Aerosol generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating apparatus is disclosed. The aerosol generating apparatus of this disclosure includes a body having an elongated insertion space, and a sensor disposed adjacent to the insertion space for sensing an object inserted into the insertion space, wherein the sensor includes a sensing electrode and an insulator supporting the sensing electrode, the thickness of which the insulator may be 40 μm to 60 μm.

Description

Technical Field

[0007]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

Background Art

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

[0003] In an aerosol generating device, a plurality of sensors are used to sense puffing, insertion of a stick, etc. Among these, as a sensor for sensing the insertion of a stick, generally a capacitance sensor or an inductive sensor is used.

[0004] When an over-wet stick containing moisture inside is inserted into the device, if the over-wet stick cannot be accurately sensed, the stick cannot be heated normally, and thus an aerosol cannot be generated normally. Conventional aerosol generating devices have the problem that they cannot accurately sense an over-wet stick. Also, there is a problem that an over-wet stick and a normal stick cannot be accurately distinguished.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned problems and other problems.

[0006] Another object is to provide an aerosol generating device in which an insulator provided in a capacitance sensor has a thickness within a specific range.

[0007] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generator that detects an object based on the difference in current values ​​between two electrodes provided in a capacitance sensor.

[0008] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generating device in which capacitance sensors are positioned corresponding to the humectant-containing portion of the stick.

[0009] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generating device in which a capacitance sensor is placed inside an insulating material. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned objectives, an aerosol generator is provided, comprising a body having an elongated insertion space, and a sensor positioned adjacent to the insertion space for sensing an object inserted into the insertion space, wherein the sensor comprises a sensing electrode and an insulator supporting the sensing electrode, the thickness of which is 40 μm to 60 μm. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the insulator provided in the capacitance sensor has a thickness within a specific range, thereby minimizing interference between electrodes provided in the sensor and enabling accurate differentiation between over-humidified sticks and normal sticks.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the accuracy of stick sensing can be improved by sensing an object based on the difference in current values ​​between two electrodes provided in a capacitance sensor.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor has a structure in which it is positioned corresponding to the humidifier-containing portion of the stick, thereby enabling accurate detection of an overly humidified stick.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor has a structure in which it is placed inside an insulating material, thereby eliminating sensing noise caused by the external environment.

[0015] Any additional applicable scope of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of this disclosure, should be understood to be given only as examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This figure shows a stick according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the side. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from above. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view showing a heater and sensor of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This figure shows a sensor for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This flowchart illustrates the control of stick insertion detection and type identification in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11]A graph comparing the sensing results of over-wet sticks based on the thickness of the insulator of the sensor of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] A graph comparing the sensing results of over-wet sticks based on the thickness of the insulator of the sensor of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] A graph comparing the sensing results of over-wet sticks based on the thickness of the insulator of the sensor of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or similar components are given the same reference numerals even if they are illustrated in different drawings, and duplicate descriptions thereof will be omitted. In the description of the drawings, similar drawing reference numerals can be used for similar or related components.

[0018] The suffixes “module” and “unit” for components used in the following description are used or mixed only for the ease of description in the specification, and do not have meanings or roles that are distinguished from each other. On the other hand, the suffixes “module” or “unit” can include units implemented by hardware, software, or firmware, and can be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logical blocks, components, or circuits, for example. A “module” or “unit” can be an integrally configured component or the smallest unit or a part of the component that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” can be implemented in the form of an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit).

[0019] Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments disclosed herein, if a specific description of related known technology could obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed herein, such detailed description will be omitted. In addition, the accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and should not be construed as limiting the technical ideas disclosed herein and including all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions included in the ideas and scope of this disclosure.

[0020] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe a variety of components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by such terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0021] When we say that one component is "linked" or "connected" to another component, it can be understood that it may be directly linked or connected to the other component, but there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when we say that one component is "directly linked" or "directly connected" to another component, it can be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0022] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the context.

[0023] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be embodied by software comprising one or more instruction sets stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory 17) that can be read by a machine (e.g., aerosol generator 1). For example, the processor (e.g., control unit 12) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generator 1) can invoke and execute at least one instruction from among the one or more instruction sets stored in the storage medium. This allows the machine to operate to perform at least one function by the invoked at least one instruction set. The one or more instruction sets may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, “non-transitory” simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0024] In this disclosure, the orientation of the aerosol generator 1 can be defined with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system. In the Cartesian coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generator 1. The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generator 1. The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generator 1.

[0025] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor unit 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and / or heaters 18, 24. However, it will be understood by those ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment that the design of the aerosol generator 1 may allow for the omission of some of the components shown in Figure 1 or the addition of new components.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit 13 can sense the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the state of the area around the aerosol generator 1 and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 12. For example, the sensor unit 13 may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a reuse sensor, an overly moist sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge sensor, a cap sensor, and / or a motion sensor. On the other hand, the sensor unit 13 may further include a variety of sensors such as a liquid level sensor for sensing the amount of liquid remaining in the cartridge and a water ingress sensor for sensing water ingress into the aerosol generator 1.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor can sense the temperature at which the heaters 18 and 24 are heated. The aerosol generator 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24, or the heaters 18 and 24 themselves may act as temperature sensors. As an example, the temperature sensor can be used to measure the impedance to the heater 18. The impedance to the heater 18 may correlate with the temperature of the heater 18. The temperature sensor can measure the current and / or voltage applied to the heater 18 (or induction coil). Based on the measured current and / or voltage, the impedance to the heater 18 can be calculated. The control unit 12 can estimate the temperature of the heater 18 based on the calculated impedance.

[0029] As an example, the temperature sensor may include a resistive element (e.g., a thermistor) whose resistance changes in response to temperature changes in the heaters 18 and 24. The temperature sensor can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element, and the control unit 12 can detect the temperature and / or temperature change of the heaters 18 and 24 in response to the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0030] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that detects the resistance values ​​of heaters 18 and 24. The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance values ​​of heaters 18 and 24, and the control unit 12 may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of heaters 18 and 24 in response to the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor can sense the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor may be attached to one side of the power supply 11 (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on one side of a printed circuit board. As an example, the aerosol generator 1 may include a protection circuit module (PCM), and the temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power supply 11 together with the protection circuit module.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor is placed inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generator 1, and can also sense the internal temperature of the housing (not shown).

[0033] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0034] As an example, the puff sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1, and the control unit 12 can detect the user's puff in accordance with the signal corresponding to the internal pressure. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1 may correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor may be positioned in the aerosol generator 1 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0035] As another example, the puff sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user puffs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, the space into which the aerosol product is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space), heaters 18 and 24, etc. The control unit 12 can detect the user's puff in response to a signal corresponding to the temperature of the airflow path, etc., output from the temperature sensor.

[0036] As yet another example, the puff sensor may also include a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor together. In this case, the temperature sensor can measure the temperature used to calibrate the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. For example, the puff sensor can calibrate the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the calibrated signal. As yet another example, the puff sensor can output a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the puff sensor. In this case, the control unit 12 can receive the signals and calibrate the signal corresponding to the internal pressure according to the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0037] As yet another example, the puff sensor may include a capacitance sensor. In this disclosure, the capacitance sensor may also be called a capacitive sensor. When a user puffs, a temperature change and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol product, and thus the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may change. The control unit 12 can detect the user's puff in accordance with a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space output from the capacitance sensor.

[0038] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples given above, and can be implemented by a variety of sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the insertion sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products. The insertion sensor can be installed around the insertion space.

