An aerosol generating device for sensing an aerosol generating article and an operating method thereof

Abstract

According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device includes a housing having a chamber for accommodating an aerosol product, an induction coil for generating a variable magnetic field, a susceptor arranged to surround at least a portion of the chamber and generate heat by the variable magnetic field, a sensor arranged in a region where the intensity of the variable magnetic field is equal to or less than a specified value, spaced apart from the induction coil in the longitudinal direction of the housing, and a processor electrically connected to the induction coil and the sensor. Various other embodiments are possible as will be understood throughout the specification.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device that senses the moisture content of an aerosol generating article and an operating method thereof.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, the demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes has been increasing. For example, instead of a method of generating an aerosol by burning a cigarette, there is an increasing demand for a system that generates an aerosol by heating a cigarette or an aerosol generating substance using an aerosol generating device.

[0003] An aerosol generating substance, a tobacco substance, etc. contained in an aerosol generating article contain a certain amount of moisture. However, when the aerosol generating article is in a super wet state, high-temperature aerosols may be generated. As a result, there is a risk that the user inhales high-temperature aerosols during smoking. Therefore, the satisfaction through smoking is impaired, and inconvenience due to high temperature is brought about.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Various methods of heating an aerosol generating article have been proposed. Among them, the induction heating method means a method of heating a metal object (for example, a susceptor) through electromagnetic induction to generate an aerosol generating substance.

[0005] An aerosol generating device employing the induction heating method includes a capacitance sensor to measure the moisture content of the aerosol generating article. The capacitance sensor may have a reduced sensing sensitivity due to the influence of a magnetic field generated by an induction coil.

[0006] The problem to be solved through the embodiments of the present invention is not limited to the problems described above, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0007] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a housing having a chamber for accommodating an aerosol generating article, an induction coil for generating a variable magnetic field, a susceptor disposed so as to surround at least a part of the chamber and generating heat by the variable magnetic field, a sensor disposed at a position spaced apart from the induction coil in the longitudinal direction of the housing in a region where the intensity of the variable magnetic field is equal to or less than a specified value, and a processor electrically connected to the induction coil and the sensor.

[0008] A method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a step of obtaining a capacitance corresponding to the moisture content of the aerosol generating article from a sensor disposed in a region where the intensity of the variable magnetic field generated by the induction coil is equal to or less than a specified value, and a step of controlling to supply power to the induction coil based on the obtained capacitance.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the sensing sensitivity to the moisture content is increased by disposing a sensor for detecting the moisture content of the aerosol generating article at a point where the influence of the magnetic field of the induction coil is minimized.

[0010] However, the effects according to the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and the effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

Figure 1

[0012]

Figure 2

[0013]

Figure 3A

[0014]

Figure 3B

[0015]

Figure 4

[0016]

Figure 5

[0017]

Figure 6

[0018]

Figure 7A

[0019]

Figure 7B

[0020]

Figure 8A

[0021]

Figure 8B

[0022]

Figure 9

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0023] As terms used in the embodiments, general terms that are currently widely used as much as possible in view of the functions in the present invention are selected, but this may change depending on the intention or precedent of those skilled in the art, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Also, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this 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 of the terms and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply the names of the terms.

[0024] Throughout the specification, when a certain part "includes" a certain component, this means that, unless otherwise stated, other components can be further included rather than excluding other components. Also, terms such as "~ part" and "~ module" described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which can be implemented by hardware or software, or implemented by a combination of hardware and software.

[0025] As used in this specification, when an expression such as "at least any one of" is before the arranged components, it modifies the entire components rather than each of the arranged components. For example, the expression "at least any one of a, b, and c" must be interpreted to include a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c.

[0026] In one embodiment, an aerosol generating device is a device that electrically heats a cigarette housed in an internal space to generate an aerosol.

[0027] The aerosol generating device includes a heater. In one embodiment, the heater is an electrical resistance heater. For example, the heater includes an electrically conductive track, and when an electric current flows through the electrically conductive track, the heater is heated.

[0028] The heater includes a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element or a rod-shaped heating element, and heats the inside or outside of the cigarette according to the shape of the heating element.

[0029] The cigarette includes a tobacco rod and a filter rod. The tobacco rod may be made of a sheet, may be made of a strand, or may be made of shredded tobacco finely cut from a tobacco sheet. Also, the tobacco rod can be surrounded by a heat conductive material. For example, the heat conductive material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto.

[0030] The filter rod is also a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod can be composed of at least one or more segments. For example, the filter rod can include a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering a predetermined component contained in the aerosol.

[0031] In other embodiments, the aerosol generating device is a device that generates an aerosol using a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance.

[0032] The aerosol generating device includes a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance and a body that supports the cartridge. The cartridge is detachably coupled to the body, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge may be integrally formed with the body, assembled, or fixed so as not to be detached by the user. The cartridge is attached to the body with the aerosol generating substance contained therein. However, it is not limited thereto, and the aerosol generating substance may be injected into the cartridge while the cartridge is coupled to the body.

[0033] The cartridge has an aerosol product substance in any one of various states such as a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, and a gel state. The aerosol product substance includes a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0034] The cartridge can perform a function of converting the phase of the aerosol product substance inside the cartridge into a gaseous phase by being activated by an electrical signal or a wireless signal transmitted from the main body, etc., to generate an aerosol. An aerosol means a gas in a state where vaporized particles generated from the aerosol product substance and air are mixed.

