Aerosol generating device and method of operation thereof

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed that includes a housing including an airflow passage, a sensor unit including a resistor that is deformable by airflow inside the airflow passage and whose resistance value changes depending on the degree of deformation, and a processor connected to the sensor unit, measures the resistance value of the resistor, and detects a puff based on the measured resistance value being maintained above a first threshold value for a first time interval.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof, and more particularly to an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that detects a puff through a change in resistance caused by an air flow. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods that can overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for methods that generate aerosols by heating an aerosol generating material, rather than the method of generating aerosols by burning cigarettes. As a result, research into heated aerosol generating devices has been actively conducted.

[0003] The aerosol generating device can determine its usage status and transmit information related to the status of the aerosol generating device to a user, For example, the aerosol generating device can detect a puff by a user. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The puffs may be detected through a pressure sensor disposed in a separate chamber separated from the airflow passage. However, in this case, the position of the pressure sensor is limited, the pressure sensor is vulnerable to contamination, and the puff detection is inaccurate. Problems to be solved through the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An embodiment of the present invention provides an aerosol generating device and method of operation that can precisely detect a user's puff by sensing airflow.

[0006] According to various embodiments, the aerosol generating device includes a housing including an airflow passage; a sensor unit including a resistor that is deformable by the airflow inside the airflow passage and whose resistance value changes depending on the degree of deformation; and a processor connected to the sensor unit, measures the resistance value of the resistor, and detects a puff based on the measured resistance value being maintained above a first threshold value for a first time interval.

[0007] According to various embodiments, the method includes measuring a resistance value using a sensor including a resistor that is deformable by airflow in an airflow passage and whose resistance value changes depending on the degree of deformation, and detecting a puff based on the measured resistance value being maintained above a first threshold value for a first time interval. Effect of the Invention

[0008] The aerosol generating device according to the above-described embodiment can implement a highly sensitive puff sensing function through a sensor that is sensitive to airflow.

[0009] In addition, the sensors included in the aerosol generating devices of the above-mentioned embodiments have a relatively small volume and can be placed at any position where airflow flows due to the user's puff, allowing for more flexible internal design of the aerosol generating device.

[0010] The effects of the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. [Diagram 3] 13 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 4]1 is a graph for explaining a puff detection method of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 5A] 4 is a diagram showing an example of a sensor unit including a resistor according to an embodiment; [Figure 5B] 11 is a diagram showing another aspect of a sensor unit including a resistor according to an embodiment; [Figure 5C] 13 is a diagram showing still another aspect of a sensor unit including a resistor according to an embodiment; [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram showing a sensor unit including a plurality of resistors according to an embodiment; [Figure 7A] 1 is a diagram showing an aspect of a sensor unit according to an embodiment; [Figure 7B] 11 is a diagram showing another aspect of the sensor unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 7C] 13 is a diagram showing still another aspect of the sensor unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 8A] 13 is a diagram showing one aspect of a sensor unit according to another embodiment. [Figure 8B] 13 is a diagram showing another aspect of a sensor unit according to another embodiment; [Figure 9A] 13 is a diagram showing one aspect of a sensor unit according to still another embodiment. [Figure 9B] 13 is a diagram showing another aspect of a sensor unit according to still another embodiment. [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The terms used in the examples are currently widely used general terms, as far as possible, taking into consideration the functions of the present invention, but this may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, and in such cases, the meanings of the terms will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply the names of the terms.

[0013] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a certain component, it does not mean excluding other components, but may further include other components, unless otherwise specified to the contrary. Furthermore, terms such as "... unit" and "... module" described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and it is realized by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0014] As used herein, when a phrase such as "at least one of" precedes an element in a sequence, it modifies the entire element and not each individual member of the sequence. For example, the phrase "at least one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted as including a, b, and c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0015] In this disclosure, "time interval" only defines a length of time and does not refer to a specific amount of time.

[0016] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a semiconductor device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] In addition, terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" or "second" as used herein may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

[0018] In addition, the size and proportion of some components in the drawings may be somewhat exaggerated, and components shown in one drawing may not be shown in another drawing.

[0019] Also, throughout the specification, the "longitudinal direction" of a component may refer to the lengthwise direction in which the component extends along one axis of the component, where the one axis of the component may refer to the direction in which the component extends further than the other axis that is transverse to the one axis. For example, the longitudinal direction of an aerosol generation device may refer to the direction aligned with the direction in which airflow exits the aerosol generation device in Figures 1 to 3.

[0020] Throughout the specification, the term "embodiment" is an arbitrary division for easily describing the invention in the present disclosure, and the embodiments do not necessarily have to be mutually exclusive. For example, a configuration disclosed in one embodiment may be applied and / or embodied in another embodiment, and may be applied and / or embodied after modification without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0021] In addition, the terms used in the present disclosure are intended to describe the embodiments and are not intended to limit the embodiments. In the present disclosure, the singular form includes the plural form unless otherwise specified.

[0022] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment, FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to yet another embodiment.

[0024] 1, an aerosol generating device 100a according to an embodiment may include a battery 110, a processor 120, a heater 130a, an airflow passage 160, and a sensor unit 170. An aerosol product 200 may be inserted into an internal space (i.e., a cavity) of a housing 101 of the aerosol generating device 100a.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 2, an aerosol generating device 100b according to another embodiment may include a battery 110, a processor 120, a heater 130b, a vaporizer 140, an airflow passage 160, and a sensor unit 170.

[0026] Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device 100c according to another embodiment may include a battery 110, a processor 120, a heater 130c, a liquid storage unit 150c, an airflow passage 160, and a sensor unit 170.