[0040] As an example, the insertion sensing sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor, which may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol product is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor may change. The control unit 12 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol product in response to a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space output from the capacitance sensor.

[0041] As another example, the insertion sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, which may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. If the aerosol product (e.g., a wrapper for the aerosol product) includes a conductor, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil through which current flows when the aerosol product is inserted into or removed from the insertion space. The control unit 12 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol product containing a conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc., of the alternating current). Alternatively, the aerosol product (e.g., the medium portion of the aerosol product) may include a susceptor (SUS), etc. In this case as well, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil due to the insertion or removal of the susceptor, etc., into or from the insertion space, and the control unit 12 can also sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol product based on the characteristics of the current from the inductive sensor.

[0042] The insertion sensing sensor is not limited to the examples given above and can be embodied by a variety of sensors (e.g., proximity sensors) for sensing the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products. Furthermore, the insertion sensing sensor may include any combination of the examples given above. According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor may also include a switch for sensing pressure by the aerosol product.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the reuse detection sensor can detect whether or not an aerosol product has been reused. For example, the reuse detection sensor may be a color sensor for detecting the hue of the aerosol product. When an aerosol product is used by a user, the generated aerosol or heating may cause a partial change in the hue of the wrapper surrounding the outside of the aerosol product. The color sensor can output a signal corresponding to the optical properties (e.g., wavelength of light) corresponding to the hue of the wrapper based on the light reflected from the wrapper. When the control unit 12 detects a partial change in the hue of the wrapper, it can determine that the aerosol product inserted into the insertion space has already been used.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the over-humidity sensing sensor can sense whether the aerosol product is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity sensing sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor positioned adjacent to the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect the over-humid state of the aerosol product based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant output from the capacitance sensor. As an example, the control unit 12 can check the level range that includes the level of the signal based on a lookup table and determine the amount of moisture in the aerosol product based on the checked level range.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can sense whether the aerosol product is a normal product and / or sense the type of aerosol product.

[0046] As an example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an optical sensor for sensing an identification substance (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., the wrapper) of the aerosol product. The optical sensor can irradiate light onto the identification substance (or identification mark) of the aerosol product and sense the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol product based on the reflected light. For example, the identification substance may include a substance that emits light of a specific wavelength range based on the irradiated light. The control unit 12 can detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol product based on the wavelength range.

[0047] As another example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The dielectric constant inside the insertion space may differ depending on the type of aerosol product inserted into the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol product in response to a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space output from the capacitance sensor.

[0048] As yet another example, a cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. If the wrapper and / or interior (e.g., the medium portion) of the aerosol product inserted into the insertion space contains a conductor, the characteristics of the current sensed by the inductive sensor when the aerosol product is inserted into the insertion space (e.g., frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the AC current) may differ depending on the type of aerosol product inserted into the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect the authenticity and / or type of the inserted aerosol product based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor.

[0049] The cigarette identification sensor is not limited to the examples given above and can be embodied by a variety of sensors for sensing the authenticity of an aerosol product and / or the type of aerosol product. Furthermore, the cigarette identification sensor may include any combination of the examples given above.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the cartridge sensing sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of a cartridge. For example, the cartridge sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the cap sensing sensor can sense the attachment and / or removal of the cap. For example, the cap sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap may include a structure that covers at least a portion of the cartridge attached to or inserted into the aerosol generator 1, or that covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generator 1. When the cap sensing sensor is attached to or removed from the housing, it may output a signal corresponding to the attachment or removal, and the control unit 12 may sense the attachment or removal of the cap in accordance with the signal corresponding to the attachment or removal.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the motion sensing sensor can sense the movement of the aerosol generator 1. The motion sensing sensor can be implemented by at least one of an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor.

[0053] In one embodiment, the sensor unit 13 may further include at least one of the following sensors in addition to the aforementioned sensors: a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor, or a proximity sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by those skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed explanation can be omitted.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the output unit 14 can output information about the status of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 14 may include, but is not limited to, a display, a haptic unit, and / or an acoustic output unit. For example, information about the aerosol generator 1 may include the charge / discharge status of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the heaters 18 and 24, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol product and / or cartridge, the attachment and / or 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). The display can visually provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the display may include an LED (light-emitting diode) light-emitting element, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), and the like. If the display includes a touchpad, it can also be used as an input unit 15. The haptic unit can tactilely provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the haptic section may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulator, etc. The acoustic output section can provide the user with auditory information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the acoustic output section can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the power supply 11 can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generator 1. The power supply 11 may include one or more batteries. The power supply 11 can supply power so that the heaters 18 and 24 can be heated. The power supply 11 can also supply power necessary for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generator 1, such as the control unit 12, sensor unit 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. The power supply 11 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 11 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery. The power supply 11 may be a replaceable type (detachable battery) (hereinafter referred to as a removable battery). The removable battery may be installed in a battery housing provided in the aerosol generator 1 or removed from the battery housing. The removable battery may also be charged by wire and / or wirelessly.

[0056] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can receive power from a power source 11 to heat the aerosol product and / or the medium and / or aerosol generating substance in the cartridge. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a heater 18 for heating the aerosol product and / or a cartridge heater 24 for heating the cartridge (i.e., solid and / or liquid medium).

[0057] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 may be electrical resistance heaters. For example, electrical resistance heaters may include electrical resistance materials such as metals or metal alloys, including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. Electrical resistance heaters can be embodied by metal heating wires, metal heating plates on which electrical conductive tracks are arranged, ceramic heating elements, and the like.

[0058] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 may be induction heating heaters. For example, an induction heating heater may include a susceptor that generates heat in response to a magnetic field. An alternating current flowing through the induction coil can generate a magnetic field from the induction coil. The generated magnetic field can penetrate the heater and generate eddy currents in the susceptor. The generation of eddy currents can heat the susceptor. According to one embodiment, the susceptor may be contained inside the aerosol product (e.g., in the medium). In this case as well, the susceptor contained inside the aerosol product can be heated by the induction coil.

[0059] The heaters 18 and 24 are not limited to the examples given above and may include or be replaced by a variety of heating methods, structures, components, etc., for heating aerosol products and / or cartridges.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the input unit 15 can receive information entered by the user. For example, the input unit 15 may include a touch panel, buttons, a keypad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, and the like.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the memory 17 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. For example, the memory 17 can include at least one type of storage medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. For example, the memory 17 can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices (e.g., portable electronic devices). For example, the communication unit 16 may include a Bluetooth® communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (wireless local area network) communication unit, a Zigbee® communication unit, an infrared (infrared Data Association, IrDA) communication unit, a WFD (Wireless Fidelity Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant (Adaptive Network Topology) communication unit, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, and the like.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The control unit 12 may be embodied by an array of numerous logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose MCU (microcontroller unit) (or microprocessor) and memory storing a program executable by such an MCU. It will be understood by those ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 by controlling the supply of power from the power supply 11 to heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 and / or the power supplied to heaters 18 and 24 based on the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 sensed using a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). The control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 and / or the power supplied to heaters 18 and 24 based on a temperature profile and / or power profile stored in memory 17.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heaters 18 and 24 and the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / DC converter (e.g., a buck converter, buck-boost converter, boost converter, Zener diode, etc.) that converts power to be supplied to the heaters 18 and 24, and a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter) that converts power to be supplied to an induction coil (not shown). The DC / AC converter can be embodied by a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements. For example, the power conversion circuit may include at least one switching element such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or a field-effect transistor (FET).

