Aerosol generating device

Abstract

An embodiment relates to an aerosol generating device comprising a first sensor for measuring the temperature of a heating element that heats an aerosol generating material, a second sensor for detecting a characteristic of the aerosol generating material, a switching module connected to the first sensor, the second sensor, and a shared sensor signal line that is connected to the heating element, and a control unit that controls the switching module and receives a first sensor output signal from the first sensor or a second sensor output signal from the second sensor.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, instead of burning a cigarette to generate an aerosol, 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 device needs to set a target temperature for heating an aerosol generating article and check whether the heating temperature reaches the target temperature. For this purpose, the aerosol generating device includes a temperature sensor or a thermocouple that measures the temperature of a heater or a heating member that heats the aerosol generating article.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Recent aerosol generating devices include various sensors, detail the heating temperature, and improve various user conveniences. However, having a large number of sensors has the problem that a physically large number of sensor lines must be arranged and designed.

[0005] In an embodiment according to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device capable of improving the ease of technical implementation and cost competitiveness by sharing the physical sensing lines of various sensors with the sensing lines for existing temperature sensing.

[0006] In various embodiments according to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device that can operate a heating member through a separate temperature profile in the case of an over-wet cigarette by sharing a capacitance sensor for classifying an over-wet cigarette and a thermocouple wire for controlling the temperature of the heating member.

[0007] The problems to be solved through the embodiments of the present invention are 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 Problems

[0008] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes a first sensor that measures the temperature of a heating member that heats an aerosol generating substance, a second sensor that detects the characteristics of the aerosol generating substance, the first sensor and the second sensor, a switching module connected to a shared sensor signal line connected to the heating member, and a control unit that controls the switching module to receive a first sensor output signal from the first sensor or a second sensor output signal from the second sensor.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to various embodiments of the present invention, by sharing the physical sensing lines of various sensors with the sensing line for existing temperature sensing, the manufacturing complexity is reduced and the cost competitiveness is improved.

[0010] In various embodiments according to the present invention, by sharing a capacitance sensor for classifying over-wet cigarettes and a thermocouple wire for controlling the temperature of a heating member, in the case of over-wet cigarettes, by operating the heating member through a separate temperature profile, an optimal atomization amount and smoking feeling according to cigarette characteristics are provided to the user.

[0011] However, the effects according to the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

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Figure 10

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0013] As terms used in the embodiments, general terms that are currently widely used as much as possible in view of the functions of the present invention have been selected. However, this may change depending on the intention of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Also, in specific cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, the meaning thereof will be described in detail in the description part of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based not on the simple name of the terms but on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention.

[0014] Throughout the specification, when a part states that a certain component "includes" something, this means that, unless otherwise stated to the contrary, it can further include other components and does not exclude other components. Also, terms such as "~ part" and "~ module" described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this can be implemented by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0015] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0017] Figures 1 to 3 are drawings showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0018] Referring to Figure 1, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes an atomizer 14. Also, a cigarette 2 is inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0019] The aerosol generating device 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3 shows the components according to this embodiment. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the aerosol generating device 1 can further include other general-purpose components in addition to the components shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0020] Also, Figures 2 and 3 show that the aerosol generating device 1 is provided with a heater 13, but the heater 13 may be omitted as needed.

[0021] FIG. 1 shows that the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the heater 13 are arranged in a row. Further, FIG. 2 shows that the battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14, and the heater 13 are arranged in a row. Further, FIG. 3 shows that the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. In other words, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1, the arrangement of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14 may be changed.

[0022] When the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 operates the heater 13 and / or the vaporizer 14 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and / or the vaporizer 14 passes through the cigarette 2 and is transmitted to the user.

[0023] Optionally, even when the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 heats the heater 13.

[0024] The battery 11 supplies the power used when the aerosol generating device 1 operates. For example, the battery 11 supplies power so that the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14 is heated, and supplies the power necessary when the control unit 12 operates. Further, the battery 11 supplies the power necessary when a display, a sensor, a motor, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 1 operate.

[0025] The control unit 12 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the operation of not only the battery 11, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, but also other components provided in the aerosol generating device 1. Further, the control unit 12 may check the state of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

[0026] The control unit 12 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 in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that it may also be embodied in other forms of hardware.

[0027] The heater 13 is heated by the electric power supplied from the battery 11. For example, if a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 13 is located outside the cigarette. Thus, the heated heater 13 raises the temperature of the aerosol generating substance in the cigarette.

[0028] The heater 13 may be an electric resistance heater. For example, the heater 13 includes an electrically conductive track, and a current flows through the electrically conductive track to heat the heater 13. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above-described example, and may be used without limitation as long as it can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may already be set in the aerosol generating device 1, or may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0029] On the other hand, as another example, the heater 13 may be an induction heating heater. Specifically, the heater 13 includes an electrically conductive coil for heating the cigarette by an induction heating method, and the cigarette includes a susceptor that is heated by the induction heating heater.

[0030] For example, the heater 13 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 2 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0031] In addition, a plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged in the aerosol generating device 1. At this time, the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, or may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Also, some of the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, and the rest may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Further, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, and may be manufactured in various shapes.

[0032] The vaporizer 14 heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol is transmitted to the user through the cigarette 2. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 moves along the air flow path of the aerosol generating device 1, and the air flow path is configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 is transmitted to the user through the cigarette.