[0027] The components of the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c shown in Figures 1 to 3 are related to the present embodiment. Therefore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c further include other components in addition to the components shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0028] When the aerosol production product 200 (e.g., a cigarette) is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b may activate the heater 130a, 130b and / or the vaporizer 140 to generate an aerosol from the aerosol production product 200 and / or the vaporizer 140. The aerosol generated by the heater 130a, 130b and / or the vaporizer 140 passes through the aerosol production product 200 and is delivered to a user. Here, the aerosol may refer to a gas in which vaporized particles generated from an aerosol generating material are mixed with air.

[0029] If necessary, the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, 100c can heat the heaters 130a, 130b, 130c even when the aerosol production article 200 is not inserted in the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, 100c.

[0030] For example, the aerosol generating device 100a according to one embodiment can remove residual matter in the inner space of the housing 101 by heating the heater 130a when the aerosol generating product 200 is not inserted.

[0031] As another example, an aerosol generating device 100c according to yet another embodiment may generate an aerosol by vaporizing a liquid aerosol generating material stored in the liquid storage section 150c when an aerosol product 200 is not inserted.

[0032] The battery 110 supplies power used for the operation of the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c. For example, the battery 110 can supply power to heat the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c or the vaporizer 140, and can supply power necessary for the operation of the processor 120. The battery 110 can also supply power necessary for the operation of a display, a sensor, a motor, and the like provided in the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c.

[0033] The processor 120 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generation devices 100a, 100b, and 100c. Specifically, the processor 120 controls the operation of the battery 110, the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c, and the vaporizer 140 as well as other components included in the aerosol generation devices 100a, 100b, and 100c. The processor 120 may also check the state of each component of the aerosol generation devices 100a, 100b, and 100c to determine whether the aerosol generation devices 100a, 100b, and 100c are in an operable state.

[0034] The processor 120 may be implemented by an array of a number of logic gates, a general-purpose microprocessor, and a memory that stores a program that can be executed by the microprocessor, or other types of hardware, as would be understood by a person skilled in the art to which the present embodiment pertains.

[0035] The heaters 130a, 130b, 130c may be powered by power supplied from the battery 110. For example, when the aerosol product 200 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, the heater 130b may be located outside the aerosol product 200. Thus, the heated heater 130b may increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material within the aerosol product 200.

[0036] The heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c may also be electrically resistive heaters. For example, the heaters may include conductive tracks, and the heaters may be heated by passing a current through the conductive tracks. However, the heaters are not limited to the above examples, and may be any heater that can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c, or may be set to a desired temperature by a user.

[0037] Meanwhile, as another example, the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c may be induction heaters. Specifically, the heaters 130a and 130b may include a conductive coil for inductively heating the aerosol product, and the aerosol product may include a susceptor that may be heated by the induction heater.

[0038] For example, the heater may include a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle heating element, or a rod heating element, and may heat the interior or exterior of the aerosol product article 200 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0039] In addition, a plurality of heaters may be arranged in the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c. In this case, the plurality of heaters may be arranged to be inserted inside the aerosol product 200, or may be arranged outside the aerosol product 200. In addition, some of the plurality of heaters may be arranged to be inserted inside the aerosol product 200, and the rest may be arranged outside the aerosol product 200. In addition, the shape of the heater is not limited to the shapes illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, and may be manufactured in various shapes.

[0040] The aerosol-producing article 200 may also be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the aerosol-producing article 200 may be divided into a first portion including an aerosol-generating material and a second portion including a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second portion of the aerosol-producing article 200 may also include an aerosol-generating material. For example, a granular or capsule-shaped aerosol-generating material may be inserted into the second portion.

[0041] The tobacco rod included in the aerosol product 200 may include an aerosol generating material. For example, the aerosol generating material may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The tobacco rod may also include other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. A flavoring liquid, such as menthol or a humectant, may also be added to the tobacco rod by being sprayed onto the tobacco rod.

[0042] The tobacco rod may be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod may be manufactured in the form of a sheet or a strand. The tobacco rod may be manufactured from tobacco shreds, which is a tobacco sheet cut into small pieces. The tobacco rod may be surrounded by a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod may uniformly distribute heat transferred to the tobacco rod to improve the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the tobacco taste. The thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod may function as a susceptor that is heated by an induction heater. In this case, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod may further include an additional susceptor in addition to the thermally conductive material surrounding the outside.

[0043] The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, or the entire first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. A user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. In this case, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth through the second part.

[0044] As yet another example, the aerosol generating devices 100b and 100c may generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating substance by using an ultrasonic vibration method. The ultrasonic vibration method may mean a method of generating an aerosol by atomizing an aerosol generating substance with ultrasonic vibration generated by a vibrator. The aerosol generating substance may be vaporized and / or atomized by short-period vibration generated by the vibrator and atomized into an aerosol. The vibrator may include, for example, a piezoelectric ceramic. A piezoelectric ceramic is a functional material that can convert generated electricity (i.e., voltage) into physical force (i.e., pressure) or vice versa. The vaporizer 140 heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol may be transmitted to a user through the aerosol product 200. That is, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 140 may move along the airflow passage 160 of the aerosol generating device 100b. The airflow passage 160 may be configured to allow the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 140 to pass through the aerosol producing article 200 and be conveyed to a user.

[0045] For example, the vaporizer 140 may include, but is not limited to, the liquid storage unit 150b, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element 142. For example, the liquid storage unit 150b, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element 142 may be included in the aerosol generation device 100b as separate modules.

