Aerosol generating device and its control method

Abstract

To provide an aerosol generation device that senses an abnormality generation status that may occur in an aerosol generation device, and can prevent a safe accident before it actually occurs.SOLUTION: An aerosol generation device includes a heater that heats an aerosol generation substance to generate aerosol, a battery that supplies power to the heater, a control part that determines an activation state of the aerosol generation device divided into a heating state or a non-heating state, a first circuit part that controls operation of the heater, and a second circuit part that controls charging and discharging of the battery. The control part communicates with a first circuit part in the heating state, communicates with a second circuit part in the non-heating state, determines whether an abnormality has occurred due to the actuation state of the aerosol generation device on the basis of the communication result, and can prevent safe accident of the aerosol generation device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and a control method thereof.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, the demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes has been increasing. However, whether it is a method using a heated cigarette or a method of heating an aerosol generating substance, inside the device, since an electric current for heating flows, abnormal operation of the aerosol generating device due to defects or operating errors of the device occurs, and there is always a risk of accidents due to device overheating or overcurrent.

[0003] Socially, by recognizing the risk of such accidents, the need for a safety device and the demand from consumers for an aerosol generating device equipped with the same are also increasing. In order not to be exposed to such risks, an aerosol generating device to which a more precise control method than the previous aerosol generating devices is applied is required.

Summary of the Invention

[0004]

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Electronic aerosol generating devices may have problems such that dangerous situations may occur due to overheat, short circuit, over current, and battery overcharge depending on the situation.

[0005] The problems to be solved through the present embodiment are not limited to the above-described problems, and problems not mentioned can be understood by those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present invention pertains from the present specification and the accompanying drawings. ​If so, it will be clearly understood.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure include an aerosol generating device and a control method thereof. Embodiments of the present disclosure sense an abnormal occurrence situation that may occur in the aerosol generating device and prevent a safety accident by providing an aerosol generating device that can do so.

[0007] As a technical means for achieving the above technical problems, a first aspect of the present disclosure is an aerosol generating device including a heater that heats an aerosol generating substance to generate an aerosol, a battery that supplies power to the heater, a control unit that determines an operating state of the aerosol generating device divided into a heating state or a non-heating state, a first circuit unit that controls the operation of the heater, and a second circuit unit that controls charging and discharging of the battery, wherein the control unit communicates with the first circuit unit in the heating state and communicates with the second circuit unit in the non-heating state, and based on the communication results, determines whether an abnormality occurs according to the operating state of the aerosol generating device, and is also an aerosol generating device. generating device. generating device.

[0008] A second aspect of the present disclosure is a method for controlling an aerosol generating device, including determining an operating state of the aerosol generating device divided into a heating state or a non-heating state, communicating with a first circuit unit that controls the operation of the heater in the heating state and communicating with a second circuit unit that controls charging and discharging of the battery in the non-heating state based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device, and determining whether an abnormality occurs according to the operating state of the aerosol generating device based on the communication result. generating device, communicating with a first circuit unit that controls the operation of the heater in the heating state and communicating with a second circuit unit that controls charging and discharging of the battery in the non-heating state based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device, and determining whether an abnormality occurs according to the operating state of the aerosol generating device based on the communication result. generating device, communicating with a first circuit unit that controls the operation of the heater in the heating state and communicating with a second circuit unit that controls charging and discharging of the battery in the non-heating state based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device, and determining whether an abnormality occurs according to the operating state of the aerosol generating device based on the communication result. communicates, and in the non-heating state, communicates with a second circuit unit that controls charging and discharging of the battery, and based on the communication results, determines whether an abnormality occurs according to the operating state of the aerosol generating device. results, determines whether an abnormality occurs according to the operating state of the aerosol generating device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to the problem-solving means of the present disclosure described above, in a dangerous situation due to overheating, circuit short, overcurrent, battery overcharging, etc. of the aerosol generating device, the stability of the aerosol generating device can be ensured.

[0010] Further, the control unit and the first circuit unit that controls the heater are separately configured, and even in a situation where the control unit malfunctions, the first circuit unit stops its own operation (self-stopping), and abnormal overheating phenomena and the like can be avoided.

[0011] The effects according to this embodiment are not limited to the above-described effects, and effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the technical field to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] The aerosol generating device according to the present disclosure includes a heater that heats an aerosol generating substance to generate an aerosol, a battery that supplies power to the heater, a control unit that determines an operating state (heating state or non-heating state) of the aerosol generating device that is divided into a heating state or a non-heating state, a first circuit unit that controls the operation of the heater, and a second circuit unit that controls charging and discharging of the battery. The control unit communicates with the first circuit unit in the heating state and communicates with the second circuit unit in the non-heating state, and can determine whether an abnormality occurs according to the operating state of the aerosol generating device based on the communication result. In the heating state, the control unit monitors whether a current amount equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, and based on the monitoring result, can determine the operating state of the aerosol generating device to be either the heating state or the non-heating state. When the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the heating state, the control unit receives first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit. When the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the non-heating state, the control unit receives second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit. (operating state), a first circuit unit that controls the operation of the heater, and a second circuit unit that controls charging and discharging of the battery. The control unit communicates with the first circuit unit in the heating state and communicates with the second circuit unit in the non-heating state, and can determine whether an abnormality occurs according to the operating state of the aerosol generating device based on the communication result. The control unit includes a battery that supplies power to the heater, a control unit that determines an operating state (heating state or non-heating state) of the aerosol generating device that is divided into a heating state or a non-heating state, a first circuit unit that controls the operation of the heater, and a second circuit unit that controls charging and discharging of the battery. The control unit communicates with the first circuit unit in the heating state and communicates with the second circuit unit in the non-heating state, and can determine whether an abnormality occurs according to the operating state of the aerosol generating device based on the communication result. In the heating state, the control unit monitors whether a current amount equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, and based on the monitoring result, can determine the operating state of the aerosol generating device to be either the heating state or the non-heating state. When the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the heating state, the control unit receives first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit. When the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the non-heating state, the control unit receives second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit. This can be done.

[0014] The control unit monitors whether a current amount equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, and based on the monitoring result, can determine the operating state of the aerosol generating device to be either the heating state or the non-heating state. Based on the monitoring result, the control unit can determine the operating state of the aerosol generating device to be either the heating state or the non-heating state. Among the heating state and the non-heating state.

[0015] When the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the heating state, the control unit receives the first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit. When the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the non-heating state, the control unit receives the second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit. When the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the non-heating state, the control unit receives the second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit. Believe, and based on the first current amount data, determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit section, and the Based on the second current amount data, it is possible to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit section.

[0016] The control unit compares the first current amount data with a first critical range to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit section, and compares the second current amount data with a second critical range to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit section. The control unit compares the first current amount data with a first critical range to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit section, and compares the second current amount data with a second critical range to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit section. It is possible to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit section.

[0017] The non-heating state is classified into a charging state or an idle state, and the second critical range is also specified to be different when the operating state is the charging state and when the operating state is the idle state. The non-heating state is classified into a charging state or an idle state, and the second critical range is also specified to be different when the operating state is the charging state and when the operating state is the idle state. It is specified to be different from each other.

[0018] The aerosol generating device further includes a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the heater. When the operating state is the heating state, the control unit obtains temperature data from the temperature sensor and can determine whether an abnormality has occurred based on the first current amount data and the temperature data. The aerosol generating device further includes a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the heater. When the operating state is the heating state, the control unit obtains temperature data from the temperature sensor and can determine whether an abnormality has occurred based on the first current amount data and the temperature data. Based on the first current amount data and the temperature data, it is possible to determine whether an abnormality has occurred. It is possible.

[0019] When the control unit determines that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generating device, it can issue any one of a warning notification, stopping the operation of the first circuit section, and resetting the aerosol generating device. When the control unit determines that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generating device, it can issue any one of a warning notification, stopping the operation of the first circuit section, and resetting the aerosol generating device. It can issue any one of the commands.

[0020] The control unit can communicate with the first circuit section by inputting data to the first circuit section and reading data from the first circuit section after a predetermined time has elapsed. The control unit can communicate with the first circuit section by inputting data to the first circuit section and reading data from the first circuit section after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0021] The control unit compares the first data input to the first circuit unit with the second data read from the first circuit unit, and if the first data and the second data are the same, it determines that an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit and can stop the operation of the first circuit unit. When the first circuit unit cannot receive the data input from the control unit, it determines that an abnormality has occurred in the control unit and can stop its own operation (self - stopping). The method for controlling an aerosol - generating device according to the present disclosure includes determining the operating state of the aerosol - generating device, which is classified into a heating state or a non - heating state, communicating with a first circuit unit that controls the operation of a heater in the heating state and communicating with a second circuit unit that controls the charging and discharging of a battery in the non - heating state based on the operating state of the aerosol - generating device, and determining whether an abnormality has occurred according to the operating state of the aerosol - generating device based on the communication result. 。

[0022] When determining whether an abnormality has occurred, when the operating state is the heating state, it obtains first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit, and when the operating state of the aerosol - generating device is the non - heating state, it obtains second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit. Based on the first current amount data, it determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit, and based on the second current amount data, it determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit unit. When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol - generating device, a warning notification, the operation of the first circuit unit