[0066] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can adjust the current and / or voltage supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulse input to at least one switching element of a power conversion circuit (not shown). The duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power supply 11.

[0067] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID). For example, the control unit 12 can use the PWM method to control the supply of current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses. For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature for control based on a temperature profile. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 using the PID method, which is a feedback control method based on the difference between the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0068] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine a target power that will be the control target based on the power profile. The control unit 12 can also control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 over time to correspond to the already set target power.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can detect the user's puff by sensing the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24. More specifically, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 in a PID manner. When the user's puff occurs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the space into which the aerosol product is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space), the heaters 18 and 24, etc. Therefore, a change in the power (or current) supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 may occur during PID power control. The control unit 12 can detect the user's puff based on the change in the controlled power.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can prevent the heaters 18 and 24 from overheating. For example, if the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a previously set limit temperature, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to reduce the amount of power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 or to interrupt the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the charging and discharging of the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can check the temperature of the power supply 11 using a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). If the temperature of the power supply 11 is above a first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can cut off charging of the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is above a second limit temperature, the control unit 12 can interrupt the use (e.g., discharge) of the power stored in the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can calculate the remaining amount of power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining amount of power in the power supply 11 based on the sensed voltage and / or current of the power supply 11.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products into and from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can use an insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine that aerosol products have been inserted into the insertion space and control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 to supply power. The control unit 12 can use an insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine that aerosol products have been removed from the insertion space and cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can also determine that aerosol products have been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 is above a limit temperature or if the temperature change gradient of the heaters 18 and 24 is above a set gradient.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the state of the aerosol product. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol product is in an over-humidity state using an over-humidity sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13), it can extend the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether or not the aerosol product has been reused. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol product has been used, it can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the coupling and / or removal of the cartridge. For example, if the control unit 12 determines, using a cartridge sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13), that the cartridge is separated, it can interrupt the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 or control the system so that no power is supplied to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge has been exhausted. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge has been exhausted if it determines that the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a limit temperature during preheating (i.e., in the preheating section). If it is determined that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge has been exhausted, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0078] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the cartridge is usable or not. For example, based on the data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge is unusable if the current number of puffs is equal to or greater than the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge. Alternatively, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge is unusable if the total time the heaters 18 and 24 have been heated is equal to or greater than the already set maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 is equal to or greater than the already set maximum amount of power. In this case, the control unit 12 can interrupt the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 or control the system so that power is not supplied to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the user's puffs. For example, the control unit 12 can use a puff sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine whether or not a puff has occurred and / or the intensity of the puff. The control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 when the number of puffs reaches a previously set maximum number of puffs and / or when no puffs are detected for a previously set time or longer. The control unit 12 can also control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 when a puff is detected.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol product (or cartridge). For example, the control unit 12 can detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol product using a cigarette identification sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). As an example, if the control unit 12 detects that the aerosol product (or cartridge) is counterfeit, it can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. If the control unit 12 detects that the aerosol product (or cartridge) is normal, it can control (e.g., start) the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. As another example, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 differently depending on the type of aerosol product (or cartridge). More specifically, when the control unit 12 detects an aerosol product (or cartridge) as a first aerosol product (or first cartridge), it can control the temperature and / or power of the heaters 18 and 24 based on a first temperature profile (or first power profile), and when it detects a second aerosol product (or second cartridge), it can control the temperature and / or power of the heaters 18 and 24 based on a second temperature profile (or second power profile).

[0081] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13. For example, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to visually, tactilely, and / or audibly provide information that the aerosol generator 1 will immediately terminate when the number of puffs counted using the puff sensor (e.g., the sensor unit 13) reaches a previously set number. For example, the control unit 12 can also control the output unit 14 to visually, tactilely, and / or audibly provide information about the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can store and update a history of events in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. For example, an event may include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1, such as sensing the insertion of an aerosol product, starting the heating of the aerosol product, detecting puffing, ending puffing, detecting overheating of heaters 18 and 24, detecting the application of overvoltage to heaters 18 and 24, ending the heating of the aerosol product, turning the power of the aerosol generator 1 on / off, starting charging of the power supply 11, detecting overcharging of the power supply 11, and ending charging of the power supply 11. For example, the history of an event may include the date and time the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the sensing of the insertion of an aerosol product, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the sensing value of the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating in heaters 18 and 24, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the temperature of heaters 18 and 24, the voltage applied to heaters 18 and 24, and the current flowing through heaters 18 and 24.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the communication unit 16 to form a communication link with an external device such as the user's mobile terminal.

[0084] According to one embodiment, when the control unit 12 receives authentication data from an external device via a communication link, it can release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1 (e.g., heating function). For example, the authentication data may include the user's date of birth, a unique number identifying the user, and whether the user's authentication has been completed.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can transmit data about the status of the aerosol generator 1 (e.g., remaining power 11, operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The transmitted data can be output via a display or the like on the external device.

[0086] According to one embodiment, when the control unit 12 receives a request from an external device via a communication link to locate the aerosol generator 1, it can control the output unit 14 to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the control unit 12 can control the haptic unit to generate vibrations or to output an object corresponding to the display location search and the end of the search.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can perform a firmware update when it receives firmware data from an external device via a communication link.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can transmit data about the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor unit 13 to an external server (not shown) via a communication unit, learn the sensing values ​​from the server via machine learning such as deep learning, and receive and store the generated learning model. Using the learning model received from the server, the control unit 12 can perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0089] Although not shown in Figure 1, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a protection circuit module. The protection circuit module includes at least one switching element that can interrupt the circuit to the power supply 11 in response to overcharging and / or over-discharging of the power supply 11. The aerosol generator 1 may further include a connection interface, such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, which can connect to other external devices via the connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0090] The aerosol products referred to in this disclosure may include at least one aerosol-generating rod (e.g., a medium) and at least one filter rod. The heater 18 is arranged to correspond to at least one aerosol-generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol-generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol-generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol-generating substance, and an additive. For example, the aerosol-generating substance may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin, VG) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may also include a variety of other substances. For example, the additive may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may also include a variety of other substances. For example, the aerosol-generating rod may include an aerosol-generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco substance (e.g., an aerosol-generating substance and / or nicotine) and / or a solid tobacco substance (e.g., tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). Tobacco substances can be contained in the aerosol-generating rod in various forms such as leaf pulp, granules, or powder. According to one embodiment, the additives to the aerosol-generating rod may include a basic substance. Based on the basic substance, the nicotine of the tobacco substance contained in the aerosol-generating rod may have a basic pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, freebase nicotine can be released from the aerosol-generating rod even at low temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol-generating rod may include two or more aerosol-generating rods, each containing tobacco substance and / or non-tobacco substance. On the other hand, although not shown, at least one aerosol-generating rod and at least one filter rod may each and / or collectively be surrounded by at least one wrapper. In this disclosure, the aerosol product can also be called a stick.

[0091] The cartridges referred to in this disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating substance having one of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. On the other hand, the cartridge may include a storage section containing the aerosol-generating substance and / or a liquid delivery means impregnated with (containing) the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic. The cartridge heater 24 may be included in the cartridge as a coil-shaped structure surrounding (or winding) the liquid delivery means or as a structure in contact with one side of the liquid delivery means. Alternatively, the cartridge heater 24 may be included in an aerosol generator 1 that is separable from the cartridge.