[0046] The liquid storage units 150b and 150c can store liquid compositions. For example, the liquid compositions can be liquids containing tobacco-containing substances including volatile tobacco flavor components, or liquids containing non-tobacco substances. The liquid storage unit 150b can be made to be detachable from / attachable to the vaporizer 140 and can be made integral with the vaporizer 140.

[0047] For example, the liquid composition may include water, solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, flavors, flavorings, or vitamin mixtures. The flavors may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruit scents, and the like. The flavorings may include ingredients that provide a variety of flavors or tastes to the user. The vitamin mixture may include, but is not limited to, at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. The liquid composition may also include an aerosol forming agent, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0048] For example, the liquid composition may include any weight ratio of glycerin and propylene glycol solution to which a nicotine salt has been added. The liquid composition may include more than one nicotine salt. The nicotine salt may be formed by adding a suitable acid, including an organic acid or an inorganic acid, to nicotine. The nicotine may be naturally occurring nicotine or synthetic nicotine and may have any suitable weight concentration relative to the total solution weight of the liquid composition.

[0049] The acid for forming the nicotine salt may be appropriately selected in consideration of the blood nicotine absorption rate, the operating temperature of the aerosol generating device 100b, 100c, the flavor or taste, the solubility, etc. For example, the acid for forming the nicotine salt may be, but is not limited to, a single acid selected from the group consisting of benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharic acid, malonic acid, or malic acid, or a mixture of two or more acids selected from the group.

[0050] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition in the liquid storage portion 150b to the heating element 142. For example, the liquid transfer means can be a wick such as, but not limited to, cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0051] The heating element 142 is an element for heating the liquid composition transferred by the liquid transfer means. For example, the heating element 142 can be, but is not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc. Also, the heating element 142 can be configured with a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire and arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transfer means. The heating element 142 can be heated by current supply and transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element 142, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0052] For example, the vaporizer 140 may also be referred to as, but is not limited to, a cartomizer or an atomizer.

[0053] The airflow passage 160 is a passage for airflow inside the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, 100c. The airflow passage 160 is included or formed inside the housing 101 so that air flows inside the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, 100c. For example, outside air may flow in through at least one through hole formed in the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, 100c and be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, 100c.

[0054] The airflow passage 160 may extend from a first through hole 162 located in at least one region of the housing 101 to a second through hole 164 located in another region of the housing 101 inside the housing 101. When a user inhales into the aerosol generation devices 100a, 100b, and 100c, external air may flow into the inside of the housing 101 through the first through hole 162, and the flowed-in external air may be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generation devices 100a, 100b, and 100c through the second through hole 164 together with aerosol generated inside the aerosol generation devices 100a, 100b, and 100c.

[0055] Also, referring to FIG. 1, external air flows into the inside of the housing 101 through the second through hole 164, and the flowed-in external air flows into the inside of the aerosol product 200 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the aerosol product 200, and can be discharged through one end of the aerosol product 200 exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 100a.

[0056] The first through hole 162 may be provided in the form of a hole in the housing 101 of the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, 100c, or may be provided in the form of a gap between various elements forming the housing 101 of the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, 100c.

[0057] 1 and 2, the second through hole 164 may be formed between the aerosol product 200 and the interior space of the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b. As another example, as shown in FIG. 3, the second through hole 164 may be disposed in the mouthpiece 102 that contacts the user's mouth to allow inhalation into the aerosol generating device 100c.

[0058] 1 and 3, the battery 110, the processor 120, and the heaters 130a, 130c are arranged in a line along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generation devices 100a, 100c, and the airflow passage 160 extends from the side of the aerosol generation devices 100a, 100c into the internal space of the aerosol generation devices 100a, 100c. In FIG. 2, the vaporizer 140 and the heater 130b are arranged in parallel, and the airflow passage 160 extends from the side of the aerosol generation device 100b along the vaporizer 140 and the internal space of the housing 101.

[0059] However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c is not limited to that shown in Figures 1 to 3. That is, depending on the design of the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c, the arrangement of the battery 110, the processor 120, the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c, the vaporizer 140, the airflow passage 160, and the sensor unit 170 may be changed.

[0060] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 110, the processor 120, the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c, the vaporizer 140, the airflow passage 160, and the sensor unit 170. For example, the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c may further include a user interface (not shown) and a memory (not shown).

[0061] The user interface can provide a user with information related to the status of the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, or 100c. The user interface can include various interfacing means, such as a display or lamp for outputting visual information, a motor for outputting tactile information, a speaker for outputting sound information, a terminal for receiving data communication with an input / output (I / O) interfacing means (e.g., a button or a touch screen) for receiving information input from a user or outputting information to a user, or a terminal for receiving charging power, and a communication interfacing module for performing wireless communication with an external device (e.g., WI-FI, WI-FI Direct, Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near-Field Communication), etc.).

[0062] The memory is hardware that stores various data processed in the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c, and can store data that has been processed by the processor 120 and data to be processed. The memory can be realized in various types such as random access memory (RAM) such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), and electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).

[0063] The memory may store data related to the operation time of the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, 100c, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the smoking pattern of the user.

[0064] The aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, 100c may also include other types of sensors (eg, temperature sensors, aerosol product insertion detection sensors, etc.).

[0065] The sensor unit 170 may include a puff detection sensor that detects inhalation of the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, or 100c by a user. For example, the puff detection sensor may be a resistance-based sensor that detects a change in resistance or an inductance-based sensor that detects a change in inductance.