[0023] The control unit compares the first data input to the first circuit unit with the second data read from the first circuit unit, and if the first data and the second data are the same, it determines that an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit and can stop the operation of the first circuit unit. When the first circuit unit cannot receive the data input from the control unit, it determines that an abnormality has occurred in the control unit and can stop its own operation (self - stopping). The method for controlling an aerosol - generating device according to the present disclosure includes determining the operating state of the aerosol - generating device, which is classified into a heating state or a non - heating state, communicating with a first circuit unit that controls the operation of a heater in the heating state and communicating with a second circuit unit that controls the charging and discharging of a battery in the non - heating state based on the operating state of the aerosol - generating device, and determining whether an abnormality has occurred according to the operating state of the aerosol - generating device based on the communication result. When determining whether an abnormality has occurred, when the operating state is the heating state, it obtains first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit, and when the operating state of the aerosol - generating device is the non - heating state, it obtains second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit. Based on the first current amount data, it determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit, and based on the second current amount data, it determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit unit. When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol - generating device, a warning notification, the operation of the first circuit unit 。

[0024] When determining whether an abnormality has occurred, when the operating state is the heating state, it obtains first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit, and when the operating state of the aerosol - generating device is the non - heating state, it obtains second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit. Based on the first current amount data, it determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit, and based on the second current amount data, it determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit unit. When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol - generating device, a warning notification, the operation of the first circuit unit When determining whether an abnormality has occurred, when the operating state is the heating state, it obtains first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit, and when the operating state of the aerosol - generating device is the non - heating state, it obtains second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit. Based on the first current amount data, it determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit, and based on the second current amount data, it determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit unit. When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol - generating device, a warning notification, the operation of the first circuit unit When determining whether an abnormality has occurred, when the operating state is the heating state, it obtains first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit, and when the operating state of the aerosol - generating device is the non - heating state, it obtains second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit. Based on the first current amount data, it determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit, and based on the second current amount data, it determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit unit. 。

[0025] When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol - generating device, a warning notification, the operation of the first circuit unit Issuing a command for either one of operation suspension and reset of the aerosol generating device It further includes this.

[0026] Based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device, in the heating state, the operation of the heater Communicates with the first circuit unit that controls it, and in the non-heating state, charges and discharges the battery The step of communicating with the second circuit unit that controls it includes inputting data to the first circuit unit and a predetermined After a period of time has elapsed, reading data from the first circuit unit to communicate with the first circuit unit This also includes the step of doing so.

[0027] Comparing the first data input to the first circuit unit with the second data read from the first circuit unit When the first data and the second data are the same, it further includes determining that an abnormality has occurred in the first Circuit unit and suspending the operation of the first circuit unit. This is also the case.

[0028] When the first circuit unit cannot receive the data input from the control unit, it determines that an abnormality Has occurred in the control unit and can suspend its own operation.

[0029] The terms used in this embodiment are selected as general terms that are as widely used as possible at present while considering the functions in the present invention However, it also varies depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, or the emergence of new technologies. Also, in specific cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant In that case, the meaning thereof is described in detail in the description part of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based on the meaning that the term has And the overall content of the present invention. And not just the name of a simple term.

[0030] Throughout the specification, when a part includes a certain component, unless there is a contrary description, it does not exclude other components, but also means that it further includes other components. Also, terms such as “… part” and “… module” described in the specification mean units that process at least one function or operation, and they can be embodied by hardware or software, or also by a combination of hardware and software. Throughout the specification, when a part includes a certain component, unless there is a contrary description, it does not exclude other components, but also means that it further includes other components. Also, terms such as “… part” and “… module” described in the specification mean units that process at least one function or operation, and they can be embodied by hardware or software, or also by a combination of hardware and software. Throughout the specification, when a part includes a certain component, unless there is a contrary description, it does not exclude other components, but also means that it further includes other components. Also, terms such as “… part” and “… module” described in the specification mean units that process at least one function or operation, and they can be embodied by hardware or software, or also by a combination of hardware and software. Throughout the specification, when a part includes a certain component, unless there is a contrary description, it does not exclude other components, but also means that it further includes other components. Also, terms such as “… part” and “… module” described in the specification mean units that process at least one function or operation, and they can be embodied by hardware or software, or also by a combination of hardware and software. Throughout the specification, when a part includes a certain component, unless there is a contrary description, it does not exclude other components, but also means that it further includes other components. Also, terms such as “… part” and “… module” described in the specification mean units that process at least one function or operation, and they can be embodied by hardware or software, or also by a combination of hardware and software. Throughout the specification, when a part includes a certain component, unless there is a contrary description, it does not exclude other components, but also means that it further includes other components. Also, terms such as “… part” and “… module” described in the specification mean units that process at least one function or operation, and they can be embodied by hardware or software, or also by a combination of hardware and software.

[0031] In the following, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can easily implement them. However, the present invention can be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In the following, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can easily implement them. However, the present invention can be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In the following, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can easily implement them. However, the present invention can be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In the following, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can easily implement them. However, the present invention can be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0032] Figure 1 is a flowchart for determining the occurrence of an abnormality in an aerosol generating device.

[0033] Referring to step 110, the control unit can determine the operating state of the aerosol generating device. The operating state of the aerosol generating device is also classified into a heating state and a non-heating state. Referring to step 110, the control unit can determine the operating state of the aerosol generating device. The operating state of the aerosol generating device is also classified into a heating state and a non-heating state.

[0034] The control unit can monitor the current flowing through the first circuit unit for controlling the heater in order to determine the operating state. Based on the monitoring result, when the control unit senses that a current amount equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, the control unit can determine that the operating state is the heating state, and when the control unit senses that a current less than the predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, The control unit can monitor the current flowing through the first circuit unit for controlling the heater in order to determine the operating state. Based on the monitoring result, when the control unit senses that a current amount equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, the control unit can determine that the operating state is the heating state, and when the control unit senses that a current less than the predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, The control unit can monitor the current flowing through the first circuit unit for controlling the heater in order to determine the operating state. Based on the monitoring result, when the control unit senses that a current amount equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, the control unit can determine that the operating state is the heating state, and when the control unit senses that a current less than the predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, The control unit can determine that the operating state is the heating state, and when the control unit senses that a current less than the predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, It can be determined that the combined operating state is the non-heating state.

[0035] The non-heating state is also divided into a charging state and a standby state. When the second circuit unit receives current from an external charging device via the charging terminal the control unit can sense this and determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the charging state. When the second circuit unit does not receive current from the external charging device via the charging terminal the control unit can sense this and determine that the operating state of the aerosol generation device is the standby state.

[0036] Referring to step 120, the control unit can communicate with the first circuit unit or the second circuit unit based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device. For example, based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device, in the heating state, the control unit can communicate with the first circuit unit, and in the non-heating state, it can communicate with the second circuit unit.

[0037] The control unit can communicate with the first circuit unit or the second circuit unit by inputting data to the first circuit unit or the second circuit unit, or receiving data from the first circuit unit or the second circuit unit. Based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device, when the control unit is in the heating state, it communicates with the first circuit unit, and when in the non-heating state, it communicates with the second circuit unit. This means that the control unit sets the main communication target to one of the first circuit unit and the second circuit unit according to the operating state, and periodically communicates with the circuit unit set as the main communication target.

[0038] The control unit can communicate with the first circuit unit or the second circuit unit by inputting data to the first circuit unit or the second circuit unit, or receiving data from the first circuit unit or the second circuit unit. Based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device, when the control unit is in the heating state, it communicates with the first circuit unit, and when in the non-heating state, it communicates with the second circuit unit. This means that the control unit sets the main communication target to one of the first circuit unit and the second circuit unit according to the operating state, and periodically communicates with the circuit unit set as the main communication target. It can communicate with the first circuit unit or the second circuit unit.

[0039] Based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device, when the control unit is in the heating state, it communicates with the first circuit unit, and when in the non-heating state, it communicates with the second circuit unit. This means that the control unit sets the main communication target to one of the first circuit unit and the second circuit unit according to the operating state, and periodically communicates with the circuit unit set as the main communication target. Based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device, when the control unit is in the heating state, it communicates with the first circuit unit, and when in the non-heating state, it communicates with the second circuit unit. This means that the control unit sets the main communication target to one of the first circuit unit and the second circuit unit according to the operating state, and periodically communicates with the circuit unit set as the main communication target. Based on the operating state of the aerosol generating device, when the control unit is in the heating state, it communicates with the first circuit unit, and when in the non-heating state, it communicates with the second circuit unit. This means that the control unit sets the main communication target to one of the first circuit unit and the second circuit unit according to the operating state, and periodically communicates with the circuit unit set as the main communication target. It may mean that it periodically communicates with the circuit unit set as the main communication target.

[0040] As one embodiment, when the aerosol generating device operates in a heated state, the control unit communicates with the first circuit unit and can receive first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit. As another embodiment, when the aerosol generating device operates in a non-heated state, the control unit communicates with the second circuit unit and can receive second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit.

[0041] As yet another embodiment, in the heated state, the control unit inputs first data to the first circuit unit and, after a predetermined time has elapsed, can communicate by reading second data from the first circuit unit. Based on the first data and the second data, the control unit can determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit. Also, the first circuit unit can determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the control unit. This will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 10.

[0042] Referring to step 130, based on the communication result, the control unit can determine whether an abnormality has occurred depending on the operating state of the aerosol generating device.

[0043] The occurrence of an abnormality in the aerosol generating device may mean that at least one of the hardware components within the aerosol generating device does not operate or malfunctions.

[0044] For example, if the first circuit unit cannot heat the heater according to the designed temperature profile, an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit. As another example, if the battery is not charged even though the charging device is connected, an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit unit.

