a cap (not shown). The cap may be detachably bonded to the housing 20 so as to cover at least a portion of the vaporizer 29 coupled to the housing 20. The aerosol generating article S may be inserted into the housing 20 through the cap.

[0188] The power supply 21 provides power to the components of the aerosol generator 2 so that they can operate. The power supply 21 may also be referred to as a battery. The power supply 21 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 22, the sensor 23, the vaporizer heater 291, and the heater 28.

[0189] The control unit 22 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 2. The control unit 22 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 22 may control the operation of at least one of the following: the power supply 21, the sensor 23, the vaporizer 29, and the heater 28. The control unit 22 may also control the operation of a display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generator 2. The control unit 22 checks the status of each component of the aerosol generator 2 and determines whether the aerosol generator is in an operational state.

[0190] The control unit 22 analyzes the results detected by the sensor 23 and controls the processing to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit 22 may control the power supplied to the vaporizer heater 291 and / or heater 28 so that the operation of the vaporizer heater 291 and / or heater 28 is disclosed or terminated based on the results detected by the sensor 23. For example, the control unit 22 may control the amount of power supplied to the vaporizer heater 291 and the duration of power supply so that the vaporizer heater 291 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature, based on the results detected by the sensor 23.

[0191] Sensor 23 may include at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, or a cap detection sensor. For example, sensor 23 may detect at least one of the following: the temperature of the vaporizer heater 291 and / or heater 28, the temperature of the power supply 21, or the temperature inside and outside the housing 20. For example, sensor 23 may detect a user's puff. For example, sensor 23 may detect whether or not an aerosol generating article S is inserted into the internal space. For example, sensor 23 may detect whether or not the vaporizer 29 is installed. For example, sensor 23 may detect whether or not the cap is installed.

[0192] The first sensor 23-1 and the second sensor 23-2 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space (for example, along the -X direction in Figures 8 and 9).

[0193] The control unit 22 may receive first information measured by the first sensor 23-1 and second information measured by the second sensor 23-2, and determine the state of the aerosol-generating article S based on the first and second information. Since the functions of the first sensor 23-1 and the second sensor 23-2 are the same as or similar to those of the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2, a detailed explanation of them will be omitted for simplicity.

[0194] Figures 11 and 12 show an aerosol generating system 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generating system 300 includes an aerosol generating device 3 and an aerosol generating article S.

[0195] Referring to Figure 11, the aerosol generator 3 may include at least one of a power supply 31, a control unit 32, a sensor 33, and a heater 38. At least one of the power supply 31, control unit 32, sensor 33, and heater 38 may be located inside the housing 30 of the aerosol generator 3. The housing 30 can provide an upper-opening space into which the aerosol generating article S is inserted. The upper-opening space may be referred to as the internal space.

[0196] The heater 38 heats the aerosol-generating article S. The heater 38 may extend upward around the space into which the aerosol-generating article S is inserted. For example, the heater 38 may be in the form of a tube containing a hollow interior. The heater 38 may be positioned around the periphery of the internal space. The heater 38 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the internal space. The heater 38 may heat the internal space or the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the internal space. The heater 38 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0197] For example, referring to Figure 11, the heater 38 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 38 may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater 38 may be heated by the flow of current through the electrically conductive track. The heater 38 may be electrically connected to a power supply 31. The heater 38 may be directly heated by current supplied from the power supply 31. The heater 38 may be a hollow heater, positioned to surround at least a portion of the aerosol generating article S inserted into the insertion space to heat the outside of the inserted aerosol generating article S, or it may be a needle-shaped, rod-shaped, or tubular heater, inserted into the inside of the aerosol generating article S inserted into the insertion space to heat the inside.

[0198] For example, referring to Figure 12, the aerosol generator 3 may include an induction coil 381 surrounding the heater 38. The induction coil 381 can cause the heater 38 to heat up. The heater 38 may also act as a susceptor, and the heater 38 may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil 381. The magnetic field may penetrate the heater 38 and generate eddy currents within the heater 38. The current may generate heat in the heater 38.

[0199] On the other hand, a susceptor may be included inside the aerosol generating article S, and the susceptor inside the aerosol generating article S may be heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 381.

[0200] The power supply 31 provides power to the components of the aerosol generator 3 so that they can operate. The power supply 31 may also be referred to as a battery. The power supply 31 may supply power to at least one of the control unit 32, the sensor 33, and the heater 38. If the aerosol generator 3 includes an induction coil 381, the power supply 31 may supply power to the induction coil 381.