[0066] The sensor unit 170 may include a resistor. The resistance of the resistor may be affected by its length and cross-sectional area. For example, the resistance of the resistor may be higher as the length of the resistor is longer or the cross-sectional area of ​​the resistor is smaller. An undeformed resistor may have an initial resistance value corresponding to the initial length and the initial cross-sectional area, and a deformed resistor may have a changed resistance value corresponding to the deformed length and the deformed cross-sectional area.

[0067] The sensor unit 170 may sense or measure airflow flowing inside the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, or 100c. The shape of the sensor unit 170 may be deformed by the airflow flowing through the airflow passage 160 of the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, or 100c. The sensor unit 170 may output a resistance value corresponding to the strength of the airflow based on a change in resistance of the resistor, or the resistance value corresponding to the strength of the airflow sensed by the sensor unit 170 may be transmitted to the processor 120.

[0068] 1 to 3, the sensor unit 170 is illustrated as being adjacent to the first through hole 162 of the airflow passage 160, but may be adjacent to the second through hole 164. That is, the position of the sensor unit 170 is not limited to the above-mentioned example, and the sensor unit 170 may be disposed at any position on the airflow passage inside the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, 100c. This allows the sensor unit 170 to be flexibly disposed or designed. Various embodiments and further detailed description of the sensor unit 170 will be described later with reference to other drawings.

[0069] The processor 120 may be connected to the sensor unit 170 and may receive information or data from the sensor unit 170 to detect whether or not a puff is generated in the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c. Here, the processor 120 and the sensor unit 170 may be connected via electrical connection and / or wireless communication. The processor 120 and the sensor unit 170 may transmit and receive signals such as optical signals and magnetic signals.

[0070] The processor 120 may measure the resistance value of the resistor included in the sensor unit 170, which changes depending on the degree of deformation of the sensor unit 170. If the measured resistance value is maintained at or above a predetermined threshold value for a specified time, the processor may determine that a puff has occurred (i.e., a puff may be detected). Here, the specified time is a reference time for determining whether a puff has occurred, and may correspond to, for example, 0.2 to 2.0 seconds. In addition, the predetermined threshold value is also a reference value for determining whether a user has generated a puff. For example, the predetermined threshold value may be compared with the resistance value of the sensor unit 170, which is deformed by the user's inhalation of the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, or 100c, in order to detect a puff.

[0071] The specified time and / or the predetermined threshold may be a value previously input into the processor 120 or memory. For example, the specified time and / or the predetermined threshold may be preset by a manufacturer of the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, 100c, or may be set by a user after the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, 100c is sold to the user. The puff detection method of the aerosol generating device 100a, 100b, 100c will be described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 4.

[0072] In an embodiment, the processor 120 may analyze the sensing result of at least one sensor and control a subsequent process. For example, the processor 120 may output a visual, audible, and / or tactile notification regarding the detected puff. The processor 120 may control a user interface based on the result sensed by the sensor unit 170. The user interface may include a display, an LED, a speaker, a vibration motor, and the like. For example, the processor 120 may count the number of puffs using a puff detection sensor and output the remaining number of puffs via a display.

[0073] Here, the "remaining number of puffs" may refer to the number of puffs obtained by subtracting the number of puffs counted up to now by the user from a predetermined "appropriate number of puffs" corresponding to the characteristics of the aerosol product 200, such as the type and size, or the characteristics of the substance stored in the liquid storage units 150b and 150c, such as the type and amount. The appropriate number of puffs may be stored in the memory or the processor 120.

[0074] In addition, the processor 120 may count the number of puffs and, if the number of puffs reaches a predetermined number, notify the user via the user interface that the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c will soon be shut down.

[0075] In other embodiments, the processor 120 may control the power supplied to the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c to start or stop operation of the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c based on the results sensed by other types of sensors. The processor 120 may also control the amount of power supplied to the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c and the time the power is supplied to the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c to heat them to a predetermined temperature or to maintain an appropriate temperature based on the results sensed by other types of sensors.

[0076] For example, the processor 120 may control the power applied to the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c when a puff is detected. In one example, the processor 120 may preheat the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c when a puff is detected and the processor 120 determines that the user has inhaled into the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, or 100c. This allows the user to easily start generating aerosol by simply inhaling from the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, or 100c.

[0077] As another example, if it is determined that the user has inhaled from the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, or 100c (i.e., if a puff is detected), the processor 120 may increase the power supplied to the heaters 130a, 130b, or 130c to increase the heating temperature. That is, the processor 120 may increase the heating temperature of the heaters 130a, 130b, or 130c every time the user inhales from the aerosol generation device 100a, 100b, or 100c, thereby increasing the amount of aerosol according to the user's inhalation timing.

[0078] In yet another embodiment, the processor 120 may perform puff detection of the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c when the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c are activated. For example, the processor 120 measures the resistance value of the sensor unit 170 only when the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c heat the aerosol product 200 inserted in the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c, and does not measure the resistance value when the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c do not heat the aerosol product 200.

[0079] As another example, the processor 120 measures the resistance value of the sensor portion 170 only when the heater 130c is activated to heat the liquid composition supplied from the liquid storage portion 150c, and does not measure the resistance value when the heater 130c is not activated.

[0080] That is, the processor 120 measures or does not measure the resistance value of the sensor unit 170 depending on whether the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c are activated. Thus, when the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c are not activated, the processor 120 does not perform puff detection, thereby reducing power consumption of the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c.

[0081] In yet another embodiment, the processor 120 may constantly measure the resistance value of the sensor unit 170, but may perform other processes when the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c are activated. For example, the processor 120 may detect the occurrence of a puff in the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c by determining whether the measured resistance value is maintained above a threshold value for a specified time interval only when the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c are activated.