[0035] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device heats a liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol is transmitted to the user through a cigarette. That is, the aerosol generated from the liquid composition moves along the air flow path of the aerosol generating device, and the air flow path is configured such that the aerosol passes through the cigarette and is transmitted to the user.

[0036] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol from an aerosol product substance using an ultrasonic vibration method. At this time, the ultrasonic vibration method means a method of generating an aerosol by atomizing the aerosol product substance with ultrasonic vibrations generated by a vibrator.

[0037] The aerosol generating device includes a vibrator, and generates vibrations with a short period through the vibrator to atomize the aerosol product substance. The vibrations generated by the vibrator are ultrasonic vibrations, and the frequency band of the ultrasonic vibrations is in the frequency band of about 100 kHz to about 3.5 MHz, but is not limited thereto.

[0038] The aerosol generating device further includes a core that absorbs the aerosol generating substance. For example, the core is arranged to cover at least one region of the vibrator or to contact at least one region of the vibrator.

[0039] When a voltage (for example, an alternating voltage) is applied to the vibrator, heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations are generated from the vibrator, and the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations generated from the vibrator are transmitted to the aerosol generating substance absorbed by the core. The aerosol generating substance absorbed by the core is converted into the gas phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations transmitted from the vibrator, and as a result, an aerosol is generated.

[0040] For example, heat generated from the vibrator reduces the viscosity of the aerosol generating substance absorbed by the core, and ultrasonic vibrations generated from the vibrator atomize the aerosol generating substance with reduced viscosity, thereby generating an aerosol, but it is not limited thereto.

[0041] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is a device that generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article accommodated in the aerosol generating device by an induction heating method.

[0042] The aerosol generating device includes a susceptor and a coil. In one embodiment, the coil applies a magnetic field to the susceptor. When power is supplied from the aerosol generating device to the coil, a magnetic field is formed inside the coil. In one embodiment, the susceptor is a magnetic body that generates heat by an external magnetic field. When the susceptor is located inside the coil and a magnetic field is applied, the aerosol generating article is heated by generating heat. Optionally, the susceptor may be located inside the aerosol generating article.

[0043] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device further includes a cradle.

[0044] The aerosol generating device constitutes a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle charges the battery of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, the heater may be heated with the cradle and the aerosol generating device being coupled.

[0045] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. The present invention may be implemented in a form that can be embodied in the aerosol generating devices of the various embodiments described above, or may be implemented in various different forms, but is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0046] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0047] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 1, an aerosol generating device 10 according to an embodiment includes a housing 100 into which an aerosol generating article 15 is inserted.

[0049] In one embodiment, the housing 100 forms the overall appearance of the aerosol generating device 10 and includes an internal space (or “arrangement space”) in which the components of the aerosol generating device 10 are arranged. In the drawings, only the embodiment in which the cross-section of the housing 100 is formed in a semi-circular shape is shown, but the shape of the housing 100 is not limited thereto. According to an embodiment (not shown), the housing 100 may be formed entirely in a cylindrical shape or also in a polygonal columnar shape (for example, a triangular columnar shape or a square columnar shape).

[0050] In one embodiment, in the internal space of the housing 100, components for heating the aerosol generating article 15 inserted into the housing 100 to generate an aerosol and components for sensing the moisture content of the aerosol generating article 15 are arranged, but specific descriptions thereof will be given later.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the housing 100 includes an opening 100h through which the aerosol generating article 15 can be inserted into the housing 100. At least a part of the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted or accommodated into the housing 100 through the opening 100h.

[0052] When the aerosol generating article 15 inserted or accommodated into the housing 100 is heated inside the housing 100, an aerosol is generated. The generated aerosol is discharged outside the aerosol generating device 10 through the inserted aerosol generating article 20 and / or the space between the aerosol generating article 20 and the opening 100h, and the user inhales the discharged aerosol.

[0053] The aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment further includes a display D on which visual information is displayed.

[0054] In one embodiment, the display D is arranged such that at least a partial area is exposed outside the housing 100. For example, at least a partial area of the display D is exposed through a cover glass outside the housing.

[0055] The aerosol generating device 10 provides various visual information to the user through the display D. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 outputs, through the display D, the preheating time of the aerosol generating article 15, the puff number, etc. The information output through the display D is exemplary and is not limited to the above-described embodiments.

[0056] FIG. 2 is a drawing schematically showing the components of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A' of the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 1, and is a drawing for explaining in detail a partial configuration arranged inside the housing.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device 10 includes a housing 100, a processor 110, a susceptor 122, an induction coil 124, and a sensor 130. The components of the aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment are not limited thereto, and other components may be added or at least one component may be omitted depending on the embodiment.

[0058] In one embodiment, the housing 100 includes a receiving space in which the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted or received. For example, at least a part of the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted or received into the receiving space through an opening (for example, the opening 100h in FIG. 1).

[0059] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating article 15 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 10 by an induction heating method. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 supplies power to the induction coil 124 to generate a variable magnetic field. At this time, at least a part of the aerosol generating article 15 is heated through the susceptor 122 that has generated heat by the variable magnetic field, and an aerosol is generated when the aerosol generating article 15 is heated.