[0201] The control unit 32 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 3. The control unit 32 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 32 may control the operation of at least one of the power supply 31 and the sensor 33. The control unit 32 may also control the operation of the induction coil 381. The control unit 32 may also control the operation of a display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generator 3. The control unit 32 checks the status of each component of the aerosol generator 3 and determines whether the aerosol generator 3 is in an operational state.

[0202] The control unit 32 analyzes the results detected by the sensor 33 and controls the processing to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit 32 may control the power supplied to the heater 38 so that the operation of the heater 38 is disclosed or terminated based on the results detected by the sensor 33. For example, the control unit 32 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater 38 and the duration of power supply so that the heater 38 heats up to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature, based on the results detected by the sensor 33.

[0203] The sensor 33 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, or an insertion detection sensor. For example, the sensor 33 may detect at least one of the following: the temperature of the heater 38, the temperature of the power supply 31, or the temperature inside or outside the housing 30. For example, the sensor 33 may detect a user's puff. For example, the sensor 33 may detect whether or not an aerosol-generating article S is inserted into the insertion space.

[0204] The first sensor 33-1 and the second sensor 33-2 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the internal space (for example, along the -X direction in Figure 10 or Figure 11).

[0205] The control unit 32 may receive first information measured by the first sensor 33-1 and second information measured by the second sensor 33-2, and determine the state of the aerosol-generating article S based on the first and second information. Since the functions of the first sensor 33-1 and the second sensor 33-2 are the same as or similar to those of the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2, a detailed explanation of them will be omitted for simplicity.

[0206] On the other hand, the aerosol generating article S includes a first filter segment, a medium segment, a cooling segment, and a second filter segment. The first filter segment may consist of an atomizing segment. For example, the atomizing segment is filled with a humectant, which includes, 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. When the first filter segment consists of an atomizing segment, the aerosol generator 3 does not need to have a separate vaporizer, and instead, a heater 38 may be placed around and / or inside the first filter segment which consists of the atomizing segment.

[0207] According to the aerosol generators 1, 2, and 3 and aerosol generating systems 100, 200, and 300 including them according to one embodiment, it is possible to effectively determine whether or not the aerosol generating article S is to be reused. Furthermore, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the aerosol generating article S is to be reused even under humid conditions, and to effectively determine that the aerosol generating article S has been placed in a humid state. In addition, according to the aerosol generators 1, 2, and 3 according to one embodiment, it is possible to provide the user with an optimal smoking satisfaction by utilizing the state information of the aerosol generating article S.

[0208] An aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment includes a housing 10 having a first surface 101, a second surface 102 opposite to the first surface 101, and a side surface 103 between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102, the first surface 101 having an internal space 104 into which an aerosol generating article S is inserted; a first sensor 13-1 positioned adjacent to the internal space 104; a second sensor 13-2 positioned adjacent to the internal space 104 at a different location from the first sensor 13-1; and a control unit 12 housed within the housing 10 and including at least one processor, wherein the control unit 12 determines whether the aerosol generating article S is over-humidified based on first information received from the first sensor 13-1, and determines whether the aerosol generating article S is reusable based on second information received from the second sensor 13-2.

[0209] In one embodiment, electric fields of different frequency bands may be applied to the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2.

[0210] The first sensor 13-1 may be subjected to an electric field in a first frequency band that is sensitive to moisture detection.

[0211] The second sensor 13-2 may be subjected to an electric field in a second frequency band that is sensitive to the detection of aerosol-generating substances.

[0212] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may apply an electric field to the first sensor 13-1, and after stopping the application of the electric field to the first sensor 13-1, it may sequentially apply an electric field to the second sensor 13-2.

[0213] In Embodiment 1, the internal space 104 includes an internal space end surface 1042 located between the first surface 101 and the second surface 102, and an internal space side surface 1043 extending from the end of the internal space end surface 1042 to the first surface 101, and the first sensor 13-1 and the second sensor 13-2 may be arranged in order along the direction from the first surface 101 toward the internal space end surface 1042.

[0214] The first sensor 13-1 may be composed of a first capacitance sensor, and the second sensor 13-2 may be composed of a second capacitance sensor.

[0215] The control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article S is in an over-humidified state if the capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor is greater than a first set value.

[0216] If the aerosol-generating article S is determined to be in an overly humid state, the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article S is in an overly humid state and ready for reuse if the capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor is greater than the second set value.

[0217] If the aerosol-generating article S is determined to be in an unhumidified state, the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article S is in a general reuse state if the capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor is greater than the third set value.