[0045] ​​​​​Determining whether an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generator is also accomplished by comparing the data received by the control unit with the critical ranges already specified according to each operating state. As one embodiment, when the control unit determines that the operating state of the aerosol generator is the heating state, the control unit compares the first current amount data received from the first circuit unit with the first critical range specified to be suitable for heater heating, thereby determining whether an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generator.

[0046] As another embodiment, when the control unit determines that the operating state of the aerosol generator is the non-heating state, the control unit compares the second current amount data received from the second circuit unit with the second critical range specified to be suitable for the charging state or the standby state, thereby determining whether an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generator.

[0047] Summarizing the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 1, it is as follows.

[0048] When the control unit determines that a current amount equal to or greater than a predetermined value is flowing through the first circuit unit, the state of the aerosol generator can be determined to be the heating state. In this heating state, the control unit can receive the first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit from the first circuit unit, which is the main communication target, via the first circuit unit. The control unit can then determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit based on the first current amount data.

[0049] When the control unit determines that a current amount less than the predetermined value is flowing through the first circuit unit, the state of the aerosol generator can be determined to be the non-heating state. In this non-heating state, the control unit is the main communication ​​​​​​It is possible to receive second current amount data flowing through the second circuit section that is the target. Thereafter, the control unit can determine whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit section based on the second current amount data.

[0050] FIG. 2 is a schematic conceptual diagram of an aerosol generating device.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device 100 includes, as a hardware configuration, a control unit 101, a first circuit section 102, a second circuit section 103, a battery 104, a heater 105, a temperature sensor 106, and a charging terminal 107. However, it is not limited to the above-described configuration, and it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that other necessary configurations may be further included. Also, each configuration is not limited to the arrangement structure of FIG. 2 and may be arranged in other forms of structures.

[0052] The charging terminal 107 responds to being connected to an external charging device and applies the current received from the external charging device to the second circuit section 103. The applied current can flow to the battery 104 under the control of the second circuit section 103 to charge the battery 104.

[0053] On the other hand, the charging device can use either a wired charging method or a wireless charging method. The wired charging method can use a 5-pin terminal, an 8-pin terminal, or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal method, and the wireless charging method can use an inductive coupling method using a magnetic field, a capacitive coupling method using an electric field, and a high-frequency radiation method. It is possible. However, the charging device is not limited to the above examples and it also includes other forms of charging devices, which should be understandable to those skilled in the art in this technical field

[0054] The battery 104 supplies the power necessary for the aerosol generating device 100 to operate The battery 104 can be a rechargeable battery or a single-use battery. For example the battery 104 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but it is not limited thereto

[0055] Also, the battery 104 is electrically connected to the second circuit unit 103, and charging and discharging are controlled by the second circuit unit 103. For example, when the current applied through the charging terminal 107 flows through the second circuit unit 103 to the battery 104, the battery is charged Also, by controlling the second circuit unit 103, the electrical energy stored in the battery 104 can be discharged, and current can be supplied to other hardware components within the aerosol generating device 100, such as the control unit 101 and the first circuit unit 102, through the second circuit unit 103

[0056] The aerosol generating device 100 also includes a temperature sensor 106. The temperature sensor 106 measures the temperature of the heater 105 and transmits the temperature data to the control unit 101. The control unit 101 can then consider the received temperature data and determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generating device 100

[0057] As described above, the second circuit unit 103 is electrically connected to the battery 104 ​​​​​​​​It is possible to control the charging and discharging of 04.

[0058] After the charging terminal 107 is connected to an external charging device, the second circuit unit 103 can receive current from the charging terminal 10 7. When the second circuit unit 103 receives current from the charging terminal 107, the aerosol generating device can operate in a charged state, and the second circuit unit 1 03 supplies the current received from the charging terminal 107 to the battery 104, so that the battery 104 can be charged.

[0059] When the charging terminal 107 is not connected to an external charging device, the aerosol generating device can operate in a standby state or a heating state, and the second circuit unit 103 receives current from the battery 104 and can supply the current required for the operation of other hardware components provided in the aerosol generating device 100. At this time, the battery 104 discharges. As shown in FIG. 2 As shown, the second circuit unit 103 can supply current to the control unit 101 and the first circuit unit 102.

[0060] Specifically, when the aerosol generating device 100 is in a heating state, the second circuit unit 103 discharges the electrical energy stored in the battery 104 so that the heater 105 can be heated by a pre-designed temperature profile, and supplies current to the control unit 101 and the first circuit unit 102

[0061] When the aerosol generating device 100 is in a standby state, the second circuit unit 103 discharges the electrical energy stored in the battery 10 4 and can limit the flow of the necessary current so as to maintain the standby state of the control unit 101. At the same time, it can prevent the heater 105 from being heated Therefore, it is possible to prevent a current from flowing through the first circuit portion 102.

[0062] When the aerosol generating device 100 is in a charging state, the second circuit unit 103 The battery 104 is charged by receiving a current through the charging terminal 107. In this way, the second circuit unit 103 receives a current from the charging terminal 107 and supplies it to the back-up circuit 4. The amount and direction of the current can be controlled so that it flows through the tertiary element 104. In this way, the second circuit section 103 is configured to charge the battery 104 in the charging state. In addition, the current flow can be controlled so that the battery 10 is heated and in standby mode. 4, it is possible to control the flow of electric current to each component of the aerosol generating device 100. .

[0063] The second circuit unit 103 is electrically connected to a charging terminal 107 via an external charging device. The control unit 101 controls the second circuit unit 103 to receive a current from an external charging device. The aerosol generating device detects when the battery is being charged and determines whether the device is in a charging state or a standby state. It can be determined.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the second circuit portion 103 also includes a number of switches. Receive control signals from 101 or control the on / off of multiple switches According to one embodiment, the amount of current for charging or discharging can be controlled by the above. The circuitry 103 includes at least one processor and a memory for storing computer code. The computer code may also include a program for executing the program by at least one processor. When executed, the function of the second circuit unit 103 (for example, switching a number of switches, It may also be configured to perform suspension.

[0065] The first circuit unit 102 can operate by having the current output from the battery applied thereto via the second circuit unit 103. The first circuit unit 102 receives a signal for controlling the heater 105 from the control unit 101, and controls the temperature of the heater 105 by supplying current to the heater 105. For example, the first circuit unit 102 also includes a plurality of switches. The first circuit unit 102 receives a control signal from the control unit 101 and controls the on / off states of the plurality of switches, thereby being able to control the current supplied to the heater 105. According to one embodiment, the first circuit unit 102 also includes at least one processor and a memory for storing computer code. When the computer code is executed by the at least one processor, it causes the functions of the first circuit unit 102 (e.g., switching of a large number of switches, self-suspension, data change) to be performed. Even though the first circuit unit 102 is subordinate to the control unit 101, it is also a component that can actively control its own functions in the same manner as the control unit 101. Thereby, the first circuit unit 102 can actively control the operation of the heater 105. In the heating state, the first circuit unit 102 can transmit an appropriate control signal for heating the air aerosol product substance via the heater. When an abnormality occurs in the control unit 101, the first circuit unit 102 can suspend its own operation. For example, the current flowing through the first circuit unit 102 can be stopped by the first circuit unit 102.

[0066]

[0067] It is also accomplished by a self-blocking method. When an abnormality occurs in the control unit 101, the first circuit unit 102 prevents a safety accident through a self-aborting method that self-aborts its own operation. Even when an abnormality occurs in the control unit 101, a safety accident can be prevented.

[0068] In the first circuit unit 102, an appropriate range of current for controlling the heater 105 must flow in the heating state. If a low current or an overcurrent flows through the first circuit unit 102, it becomes difficult to control the heater 105 according to the target temperature profile. For example, when an abnormality occurs in the first circuit unit 102, the first circuit unit 102 cannot supply the current necessary to heat the aerosol generating substance to the heater. If the heater 105 is not heated, a feedback signal for heating the heater 105 to a predetermined temperature is repeatedly applied, causing an overcurrent to flow through the first circuit unit 102 and a safety accident may occur.

[0069] Conversely, if almost no current flows through the first circuit unit 102, the heater 105 cannot be supplied with the current for heating, making it difficult to sufficiently heat the aerosol generating substance. Therefore, it is necessary to receive the first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit 102 through periodic communication between the control unit 101 and the first circuit unit 102.

[0070] In one embodiment, the first circuit unit 102 also includes a current monitoring circuit that can monitor the current flowing through the first circuit unit 102. The current monitoring circuit is also used to monitor the current for the control unit 101 to determine its operating state.

[0071]

[0072] ​​​​​​​​​​​​The control unit 101 actively controls each hardware component to perform overall control of the aerosol generation device 100. The control unit 101 also corresponds to a controller unit including at least one processor and memory. According to one embodiment, the memory can store computer code, and when the computer code is executed by at least one processor, at least one processor is caused to perform the functions of the control unit 101.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 2, the control unit 101 is responsible for controlling the first circuit unit 102 and the second circuit unit 103. As described above, in the heated state, the control unit 101 can control the first circuit unit 102 so that the temperature of the heater 105 can reach a temperature appropriate for heating the aerosol generating substance.

[0074] Also, in the non-heated state, the control unit 101 controls the second circuit unit 103 so that current is discharged from the battery 104 or the battery 104 is charged depending on the standby state or the charging state.