[0060] In one embodiment, the susceptor 122 surrounds at least a part of the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 15 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 10. For example, the susceptor 122 surrounds at least a part of the part containing the aerosol generating substance and the part containing the tobacco substance.

[0061] In one embodiment, the induction coil 124 is arranged to surround the outer peripheral surface of the susceptor 122 and generates a variable magnetic field when powered by the battery 115. In one embodiment, the AC current value A and the frequency value for heating the susceptor 122 by the induction coil 124 are preset. For example, for the induction coil 124, the AC current value A is set in the range of about 120 mA to 140 mA, and the frequency value is set in the range of about 130 KHz to 150 KHz. However, the AC current value and the frequency value of the induction coil 124 are not limited thereto and can be variously changed depending on the material, thickness, or form of the susceptor 122, etc.

[0062] In one embodiment, the sensor 130 is arranged to be spaced apart from at least one of the susceptor 122 and the susceptor 124 in the longitudinal direction of the housing 100 (e.g., the +y direction or the -y direction). For example, the sensor 130 is arranged to be spaced apart from the induction coil 124 by a specified distance d in the longitudinal direction of the housing 100. At this time, the specified distance d means the distance from the end point of the induction coil 124 or the susceptor 122 to the point where the influence of the magnetic field generated by the induction coil 124 is minimized.

[0063] In one embodiment, the sensor 130 is arranged in a region where the intensity of the variable magnetic field generated by the induction coil 124 is below a specified value. For example, the specified value means the maximum value of the intensity of the variable magnetic field at which the sensing sensitivity of the sensor 130 does not substantially decrease. The specified value is in the range of about 10 μT to 100 μT, but is not limited thereto.

[0064] In one embodiment, the sensor 130 is a capacitance sensor that senses capacitance. For example, the sensor 130 senses a capacitance corresponding to the moisture content of the aerosol generating article 15. The dielectric properties between the sensors 130 change differently depending on the moisture content of the aerosol generating article 15, and the sensor 130 can sense capacitance based on the dielectric properties. In one embodiment, by arranging the sensor 130, which is a capacitance sensor, at a specified distance d from the induction coil 124, the sensor 130 is minimally affected by the magnetic field. That is, the sensor 130 is arranged at a specified distance d so as not to substantially overlap with the region of the high-frequency magnetic field generated by the induction coil 124. Through such an arrangement structure of the sensor 130, it is possible to prevent the sensing sensitivity of the sensor 130 that senses capacitance from being significantly reduced by the high-frequency magnetic field.

[0065] In one embodiment, the sensor 130 includes at least one electrode formed of a metal thin film. For example, the sensor 130 includes at least one electrode formed of a copper foil.

[0066] In one embodiment, the processor 110 senses the capacitance generated through the sensor 130 and supplies power to the induction coil 124 based on the sensed capacitance. However, a specific description thereof will be given later.

[0067] FIG. 3A is an exemplary diagram showing a state in which the sensor 130 of FIG. 2 is arranged in the first region. In the present invention, the "first region" means a region of the housing 100 spaced in the -y direction with reference to the susceptor 122 and / or the induction coil 124. Also, the "first region" means a region that is at least partially adjacent to the first portion 300 of the aerosol generating article 15 when the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted into the accommodating portion.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 3A, the sensor (e.g., sensor 130 in FIG. 2) includes a first electrode 132 and a second electrode 134. For example, the sensor 130 detects the capacitance due to the moisture content of the aerosol generating article 15 disposed between the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134.

[0069] In one embodiment, the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 are spaced apart in a first direction (e.g., -y direction) parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing (e.g., housing 100 in FIG. 2) from at least one of the susceptor 122 and the induction coil 124. In the present invention, the "first direction" means the direction opposite to the direction in which the aerosol flows in the aerosol generating article 15 when the user puffs.

[0070] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating article 15 includes a first portion 300, a second portion 310, a third portion 320, and a fourth portion 330. For example, the first portion 300 includes at least one of aerosol generating substances such as glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The second portion 310 includes at least one of tobacco substances such as tobacco sheets, tobacco strands, cut tobacco formed by finely cutting tobacco sheets, and plate-like leaves. The third portion 320 is a cooling portion that cools the aerosol. The fourth portion 330 is a filter segment containing filter material.

[0071] In one embodiment, the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 of the sensor 130 are arranged to correspond to a part of the first portion 300 containing the aerosol generating substance. At this time, the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 are spaced apart by a specified distance d from at least one of the susceptor 122 and the induction coil 124.

[0072] In one embodiment, the first portion 300 contains a liquid aerosol product substance. For example, the first portion 300 is formed in such a manner that a porous body such as pulp is impregnated with a liquid aerosol generating material. By the first portion 300 containing the liquid aerosol product substance, the change in the moisture content is most significant in the first portion 300 of the aerosol generating article 15. Therefore, by arranging the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 to correspond to at least a part of the first portion 300, the sensor 130 can more accurately detect the capacitance due to the moisture content of the aerosol generating article 15.