[0092] Figures 2 and 3 show an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 may include a housing 10, a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor unit 13, and / or heaters 182, 183 (for example, heater 18 in Figure 1). However, it will be understood by those ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment that the components included in the aerosol generator 1 are not limited to those shown in Figure 2 or Figure 3, and that some components may be omitted or new configurations may be added. The aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 2 can be described as an "internal heating type" aerosol generator that heats the inside of the aerosol product 2. The aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 3 can be described as an "external heating type" aerosol generator that heats the outside of the aerosol product 2. In the following drawings, explanations that overlap with Figure 1 will be omitted.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the housing 10 may have an upwardly opening space into which an aerosol product 2 is inserted. In this disclosure, the upwardly opening space can be called an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by recessing inward to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the aerosol product 2 can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may be greater than or equal to the length of the region in the aerosol product 2 that contains the aerosol-generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the aerosol product 2 is inserted into the housing 10, and the upper end of the aerosol product 2 may protrude outward from the housing 10. The user can inhale the aerosol by putting the exposed upper end of the aerosol product 2 in their mouth.

[0095] According to one embodiment, heaters 182 and 183 can heat the aerosol product 2.

[0096] Referring to Figure 2, the heater 182 may be an internal heating type heater.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the internal heating element can extend upward in the space into which the aerosol product 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). For example, the internal heating element may include a rod-shaped or needle-shaped heating element as shown in the figure, but it may also include a variety of heating elements such as a tubular heating element or a plate-shaped heating element. The internal heating element can be inserted through the bottom of the aerosol product 2.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the internal heating type heater may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating type heater.

[0099] For example, an electrical resistance heater may contain an electrical resistance material inside (e.g., internal hollow or inner surface) or outside (e.g., outer surface), and be heated by an electric current flowing through the electrical resistance material. In this case, the electrical resistance heater can be electrically connected to a power supply 11 and can directly generate heat by receiving current from the power supply 11. The induction coil 181 may also be omitted.

[0100] For example, in the case of an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generator 1 may include an induction coil 181 that surrounds at least a portion of the internal heating type heater (for example, positioned externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). In this case, the induction coil 181 may further include a magnetic flux concentrator or the like to increase the efficiency of induction heating. The induction heating type heater includes a susceptor and can generate heat through the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181. According to one embodiment, the induction heating type heater (e.g., a susceptor) (or a heater module including the same) may be arranged to be separated from the housing 10.

[0101] In one embodiment, the heater 182 may be a multi-heater. The multi-heater may include a first heater and a second heater and may be inserted into the aerosol product 2. The first heater and the second heater may be arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction. The first heater and the second heater may operate as an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first heater and the second heater may be positioned respectively at locations corresponding to the longitudinal positions of two or more aerosol generating rods. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may be positioned respectively at locations corresponding to the longitudinal positions of a first and second portion of a single aerosol generating rod. On the other hand, if the heater 182 is an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a first induction coil and a second induction coil, and the first and second induction coils may be positioned respectively at locations corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater. Alternatively, the first and second induction coils may be positioned corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first and second portions of a single heater 182, respectively. Furthermore, the heater and / or induction coils may include three or more components.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the susceptor may be placed (or included) inside the aerosol product 2 (for example, in the medium portion), and the susceptor included inside the aerosol product 2 may be heated by the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181.

[0103] Referring to Figure 3, the heater 183 may be an external heating type heater.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the external heating element can extend upward around the space into which the aerosol product 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). For example, the external heating element may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. As an example, the external heating element may have a tubular form (e.g., cylindrical shape) with a hollow interior. The external heating element may also have a form that includes a hollow interior and surrounds the hollow. In this case, the external heating element may be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can be called a film heater. The external heating element may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The external heating element can heat the outside of the aerosol product 2 inserted into the hollow.

[0105] In one embodiment, the external heating element may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating element, and a description that overlaps with Figure 2 will be omitted. On the other hand, in the case of an induction heating element, the aerosol generator 1 includes an external heating element embodied by a tubular susceptor and may include an induction coil 181 surrounding at least a portion of the external heating element (for example, positioned externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). On the other hand, if the external heating element is an electrical resistance heater, the induction coil 181 may be omitted because it can generate heat by the flow of current on the tubular electrical resistance heater (for example, a film heater). On the other hand, an insulating material may be placed outside the external heating element. This can reduce the heat that radiates radially outward from the heater 183 and is transferred to the outside of the housing 10.

[0106] In one embodiment, the heater 183 may be a multi-heater, and the first heater and the second heater may be arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction so as to surround at least a portion of the insertion space, respectively. The first heater and the second heater can operate as an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater, and can be heated sequentially or simultaneously. On the other hand, if the heater 183 is an induction heating heater, the aerosol generator 1 includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, and the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater. Alternatively, the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first and second portions of a single heater 183, respectively.

[0107] Unlike those shown in Figure 2 or Figure 3, the heater 182 in Figure 2 and the heater 183 in Figure 3 may be included together in the aerosol generator 1. In this case, the heater 182 can heat the inside of the aerosol product 2, and the heater 183 can heat the outside of the aerosol product 2.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 may be equipped with an airflow channel through which air flows. For example, the housing 10 may have a structure (e.g., a hole) through which air from the outside can flow into the housing 10. The air that flows into the housing 10 can flow into the aerosol product 2 through its lower end (i.e., upstream side). The aerosol generated by heating the aerosol product 2 can be inhaled into the user's mouth through its upper end (i.e., downstream side) along with the incoming air.

[0109] Figure 4 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0110] Referring to Figure 4, the body 10 (for example, the housing 10 in Figures 2 and 3) may include elongated side walls 101, 102, a cover 103 forming one end, a base 104 forming the other end, and a door 110 for opening and closing the insertion space 43. The body 10 may have a cylindrical shape that extends elongated in one direction.

[0111] The body 10 may include side walls 101 and 102 that form the outer surface. The side walls 101 and 102 may include curved surfaces that extend along the circumferential direction of the body 10.

[0112] The side walls 101 and 102 may include the first side wall 101. The first side wall 101 may extend in the circumferential direction of the body 10. The first side wall 101 may be bent in the circumferential direction of the body 10 to form a space inside. The first side wall 101 may have an opening on one side. The cross-section of the first side wall 101 may have a loop shape with one side open.

[0113] The side walls 101 and 102 may include a second side wall 102. The second side wall 102 may extend along the longitudinal direction of the body 10. The second side wall 102 may be coupled to the first side wall 101. The second side wall 102 may be located between the circumferential ends of the first side wall 101 and may form a continuous surface with the first side wall 101. The second side wall 102 may cover one side of the first side wall 101 that is open laterally.

[0114] The body 10 may include a cover 103 that forms one end in the longitudinal direction. The cover 103 may be coupled to one end in the longitudinal direction of the first side wall 101 and one end in the longitudinal direction of the second side wall 102.

[0115] The body 10 may include a door 110. The door 110 may be coupled to the cover 103. The door 110 can open and close the insertion space 43 (see Figures 2 and 3) in a sliding manner. A rail 105 may be formed in the cover 103. The door 110 can slide along the rail 105.

[0116] The body 10 may include a base 104 that forms the other end in the longitudinal direction. The base 104 may be coupled to the other end in the longitudinal direction of the first side wall 101 and the other end in the longitudinal direction of the second side wall 102.

[0117] The body 10 may include a button 106 (for example, the input section 15 in Figure 1). The button 106 can be inserted into a hole formed on one side of the second side wall 102.