[0082] Although not shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3, the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c may form a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle is used to charge the battery 110 of the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c. Alternatively, the heaters 130a, 130b, and 130c may be operated in a state where the cradle and the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c are combined.

[0083] The aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c according to the above-mentioned embodiments have a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. The aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c may have a cross-sectional shape of, for example, a circle, an ellipse, a square, or a polygon of various shapes. In addition, the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c are not limited to a structure that extends linearly in the longitudinal direction. For example, the aerosol generating devices 100a, 100b, and 100c may be curved in a streamlined shape or be bent at a predetermined angle in a specific area to make them easier to hold.

[0084] FIG. 4 is a graph for explaining a puff detection method of the aerosol generating device.

[0085] 4, a change in resistance R measured by a sensor unit over time is shown. In the graph shown in FIG. 4, the horizontal axis corresponds to time t and the vertical axis corresponds to resistance R.

[0086] In an initial state where there is no airflow, the resistor included in the sensor unit may have an initial resistance value Ro. The sensor unit may be deformed by the airflow, and as a result, the resistance value R may change due to changes in the length and / or cross-sectional area of ​​the resistor included in the sensor unit.

[0087] For example, when a user inhales into the aerosol generating device, at least a portion of the sensor unit is bent by the airflow, and the length of the resistor included in the sensor unit increases and the cross-sectional area narrows accordingly, so that the resistance value R may increase. Here, if the user inhales sufficiently strongly, the resistance value R measured by the sensor unit may increase to a value greater than the first threshold value Th1. If the user inhales relatively weakly, the resistance value R does not increase to the first threshold value Th1.

[0088] While the user continues to inhale, the deformed state of the sensor unit may be maintained and the resistance value R may be maintained near the increased value. For example, the measured resistance value R may be maintained at a value equal to or greater than the first threshold value Th1 for a specified first time interval Δt1. Here, the first time interval Δt1 may be 1 to 2 seconds, as an example of the specified time described above. As described above, the term "time interval" only defines a length of time and does not refer to a specific time.

[0089] Meanwhile, a weak air flow may occur inside the aerosol generating device due to minute vibrations of the aerosol generating device or minute pressure differences in the atmosphere. In this case, the resistance value R may be lower than the first threshold value Th1, or the resistance value R may increase to or above the first threshold value Th1, but the increased resistance value is not maintained for a specified time. As a result, the change in the resistance value R may be regarded as noise that is not caused by the user's inhalation, and the processor may determine that no puff has occurred.

[0090] That is, the processor may detect a puff on the aerosol generating device by considering not only the inhalation intensity of the user but also the duration of the inhalation. Specifically, the processor may determine that a puff has occurred only when both the inhalation intensity and the duration of the inhalation satisfy certain conditions. Therefore, the puff detection is robust against noise, and the detection sensitivity and accuracy may be improved.

[0091] When the user finishes inhaling, the airflow in the aerosol generating device disappears and the deformed shape of the sensor unit may be restored. In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the sensor unit may vibrate and be restored to a state in which there is no airflow. As a result, the resistance value R may correspondingly oscillate between the first threshold value Th1 and the initial value Ro and converge to the initial value Ro.

[0092] In another example, depending on the deformation state or manner of the sensor unit, the resistance value R may oscillate in a damped manner between a maximum value and a minimum value smaller than the initial value Ro, and may converge to the initial value Ro. Specifically, the resistance value R of the deformed sensor unit may increase to a value higher than the first threshold value Th1, and may decrease to a value smaller than the initial value Ro when the user stops inhaling.

[0093] 4, the resistance value R is illustrated as increasing or decreasing linearly, but this is merely an example. The resistance value R may increase or decrease nonlinearly depending on the inhalation manner (e.g., inhalation strength) of the user with respect to the aerosol generating device and / or the characteristics (e.g., shape, structure, etc.) of the sensor unit.

[0094] In another embodiment, the processor determines that a puff has occurred if the resistance value R is maintained above the first threshold value Th1 for the first time interval Δt1 (i.e., for at least the first time interval Δt1) and then remains above (or below) a specified value for a specified time (i.e., for at least the specified time).

[0095] For example, the processor determines that a puff has occurred if the resistance value R is maintained at or above a first threshold value Th1 during a first time interval Δt1, and then maintained at or above a second threshold value Th2 during a second time interval Δt2. Here, the second threshold value Th2 is smaller than the first threshold value Th1, and the second time interval Δt2 is shorter than the first time interval Δt1. For example, the first time interval Δt1 is 1 to 2 seconds, and the second time interval Δt2 is 0.1 to 0.2 seconds.

[0096] In this manner, the processor may detect a puff by measuring an increased resistance value R maintained by a user's inhalation having sufficient strength and strength, and then further taking into consideration a process in which the resistance value R is restored. This allows the processor to consider not only the start of the user's inhalation, but also the end of the user's inhalation, thereby enabling more accurate puff detection.

[0097] In addition, the processor may determine that a puff has occurred by the user if the resistance value R is maintained above the second threshold value Th2 for the second time interval Δt2 and then maintained above the third threshold value Th3 for a third time interval Δt3.

[0098] Specific examples of resistors and sensor units will be described below with reference to FIGS. 5A to 9B.

[0099] FIG. 5A is a diagram showing one aspect of a sensor unit including a resistor according to one embodiment, FIG. 5B is a diagram showing another aspect of a sensor unit including a resistor according to one embodiment, and FIG. 5C is a diagram showing yet another aspect of a sensor unit including a resistor according to one embodiment.