[0073] FIG. 3B is an exemplary diagram showing a state in which the sensor of FIG. 2 is arranged in the second region. In the present invention, the “second region” means a region of the housing 100 spaced in the -y direction with reference to the susceptor 122 and / or the induction coil 124. Further, the “second region” means a region adjacent to at least a part of the second portion 310 of the aerosol generating article 15 when the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted into the accommodating portion. In the description of FIG. 3B, the content corresponding to, identical to, or similar to the above-described content may be omitted.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 3B, the sensor (for example, the sensor 130 of FIG. 2) includes a first electrode 132 and a second electrode 134. For example, the sensor 130 detects the capacitance due to the moisture content of the aerosol generating article 15 disposed between the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134.

[0075] In one embodiment, the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 are spaced apart and arranged in a second direction (for example, the -y direction) parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing (for example, the housing 100 of FIG. 2) from at least one of the susceptor 122 and the induction coil 124. In the present invention, the “second direction” means the direction in which the aerosol flows in the aerosol generating article 15 when the user puffs.

[0076] In one embodiment, the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 of the sensor 130 are arranged to correspond to a part of the second portion 310 containing the tobacco substance. At this time, the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 are arranged at a distance d specified from at least one of the susceptor 122 and the induction coil 124.

[0077] In one embodiment, the second portion 310 contains a solid tobacco substance. For example, the second portion 310 may be formed to include not only shredded tobacco and lamina, but also granules, capsules, etc. containing the tobacco substance. At this time, the tobacco substance contained in the second portion 310 can absorb a certain amount of moisture from the surrounding environment. By arranging the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 to correspond to at least a part of the second portion 310, the sensor 130 can detect the capacitance due to the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article 15.

[0078] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 4, the aerosol-generating device 10 includes a processor 110, a heating unit 120, and a sensor 130.

[0080] In one embodiment, the sensor 130 is a capacitance sensor. For example, the sensor 130 detects a capacitance (C) corresponding to the moisture content of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., the aerosol-generating article 15 in FIG. 1). The capacitance is determined by the distance d between the electrodes (e.g., the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 in FIGS. 3A and 3B), the area A of the electrodes 132 and 134, and the dielectric constant ε of the substance located between the electrodes 132 and 134. The capacitance C is obtained based on Equation 1.

[0081] [Equation 1]

[0082] TIFF0007690109000001.tif17151

[0083] In one embodiment, a capacitance is generated in sensor 130 based on a permittivity ε that varies depending on the state of aerosol-generating article 15. For example, the permittivity ε varies depending on the moisture content of aerosol-generating article 15. The moisture content of aerosol-generating article 15 means the weight of moisture relative to the total weight of the tobacco rod (e.g., the first portion 300 and the second portion 310 of FIGS. 3A and 3B).

[0084] In one embodiment, if a generally conditioned aerosol-generating article 15 is disposed between first electrode 132 and second electrode 134, a first capacitance is generated in sensor 130 based on the permittivity ε1 of aerosol-generating article 15. Here, the generally conditioned state means a state in which the tobacco rod of aerosol-generating article 15 contains less than about 15 wt% moisture relative to the total weight of the tobacco rod.

[0085] In one embodiment, if a supersaturated aerosol-generating article 15 is disposed between first electrode 132 and second electrode 134, a second capacitance is generated in sensor 130 based on the permittivity ε2 of aerosol-generating article 15. Here, the supersaturated state means a state in which the tobacco rod of aerosol-generating article 15 contains about 15 wt% or more moisture relative to the total weight of the tobacco rod.

[0086] However, the moisture content for determining the state of aerosol-generating article 15 (e.g., the generally conditioned state or the supersaturated state) is not limited thereto and may be variously changed depending on the manufacturer's design and the like.

[0087] In one embodiment, processor 110 acquires the capacitance detected through sensor 130. Here, the capacitance detected through sensor 130 means the difference in capacitance values that varies depending on the presence or absence of aerosol-generating article 15. For example, when aerosol-generating article 15 is not present inside the housing (e.g., housing 100 of FIG. 2), an initial capacitance C exists between the first electrode (e.g., first electrode 132 of FIGS. 3A and 3B) and the second electrode (e.g., second electrode 134 of FIGS. 3A and 3B) of sensor 130 pexists. Next, if the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted into the housing 100, a first capacitance C exists between the first electrode 132 and the second electrode 134 of the sensor 130. p is added with a predetermined capacitance C f to form a capacitance (C p +C f ). That is, the processor 110 can obtain C, which is the change value of the capacitance due to the presence or absence of the aerosol generating article 15, from the sensor 130. The processor 110 can obtain the C f through at least one of the charge / discharge time difference, the charging voltage difference, and the frequency difference with respect to the sensor 130. f

[0088] In one embodiment, the processor 110 supplies power to the induction coil 124 based on the acquired capacitance. For example, the processor 110 can determine the state of the aerosol generating article 15 by comparing the acquired capacitance with a predetermined value. The processor 110 determines whether the aerosol generating article 15 is in a general state or a super wet state, and supplies power to the induction coil 124 based on the determination result. At this time, "power" means the power supplied to preheat the aerosol generating article 15 so that the susceptor 122 is heated to a predetermined preheating temperature (for example, 300 °C) through the magnetic field generated inside the induction coil 124.

[0089] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a method by which an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment controls power supply.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 5, a processor (for example, the processor 110 in FIG. 4) obtains, in step 501, the capacitance corresponding to the moisture content of the aerosol generating article (for example, the aerosol generating article 15 in FIG. 1) from a sensor (for example, the sensor 130 in FIG. 4).