[0075] In addition, the control unit 101 can determine the operating state of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0076] The control unit 101 monitors the current flowing through the first circuit unit 102, and when the current value is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, determines it as the heated state, and when it is less than the predetermined value, determines it as the non-heated state. The non-heated state also includes the

[0077] charging state or the standby state. The control unit 101 determines whether the second circuit unit 103 is Based on this, the operating state of the aerosol generating device 100 can be determined to be either the charging state or the standby state.

[0078] For example, the second circuit unit 103 is also connected to an external charging device via the charging terminal 107 in order to be supplied with current. The current supplied from the charging terminal 107 flows through the second circuit unit 103, and the control unit 101 can sense the current or electrical signal flowing through the second circuit unit 103 and determine that the operating state is the charging state. Conversely, if the control unit 101 cannot sense the current flowing through the second circuit unit 103 via the charging terminal 107, the control unit 101 can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the standby state.

[0079] In addition, the control unit 101 can receive the first current amount data and the second current amount data through communication with the first circuit unit 102 and the second circuit unit 103, and periodically and repeatedly determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generating device 100 based on the first circuit unit 102 and the second circuit unit 103.

[0080] Specifically, the control unit 101 monitors the current flowing through the first circuit unit, determines the operating state of the aerosol generating device 100, receives the first current amount data or the second current amount data from the first circuit unit or the second circuit unit, and can periodically determine whether an abnormality has occurred.

[0081] For example, when a current suddenly flows through the first circuit unit where no current was flowing, the control unit 101 can also determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state, receive the first current amount data, and determine whether an abnormality has occurred. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[0082] When the control unit 101 confirms that the first current amount data received from the first circuit unit 102 exceeds a predefined first critical range, or the second current amount data received from the second circuit unit 103 exceeds a predefined second critical range, it can determine whether an abnormality has occurred. On the other hand, the control unit 101 can receive the temperature data of the heater 105 via the temperature sensor 106 located adjacent to the heater 105. By additionally considering this temperature data when determining the abnormality of the aerosol generator 100, it is possible to more precisely identify which hardware configuration within the aerosol generator 100 has caused the abnormality in the aerosol generator 100. For example, if the first current amount data acquired by the control unit 101 is within the first critical range (e.g., within the normal range), but the temperature data is not within the pre-designed temperature profile (e.g., not within the normal range), the control unit 101 can determine that the cause of the abnormality lies in the heater 105 or the sensor 106. At this time, the control unit 101 can give a warning to inform the user of the failure of the heater 105 or the sensor 106.

[0083] As another example, in the case of induction heating, even if the first current amount data of the first circuit unit 102 is within the normal range, if it is lower than the normal range, it can inform the user that it is due to an abnormality such as a disconnection in the coil. The fact that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generator 100 means that within the aerosol generator 100 When determining the abnormality of the aerosol generator 100, by additionally considering this temperature data, it is possible to more precisely identify which hardware configuration within the aerosol generator 100 has caused the abnormality in the aerosol generator 100. For example, if the first current amount data acquired by the control unit 101 is within the first critical range (e.g., within the normal range), but the temperature data is not within the pre-designed temperature profile (e.g., not within the normal range), the control unit 101 can determine that the cause of the abnormality lies in the heater 105 or the sensor 106. At this time, the control unit 101 can give a warning to inform the user of the failure of the heater 105 or the sensor 106. For example, if the first current amount data acquired by the control unit 101 is within the first critical range (e.g., within the normal range), but the temperature data is not within the pre-designed temperature profile (e.g., not within the normal range), the control unit 101 can determine that the cause of the abnormality lies in the heater 105 or the sensor 106. At this time, the control unit 101 can give a warning to inform the user of the failure of the heater 105 or the sensor 106.

[0084] For example, if the first current amount data acquired by the control unit 101 is within the first critical range (e.g., within the normal range), but the temperature data is not within the pre-designed temperature profile (e.g., not within the normal range), the control unit 101 can determine that the cause of the abnormality lies in the heater 105 or the sensor 106. At this time, the control unit 101 can give a warning to inform the user of the failure of the heater 105 or the sensor 106. For example, if the first current amount data acquired by the control unit 101 is within the first critical range (e.g., within the normal range), but the temperature data is not within the pre-designed temperature profile (e.g., not within the normal range), the control unit 101 can determine that the cause of the abnormality lies in the heater 105 or the sensor 106. At this time, the control unit 101 can give a warning to inform the user of the failure of the heater 105 or the sensor 106. For example, if the first current amount data acquired by the control unit 101 is within the first critical range (e.g., within the normal range), but the temperature data is not within the pre-designed temperature profile (e.g., not within the normal range), the control unit 101 can determine that the cause of the abnormality lies in the heater 105 or the sensor 106. At this time, the control unit 101 can give a warning to inform the user of the failure of the heater 105 or the sensor 106. For example, if the first current amount data acquired by the control unit 101 is within the first critical range (e.g., within the normal range), but the temperature data is not within the pre-designed temperature profile (e.g., not within the normal range), the control unit 101 can determine that the cause of the abnormality lies in the heater 105 or the sensor 106. At this time, the control unit 101 can give a warning to inform the user of the failure of the heater 105 or the sensor 106. For example, if the first current amount data acquired by the control unit 101 is within the first critical range (e.g., within the normal range), but the temperature data is not within the pre-designed temperature profile (e.g., not within the normal range), the control unit 101 can determine that the cause of the abnormality lies in the heater 105 or the sensor 106. At this time, the control unit 101 can give a warning to inform the user of the failure of the heater 105 or the sensor 106.

[0085] For example, in the case of induction heating, even if the first current amount data of the first circuit unit 102 is within the normal range, if it is lower than the normal range, it can inform the user that it is due to an abnormality such as a disconnection in the coil. For example, in the case of induction heating, even if the first current amount data of the first circuit unit 102 is within the normal range, if it is lower than the normal range, it can inform the user that it is due to an abnormality such as a disconnection in the coil. For example, in the case of induction heating, even if the first current amount data of the first circuit unit 102 is within the normal range, if it is lower than the normal range, it can inform the user that it is due to an abnormality such as a disconnection in the coil.

[0086] The fact that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generator 100 means that within the aerosol generator 100 means that at least one or more of the hardware components do not operate or malfunction is possible.

[0087] When it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in some or all of the components of the aerosol generator 100, the control unit 101 can issue various measures. For example, when it is determined that there is an abnormality in each component, the control unit 101 can give a warning notification to inform the user of the abnormality, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the first circuit unit 102, cut off the current flowing through the first circuit unit 102 to stop the operation, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the second circuit unit 103, cut off the current flowing through the second circuit unit 103. Also, when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the entire aerosol generator 100, the entire aerosol generator can be reset.

[0088] Since such a series of processes are periodically and repeatedly performed by the control unit 101, it is possible to prevent the abnormal occurrence state of the aerosol generator from being continuously left unattended. For example, when it is determined that there is an abnormality in each component, the control unit 101 can give a warning notification to inform the user of the abnormality, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the first circuit unit 102, cut off the current flowing through the first circuit unit 102 to stop the operation, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the second circuit unit 103, cut off the current flowing through the second circuit unit 103. Also, when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the entire aerosol generator 100, the entire aerosol generator can be reset. 02 to stop the operation, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the second circuit unit 103, the current flowing through the second circuit unit 103 can be cut off. Also, when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the entire aerosol generator 100, the entire aerosol generator can be reset. For example, when it is determined that there is an abnormality in each component, the control unit 101 can give a warning notification to inform the user of the abnormality, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the first circuit unit 102, cut off the current flowing through the first circuit unit 102 to stop the operation, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the second circuit unit 103, cut off the current flowing through the second circuit unit 103. Also, when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the entire aerosol generator 100, the entire aerosol generator can be reset. For example, when it is determined that there is an abnormality in each component, the control unit 101 can give a warning notification to inform the user of the abnormality, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the first circuit unit 102, cut off the current flowing through the first circuit unit 102 to stop the operation, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the second circuit unit 103, cut off the current flowing through the second circuit unit 103. Also, when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the entire aerosol generator 100, the entire aerosol generator can be reset. For example, when it is determined that there is an abnormality in each component, the control unit 101 can give a warning notification to inform the user of the abnormality, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the first circuit unit 102, cut off the current flowing through the first circuit unit 102 to stop the operation, or when it is determined that there is an abnormality in the second circuit unit 103, cut off the current flowing through the second circuit unit 103. Also, when it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the entire aerosol generator 100, the entire aerosol generator can be reset.

[0089] Since such a series of processes are periodically and repeatedly performed by the control unit 101, it is possible to prevent the abnormal occurrence state of the aerosol generator from being continuously left unattended. Since such a series of processes are periodically and repeatedly performed by the control unit 101, it is possible to prevent the abnormal occurrence state of the aerosol generator from being continuously left unattended.

[0090] Figures 3 to 5 are drawings illustrating examples in which a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generator. are.

[0091] Referring to Figure 3, the aerosol generator 100 includes a battery 104, a control unit 101, and a heater 105. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the aerosol generator 100 further includes an atomizer 140. Also, a cigarette 200 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generator 100. Referring to Figure 3, the aerosol generator 100 includes a battery 104, a control unit 101, and a heater 105. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the aerosol generator 100 further includes an atomizer 140. Also, a cigarette 200 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generator 100. Referring to Figure 3, the aerosol generator 100 includes a battery 104, a control unit 101, and a heater 105. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the aerosol generator 100 further includes an atomizer 140. Also, a cigarette 200 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generator 100. Referring to Figure 3, the aerosol generator 100 includes a battery 104, a control unit 101, and a heater 105. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the aerosol generator 100 further includes an atomizer 140. Also, a cigarette 200 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generator 100.