[0100] 5A to 5C, the sensor unit 170 may include a resistor 174 and a base 172 on which the resistor 174 is disposed. Here, the base 172 may be deformed by airflow, and the resistance of the resistor 174 may change in response to the deformation of the base 172. Although not shown, the sensor unit 170 may be connected to a processor (e.g., the processor 120 in FIGS. 1 to 3) to transmit and receive an electrical signal, or may be connected to a battery (e.g., the battery 110 in FIGS. 1 to 3) to receive power.

[0101] The resistor 174 may be disposed on the base 172 such that the resistance changes in response to deformation of the base 172. For example, the resistor 174 may be mounted on a surface of the base 172 or embedded within the base 172.

[0102] The base 172 may be made of a material with low rigidity that is deformed by the airflow, or may be made into a shape with low rigidity. For example, the base 172 may be made to have a small thickness or cross-sectional area.

[0103] Resistor 174 may include a metallic material through which an electric current can flow. For example, the metallic material may include, but is not limited to, copper, aluminum, nickel, silver, gold, platinum, palladium, or alloys thereof.

[0104] Additionally, resistor 174 may include materials such as carbon powder, carbon nanotubes, or graphene.

[0105] The resistor 174 may be disposed on the base 172 by, for example, plating, a coating such as deposition or spraying, or a printing.

[0106] In one embodiment, resistor 174 is also a strain gauge. A strain gauge includes a thin resistance wire arranged in a wound pattern, and the length of the strain gauge is a multiple (e.g., 10 times) of the length of a flat resistance wire. This allows the strain gauge to exhibit a relatively large change in resistance in response to small deformations.

[0107] That is, in the resistor 174 having a strain gauge shape, a change in resistance may occur sufficiently to detect a puff even when the resistor 174 is slightly deformed by airflow, and therefore the strain gauge shape may be adopted for effective detection of a puff in an aerosol generating device.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 5A, the length of a portion of the resistor 174 from the sensor unit 170 (or the base 172) before deformation is an initial length L 0 5B, the length of the part of the resistor 174 from the sensor unit 170 deformed by the airflow of the first strength is the first length L 1 5C, the length of the resistor 174 from the sensor unit 170 deformed by the airflow of the second strength, which is stronger than the first strength, is a second length L 2 It is also.

[0109] In this case, the first length L 1 is the initial length L 0 longer, second length L 2 is the first length L 1 That is, the stronger the airflow, the greater the deformation of the sensor unit 170, which in turn causes the resistor 174 included in the sensor unit 170 to deform more, and the change in resistance of the sensor unit 170 to increase.

[0110] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a sensor unit including a plurality of resistors according to an embodiment.

[0111] 6, the sensor unit 170a may include a plurality of resistors. For example, the sensor unit 170a may include an array in which a plurality of strain gauges 174-1, 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ... are arranged. The plurality of strain gauges 174-1, 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ... are arranged at predetermined intervals on the base 172a, and the plurality of strain gauges 174-1, 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ... may be deformed in response to deformation of the base 172a.

[0112] The resistance changes of the strain gauges 174-1, 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ... of the sensor unit 170a are collected and analyzed, so that the resistance change can be sensed more precisely. For example, even if some of the strain gauges 174-1, 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ... included in the sensor unit 170a are damaged, the resistance changes of the remaining strain gauges 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ... can be collected. As a result, the sensor unit 170a can sense the resistance change required to determine whether a puff has occurred.

[0113] In addition, even if only a portion of the sensor unit 170a is locally deformed, the resistance change from at least one of the multiple strain gauges 174-1, 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ..., which is located in the deformed portion of the sensor unit 170a, is detected, and the sensor unit 170a can sense the resistance change required for puff detection.

[0114] The plurality of strain gauges 174-1, 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ... may be deformed in different directions depending on the direction of the airflow, and thus the resistance change may also be different. Referring to Fig. 6, the plurality of strain gauges 174-1, 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ... are arranged in the same direction on the base 172a, but the plurality of strain gauges 174-1, 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ... may be arranged in other directions. The sensor unit 170a including the plurality of strain gauges 174-1, 174-2, 174-3, 174-4, ... arranged in the other direction may minimize the influence of the airflow direction, and the reliability of measuring or sensing the resistance change may be improved.

[0115] FIG. 7A is a diagram showing one aspect of a sensor unit according to one embodiment, FIG. 7B is a diagram showing another aspect of a sensor unit according to one embodiment, and FIG. 7C is a diagram showing yet another aspect of a sensor unit according to one embodiment.

[0116] 7A to 7C, the sensor unit 170b is disposed in the airflow passage 160, and may be deformed in shape by the airflow in the airflow passage 160. For example, the base 172b included in the sensor unit 170b may be a cantilever and may protrude from at least a region of the inner surface 165 of the airflow passage 160.

[0117] The cantilevered base 172b may be attached to the inner surface 165 of the airflow passage 160. For example, the base 172b may be welded or glued to the inner surface 165 of the airflow passage 160, or may be attached by a fastening means such as a bolt. As another example, the base 172b may be sandwiched into a groove formed in the inner surface 165 of the airflow passage 160.

[0118] The sensor unit 170b including the cantilever-shaped base 172b can be easily disposed in the airflow passage 160. However, the manner in which the base 172b and the airflow passage 160 are coupled to each other is not limited thereto, and the airflow passage 160 and the sensor unit 170b can be coupled to each other in different manners.

[0119] 7A, if there is no airflow in the airflow passage 160, the sensor portion 170b is not deformed and the resistance value of the resistor 174b does not change. 1 7C, when the air flow is strong, the deformation d of the sensor unit 170b is generated, and a corresponding small change in resistance can be detected. 2 occurs and the corresponding resistance change can be sensed.