[0118] Figure 5 shows a stick according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0119] Referring to Figure 5, stick S may include an aerosol substrate portion 510. Stick 2 may include a medium portion 520. The aerosol substrate portion 510 and the medium portion 520 can be described as a tobacco rod. Stick 2 may include a cooling portion 530. Stick 2 may include a filter portion 540. Stick 2 can be described as an aerosol product. Stick 2 may include a wrapper 550 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510, the medium portion 520, the cooling portion 530 and / or the filter portion 540. In Figure 5, the wrapper 550 may include individual wrappers surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510, the medium portion 520 and the filter portion 540 respectively, and / or an outer covering that surrounds the aerosol substrate portion 510, the medium portion 520 and the filter portion 540 surrounded by the individual wrappers as a single unit.

[0120] The aerosol substrate portion 510 may be a portion formed into a predetermined shape by incorporating a humectant into pulp-based paper. The humectant (substrate) contained in the aerosol substrate portion 510 may include propylene glycol, glycerin, and the like. For example, the humectant in the aerosol substrate portion 510 may include propylene glycol and glycerin in a certain weight ratio with respect to the weight of the base paper. When the stick 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 and heated to a certain temperature or higher by the heater 18, humectant vapor can be generated from the aerosol substrate portion 510.

[0121] The medium section 520 may include one or more of a sheet, a strand, or finely cut tobacco leaves from a tobacco sheet. The medium section 520 may be a part that generates nicotine to provide the user with a smoking experience. When the temperature of the medium contained in the medium section 520 rises above a certain temperature, nicotine vapor can be generated from the medium section 520. When the stick 2 is inserted into the aerosol generator 1, at least a portion of the aerosol base material section 510 and at least a portion of the medium section 520 can face the heater 18. For example, the downstream side or a portion of the downstream side of the aerosol base material section 510 and the downstream side or a portion of the upstream side of the medium section 520 can face the heater 18.

[0122] The length of the portion of the medium section 520 facing the heater 18 may be longer than the length of the portion of the aerosol substrate section 510 facing the heater 18. The length of the portion of the medium section 520 facing the heater 18 may be more than half of the total length of the medium section 520.

[0123] The portions of the aerosol substrate 510 and the medium portion 520 facing the heater 18 can be heated by the heater 18. By heating at least a portion of the aerosol substrate 510 containing the humectant by the heater 18, humectant vapor can be generated. By heating at least a portion of the medium portion 520 containing the medium by the heater 18, nicotine vapor can be generated. By arranging the stick 2 such that the length ratio of a portion of the aerosol substrate 510 and a portion of the medium portion 520 facing the heater 18 is different, the ratio of generated humectant vapor to nicotine vapor can be appropriately adjusted.

[0124] In one embodiment, the medium portion 520 does not need to be directly heated by the heater 18 even when the stick 2 is inserted into the aerosol generator 1. The medium portion 520 can be indirectly heated by conduction, convection, and radiation from the aerosol substrate portion 510 and the medium portion wrapper (or wrapper) surrounding the medium portion 520. The temperature of the medium portion 520 can also be indirectly raised after the aerosol substrate portion 510 has been heated by the heater 18.

[0125] The cooling section 530 can be made of a tube filter containing a predetermined weight of plasticizer. The humectant vapor and nicotine vapor generated from the aerosol substrate section 510 and the medium section 520 can be mixed with each other to form an aerosol, which can then be cooled as it passes through the cooling section 530. In one embodiment, unlike the aerosol substrate section 510, the medium section 520, and the filter section 540, the cooling section 530 does not need to be surrounded by an individual wrapper.

[0126] The filter section 540 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The filter section 540 may be a cylindrical rod or a tube with a hollow interior. For example, if the filter section 540 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments may be manufactured in a different shape. The filter section 540 may be manufactured to generate flavor. For example, a flavoring liquid may be sprayed onto the filter section 540, or a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted inside the filter section 540.

[0127] Furthermore, the filter section 540 may include at least one capsule. Here, the capsule may also perform the function of generating flavor. For example, the capsule may have a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is enclosed in a film, and may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0128] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the side, and Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from above. Figure 6 shows a cross-section of the body along line AA in Figure 4, and Figure 7 shows a cross-section of the body along line BB in Figure 4.

[0129] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the aerosol generator 1 may include at least one of the heater 18, the first sensor 131, and the control unit 12.

[0130] The body 10 may have an insertion space 43. The insertion space 43 may extend in one direction (for example, the z-direction). The heater 18 may surround the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may have a cylindrical shape with a hollow interior. At least a portion of the insertion space 43 may be formed inside the heater 18.

[0131] The heater 18 may be housed in a body casing 111 located inside the body 10. The body casing 111 can support the body 10 from within. At least a portion of the body casing 111 may be coupled to or in contact with the inner surface of the body 10.

[0132] The heater 18 can be coupled with heater casings 241 and 242. The heater 18 and heater casings 241 and 242 can be housed in the internal space of the body casing 111. The heater casings 241 and 242 can surround the outside of the heater 18. The heater casings 241 and 242 can include a first heater casing 241 and a second heater casing 242. The first heater casing 241 can surround a portion of the side of the heater 18. The second heater casing 242 can surround the remaining portion of the side of the heater 18. For example, the first heater casing 241 can surround the top surface of the heater 18, and the second heater casing 242 can surround the bottom surface of the heater 18.

[0133] The heater 18 may include a susceptor 210 and an electrically conductive track 220. The susceptor 210 has a cylindrical shape and can surround at least a portion of the insertion space 43. The electrically conductive track 220 can surround at least a portion of the susceptor 210. The electrically conductive track 220 can generate heat by receiving power from the power supply 11. The electrically conductive track 220 may be connected to the power supply 11 via a flexible heater substrate 260. The electrically conductive track 220 can be considered a heat-generating part. The heat generated by the electrically conductive track 220 can heat the medium and / or humectant of the stick 2 (see Figures 2 and 3) inserted into the insertion space 43, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0134] The heater 18 may include a support tube 230. The support tube 230 can surround at least a portion of the outside of the electrically conductive track 220 and be in close contact with the outside of the electrically conductive track 220 to support the susceptor 210 and the electrically conductive track 220.

[0135] The first sensor 131 may be located inside the body 10. The first sensor 131 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the stick 2. For example, the first sensor 131 may be a capacitance sensor. The first sensor 131 may be located adjacent to the lower end of the insertion space 43. The first sensor 131 may be located surrounding at least a portion of the underside of the heater 18. The first sensor 131 may be located in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43, below the susceptor 210 and / or electrically conductive track 220 of the heater 18. The first sensor 131 may be located away from the susceptor 210 and / or electrically conductive track 220 in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43.

[0136] Therefore, the transfer of heat from the susceptor 210 and the electrically conductive track 220 to the first sensor 131 can be minimized. In addition, the accuracy of the first sensor 131's sensing of the stick 2 can be improved.

[0137] The stick 2 can be inserted into the insertion space 43. The stick 2 can be inserted up to the locking step 2421 formed at the lower end of the insertion space 43. The stick 2 can be inserted into the insertion space 43 from one end of the aerosol base material portion 510. With the stick 2 inserted into the insertion space 43, the aerosol base material portion 510, the medium portion 520, the cooling portion 530, and the filter portion 540 may be arranged in the insertion space 43 in order from the bottom or upstream side.

[0138] The first sensor 131 may be positioned in a location corresponding to the aerosol substrate portion 510 containing a humectant of the stick 2 inserted into the insertion space 43.

[0139] If stick 2 is exposed to a humid environment or used by a user, a certain level of moisture may be present inside stick 2. Here, the maximum amount of moisture may be present relatively within the aerosol base material portion 510 of stick 2.