[0092] The aerosol generating device 100 illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5 includes the configuration according to the present embodiment. However, in addition to the components illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5, it will be understood by those skilled in the art in the technical field related to the present embodiment that the aerosol generating device 100 may further include other general-purpose components.

[0093] Also, FIGS. 3 to 5 illustrate that the aerosol generating device 100 includes the heater 105. However, if necessary, the heater 105 may be omitted.

[0094] FIG. 4 illustrates that the battery 104, the control unit 101, and the heater 105 are arranged in a row. Also, FIG. 4 illustrates that the battery 104, the control unit 101, the vaporizer 140, and the heater 105 are arranged in a row. Further, FIG. 5 illustrates that the vaporizer 140 and the heater 105 are arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 100 is not limited to that illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5. In other words, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 100, the arrangement of the battery 104, the control unit 101, the heater 105, and the vaporizer 140 may be changed.

[0095] When the cigarette 200 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating device 100 can operate the heater 105 and / or the vaporizer 140 to generate aerosol from the cigarette 200 and / or the vaporizer 140. The aerosol generated by the heater 105 and / or the vaporizer 140 passes through the cigarette 200 and is transmitted to the user.

[0096] Optionally, when the cigarette 200 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating device 100 can still heat the heater 105.

[0097] The battery 104 supplies the power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the battery 104 can supply power so that the heater 105 or the vaporizer 140 can be heated, and can supply the power necessary for the operation of the control unit 101. Also, the battery 104 can supply the power necessary for the operation of a display, a sensor, a motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 100.

[0098] The control unit 101 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. Specifically, the control unit 101 controls not only the battery 104, the heater 105, and the vaporizer 140, but also the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 100. Also, the control unit 101 can check the state of each component of the aerosol generating device 100 and determine whether the aerosol generating device 100 is in an operable state.

[0099]

[0099] The control unit 101 includes at least one processor. The processor is also embodied by an array of a large number of logic gates, and is also embodied by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program that can be executed by the microprocessor is stored. Also, those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the present embodiment belongs will be able to understand that it can also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0100] The heater 105 can be heated by the power supplied from the battery 104. For example, if a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the heater 105 can be located outside the cigarette. Therefore, the heated heater 105 can raise the temperature of the aerosol generating substance inside the cigarette.

[0101] The heater 105 is also an electric resistance heater. For example, the heater 105 includes an electrically conductive track, and when an electric current flows through the electrically conductive track, the heater 1 0 5 can be heated. However, the heater 105 is not limited to the above example, and can be applicable without limitation as long as it can be heated to the desired temperature. Here, the desired

[0102] temperature is either the one preset in the aerosol generating device 100 or set by the user to the desired temperature. On the other hand, as another example, the heater 105 is also an induction heating heater. Specifically, the heater 105 also includes an electrically

[0103] conductive coil for heating the cigarette by induction heating, and the cigarette also includes a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heating heater.

[0104] For example, the heater 105 can also include a tubular heating element, a plate - type heating element, a needle - type heating element, or a rod - type It is also arranged outside the cigarette 200. Also, some of the plurality of heaters 105 are arranged to be inserted inside the cigarette 200, and the rest are also arranged outside the cigarette 200. Also, the shape of the heater 105 is not limited to the shape shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, and is also manufactured in various shapes.

[0105] The vaporizer 140 can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can pass through the cigarette 200 and be transmitted to the user. In other words, the vapor aerosol generated by the vaporizer 140 can move along the air flow path of the aerosol generating device 100, and the air flow path is configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 140 passes through the cigarette and is transmitted to the user.

[0106] For example, the vaporizer 140 includes a liquid storage part, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element, but is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage part, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element are also included in the aerosol generating device 100 as independent modules.

[0107] The liquid storage part can store the liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition is a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance containing a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage part is also manufactured so as to be detachable / attachable from / to the vaporizer 140, and is also manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 140.

[0108] For example, the liquid composition also includes water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The fragrance includes menthol, peppermint, spearmint ​​​​​It also includes mint oil, various fruit fragrance components, etc., but is not limited to them. The fragrance agent contains components that can provide users with diverse fragrances or flavors. The vitamin mixture is also a mixture in which at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E is mixed, but is not limited to them. Also, the liquid composition contains aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol. The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition in the liquid storage part to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means can also be a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, porous ceramic, but is not limited to them.

[0109] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition transferred by the liquid transfer means. For example, the heating element can also be a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited to them. Also, the heating element is also composed of a conductive filament such as nichrome wire and is arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transfer means. The heating element is heated by current supply and transfers heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, and can heat the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0110] For example, the vaporizer 140 is also called a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited to them.

[0111]

[0112]

[0113] ​​​​​​​​​​​​On the one hand, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a battery 104, a control unit 101, a heater 105, and in addition to the vaporizer 140, it may further include a general configuration. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Also, the aerosol generating device 100 includes at least one sensor (such as a puff sensing sensor, a temperature sensing sensor, a cigarette insertion sensing sensor, etc.). Moreover, the aerosol generating device 100 is also fabricated with a structure that allows external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out even when the cigarette 200 is inserted.

[0114] Although not shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the aerosol generating device 100 can also constitute a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle is also used for charging the battery 104 of the aerosol generating device 100. Or, the heater 105 can be heated when the cradle and the aerosol generating device 100 are coupled.

[0115] The cigarette 200 is also similar to a general combustion-type cigarette. For example, the cigarette 200 is also divided into a first part containing the aerosol generating substance and a second part containing a filter, etc. Or, the second part of the cigarette 200 may also contain the aerosol generating substance. For example, the aerosol generating substance in the form of granules or capsules is also inserted into the second part.

[0116] Inside the aerosol generating device 100, the entire first part is inserted, and the second part can be exposed to the outside. Or, only a part of the first part is inserted inside the aerosol and the whole of the first part and a part of the second part can be inserted. The user can inhale the aerosol with the second part in the mouth state. At this time, the aerosol is generated by the external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol passes through the second part and is transmitted to the user's mouth.

[0117] As an example, the external air also flows in through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 100 and / or the size of the air passage can also be adjusted by the user. Thereby, the atomization amount, smoking feeling, etc. can be adjusted by the user. As another example, the external air flows into the inside of the cigarette 200 through at least one hole formed on the surface

[0118] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an example of an aerosol generation system using an induction heating method according to an embodiment.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a battery 104, a control unit 101, an induction coil 601, and a susceptor 602. Further, at least a part of the cigarette 200 can be accommodated in the cavity 603 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0120] In the aerosol generating device 100 illustrated in FIG. 6, the components related to this embodiment are illustrated. Therefore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art in the technical field related to this embodiment that other general-purpose components may also be further included in the aerosol generating device 100.

[0121] An induction coil 601 may be positioned around the cavity 603. FIG. Although it is shown to be disposed so as to surround the susceptor 602 and the cavity 603, However, the present invention is not limited to the above.

[0122] When the cigarette 200 is accommodated in the cavity 603 of the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol The sol generating device 100 has an induction coil 601 that generates an alternating magnetic field. The induction coil 601 can be powered to generate the induction coil 601. The alternating magnetic field generated by the magnetic field penetrates the susceptor 602, causing the susceptor 602 to heat up. The aerosol-generating material within the cigarette 200 is heated by the susceptor 602. By heating, an aerosol can be generated. The generated aerosol can be The information passes through port 200 and is transmitted to the user.

[0123] The battery 104 provides power for the aerosol generating device 100 to operate. For example, the battery 104 can generate an AC magnetic field by the induction coil 601. In this way, power can be supplied to the control unit 101 in order to operate the control unit 101. The battery 104 can be connected to a disk provided in the aerosol generating device 100. It can supply the power necessary for play, sensors, motors, etc. to operate.

[0124] The control unit 101 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 100. Specifically, The control unit 101 controls not only the battery 104 and the induction coil 601 but also the aerosol generating device. Controls the operations of other components included in the device 100. Further, the control unit 101 checks the states of the respective components of the aerosol generating device 100 and can also determine whether or not the aerosol generating device 100 is in an operable state.

[0125] The induction coil 601 is also an electrically conductive coil that generates an alternating magnetic field by the electric power supplied from the battery 104. The induction coil 601 is also arranged so as to surround at least a part of the cavity 603. The alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil 601 is also applied to the susceptor 602 arranged at the inner end of the cavity 603.

[0126] The susceptor 602 is heated when the alternating magnetic field generated from the induction coil 601 penetrates it, and is also made of a material containing metal or carbon. For example, the susceptor 602 contains at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum.

[0127] Further, the susceptor 602 contains at least one of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, nickel alloy, metal film, ceramics such as zirconia, transition metals such as nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co), and semimetals such as boron (B) and phosphorus (P). However, the susceptor 602 is not limited to the above examples, and is heated to a desired temperature when an alternating magnetic field is applied. ​​​​​​​​​​​If it is possible, it can apply without limitation. Here, the desired temperature is also the one preset in the aerosol generation device 100 and can also be set to a desired temperature by the user. When the cigarette 200 is accommodated in the cavity 603 of the aerosol generation device 100, the susceptor

[0128] 602 can be located inside the cigarette 200. Therefore, the heated susceptor 602 can raise the temperature of the aerosol generating substance inside the cigarette 200.