[0091] In one embodiment, the processor 110 may obtain different capacitances according to the state of the aerosol generating article 15 through the sensor 130. ​

[0092] For example, from the aerosol generating article 15 in a general state, the processor 110 obtains a first capacitance through the sensor 130. At this time, the general state means a state in which the tobacco rod of the aerosol generating article 15 (for example, the first part 300 and the second part 310 in FIGS. 3A and 3B) contains less than about 15 wt% moisture relative to the total weight of the tobacco rod. Also, the first capacitance means the capacitance C increased when the aerosol generating article 15 in a general state is inserted into the housing (for example, the housing 100 in FIG. 2). f1 It means that.

[0093] For another example, from the aerosol generating article 15 in an over-wet state, the processor 110 obtains a second capacitance through the sensor 130. At this time, the over-wet state means a state in which the tobacco rods 300 and 310 of the aerosol generating article 15 contain more than about 15 wt% moisture relative to the total weight of the tobacco rod. Also, the second capacitance means the capacitance C increased when the aerosol generating article 15 in an over-wet state is inserted into the housing 100. f1 It means that.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the processor 110 supplies power to the induction coil (for example, the induction coil 124 in FIG. 4) based on the capacitance obtained in step 503. For example, the processor 110 can determine the state of the aerosol generating article 15 by comparing the first capacitance or the second capacitance obtained through the sensor 130 with a predetermined value. The processor 110 determines whether the aerosol generating article 15 is in a general state or an over-wet state, and supplies power to the induction coil 124 based on the determination result.

[0095] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a method by which an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment controls power supply based on capacitance. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for specifically explaining step 503 in FIG. 5.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 6, in step 503a, the processor (e.g., processor 110 in FIG. 4) compares the capacitance acquired through sensor 130 with a predetermined value. At this time, the predetermined value is also the minimum value of the capacitance indicating the over-wet state of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the over-wet state means a state in which the tobacco rod of the aerosol-generating article 15 (e.g., the first part 300 and the second part 310 in FIGS. 3A and 3B) contains moisture of 15 wt% or more of the total weight of the tobacco rod. At this time, when the aerosol-generating article 15 including a tobacco rod containing 15 wt% of moisture based on the total weight of the tobacco rod is inserted into the housing (e.g., housing 100 in FIG. 2), the processor 110 acquires a capacitance increased by about 50 nF from the sensor 130, and the predetermined value is 50 nF.

[0097] In one embodiment, if the capacitance acquired through sensor 130 is less than the predetermined value, in step 503b, the processor 110 supplies power to the induction coil (e.g., induction coil 124 in FIG. 4) for a first period of time. For example, when the aerosol-generating article 15 is inserted into the housing 100, the processor 110 acquires a first capacitance from the sensor 130. At this time, when the acquired first capacitance is 30 nF, the processor 110 detects that the first capacitance is smaller than the predetermined value of 50 nF. Also, when the capacitance acquired through the sensor 130 is less than the predetermined value, the processor 110 detects that the aerosol-generating article 15 inserted into the housing 100 is in a general state. Based on the detection result, the processor 110 supplies predetermined power to the induction coil 124 for a first period of time (e.g., 30 seconds).

[0098] In one embodiment, if the capacitance acquired through the sensor 130 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the processor 110 supplies power to the induction coil 124 for a second time period longer than the first time period in step 503c. For example, when the aerosol generating article 15 is inserted into the housing 100, the processor 110 acquires a second capacitance from the sensor 130. At this time, when the acquired second capacitance is 70 nF, the processor 110 detects that the second capacitance is greater than the predetermined value of 50 nF. Further, when the capacitance acquired through the sensor 130 is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the processor 110 detects that the aerosol generating article 15 inserted into the housing 100 is in a super wet state. Based on the detection result, the processor 110 supplies predetermined power to the induction coil 124 for a second time period (for example, 40 seconds) longer than the first time period (for example, 30 seconds).

[0099] In the present invention, the "first time period" and the "second time period" mean preheating times for preheating the aerosol generating article 15 to a target temperature (for example, 300°C).

[0100] However, in FIG. 6, although the same power is supplied to the induction coil 124, different supply times based on the capacitance acquired through the sensor 130 are disclosed, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the processor 110 may control the power supplied to the induction coil 124 to be different according to the capacitance acquired through the sensor 130, and specific descriptions thereof will be described later.

[0101] FIG. 7A is an exemplary diagram for explaining a first method by which an aerosol generating device controls power supply according to one embodiment.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 7A, a processor (for example, the processor 110 in FIG. 4) of an aerosol generating device (for example, the aerosol generating device 10 in FIG. 4) controls the power supply time for an induction coil (for example, the induction coil 124 in FIG. 4) to be different according to the state of the aerosol generating article.

[0103] According to graph (a), depending on the state of the aerosol generating article (e.g., a general state or an over-wet state), the time to reach the target temperature is different. For example, when the aerosol generating article is in a general state (700), it reaches the target temperature earlier than when the aerosol generating article is in an over-wet state (710).

[0104] In one embodiment, the processor 110 determines whether the capacitance acquired through a sensor (e.g., the sensor 130 in FIG. 4) is less than a predetermined value at step 503a of FIG. 5 to detect the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, when the acquired capacitance is less than the predetermined value, the processor 110 detects that the state of the aerosol generating article is a general state (700). In another example, when the acquired capacitance is greater than or equal to the predetermined value, the processor 110 detects that the state of the aerosol generating article is an over-wet state (710).