[0140] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first sensor 131 is positioned in accordance with the humectant-containing portion of the stick 2, thereby enabling accurate detection of an overly humid stick.

[0141] The aerosol generator 1 may include an insulating body 400. The insulating body 400 may be placed inside the body 10. The insulating body 400 may surround the outside of the heater 18 inside the body 10. The insulating body 400 can insulate the heater 18. The insulating body 400 may have an open top. The insulating body 400 may have a bottom formed at the bottom, with a hole formed in part of the bottom. The insulating body 400 may be positioned to surround the sides and bottom of the heater 18. The insulating body 400 may include two layers. The inner layer and the outer layer may be separated from each other, forming a space VS inside. The space VS formed by the layers of the insulating body 400 can be sealed from the outside. The space VS formed by the layers of the insulating body 400 may be in a vacuum state. The insulating body 400 can be described as a vacuum tube. The insulating body 400 may be made of a metallic material.

[0142] Therefore, the insulating body 400 minimizes the transfer of heat generated by the heater 18 to the outer surface of the body 10. Even when the heater 18 generates heat and rises to a high temperature, the insulating body 400 prevents the transfer of high heat to the user's body when gripping the body 10.

[0143] The first sensor 131 may be positioned inside the insulating material 400 in the radial direction of the insertion space 43. The first sensor 131 and the insertion space 43 may be positioned inside the insulating material 400.

[0144] Therefore, the influence of the first sensor 131 on the movement of objects outside the heat insulating body 400 and / or the aerosol generating device 1 can be minimized, and sensing noise of the first sensor 131 due to the external environment can be eliminated.

[0145] The inlet passages P1 and P2 may be formed inside the body casing 111. The inlet passages P1 and P2 can communicate with the outside of the body 10 and with the insertion space 43. The inlet passages P1 and P2 can communicate with the insertion space 43 via the inlet holes 2424 formed in the second heater casing 242.

[0146] The inflow passages P1 and P2 may include a first flow path P1 and a second flow path P2. The second flow path P2 may communicate with the insertion space 43. The second flow path P2 may extend below the insertion space 43 in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43. The first flow path P1 may communicate with the second flow path P2. The first flow path P1 may extend from one end of the second flow path P2 in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43. The first flow path P1 may communicate with the outside of the body casing 111. The outside air of the aerosol generator 1 may flow into the body 10 through gaps provided in the body 10, pass through the first flow path P1 and the second flow path P2, and flow into the interior of the insertion space 43 through the inflow hole 2424. In other words, the direction from the bottom to the top of the insertion space 43 can be defined as the direction from the upstream side to the downstream side.

[0147] The second sensor 132 may be positioned on one side of the inflow passages P1 and P2. The second sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure or change in internal pressure of the inflow passages P1 and P2. The second sensor 121 can be called a puff sensor. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the user's puff. The puff sensor 132 can communicate with the inflow passages P1 and P2 and the insertion space 43. The puff sensor 132 may be positioned facing the inflow passages P1 and P2. In the radial direction of the insertion space 43, the puff sensor 312 may be positioned outside the insulating material 400.

[0148] The inlet passages P1 and P2 may be located inside the body casing 111 adjacent to the heater 18. The first inlet passage P1 may be located adjacent to the heater casings 241 and 242. At least a portion of the inlet passages P1 and P2 may be located inside the insulator 400. The insulator 400 can surround at least a portion of the outside of the inlet passages P1 and P2.

[0149] The outside air flowing in through the inflow passages P1 and P2 can have its temperature increased by the heat generated by the heater 18. The outside air whose temperature has increased in the inflow passages P1 and P2 can flow into the insertion space 43 and into the inside of the stick 2 through one end of the stick 2 housed in the insertion space 43.

[0150] In this way, by arranging the inflow passages P1 and P2 within the insulating body 400, the outside air flowing into the insertion space 43 can be effectively heated.

[0151] The control unit 12 can sense an object being inserted into the insertion space 43 in response to a signal output from the first sensor 131. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether a stick 2 is inserted into or removed from the insertion space 43, the type of stick 2 inserted into the insertion space 43, etc., in response to a signal output from the first sensor 131.

[0152] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the heater and sensor of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 9 is a diagram showing the sensor of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the first sensor 131 may include sensing electrodes 1311, 1312 and an insulator 1313. The sensing electrodes 1311, 1312 may comprise a first electrode 1311 and a second electrode 1312.

[0154] The first electrode 1311 extends longitudinally within the insertion space 43 and may extend around the insertion space 43. The first electrode 1311 may be housed in a sensor housing 2425 formed on the outside of the second heater casing 242. The sensor housing 2425 is recessed inward within the second heater casing 242 and may have a curved surface on its interior. The first electrode 1311 can surround and contact the interior curved surface of the sensor housing 2425. The first electrode 1311 may be curved or have a curved shape to correspond to the shape of the interior curved surface of the sensor housing 2425. The first electrode 1311 can be called a first antenna or a first channel.

[0155] The second electrode 1312 may have a shape corresponding to the first electrode 1311. The second electrode 1312 may extend longitudinally in the insertion space 43 and may extend along the perimeter of the insertion space 43. The second electrode 1312 may be separated from the first electrode 1311 radially in the insertion space 43. The second electrode 1312 may surround the outside of the first electrode 1311. The second electrode 1312 can be called a second antenna or a second channel.

[0156] The first electrode 1311 and the second electrode 1312 may be connected to a sensor drive circuit (not shown). The sensor drive circuit may be included in the configuration of the first sensor 131, or it may be provided separately from the first sensor 131 and connected to the first sensor 131. A set voltage can be applied to the first electrode 1311 and the second electrode 1312 by the sensor drive circuit. When the set voltage is applied, current can flow through the first electrode 1311 and the second electrode 1312. The current flowing through the first electrode 1311 and the second electrode 1312 may vary depending on whether an object is present around the first sensor 131, and the type of object present. The difference between the current flowing through the first electrode 1311 and the current flowing through the second electrode 1312 may change in accordance with the type of object present around the first sensor 131.

[0157] The insulator 1313 may be placed between the first electrode 1311 and the second electrode 1312. The inner surface of the insulator 1313 may be in contact with the first electrode 1311, and the outer surface may be in contact with the second electrode 1312. The insulator 1313 may be bent together with the first electrode 1311 and the second electrode 1312, or may have a curved shape.

[0158] A sensor cover 250 may be positioned outside the first sensor 131. The sensor cover 250 may be coupled to the second heater casing 242. The sensor cover 250 can support or secure the first sensor 131, which is housed in the housing of the second heater casing 242, from the outside.

[0159] The first electrode 1311 and the second electrode 1312 may include metallic materials. For example, the first electrode 1311 and the second electrode 1312 may include copper. However, the material of the sensing electrodes is not limited to this and may include other electrically conductive metals or metal mixtures.

[0160] The insulator 1313 may contain an insulating material. For example, the insulator 1313 may contain polyimide. However, the material of the insulator 1313 is not limited to this and may include other materials having elasticity, heat resistance, and electrical insulation properties.

[0161] The insulator 1313 may have a thickness T1 within a specific range. For example, the thickness T1 of the insulator 1313 may be from 40 μm to 60 μm. For example, the thickness T1 of the insulator 1313 may be from 45 μm to 55 μm.