[0218] A method for determining the state of an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment includes the steps of: providing an aerosol generating article comprising a first filter segment, a medium segment disposed downstream of the first filter segment and containing a medium, and a second filter segment disposed downstream of the medium segment; measuring the change in capacitance of the medium segment of the aerosol generating article using a first capacitance sensor in step 1002; measuring the change in capacitance of the first filter segment using a second capacitance sensor in step 1003; and determining whether or not the aerosol generating article can be reused based on the change in capacitance in step 1004.

[0219] The first capacitance sensor may be subjected to an electric field in a first frequency band that is sensitive to moisture detection.

[0220] The second capacitance sensor may be subjected to an electric field in a second frequency band that is sensitive to the detection of aerosol-generating substances.

[0221] Step 1004, which determines whether or not the aerosol-generating article can be reused based on the capacitance change, may further include a step of determining that the aerosol-generating article is in a state of being reused due to excessive moisture if the capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor is greater than a first set value and the capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor is greater than a second set value.

[0222] Step 1004, which determines whether or not the aerosol-generating article can be reused based on the capacitance change, may further include a step of determining that the aerosol-generating article is in a general reuse state if the capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor is smaller than a first set value and the capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor is larger than a third set value.

[0223] The above-described embodiments are illustrative only, and a person with ordinary skill in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent different embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention must be determined by the attached claims, and all differences that are equivalent to those described in the claims should be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection determined by the claims.

Claims

1. A housing comprising a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the first surface has an internal space into which an aerosol generating article is inserted. A first sensor is positioned adjacent to the aforementioned internal space, A second sensor is positioned adjacent to the internal space at a different location from the first sensor, A control unit, which includes at least one processor, is housed within the aforementioned housing. Includes, The control unit determines whether the aerosol generating article is excessively humid based on first information received from the first sensor, and determines whether the aerosol generating article is reusable based on second information received from the second sensor, in an aerosol generating device.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein electric fields of different frequency bands are applied to the first sensor and the second sensor.

3. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, wherein an electric field in a first frequency band sensitive to moisture detection is applied to the first sensor.

4. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, wherein an electric field in a second frequency band sensitive to the detection of aerosol-generating substances is applied to the second sensor.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit applies an electric field to the first sensor, stops applying the electric field to the first sensor, and then sequentially applies an electric field to the second sensor.

6. The internal space includes the end surface of the internal space located between the first surface and the second surface, and the side surface of the internal space extending from the end of the end surface of the internal space to the first surface. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are arranged in order along a direction from the first surface toward the end surface of the internal space.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the first sensor is composed of a first capacitance sensor and the second sensor is composed of a second capacitance sensor.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the control unit determines that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humidified state if the capacitance change amount measured by the first capacitance sensor is greater than a first set value.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein, when the aerosol generating article is determined to be in an over-humidified state, the control unit determines that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humidified reuse state if the change in capacitance measured by the second capacitance sensor is greater than a second set value.

10. If the aerosol generating article is determined to be in an unhumidified state, the control unit determines that the aerosol generating article is in a general reuse state if the capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor is greater than a third set value, as described in claim 8.

11. A method for determining the state of an aerosol-generating article, The steps of providing an aerosol generating article comprising a first filter segment, a medium segment disposed downstream of the first filter segment and containing a medium, and a second filter segment disposed downstream of the medium segment, The first step is to measure the change in capacitance of the medium segment of the aerosol generating article using a first capacitance sensor. The steps include measuring the change in capacitance of the first filter segment using a second capacitance sensor, A step of determining whether or not the aerosol-generating article will be reused based on the capacitance change amount, A method for determining the state of an aerosol-generating article, including [specific material / container].

12. A method for determining the state of an aerosol-generating article according to claim 11, wherein an electric field in a first frequency band sensitive to moisture detection is applied to the first capacitance sensor.

13. A method for determining the state of an aerosol-generating article according to claim 12, wherein an electric field in a second frequency band sensitive to the detection of aerosol-generating substances is applied to the second capacitance sensor.

14. The step of determining whether or not the aerosol-generating article will be reused based on the capacitance change is as follows: A method for determining the state of an aerosol generating article according to claim 11, further comprising the step of determining that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humidified reuse state if the capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor is greater than a first set value and the capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor is greater than a second set value.

15. The step of determining whether or not the aerosol-generating article will be reused based on the capacitance change is as follows: A method for determining the state of an aerosol-generating article according to claim 11, further comprising the step of determining that the aerosol-generating article is in a general reuse state if the capacitance change measured by the first capacitance sensor is smaller than a first set value and the capacitance change measured by the second capacitance sensor is larger than a third set value.

Images