[0105] According to graphs (b) and (c), the processor 110 controls the time to reach the target temperature to be different depending on the state of the aerosol generating article.

[0106] In one embodiment, the processor 110 controls the power supply to the induction coil 124 in a PWM (pulse width modulation) manner as in graphs (b) and (c). The PWM method is a method of controlling the power transmitted to the induction coil 124 by adjusting the duty ratio during a certain period.

[0107] In one embodiment, when the aerosol generating article is in a general state (700), the processor 110 controls the power supply as shown in graph (b). For example, the processor 110 controls the on / off of the switch so that a voltage is input at a first duty ratio 722 during a first time period 720. In other embodiments, when the aerosol generating article is in an over-wet state (710), the processor 110 controls the power supply as shown in graph (c). For example, the processor 110 controls the on / off of the switch so that a voltage is input at a second duty ratio 732 during a second time period 730. At this time, the second time period 730 is longer than the first time period 720, and the second duty ratio 732 is equal to the first duty ratio 722. Therefore, in graphs (b) and (c), the average voltage values input to the induction coil 124 are equal.

[0108] FIG. 7B is an exemplary diagram for explaining a second method of controlling the power supply of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. In the description of FIG. 7B, content corresponding to, identical to, or similar to the foregoing content may be omitted.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 8A, a processor (e.g., processor 110 of FIG. 4) of an aerosol generating device (e.g., aerosol generating device 10 of FIG. 4) controls the power supply amount for an induction coil (e.g., induction coil 124 of FIG. 4) to be different according to the state of the aerosol generating article.

[0110] According to graph (a), the time to reach the target temperature is equal according to the state of the aerosol generating article (e.g., a general state or an over-wet state). The processor 110 detects the state of the aerosol generating article based on the capacitance obtained through the sensor 130 as described above with respect to FIG. 7A.

[0111] According to graphs (b) and (c), the processor 110 can control the power supply amount to be different according to the state of the aerosol generating article.

[0112] In one embodiment, when the aerosol generating article is in a general state (700), the processor 110 controls the power supply as shown in graph (b). For example, the processor 110 controls the on / off of the switch so that a voltage is input by the third duty ratio 750 during the third hour 740. In other embodiments, when the aerosol generating article is in an over-wet state (710), the processor 110 controls the power supply as shown in graph (c). For example, the processor 110 controls the on / off of the switch so that a voltage is input by the fourth duty ratio 760 during the third hour 740. At this time, the third duty ratio 750 is smaller than the fourth duty ratio 760. For example, the third duty ratio 750 is 50% and the fourth duty ratio 760 is 80%. Therefore, the average voltage value input to the induction coil 124 in graph (b) is smaller than the average voltage value input to the induction coil 124 in graph (c).

[0113] In FIGS. 7A and 7B, an embodiment is shown in which the processor 110 controls the power supply to the induction coil 124 in a PWM manner, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the processor 110 may control the power supply to the induction coil 124 in a PFM (pulse frequency modulation) manner or a PID (proportional-integral-differential) manner, etc.

[0114] FIG. 8A is an exemplary diagram showing a display state when an aerosol generating article in a general state is inserted into an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 8A, the processor of the aerosol generating device 10 (for example, the processor 110 in FIG. 4) displays an operation UI (user interface) through a display (for example, the display D in FIG. 1).

[0116] For example, when a general state aerosol generating article 15a containing moisture less than a threshold value (e.g., 15 wt%) is inserted into the aerosol generating device 10, such as into a tobacco rod (e.g., the first part 300 and the second part 310 in FIGS. 3A and 3B), the processor 110 can display a first UI screen 800 through the display D. The first UI screen 800 is a UI screen indicating that the aerosol generating article 15a has been inserted.

[0117] Thereafter, when the preheating start condition is satisfied, the processor 110 displays a second UI screen 810 through the display D. For example, the preheating start condition is satisfied when a predetermined time has elapsed after the insertion of the aerosol generating article 15a or when a user input (e.g., a button input) is detected. The second UI screen 810 is a UI screen including an icon indicating the remaining time until the preheating of the aerosol generating article 15a is completed (e.g., 30 sec) and a statement explaining the operation (e.g., "Preheating...").

[0118] FIG. 8B is an exemplary diagram showing a display state when a supersaturated state aerosol generating article is inserted into an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 8B, the processor (e.g., the processor 110 in FIG. 4) of the aerosol generating device 10 displays an operation UI (user interface) through the display (e.g., the display D in FIG. 1).

[0120] For example, when a supersaturated state aerosol generating article 15b containing moisture equal to or more than a threshold value (e.g., 15 wt%) is inserted into the aerosol generating device 10, such as into a tobacco rod (e.g., the first part 300 and the second part 310 in FIGS. 3A and 3B), the processor 110 can display a third UI screen 820 through the display D. The third UI screen 820 is a UI screen indicating that the aerosol generating article 15b has been inserted. The third UI screen 820 is the same as the first UI screen 800 in FIG. 8A.