[0162] If the thickness T1 of the insulator 1313 is less than 40 μm, even if the moisture content in an object adjacent to the first sensor 131 changes, the change in the difference between the current of the first electrode 1311 and the current of the second electrode 1312 may become small. In other words, it may not be possible to accurately distinguish the state of an object adjacent to the first sensor 131 from the difference in current flowing through the first electrode 1311 and the second electrode 1312.

[0163] If the thickness T1 of the insulator 1313 is greater than 60 μm, the sensitivity of the first sensor 131 may be reduced. In other words, the first sensor 131 may not be able to accurately detect the insertion and / or removal of surrounding objects.

[0164] The characteristics of the first sensor 131 based on the thickness of the insulator 1313 will be described in detail later, based on Figures 10 to 13.

[0165] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the insertion detection and type identification control of a stick in an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figures 11 to 13 are graphs comparing the sensing results of over-humidified sticks based on the thickness of the insulator of the sensor in an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0166] Referring to Figure 10, the control unit 12 can determine whether a stick 2 has been inserted into the insertion space 43 and the type of stick 2 that has been inserted, in accordance with the signal output from the first sensor 131.

[0167] The control unit 12 can activate the first sensor 131 (S1010). The control unit 12 can activate the first sensor 131 by controlling it so that a voltage for driving is applied to the first sensor 131 or so that a signal for activating the first sensor 131 is applied to the first sensor 131.

[0168] The control unit 12 can receive the signal output from the first sensor 131 (S1020). The signal output from the first sensor 131 may include a first output corresponding to the current flowing through the first electrode 1311 and a second output corresponding to the current flowing through the second electrode 1312.

[0169] The control unit 12 can determine the difference between the first output and the second output according to the signal output from the first sensor 131. The control unit 12 can compare the determined difference in output with a first threshold Th1.

[0170] The control unit 12 can determine that the stick 2 is not inserted into the insertion space 43 if the determined output difference is smaller than the first threshold Th1 (yes in S1030) (S1040). Here, the first threshold Th1 may correspond to a value determined based on statistics obtained by accumulating the signals output from the first sensor 131 when the stick 2 used in the aerosol generator 1 is inserted into the insertion space 43, such as through experiments. For example, the first threshold Th1 is a value corresponding to the raw count signal output from the first sensor 131, and may be a value between 5000 and 6000.

[0171] The control unit 12 determines that a stick 2 has been inserted into the insertion space 43 and can determine the over-humidity state of the inserted stick 2 if the determined difference in output is greater than or equal to the first threshold Th1 (no in S1030). The control unit 12 can compare the determined difference in output with the second threshold Th2 (S1050). Here, the second threshold Th2 may correspond to a value determined based on statistics obtained by accumulating the signals output from the first sensor 131, so that it is possible to distinguish whether a stick inserted into the insertion space 43 is a normal stick or an over-humidity stick, for example, through experiments. The second threshold Th2 may be a value that lies at the boundary between the signal output from the first sensor 131 when multiple normal sticks are inserted and the signal output from the first sensor 131 when multiple over-humidity sticks are inserted. For example, the second threshold Th2 is a value that corresponds to the raw count signal output from the first sensor 131 and may be a value between 7500 and 7900.

[0172] Stick 2 can be classified into a first stick 2A and a second stick 2B. The ratio of moisture contained inside Stick 2 can change depending on the surrounding environment, the condition of Stick 2, etc. Stick 2 can be classified into a first stick 2A or a second stick 2B depending on the ratio of moisture contained inside. A first stick 2A is a stick containing less than a certain ratio of moisture and can be called a non-humidified stick or a normal stick. A second stick 2B is a stick containing more than a certain ratio of moisture and can be called a humidified stick. For example, a first stick 2A can be defined as a stick in which the medium part 520 contains less than approximately 15 wt% of moisture relative to the total weight of the medium part, or a stick in which the aerosol base material part 510 contains less than approximately 15 wt% of moisture relative to the total weight of the base material part. For example, a second stick 2B can be defined as a stick in which the medium part 520 contains more than approximately 15 wt% of moisture relative to the total weight of the medium part, or a stick in which the aerosol base material part 510 contains more than approximately 15 wt% of moisture relative to the total weight of the base material part. However, the criteria for distinguishing between the first stick 2A and the second stick 2B are not limited to these and may vary depending on the type of aerosol generating device or the type of stick.

[0173] The control unit 12 can determine that the first stick 2A has been inserted into the insertion space 43 if the determined output difference is less than the second threshold Th2 (yes in S1050) (S1060). When the first stick 2A is inserted into the insertion space 43, the control unit 12 can set a corresponding heating profile or power profile. Based on the set profile, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heater 18.

[0174] The control unit 12 can determine that the second stick 2B has been inserted into the insertion space 43 if the determined difference in output is greater than or equal to the second threshold Th2 (no in S1050) (S1060). When the second stick 2B is inserted into the insertion space 43, the control unit 12 can set a corresponding heating profile or power profile. Based on the set profile, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heater 18. Alternatively, when the second stick 2B is inserted into the insertion space 43, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 to be cut off.

[0175] Therefore, by controlling the power supplied to the heater 18 or shutting off the power supplied to the heater 18 depending on the humid condition of the stick 2 inserted into the insertion space 43, it is possible to either not heat the humid stick or to heat the humid stick appropriately with a different profile than that of a normal stick.

[0176] Figure 11 shows the sensing results of a humidified stick when the insulation thickness is 50 μm. In Figure 11, the ellipse shows the difference between the first output and the second output when the first stick 2A is inserted, and the rectangle shows the difference between the first output and the second output when the second stick 2B is inserted.

[0177] Referring to Figure 11 together with Figure 10, when the thickness of the insulator 1313 of the first sensor 131 is 50 μm, when the first stick 2A is inserted, the difference between the first output and the second output is distributed between a minimum value of 6200 and a maximum value of 7300, with an average avg1 or median of approximately 6800. In contrast, when the second stick 2B is inserted, the difference between the first output and the second output is distributed between a minimum value of 7950 and a maximum value of 9400, with an average avg2 or median of approximately 8650.

[0178] In this case, when the first stick 2A is inserted, the maximum value Ns_max of the difference between the first output and the second output output from the first sensor 131, and when the second stick 2B is inserted, the minimum value Hs_min of the difference between the first output and the second output output from the first sensor 131, have a gap G1 of approximately 650.

[0179] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second threshold Th2 may correspond to a range of 86% to 92% of the average avg2 of the difference corresponding to the second stick 2B. The second threshold Th2 may be a value corresponding to approximately 91% of the average avg2 of the difference corresponding to the second stick 2B. The second threshold Th2 may correspond to a range of 110% to 116% of the average avg1 of the difference corresponding to the first stick 2A. The second threshold Th2 may be a value corresponding to approximately 116% of the average avg1 of the difference corresponding to the first stick 2A. The second threshold Th2 may be a value that is approximately 7% or more greater than the maximum value Ns_max of the difference corresponding to the first stick 2A.

[0180] For example, the second threshold Th2 could be a value between 7500 and 7900.

[0181] Figure 12 shows the sensing results of the over-humidified stick when the insulation thickness is 37.5 μm, and Figure 13 shows the sensing results of the over-humidified stick when the insulation thickness is 25 μm. In Figures 12 and 13, the ellipse indicates the difference between the first and second outputs due to the insertion of the first stick 2A, and the rectangle indicates the difference between the first and second outputs due to the insertion of the second stick 2B.