[0129] FIG. 6 shows the susceptor 602 inserted inside the cigarette 200, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the susceptor 602 can also include a tubular heating element, a plate-type heating element, a needle-type heating element or a rod-type heating element, and depending on the form of the heating element, it can heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 200.

[0130] Also, a plurality of susceptors 602 can be arranged in the aerosol generation device 100. At this time the plurality of susceptors 602 can also be arranged to be inserted inside the cigarette 200 and also arranged outside the cigarette 200. Also, some of the plurality of susceptors 602 are arranged to be inserted inside the cigarette 200, and the rest are also arranged outside the cigarette 200. Also, the shape of the susceptor 602 is not limited to the shape shown in FIG. 6 and can also be manufactured in various shapes.

[0131] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, an example of the cigarette 200 will be described.

[0132] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an example of a cigarette.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 7, the cigarette 200 includes a tobacco rod 210 and a filter rod 22 0. The first portion 210 described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5 includes the tobacco rod 210 , and the second portion 220 includes the filter rod 220.

[0134] In FIG. 7, the filter rod 220 is illustrated as a single segment, but it is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 220 may be composed of a plurality of segments. For example, the filter rod 220 may include a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering a predetermined component contained in the aerosol. Further, if necessary, the filter rod 220 may further include at least one segment for performing other functions.

[0135] The cigarette 200 is also packaged by at least one wrapper 240. The wrapper 2 40 may be formed with at least one hole through which external air flows in or internal gas flows out. As an example, the cigarette 200 may be packaged by one wrapper 240. As another example, the cigarette 200 may be superposed and packaged by two or more wrappers 240. For example, the tobacco rod 210 may be packaged by the first wrapper, and the filter rod 220 may be packaged by the second wrapper. Then, the tobacco rod 210 and the filter rod 220 packaged by individual wrappers are combined, and the entire cigarette 200 may be further packaged by the third wrapper. If each of the tobacco rod 210 or the filter rod 220 is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment may be individually wrapped It is also wrapped by paper. And the segments wrapped by the individual wrappers are combined and the entire cigarette 200 thus combined is further wrapped by another wrapper.

[0136] The tobacco rod 210 contains aerosol product substances. For example, the aerosol product substances include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol and oleyl alcohol, but are not limited thereto. Also, the tobacco rod 210 may contain other additive substances such as flavoring agents, wetting agents and / or organic acids. Also, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant is added to the tobacco rod 210 by spraying it onto the tobacco rod 210.

[0137] The tobacco rod 210 is made in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 210 is made by a sheet (sheet) or by a strand. Also, the tobacco rod 210 is made by shredded tobacco in which the tobacco sheet is finely cut. Also, the tobacco rod 210 is surrounded by a heat-conductive substance. For example, the heat-conductive substance is a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the heat-conductive substance surrounding the tobacco rod 210 can evenly disperse the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 210 and improve the heat conductivity added to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the tobacco flavor. Also, by surrounding the tobacco rod 210 ​​​​​The heat-conducting material that surrounds can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. At this time, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 210 further includes an additional susceptor in addition to the heat-conducting material that surrounds it. The filter rod 220 is also a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod 220. For example, the filter rod 220 can also be a cylindrical rod or a tube-shaped rod that includes a hollow inside. Also, the filter rod 220 can be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 220 is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments is also fabricated in a different shape.

[0138] The filter rod 220 is also made to produce a flavor. As an example, a flavoring liquid is sprayed onto the filter rod 220, and separate fibers coated with it are also inserted inside the filter rod 220. The filter rod 220 is also made to produce a flavor. As an example, a flavoring liquid is sprayed onto the filter rod 220, and separate fibers coated with it are also inserted inside the filter rod 220. The filter rod 220 is also made to produce a flavor. As an example, a flavoring liquid is sprayed onto the filter rod 220, and separate fibers coated with it are also inserted inside the filter rod 220. The filter rod 220 is also made to produce a flavor. As an example, a flavoring liquid is sprayed onto the filter rod 220, and separate fibers coated with it are also inserted inside the filter rod 220. The filter rod 220 is also made to produce a flavor. As an example, a flavoring liquid is sprayed onto the filter rod 220, and separate fibers coated with it are also inserted inside the filter rod 220.

[0139] The filter rod 220 is also made to produce a flavor. As an example, a flavoring liquid is sprayed onto the filter rod 220, and separate fibers coated with it are also inserted inside the filter rod 220. The filter rod 220 is also made to produce a flavor. As an example, a flavoring liquid is sprayed onto the filter rod 220, and separate fibers coated with it are also inserted inside the filter rod 220. The filter rod 220 is also made to produce a flavor. As an example, a flavoring liquid is sprayed onto the filter rod 220, and separate fibers coated with it are also inserted inside the filter rod 220.

[0140] Also, the filter rod 220 may include at least one capsule 230. Here, the capsule 230 can also perform a function of generating a flavor and can also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 230 can also be a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is covered and wrapped with a film. The capsule 230 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited to them. Also, the filter rod 220 may include at least one capsule 230. Here, the capsule 230 can also perform a function of generating a flavor and can also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 230 can also be a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is covered and wrapped with a film. The capsule 230 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited to them. Also, the filter rod 220 may include at least one capsule 230. Here, the capsule 230 can also perform a function of generating a flavor and can also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 230 can also be a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is covered and wrapped with a film. The capsule 230 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited to them. Also, the filter rod 220 may include at least one capsule 230. Here, the capsule 230 can also perform a function of generating a flavor and can also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 230 can also be a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is covered and wrapped with a film. The capsule 230 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited to them. Also, the filter rod 220 may include at least one capsule 230. Here, the capsule 230 can also perform a function of generating a flavor and can also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 230 can also be a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is covered and wrapped with a film. The capsule 230 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited to them.

[0141] If the filter rod 220 includes a segment for cooling the aerosol, the cooling segment is also manufactured by a polymer material or a biodegradable polymer material. For example, If the filter rod 220 includes a segment for cooling the aerosol, the cooling segment is also manufactured by a polymer material or a biodegradable polymer material. For example, The cooling segment is not limited to being made of only pure polylactic acid. Alternatively, the cooling segment can also be made by a cellulose acetate filter with a plurality of holes. However, the cooling segment is not limited to the above examples, and if it can perform the function of cooling the aerosol, it can be used without limitation.

[0142] On the other hand, although not shown in FIG. 7, a cigarette 200 according to an embodiment further includes a front filter. The front filter is located on one side of the tobacco rod 210 opposite to the filter rod 220. The front filter can prevent the tobacco rod from detaching externally, and during smoking, it can prevent the aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 210 from flowing into the aerosol generating device 100 (FIGS. 3 to 6).

[0143] FIG. 8 is a flowchart for determining device abnormality based on the first current data or the second current data according to an embodiment.

[0144] Referring to step 810, the control unit (for example, the control unit 101) can determine whether the current operating state of the aerosol generating device (for example, the aerosol generating device 100) is in a heating state or a non-heating state. When the control unit determines that a current of a value equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit (for example, the first circuit unit 102), it can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is in a heating state.

[0145] When the control unit senses that a current less than the predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, the operating state​​​​​​​​ It can be determined that the state is the non-heating state.

[0146] As one embodiment, the aerosol generating device further includes a cigarette insertion sensor that senses the insertion of a cigarette. After the cigarette insertion sensor senses the insertion of a cigarette, it transmits a sensing signal to the control unit, and the control unit, in response to receiving the sensing signal, controls the second circuit unit (for example, the second circuit unit 103) so that the current of the battery (for example, the battery 104) is applied to the first circuit unit. When a current equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, after the control unit senses this, it can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state. After the cigarette insertion sensor senses the insertion of a cigarette, it transmits a sensing signal to the control unit, and the control unit, in response to receiving the sensing signal, controls the second circuit unit (for example, the second circuit unit 103) so that the current of the battery (for example, the battery 104) is applied to the first circuit unit. When a current equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, after the control unit senses this, it can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state. After the cigarette insertion sensor senses the insertion of a cigarette, it transmits a sensing signal to the control unit, and the control unit, in response to receiving the sensing signal, controls the second circuit unit (for example, the second circuit unit 103) so that the current of the battery (for example, the battery 104) is applied to the first circuit unit. When a current equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, after the control unit senses this, it can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state. After the cigarette insertion sensor senses the insertion of a cigarette, it transmits a sensing signal to the control unit, and the control unit, in response to receiving the sensing signal, controls the second circuit unit (for example, the second circuit unit 103) so that the current of the battery (for example, the battery 104) is applied to the first circuit unit. When a current equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, after the control unit senses this, it can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state. After the cigarette insertion sensor senses the insertion of a cigarette, it transmits a sensing signal to the control unit, and the control unit, in response to receiving the sensing signal, controls the second circuit unit (for example, the second circuit unit 103) so that the current of the battery (for example, the battery 104) is applied to the first circuit unit. When a current equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, after the control unit senses this, it can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state. After the cigarette insertion sensor senses the insertion of a cigarette, it transmits a sensing signal to the control unit, and the control unit, in response to receiving the sensing signal, controls the second circuit unit (for example, the second circuit unit 103) so that the current of the battery (for example, the battery 104) is applied to the first circuit unit. When a current equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, after the control unit senses this, it can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state.