[0120] The small deformation d of the sensor portion 170b as shown in FIG. 1 For example, the small deformation d can be caused not by the user's inhalation of the aerosol generating device, but by minute air currents caused by vibration of the aerosol generating device or air pressure differences. 1 The resistance value of resistor 174b included in sensor unit 170b may be smaller than the first threshold value, in which case a puff may not be detected.

[0121] On the other hand, the deformation d of the sensor part 170b as shown in FIG. 2 Such a transformation may also occur, for example, when a user inhales the aerosol generating device with sufficient intensity. 2 The resistance value of resistor 174b included in sensor unit 170b is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, so that a puff can be detected.

[0122] 7A to 7C, a plurality of sensor units 170b may be arranged along the airflow passage 160. For example, the sensor unit 170b may include a base 172b having a shorter length as it is disposed closer to the exterior of the aerosol generating device, and the sensor unit 170b may include a base 172b having a longer length as it is disposed farther from the exterior of the aerosol generating device.

[0123] By increasing the length of the base 172b, the sensor unit 170b can be sufficiently deformed to sense the resistance change required for puff detection even when the sensor unit 170b is placed deep inside the aerosol generating device where the airflow is relatively weak.

[0124] FIG. 8A is a diagram showing one aspect of a sensor unit according to another embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a diagram showing another aspect of a sensor unit according to another embodiment.

[0125] 8A and 8B, the sensor unit 170c may include a plurality of holes 176 that allow airflow to pass through and may be disposed to cover at least a portion of the cross-sectional area of ​​the airflow passage 160. Here, the airflow passage 160 illustrated in Figures 8A and 8B is also a part of the airflow passage 160 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3.

[0126] The base 172c may be attached to the inner circumferential surface of the airflow passage 160. For example, the base 172c may be bonded, glued, or welded along the circumferential direction of the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical airflow passage 160, but is not limited thereto.

[0127] At least one region of the base 172c may be provided with a plurality of holes 176 through which airflow passes, and another region of the base 172c may be provided with the resistor 174c. For example, the resistor 174c may be provided in the center of the base 172c, and the plurality of holes 176 may be provided at the edge portions of the base 172c.

[0128] Even though at least a portion of the airflow passage 160 is blocked by the sensor portion 170c, a portion of the airflow passes through the plurality of holes 176 and flows into the inside of the airflow passage 160. Here, the remaining airflow that does not pass through the plurality of holes 176 may apply pressure to the base 172c, causing deformation of the base 172c.

[0129] 8A, the shape of the sensor unit 170c is not deformed and the resistance of the resistor 174c does not change when there is no airflow in the airflow passage 160. However, when there is airflow in the airflow passage 160, the sensor unit 170c is deformed and the change in resistance due to the deformation of the resistor 174c can be sensed.

[0130] For example, the central portion of the base 172c becomes convex toward the airflow direction, and the length and / or cross-sectional area of ​​the resistor 174c disposed in the central portion of the base 172c changes in response to the deformation of the base 172c, and as a result, the resistance change can be sensed by the sensor portion 170c.

[0131] The number of the holes 176 is not limited to the embodiment shown in Fig. 8A. Even though the sensor unit 170c is arranged to cover at least a part of the airflow passage 160 by the holes 176, the airflow may not be blocked inside the aerosol generating device.

[0132] FIG. 9A is a diagram showing one aspect of a sensor unit according to yet another embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a diagram showing another aspect of a sensor unit according to yet another embodiment.

[0133] 9A and 9B, the aerosol generating device according to another embodiment further includes a chamber 166 branched at one point of the airflow passage 160, and the airflow can flow into or out of the chamber 166.

[0134] The chamber 166 may be a separate space in which the sensor unit 170d may be disposed, and may be located at a point of the airflow passage 160 by branching off in a direction toward the outside of the airflow passage 160. For example, as shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the chamber 166 may be a space that extends in a direction different from the extension direction of the airflow passage 160 at a point of the airflow passage 160. As another example, the chamber 166 may be a separate space connected to the airflow passage 160.

[0135] By disposing the sensor portion 170d in the chamber 166, the sensor portion 170d can measure or sense the change in resistance of the resistor 174d at a position that does not interfere with the flow of airflow along the airflow passage 160.

[0136] In one embodiment, the base 172d may be disposed to cover at least a portion of the chamber 166. For example, the base 172d may be beam-shaped, both ends of which may be attached to the inner wall of the chamber 166, with the base 172d covering a portion of the cross-sectional area of ​​the chamber 166. As another example, the base 172d may be film-shaped, which may be attached along the inner wall of the chamber 166, with the base 172d covering the entire cross-sectional area of ​​the chamber 166. In this case, the resistor 174d may be included in the film-shaped base 172d.

[0137] The sensor portion 170d disposed on the inner wall of the chamber 166 does not obstruct the flow of air, and the sensor portion 170d is firmly fixed to the inner wall of the chamber 166, so that the structural stability of the sensor portion 170d can be improved.

[0138] 9A, if there is no airflow in the airflow passage 160, the sensor unit 170d may not be deformed and the resistance due to the deformation of the resistor 174d may not change. However, if there is airflow in the airflow passage 160, the sensor unit 170d may be deformed and the resistance change due to the deformation of the resistor 174d may be sensed.

[0139] For example, airflow created by a user's inhalation may create a negative pressure in chamber 166, causing base 172d to deform, thereby changing the length or cross-sectional area of ​​resistor 174d and, as a result, the resistance of resistor 174d.