[0121] After that, when the preheating start condition is satisfied, the processor 110 displays the fourth UI screen 830 through the display D. For example, the preheating start condition is satisfied when a predetermined time has elapsed after the aerosol generating article 15b is inserted, or when a user input (for example, a button input) is detected. The fourth UI screen 830 is a UI screen including an icon indicating that the preheating time of the aerosol generating article 15b is being adjusted and words explaining the operation (for example, "The preheating time is adjusted for optimal driving.").

[0122] In one embodiment, when the aerosol generating article 15b in a super wet state is inserted into the aerosol generating device 10, the aerosol generating article 15b in a super wet state is preheated for a substantially longer time than in the case of a general state aerosol generating article (for example, the aerosol generating article 15a in FIG. 8A). For example, the general state aerosol generating article 15a is preheated for about 30 seconds, and the super wet state aerosol generating article 15b is preheated for about 40 seconds. At this time, the processor 110 can display the fourth UI screen 830 on the display D for a predetermined time corresponding to the difference in preheating time (for example, 10 seconds) between the general state aerosol generating article 15a and the super wet state aerosol generating article 15b.

[0123] In one embodiment, after a time corresponding to the difference in the preheating time has elapsed, the processor 110 displays the fifth UI screen 840 on the display D. The fifth UI screen 840 is a UI screen including an icon indicating the remaining time until the preheating of the aerosol generating article 15b is completed (for example, 30 sec) and words explaining the operation (for example, "Preheating...").

[0124] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 900 according to another embodiment.

[0125] The aerosol generating device 900 includes a control unit 910, a sensing unit 920, an output unit 930, a battery 940, a heater 950, a user input unit 960, a memory 970, and a communication unit 980. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 900 is not limited to what is shown in FIG. 9. That is, those skilled in the art will understand that depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 900, some of the components shown in FIG. 9 may be omitted, or new components may be further added.

[0126] The sensing unit 920 senses the state of the aerosol generating device 900 or the state around the aerosol generating device 900, and transmits the sensed information to the control unit 910. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 910 controls the aerosol generating device 900 so that various functions such as operation control of the heater 950, restriction of smoking, determination of whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.) is inserted, and notification display are performed.

[0127] The sensing unit 920 includes at least one of a temperature sensor 922, an insertion sensing sensor 924, and a puff sensor 926, but is not limited thereto.

[0128] The temperature sensor 922 senses the temperature at which the heater 950 (or the aerosol generating substance) is heated. The aerosol generating device 900 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the heater 950, or the heater 950 itself may serve as the temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 922 may be disposed around the battery 940 to monitor the temperature of the battery 940.

[0129] The insertion sensing sensor 924 senses the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 924 includes at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and senses a signal change due to the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article.

[0130] The puff sensor 926 senses the user's puff based on various physical changes in the air flow path or air flow channel. For example, the puff sensor 926 senses the user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow rate change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0131] In addition to the sensors 922 to 926 described above, the sensing unit 9120 further includes at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). Since the functions of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an ordinary technician from its name, specific descriptions are omitted.

[0132] The output unit 930 outputs information about the state of the aerosol generating device 900 and provides it to the user. The output unit 930 includes at least one of a display unit 932, a haptic unit 934, and an acoustic output unit 936, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 932 and the touch pad form a layer structure to constitute a touch screen, the display unit 932 is also used as an input device in addition to the output device.

[0133] The display unit 932 visually provides information about the aerosol generating device 900 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 900 means various information such as the charge / discharge state of the battery 940 of the aerosol generating device 900, the preheating state of the heater 950, the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article, or the state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 900 is restricted (e.g., sensing of an abnormal article), and the display unit 932 outputs the information to the outside. The display unit 932 is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. Further, the display unit 932 may be in the form of an LED light emitting element.

[0134] The haptic unit 934 converts an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus to tactually provide information about the aerosol generating device 900 to the user. For example, the haptic unit 934 includes a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0135] The acoustic output unit 936 aurally provides information about the aerosol generating device 900 to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit 936 converts an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and outputs it externally.

[0136] The battery 940 supplies electric power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 900. The battery 940 supplies electric power so that the heater 950 is heated. Further, the battery 940 supplies electric power necessary for the operation of other components (for example, the sensing unit 920, the output unit 930, the user input unit 960, the memory 970, and the communication unit 980) provided in the aerosol generating device 900. The battery 940 is a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 940 is also a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0137] The heater 950 is supplied with electric power from the battery 940 and heats the aerosol generating substance. Although not shown in FIG. 9, the aerosol generating device 900 further includes a power conversion circuit (for example, a DC / DC converter) that converts the electric power of the battery 940 and supplies it to the heater 950. Further, when the aerosol generating device 900 generates an aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generating device 900 further includes a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the battery 940 into an AC power supply.

[0138] The control unit 910, the sensing unit 920, the output unit 930, the user input unit 960, the memory 970, and the communication unit 980 are supplied with electric power from the battery 940 and perform functions. Although not shown in FIG. 9, it further includes a power conversion circuit, for example, an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit that converts the electric power of the battery 940 and supplies it to each component.

[0139] In one embodiment, the heater 950 is formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Also, the heater 950 may be embodied as, but is not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate with electrical conductive tracks disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0140] In other embodiments, the heater 950 is an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 950 includes a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol generating substance.