[0147] As another embodiment, the aerosol generating device further includes a user interface that receives user input. The control unit can receive an input signal from the user interface. The control unit, in response to receiving the input signal, controls the second circuit unit so that the current of the battery is applied to the first circuit unit. When a current equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, the control unit senses this and can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state. The control unit, in response to receiving the input signal, controls the second circuit unit so that the current of the battery is applied to the first circuit unit. When a current equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, the control unit senses this and can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state. The control unit, in response to receiving the input signal, controls the second circuit unit so that the current of the battery is applied to the first circuit unit. When a current equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, the control unit senses this and can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state. The control unit, in response to receiving the input signal, controls the second circuit unit so that the current of the battery is applied to the first circuit unit. When a current equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit unit, the control unit senses this and can determine that the operating state of the aerosol generating device is the heating state.

[0148] If the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the heating state, it proceeds to step 820. If the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the non-heating state, it proceeds to step 840. If the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the heating state, it proceeds to step 820. If the operating state of the aerosol generating device is determined to be the non-heating state, it proceeds to step 840.

[0149] Referring to step 820, when the operating state is the heating state, the control unit can receive first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit. Referring to step 820, when the operating state is the heating state, the control unit can receive first current amount data flowing through the first circuit unit.

[0150] When the operating state of the aerosol generator is determined to be the heating state, the control unit can determine that the main communication target is the first circuit unit. In the heating state, in order to determine the occurrence of an abnormality in the aerosol generator by the first circuit unit, the control unit can periodically receive the first current amount data of the first circuit unit.

[0151] Referring to step 830, when the operating state is the heating state, the control unit can additionally receive temperature data from a temperature sensor (for example, temperature sensor 106). This step is an optional step, and when determining the occurrence of an abnormality in the aerosol generator, the temperature data can be additionally considered.

[0152] Referring to step 840, when the operating state is the non-heating state, the control unit acquires the second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit. When the operating state of the aerosol generator is determined to be the non-heating state, the control unit can determine that the main communication target is the second circuit unit. In the non-heating state, in order to determine the occurrence of an abnormality in the aerosol generator by the second circuit unit, the control unit can periodically receive the second current amount data of the second circuit unit.

[0153] Referring to step 850, when the operating state is the heating state, based on the first current amount data, it is possible to determine the occurrence of an abnormality in the aerosol generator.

[0154] Specifically, compare the first current amount data with the first critical range, which is the current amount range expected in the heating state. When the first current amount data is outside the first critical range, it can be determined that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generator.

[0155] ​​​​​​​ As one embodiment, the control unit can determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generation device based on the first current amount data and the temperature data. For example, the control unit receives the temperature data of the heater in addition from the temperature sensor, and in the heating state, it can determine which of the first circuit unit and the heater has an abnormality.

[0156] If the temperature data is not considered together, it is difficult to know whether an abnormality has occurred in the heater, and it may only be possible to know whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit. However, by adding and considering the temperature data, it is possible to more precisely determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the heating state.

[0157] Referring to step 850, when the operating state is the non-heating state, based on the second current amount data, it is possible to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generation device. Specifically, the second current amount data is compared with a second critical range which is the current amount range expected in the non-heating state, and when the second current amount data is outside the second critical range, it can be determined that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generation device.

[0158] The control unit can periodically monitor the second current amount data whether the current state of the aerosol generation device is the charging state or the standby state. The second critical ranges of the second current amount data for the charging state and the standby state are also specified to be different.

[0159] For example, in the charging state, since current is supplied via the charging terminal, compared with the standby state, the charge ​​​In the powered state, it can be expected that more current will flow through the second circuit section. Therefore, the second critical range can be specified higher in the charged state than in the standby state.

[0160] Thus, the aerosol generating device receives the second current amount data periodically not only in the charged state but also in the standby state, and by comparing it with the second critical range specified to be suitable for the standby state, safety can be prevented from potential dangerous accidents in all operating states.

[0161] In step 850, not only the first critical range or the second critical range is simply compared with the first current amount data or the second current amount data respectively, but as described in the part of FIG. 2, temperature data can be additionally considered.

[0162] For example, although the temperature data is within the normal range, if an overcurrent flows through the first circuit section, the first current amount data may exceed the first critical range, which may mean that the first circuit section malfunctions.

[0163] As another example, if the first current amount data is within the first critical range but the temperature data cannot reach the heating temperature range, it means that the heater fails to heat even though sufficient current is applied to the first circuit section, which may mean a malfunction of the heater.

[0164] As yet another example, in the case of induction heating, even if the first circuit section operates normally and the first current amount data is included in the first critical range, if the temperature of the susceptor does not rise, it may also mean that the induction coil is broken. ​​​​​​​​​​​​

[0165] As yet another example, even though the second circuit unit is in a charged state, if the battery is not charged and only the current consumption increases, this may mean a malfunction of the second circuit unit.

[0166] As yet another example, even though the second circuit unit is in a standby state, if more current than necessary flows from the battery and an overcurrent greater than necessary flows through the second circuit unit in the standby state, this may also be meant. That is, the second current amount data exceeds the second critical range, which may mean a malfunction of the second circuit unit.

[0167] Referring to step 860, when the control unit determines an aerosol generator abnormality has occurred through the series of processes, it can command various measures such as aerosol generator reset, first circuit unit operation stop, battery current cutoff, or user warning notification.

[0168] Specifically, in the heating state, if an overcurrent flows through the first circuit unit, the control unit can cut off the electrical connection between the second circuit unit or the battery so that no current can be applied to the first circuit unit to stop the operation of the first circuit unit.

[0169] Or, when an abnormality occurs in the control unit itself, it includes initializing the states of all hardware components inside the aerosol generator to reset the aerosol generator.

[0170] Or, in the non - heating state, if an overcurrent flows through the second circuit unit, the control unit can cut off the electrical connection between the battery or the charging terminal so that no current can be applied to the second circuit unit and block the current from flowing through the second circuit unit.

[0171] In addition, the aerosol generating device also gives a warning notification to the user. It further includes a user interface, an LED (Light Emitting Diode), or a vibration motor in the aerosol generating device, and shows a warning display via the user interface, or includes flashing of the LED, or causing vibration to notify the warning. However, it is not limited thereto, and other methods are further included in addition to the exemplified notification methods described above, which can be understood by those skilled in the art in the technical field related to this embodiment. Specifically, in the heating state, when the heater overheats even though the first current amount data corresponds to the specified first critical range, the control unit cuts off the current flowing through the first circuit unit so that the first circuit unit no longer heats the heater, and can control the second circuit unit, and can give a heater overheat warning notification to the user. In addition, when the first current amount data of the first circuit unit exceeds the first critical range even though the temperature of the heater does not rise, the control unit can stop the operation of the first circuit unit. In the case of induction heating, when an overcurrent is applied to the induction coil even though no induction current is generated, a disconnection or abnormality of the induction coil can be notified to the user. In addition, in the charging state, when the battery is not charged normally even though the second current amount data corresponds to the specified second critical range, an abnormality has occurred in the battery.

[0172]

[0173]

[0174] ​​​​​​​​​​It can be determined and a warning can be given to notify the occurrence of a battery failure.

[0175] Alternatively, when the aerosol generating device is in a charged state and the second current amount data does not fall within the specified second critical range, or when the aerosol generating device is in a standby state and the second current amount data does not fall within a second critical range specified as different from the charged state, it can be determined that an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit unit and a warning notification can be given to notify the occurrence of a failure in the second circuit unit.

[0176] Also, when the second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit in the charged state has a value much lower than the second critical range, it means that the charging is not being done correctly. On the contrary, when the second current amount data has a very high value, problems may occur in the battery due to overcharging. To prevent this, the aerosol generating device can cut off the current flowing from the second circuit unit to the battery

[0177] In addition, when the aerosol generating device is not being charged and only the second current amount data is measured as being high, the aerosol generating device can give a battery replacement notification signal to the user or cut off the current flowing from the charging terminal to the second circuit unit

[0178] Also, when the second current amount data flowing through the second circuit unit in the standby state is higher than the second critical range, more current than necessary will flow from the battery to other hardware components of the aerosol generating device including the control unit, the first circuit unit, or the heater. Therefore, the aerosol generating device can cut off the current flowing from the second circuit unit to other components or give a failure notification signal of the second circuit unit to the user

[0179] ​​​​​​​​​ Figure 9 is a flowchart for determining whether there is an apparatus abnormality based on communication results according to an embodiment. It is.

[0180] Referring to step 900 means that the aerosol generating device is operating normally, and it also applies when there is no abnormality in periodic current amount monitoring or communication monitoring via data. It also applies.

[0181] Referring to step 910, the control unit can determine whether the current operating state is a heating state or a non- heating state. Whether it is a heating state or a non-heating state is determined by the control unit as described above by referring to step 920. If the operating state is a heating state, the control unit can input first data to the first circuit unit. If there is no abnormality in the control unit, the first data is input to the first circuit unit, and when an abnormality occurs, the first data is not input to the first circuit unit. Referring to step 920, if the operating state is a heating state, the control unit can input first data to the first circuit unit. If there is no abnormality in the control unit, the first data is input to the first circuit unit, and when an abnormality occurs, the first data is not input to the first circuit unit. Referring to step 920, if the operating state is a heating state, the control unit can input first data to the first circuit unit. If there is no abnormality in the control unit, the first data is input to the first circuit unit, and when an abnormality occurs, the first data is not input to the first circuit unit. Referring to step 920, if the operating state is a heating state, the control unit can input first data to the first circuit unit. If there is no abnormality in the control unit, the first data is input to the first circuit unit, and when an abnormality occurs, the first data is not input to the first circuit unit. Referring to step 920, if the operating state is a heating state, the control unit can input first data to the first circuit unit. If there is no abnormality in the control unit, the first data is input to the first circuit unit, and when an abnormality occurs, the first data is not input to the first circuit unit.