[0140] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0141] 10, an operation method of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment includes steps of successively processing the aerosol generating apparatuses 100a, 100b, and 100c shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3. Therefore, even if omitted below, the above description of the aerosol generating apparatuses 100a, 100b, and 100c shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 may also be applied to the method shown in Fig. 10.

[0142] In step 1010, the processor may measure a resistance value of a resistor included in the sensor unit, where the sensor unit may be deformed by airflow flowing through the airflow passage.

[0143] The processor may measure the resistance value of the resistor included in the sensor unit at predetermined time intervals. For example, the processor may measure and / or record the resistance value of the resistor included in the sensor unit every 0.01 seconds. The processor may also use the recorded resistance values ​​to generate a graph (e.g., the graph of FIG. 4) or trend line showing the change in resistance value over time.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the processor may determine whether the heater for heating the aerosol generating material is activated, and perform puff detection (i.e., measure the resistance value of the sensor unit) only when the heater is activated, thereby saving power since the resistance value is not measured and / or recorded while the heater is not activated.

[0145] In step 1020, the processor may detect a puff if the measured resistance value remains above a first threshold value for a first time interval (at least for a specified time). For example, the processor may detect a puff (i.e., determine that a user's inhalation has occurred) if the resistance value remains at a value large enough for a specified time period that it is attributed to a user inhaling the aerosol generating device.

[0146] Specifically, in step 1010, the processor may determine that a user inhalation has occurred if the resistance value remains above a threshold value for a specified period of time based on data relating to resistance values ​​measured or recorded over time.

[0147] In another embodiment, the processor may detect a puff if the measured resistance value remains above a first threshold value for a first time interval, and then remains above a second threshold value for a second time interval, where the second time interval is less than the first time interval, and where the second threshold value is also less than the first threshold value.

[0148] Therefore, the processor can implement a more accurate puff detection function by additionally taking into account not only the start process of inhalation, during which the resistance value is changed and maintained, but also the end process of inhalation, during which the resistance value is restored.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the processor may determine whether or not a heater for heating the aerosol generating material is activated, and may perform puff detection (e.g., measuring the resistance of the sensor unit) only if the heater is activated, thereby conserving power because the resistance value is not measured and / or recorded while the heater is not activated.

[0150] In one embodiment, the processor may output a notification regarding the detected puff in a designated manner. The designated manner may include at least one of a visual manner, an audio manner, and a tactile manner. The processor may control a user interface to output the notification regarding the detected puff.

[0151] For example, the processor may display the detected number of puffs on a display. As another example, the processor may output a speaker notification or control a vibration motor to vibrate when the remaining number of puffs reaches a designated number.

[0152] An embodiment may also be embodied in the form of a recording medium containing computer executable instructions such as a program module executed by a computer. A computer readable medium is any available medium that can be accessed by a computer, and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, and separate and non-separate media. In addition, a computer readable medium may include both a computer recording medium and a communication medium. A computer recording medium includes both volatile and non-volatile, separate and non-separate media embodied in any method or technology for storing information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. A communication medium typically includes computer readable instructions, data structures, other data in a modulated data signal such as a program module, or other transmission mechanism, and includes any information delivery medium.

[0153] Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be embodied in various modified forms without departing from the essential characteristics of the above description. Therefore, the disclosed method should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive manner. The scope of the present invention is defined in the claims, not the above description, and all differences within the scope of the equivalents should be interpreted as being included in the present invention.

Claims

1. a housing including an airflow passage; a sensor unit including a resistor that is deformable by the airflow in the airflow passage and whose resistance value changes depending on the degree of deformation; a processor coupled to the sensor unit; The processor, An aerosol generating device that measures the resistance value of the resistor, and detects a puff when the measured resistance value is maintained above a first threshold value for a first time interval upon the start of inhalation, and then when the measured resistance value is maintained above a second threshold value smaller than the first threshold value for a second time interval shorter than the first time interval upon the end of inhalation.

2. The processor, The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein a notification regarding the detection of the puff is output in a specified manner.

3. The specified method is: The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , comprising at least one of a visual system, an auditory system, and a tactile system.

4. further comprising a heater for heating the aerosol generating material; The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the processor controls the power applied to the heater when the puff is detected.

5. further comprising a heater for heating the aerosol generating material; The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the processor performs detection of the puff when the heater is activated.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor unit includes a base that is deformed by an airflow, and the resistor is arranged such that a resistance value of the resistor changes in response to the deformation of the base.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6 , wherein the base is a cantilever and protrudes from an inner surface of the airflow passage.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6 , wherein the base includes a plurality of holes that allow airflow to pass therethrough and is positioned to cover at least a portion of the airflow passage.

9. The airflow passage further includes a chamber branched at one point, and the airflow is introduced from the airflow passage into the chamber and discharged from the chamber into the airflow passage; The aerosol generating device according to claim 6 , wherein the sensor unit is disposed in the chamber.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9 , wherein the base is positioned to cover at least a portion of the chamber.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the resistor is a strain gauge.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11 , wherein the sensor unit includes an array including the strain gauge.

13. measuring a resistance value of a resistor included in a sensor that is deformable due to an airflow in an airflow passage, the resistance value being changed depending on the degree of deformation of the sensor; A method for operating an aerosol generating device, comprising: detecting a puff when the measured resistance value is maintained above a first threshold value for a first time interval upon start of inhalation, and then the measured resistance value is maintained above a second threshold value smaller than the first threshold value for a second time interval shorter than the first time interval upon end of inhalation.

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