[0182] Referring to Figures 12 and 13 together with Figure 11, when the thickness of the insulator 1313 of the first sensor 131 is 37.5 μm, when the first stick 2A is inserted, the difference between the first output and the second output is distributed between a minimum value of 6500 and a maximum value of 7450, with an average or median of approximately 7000. In contrast, when the second stick 2B is inserted, the difference between the first output and the second output is distributed between a minimum value of 7600 and a maximum value of 9650, with an average avg2 or median of approximately 8650.

[0183] When the thickness of the insulator 1313 of the first sensor 131 is 25 μm, when the first stick 2A is inserted, the difference between the first output and the second output is distributed between a minimum value of 6500 and a maximum value of 8450, with an average or median of approximately 7500. In contrast, when the second stick 2B is inserted, the difference between the first output and the second output is distributed between a minimum value of 8050 and a maximum value of 10550, with an average avg2 or median of approximately 9300.

[0184] When the thickness of the insulator 1313 is 37.5 μm, the maximum value Ns_max of the difference between the first output and the second output output from the first sensor 131, and the minimum value Hs_min of the difference between the first output and the second output output from the first sensor 131 when the second stick 2B is inserted, have a gap G1 of approximately 150. When the thickness of the insulator 1313 is 25 μm, the maximum value Ns_max of the difference between the first output and the second output output from the first sensor 131, and the minimum value Hs_min of the difference between the first output and the second output output from the first sensor 131 when the second stick 2B is inserted, have a gap G1 of approximately -400.

[0185] When the thickness of the insulator 1313 is 37.5 μm, the output data when the first stick 2A is inserted and the output data when the second stick 2B is inserted are separated from each other. However, the gap between them is very small, about 150, so even if the second threshold Th2 is set to be within the gap, it may be difficult to accurately sense the first stick 2A and the second stick 2B. Also, when the thickness of the insulator 1313 is 25 μm, the output data when the first stick 2A is inserted and the output data when the second stick 2B is inserted are not separated from each other, making it impossible to sense the first stick 2A and the second stick 2B.

[0186] Thus, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, by having an insulator 1313 of the first sensor 131 have a thickness in the range of 40 μm to 60 μm, or a thickness in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, interference between electrodes provided in the sensor can be minimized, and a humidified stick and a normal stick can be accurately distinguished.

[0187] As described above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the insulator provided in the capacitance sensor has a thickness within a specific range, thereby minimizing interference between electrodes provided in the sensor and enabling accurate differentiation between over-humidified sticks and normal sticks.

[0188] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the accuracy of stick sensing can be improved by sensing an object based on the difference in current values ​​between two electrodes provided in a capacitance sensor.

[0189] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor has a structure in which it is positioned corresponding to the humidifier-containing portion of the stick, thereby enabling accurate detection of an overly humidified stick.

[0190] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor has a structure in which it is placed inside an insulating material, thereby eliminating sensing noise caused by the external environment.

[0191] Referring to Figures 1 to 13, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a body 10 having an elongated insertion space 43, and a sensor 131 positioned adjacent to the insertion space 43 for sensing an object inserted into the insertion space 43, wherein the sensor 131 includes sensing electrodes 1311 and 1312, and an insulator 1313 supporting the sensing electrodes 1311 and 1312, the thickness of which the insulator 1313 may be 40 μm to 60 μm.

[0192] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the thickness of the insulator 1313 may be 45 μm to 55 μm.

[0193] Furthermore, according to other aspects of the present disclosure, the sensing electrodes 1311, 1312 include a first electrode 1311 extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43 and a second electrode 1312 extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43 and moving radially away from the first electrode 1311, wherein the insulator 1313 may be disposed between the first electrode 1311 and the second electrode 1312.

[0194] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, a control unit 12 may be included that senses an object being inserted into the insertion space 43 based on the difference between a first output corresponding to the current flowing through the first electrode 1311 and a second output corresponding to the current flowing through the second electrode 1312.

[0195] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 12 may compare the difference with a first threshold Th1 and determine that the stick 2 has been inserted into the insertion space 43 if the difference is greater than or equal to the first threshold Th1.

[0196] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the stick 2 includes a first stick 2A containing less than a certain percentage of moisture and a second stick 2B containing more than the certain percentage of moisture, and the control unit 12 can compare the difference with a second threshold Th2 which is greater than the first threshold Th1, and if the difference is greater than or equal to the second threshold Th2, it can determine that the second stick 2B has been inserted into the insertion space 43.

[0197] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the second threshold Th2 may correspond to a range of 86% to 92% of the average difference between the first output and the second output when the second stick 2B is inserted into the insertion space 43.

[0198] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the second threshold Th2 may correspond to a range of 110% to 116% of the average difference between the first output and the second output when the first stick 2A is inserted into the insertion space 43.

[0199] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the second threshold Th2 may be set to be 7% or more greater than the maximum difference between the first output and the second output when the first stick 2A is inserted into the insertion space 43.

[0200] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sensor 131 may be positioned in a location corresponding to the aerosol substrate portion 510 containing the humectant of the stick 2 inserted into the insertion space 43.

[0201] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sensor 131 may be positioned radially within the insertion space 43, inside the insulating body 400, wherein the sensor 131 includes a heater 18 surrounding at least a portion of the insertion space 43 and heating the insertion space 43, and an insulating body 400 surrounding at least a portion of the insertion space 43 and the heater 18.

[0202] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sensing electrodes 1311 and 1312 may include copper, and the insulator 1313 may include polyimide.

[0203] The specific or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinguishable. The specific or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or in combination with each other in terms of their respective configurations or functions.

[0204] For example, this means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with configuration B described in other embodiments and / or drawings. In other words, even if a combination of configurations is not directly described, it means that such a combination is possible unless it is explicitly stated that such a combination is not possible.

[0205] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in any way and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A body with a long, extended insertion space, The system includes a sensor positioned adjacent to the insertion space for sensing an object being inserted into the insertion space, The aforementioned sensor is Sensing electrodes and The insulator supporting the sensing electrode is included, The thickness of the insulator is 40 μm to 60 μm in the aerosol generating apparatus.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of the insulator is 45 μm to 55 μm.

3. The sensing electrode is, A first electrode extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space, The insertion space includes a second electrode that extends in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space and is separated from the first electrode in the radial direction of the insertion space, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the insulator is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, comprising a control unit that senses an object inserted into the insertion space based on the difference between a first output corresponding to the current flowing through the first electrode and a second output corresponding to the current flowing through the second electrode.

5. The control unit, The difference is compared with the first threshold, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein it is determined that a stick has been inserted into the insertion space if the difference is greater than or equal to the first threshold.

6. The stick comprises a first stick containing less than a certain percentage of moisture and a second stick containing more than the certain percentage of moisture. The control unit, The difference is compared with a second threshold that is greater than the first threshold. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein if the difference is greater than or equal to the second threshold, it is determined that the second stick has been inserted into the insertion space.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the second threshold corresponds to a range of 86% to 92% of the average difference between the first output and the second output when the second stick is inserted into the insertion space.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the second threshold corresponds to a range of 110% to 116% of the average difference between the first output and the second output when the first stick is inserted into the insertion space.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the second threshold is set to be 7% or more greater than the maximum value of the difference between the first output and the second output when the first stick is inserted into the insertion space.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is positioned at a location corresponding to the aerosol substrate portion containing a humectant of the stick inserted into the insertion space.

11. A heater surrounds at least a portion of the insertion space and heats the insertion space, The insert space and the insulating material surrounding at least a portion of the heater are included. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is arranged inside the insulating body in the radial direction of the insertion space.

12. The sensing electrode includes copper. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the insulator comprises polyimide.

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