[0182] Referring to step 930, after the control unit inputs the first data to the first circuit unit, after a certain period of time has passed, the second data can be read from the first circuit unit. If the first circuit unit is operating normally, after receiving the first data from the control unit and after a certain period of time has passed, the first data can be changed to the second data. The detailed content related thereto will be described later with reference to FIG. 10. Referring to step 930, after the control unit inputs the first data to the first circuit unit, after a certain period of time has passed, the second data can be read from the first circuit unit. If the first circuit unit is operating normally, after receiving the first data from the control unit and after a certain period of time has passed, the first data can be changed to the second data. The detailed content related thereto will be described later with reference to FIG. 10. Referring to step 930, after the control unit inputs the first data to the first circuit unit, after a certain period of time has passed, the second data can be read from the first circuit unit. If the first circuit unit is operating normally, after receiving the first data from the control unit and after a certain period of time has passed, the first

[0183] Referring to step 940, the control unit can compare whether the first data and the second data are the same. If they are the same, it moves to step 950, and if they are not the same, since the first circuit unit has changed the first data to the second data, the first Referring to step 940, the control unit can compare whether the first data and the second data are the same. If they are the same, it moves to step 950, and if they are not the same, since the first circuit unit has changed the first data to the second data, the first Referring to step 940, the control unit can compare whether the first data and the second data are the same. If they are the same, it moves to step 950, and if they are not the same, since the first circuit unit has changed the first data to the second data, the first It is determined that the circuit section is operating normally, and the process returns to step 900. That is, when the first data and the second data are not the same, it is understood that both the control section and the first circuit section are operating normally. This can also be understood.

[0184] Referring to step 950, the fact that the first data and the second data are the same can be understood as being because the first circuit section cannot change the first data to the second data. Thereby, the control section determines that an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit section and can stop the operation of the first circuit section.

[0185] Referring to step 960, in step 920, the reason why the control section could not input the first data to the first circuit section is considered to be due to a malfunction of the control section, and it is also determined that it is due to the occurrence of an abnormality in the control section.

[0186] When an abnormality occurs in the control section, the first circuit section cannot receive the command of the control section and stop the operation, so the first circuit section can stop its own operation and prevent safety accidents such as heater overheating or overcurrent in the first circuit section.

[0187] Steps 970 to 990 can also be advanced in the same manner as the non-heating state portion (steps 840, step 850, and step 860) of the flowchart in FIG. 8.

[0188] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the communication method between the control section and the first circuit section according to an embodiment. This is a diagram.

[0189] The control section 101 periodically inputs (writes) the first data 1020 to the first circuit section 102 (1010). Both the control section 101 and the first circuit section 102 actively perform control functions. This is the case. However, the control unit 101 and the first circuit unit 102 also have the relationship of a master device and a slave (slave) device.

[0190] In performing one task, the master device becomes the main body of the operation and can control other slave devices. On the other hand, the slave device belongs to the master device and can perform operations upon receiving instructions from the master device.

[0191] That is, the control unit 101 can control the first circuit unit 102, but the first circuit unit 102 cannot control the control unit 101. For example, the control unit 101 can input data (1010) to the first circuit unit 102 or read data (1050) from the first circuit unit 102, but the first circuit unit 102 cannot input data to the control unit 101 or read data from the control unit 101.

[0192] The first data 1020 is also data used to periodically check whether communication with the first circuit unit 102 is correct. The first circuit unit 102 that has received the first data 1020 transmitted from the control unit 101 can change the data (1030) with the second data 1040 that is different from the first data 1020.

[0193] Such a data change (1030) process is also a process for the control unit 101 to subsequently read it ( 1050) and determine whether it is the same as the first data 1020.

[0194] The data change (1030) method by the first circuit section 102 is called the toggle method For example, the input data is changed via the toggle method to other data that differs by only 1 bit The control unit 101 continuously compares whether the changed data is the same as the input data, and can simply confirm with low power consumption whether the communication is correct among each circuit That is, if the control unit 101 is operating normally without any abnormality, the control unit 101 can periodically input the first data 1020 to the first circuit section 102 (1010). When an abnormality occurs in the control unit 101, since the first circuit section 102 does not receive the first data 1020, it is possible to indirectly confirm whether an abnormality has occurred in the control unit 101 via the first circuit section 102

[0195] Conversely, if the first circuit section 102 is operating normally without any abnormality, the first circuit section 102 must be periodically data-changed (1030) to the second data 1040 that is different from before the first data 1020 is changed (in FIG. 10, the second data is expressed as S2, but if the data change fails, the second data may mean substantially the same data as the first data ). Whether the first circuit section 102 correctly performs the data change (1030) can be indirectly confirmed by the control unit 101 reading the data from the first circuit section 102 (1050), comparing the first data 102 0 with the second data 1040, and confirming whether the two are the same

[0196] If the first circuit section 102 is operating normally without any abnormality, the first circuit section 102 must be periodically data-changed (1030) to the second data 1040 that is different from before the first data 1020 is changed (in FIG. 10, the second data is expressed as S2, but if the data change fails, the second data may mean substantially the same data as the first data ). Whether the first circuit section 102 correctly performs the data change (1030) can be indirectly confirmed by the control unit 101 reading the data from the first circuit section 102 (1050), comparing the first data 102 0 with the second data 1040, and confirming whether the two are the same

[0197] Whether the first circuit section 102 correctly performs the data change (1030) can be indirectly confirmed by the control unit 101 reading the data from the first circuit section 102 (1050), comparing the first data 102 0 with the second data 1040, and confirming whether the two are the same ​​​

[0198] For example, if the first data 1020 and the second data 1040 are different, the first circuit unit 10 2 can be regarded as operating correctly. If both data are different, the first circuit unit 102 has failed in data change (1030), so the first circuit unit 102 is regarded as not operating normally.

[0199] In this way, through the periodic data communication between the control unit 101 and the first circuit unit 102, the control unit 101 and the first circuit unit 102 can confirm whether the other has an abnormality.

[0200] That is, when an abnormality occurs in the control unit 101, the first circuit unit 102 can stop its own operation by itself. When an abnormality occurs in the first circuit unit 102, the control unit 101 can stop the operation of the first circuit unit 102, thereby preventing abnormal overheating or overcurrent generation of the heater 105.

[0201] One embodiment is also embodied in the form of a recording medium including computer-executable instructions such as program modules executed by a computer. The computer readable medium is also any available medium that can be accessed by a computer, including both volatile and non-volatile media, and both removable and non-removable media. Also, the computer readable medium includes both computer recording media and communication media. The computer recording medium is any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data, embodied in volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media. ​It also includes. The communication medium typically includes computer-readable instruction words, data structures , other data of modulated data signals such as program modules, or other transmission mechanisms, and includes any information transmission medium.

[0202] Those skilled in the art in the technical field related to this embodiment will understand that it can also be implemented in a modified form within the scope not deviating from the essential characteristics of the foregoing description. Therefore, the disclosed method should be considered from an illustrative rather than a limiting perspective. The scope of the present invention is shown not in the foregoing description but in the claims, and all differences within the equivalent scope thereof should be construed as being included in the present invention. ​​

Claims

1. In the aerosol generating device, a heater for heating the aerosol generating material; a temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of the heater; a battery for powering the heater; A first circuit portion that controls an operation of the heater; a second circuit section for controlling charging and discharging of the battery; An aerosol generating device comprising: a control unit that determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred due to the heated state based on a first amount of current flowing through the first circuit unit in a heated state and a temperature sensed by the temperature sensor, and that determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred due to the non-heated state based on a second amount of current flowing through the second circuit unit in a non-heated state.

2. The control unit is The aerosol generating device of claim 1, which monitors whether an amount of current greater than a predetermined value flows through the first circuit section, and determines the operating state of the aerosol generating device to be the heated state or the non-heated state based on the monitoring results.

3. The control unit is comparing the first current amount with a first critical range to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit portion; The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a step of comparing the second current amount with a second critical range to determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the second circuit portion.

4. The non-heating state is classified into a charging state and a standby state, The aerosol generating device of claim 3, wherein the second critical range is specified to be different when the operating state of the aerosol generating device is a charging state and when the operating state of the aerosol generating device is a standby state.

5. The control unit is If it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in the aerosol generating device, The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , which generates one of the control commands: a warning notification, stopping operation of the first circuit unit, or resetting the aerosol generating device.

6. The control unit is inputting data into the first circuit section, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, reading the data from the first circuit section; The aerosol generating device described in claim 1, which compares first data input to the first circuit unit with second data read from the first circuit unit, and if the first data and the second data are identical, determines that an abnormality has occurred in the first circuit unit and stops operation of the first circuit unit.

7. The first circuit portion is The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein if the control unit is unable to receive data input, the control unit determines that an abnormality has occurred and self-stops its operation.

8. In the aerosol generating device, an induction coil for inducing a magnetic field into a heating element that heats an aerosol generating material; a battery for powering the induction coil; a first circuit unit that controls the supply of power from the battery to the induction coil; a second circuit section for controlling charging of the battery; An aerosol generating device comprising: a control unit that determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred due to the heated state based on a first amount of current flowing through the first circuit unit in a heated state and the temperature of the heating body, and that determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred due to the non-heated state based on a second amount of current flowing through the second circuit unit in a non-heated state.

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