[0141] The user input unit 960 receives information input from the user or outputs information to the user. For example, the user input unit 960 includes, but is not limited to, a keypad, a dome switch, a touch pad (capacitive touch type, pressure resistive film type, infrared sensing type, surface acoustic wave conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Also, although not shown in FIG. 9, the aerosol generating device 900 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and through the connection interface such as the USB interface, it connects to other external devices to transmit and receive information or charges the battery 940.

[0142] The memory 970 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device 900, and stores the data processed by the control unit 910 and the data to be processed. The memory 970 includes at least one type of recording medium such as a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The memory 970 stores data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device 900, the maximum puff count, the current puff count, at least one temperature profile, and data on the user's smoking pattern.

[0143] The communication unit 980 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 980 includes a short-range communication unit 982 and a wireless communication unit 984.

[0144] The short-range communication unit 982 includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication unit, a short-range wireless communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0145] The wireless communication unit 984 includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 984 may confirm and authenticate the aerosol generating device 900 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0146] The control unit 910 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 900. In one embodiment, the control unit 910 includes at least one processor. The processor may be embodied as an array of a number of logic gates, or may be embodied as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executed by this microprocessor. Those skilled in the art will also understand that it may be embodied in other forms of hardware.

[0147] The control unit 910 controls the temperature of the heater 950 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 940 to the heater 950. For example, the control unit 910 controls the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery 940 and the heater 950. In another example, the heating direct circuit may control the power supply to the heater 950 according to the control command of the control unit 910.

[0148] The control unit 910 analyzes the results sensed by the sensing unit 920 and controls the subsequent processing. For example, the control unit 910 controls the power supplied to the heater 950 so that the operation of the heater 950 starts or ends based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 920. As another example, the control unit 910 controls the amount of power supplied to the heater 950 and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater 950 can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 920.

[0149] The control unit 910 controls the output unit 930 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 920. For example, if the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 926 reaches a predetermined number, the control unit 910 notifies the user, through at least one of the display unit 932, the haptic unit 934, and the acoustic output unit 936, that the aerosol generator 900 will end soon.

[0150] In one embodiment, the control unit 910 controls the power supply time and / or the power supply amount to the heater 950 according to the state of the aerosol generating article (for example, the aerosol generating article 15 in FIG. 1) sensed by the sensing unit 920. For example, when the aerosol generating article 15 is in an over-wet state, the control unit 910 controls the power supply time to the induction coil (for example, the induction coil 124 in FIG. 2) to increase the preheating time compared to when the aerosol generating article 15 is in a normal state.

[0151] One embodiment is also embodied in the form of a recording medium including computer-executable instructions such as program modules executed by a computer. A computer-readable medium is any arbitrarily accessible and usable medium by a computer, including both volatile and non-volatile media, and both separable and non-separable media. Also, a computer-readable medium includes both a computer recording medium and a communication medium. A computer recording medium includes volatile and non-volatile, separable and non-separable media embodied by any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. A communication medium typically includes modulated data signals such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data, or other transmission mechanisms, and includes any information transmission medium.

[0152] The foregoing description of the embodiments is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that more diverse modifications and equivalent other embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention must be defined by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope equivalent to the content described in the claims must be construed as being included in the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating device, a housing including a chamber for accommodating an aerosol generating article; an induction coil for generating a variable magnetic field; a susceptor disposed so as to surround at least a part of the chamber and generating heat by the variable magnetic field; a sensor spaced apart from the induction coil in the longitudinal direction of the housing and disposed in a region where the intensity of the variable magnetic field is equal to or less than a specified value; a processor electrically connected to the induction coil and the sensor, wherein the sensor is a capacitance sensor for detecting a capacitance corresponding to the moisture content of the aerosol generating article, and the processor controls power supply to the induction coil based on the detected capacitance so as to preheat the aerosol generating article according to the moisture state of the aerosol generating article. An aerosol generating device.

2. The processor supplies power to the induction coil for a first time when the capacitance is less than a predetermined value, and supplies the power to the induction coil for a second time longer than the first time when the capacitance is equal to or greater than the predetermined value. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

3. The predetermined value is the minimum value of the capacitance indicating a superhumid state of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2.

4. The sensor includes at least one or more electrodes formed of a metal thin film. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

5. The sensor is spaced apart from at least one of the susceptor and the induction coil in a first direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing or in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

6. The sensor is disposed so as to correspond to at least a part of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

7. The sensor is disposed so as to correspond to at least one of a first part containing an aerosol generating substance and a second part containing a tobacco substance. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

8. In a method of operating an aerosol generating device, obtaining a capacitance corresponding to the moisture content of the aerosol generating article from a sensor disposed in a region where the intensity of the variable magnetic field generated by the induction coil is equal to or less than a specified value; A method of operating an aerosol generating device, comprising: controlling power supply to the induction coil based on the acquired capacitance so as to preheat the aerosol generating article according to the moisture state of the aerosol generating article.

9. The step of controlling comprises: The method of operating an aerosol generating device according to claim 8, comprising supplying power to the induction coil for a first period of time when the capacitance is less than a predetermined value.

10. The step of controlling comprises: The method of operating an aerosol generating device according to claim 9, comprising supplying the power to the induction coil for a second period of time longer than the first period of time when the capacitance is greater than or equal to the predetermined value.

11. The method of operating an aerosol generating device according to claim 9, wherein the predetermined value is the minimum value of the capacitance indicating an over-wet state of the aerosol generating article.

Images