[0033] For example, the vaporizer 14 includes, but is not limited to, a liquid storage unit, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element may be provided in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0034] The liquid storage unit stores the liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance containing a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage unit may be manufactured to be detachable from the vaporizer 14, or may be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0035] For example, the liquid composition includes water, a solvent, ethyl alcohol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The fragrance includes, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and aroma components of various fruits. The flavoring agent includes components that provide the user with various flavors or tastes. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture in which at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E is mixed, but is not limited thereto. Further, the liquid composition includes an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0036] The liquid transfer means transfers the liquid composition in the liquid storage unit to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means may be, but is not limited to, a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramics.

[0037] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition transferred by the liquid transfer means. For example, the heating element may be, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc. Further, the heating element may be composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire and may be arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transfer means. The heating element is heated by the supply of an electric current and transfers heat to the liquid composition in contact therewith to heat the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol is generated.

[0038] For example, the vaporizer 14 is called a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0039] On the one hand, in addition to the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a general configuration. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Also, the aerosol generating device 1 includes at least one sensor (such as a puff sensing sensor, a temperature sensing sensor, a cigarette insertion sensing sensor, etc.). Also, the aerosol generating device 1 is manufactured in a structure in which outside air flows in or internal gas flows out even when the cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0040] Although not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the aerosol generating device 1 may form a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle is used for charging the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Or, the heater 13 may be heated when the cradle and the aerosol generating device 1 are coupled.

[0041] The cigarette 2 is similar to a general combustion-type cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 is divided into a first part containing an aerosol generating substance and a second part containing a filter or the like. Or, the second part of the cigarette 2 may also contain an aerosol generating substance. For example, an aerosol generating substance made in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second part.

[0042] Inside the aerosol generating device 1, the entire first part is inserted, and the second part is exposed to the outside. Or, only a part of the first part may be inserted inside the aerosol generating device 1, or the entire first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. The user inhales the aerosol with the second part in the mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by the outside air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol is transmitted to the user's mouth through the second part.

[0043] As an example, outside air flows into the aerosol generating device 1 through at least one air passage formed therein. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1 and / or the size of the air passage are adjusted by the user. Thereby, the amount of atomization, the smoking feeling, etc. are adjusted by the user. As another example, outside air may flow into the inside of the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0044] Hereinafter, an example of the cigarette 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0045] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings showing an example of a cigarette.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 4, the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. The first part 21 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 includes the tobacco rod 21, and the second part 22 includes the filter rod 22.

[0047] In FIG. 4, the filter rod 22 is shown as a single segment, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 22 may be composed of a plurality of segments. For example, the filter rod 22 includes a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering a predetermined component contained in the aerosol. Further, if necessary, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment for performing other functions.

[0048] The diameter of the cigarette 2 is within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length is about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 is about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 is about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 is about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 is about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0049] The cigarette 2 is wrapped by at least one wrapper 24. At least one hole through which outside air flows in or inside gas flows out is formed in the wrapper 24. As an example, the cigarette 2 is wrapped by one wrapper 24. As another example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped in an overlapping manner by two or more wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 is wrapped by the first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 is wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, and 244. Then, the entire cigarette 2 may be repackaged by a single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, and 244.

[0050] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 are made of a general filter wrapping paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 are porous wrapping paper or non-porous wrapping paper. Also, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of oil-resistant papers and / or aluminum composite paper packaging agents.

[0051] The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is included in the range of 88 g / m 2 to 96 g / m 2 and preferably is included in the range of 90 g / m 2 to 94 g / m 2 Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 is included in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm and preferably is 125 μm.

[0052] The fourth wrapper 244 is made of oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 is included in the range of 88 g / m 2 to 96 g / m 2 and preferably is included in the range of 90 g / m 2 to 94 g / m 2 Also, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 is included in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm and preferably is 125 μm.

[0053] The fifth wrapper 245 is made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) means paper that is specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are improved compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 is within the range of 57 g / m 2 to 63 g / m 2 and preferably is 60 g / m 2 . Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 is within the range of 64 um to 70 um and preferably is 67 um.

[0054] The fifth wrapper 245 has a predetermined substance added thereto. Here, examples of the predetermined substance include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that is not oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above-described properties can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

[0055] The fifth wrapper 245 prevents the phenomenon of the cigarette 2 from burning. For example, if the tobacco rod 210 is heated by the heater 13, the cigarette 2 may burn. Specifically, if any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 310 is heated to above the ignition point, the cigarette 2 may burn. Even in such a case, since the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-combustible substance, the phenomenon of the cigarette 2 burning is prevented.

[0056] Also, the fifth wrapper 245 prevents the holder 1 from being contaminated by the substances generated by the cigarette 2. Depending on the user's puff, a liquid substance is generated inside the cigarette 2. For example, when the aerosol generated by the cigarette 2 is cooled by the outside air, a liquid substance (such as moisture, etc.) is generated. By the fifth wrapper 245 packaging the cigarette 2, the liquid substance generated inside the cigarette 2 is prevented from leaking to the outside of the cigarette 2.

[0057] The tobacco rod 21 contains aerosol product substances. For example, the aerosol product substances include, but are not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. Further, the tobacco rod 21 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 may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying it onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0058] The tobacco rod 21 is manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured from a sheet or from strands. Also, the tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured from cut tobacco in which the tobacco sheet is cut into pieces. Further, the tobacco rod 21 is surrounded by a heat-conductive substance. For example, the heat-conductive substance is also a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the heat-conductive substance surrounding the tobacco rod 21 evenly disperses the heat transmitted to the tobacco rod 21, improves the heat conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, and thereby improves the tobacco flavor. Also, the heat-conductive substance surrounding the tobacco rod 21 functions as a susceptor that is heated by an induction heating heater. At this time, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may further include a susceptor in addition to the heat-conductive substance surrounding the outside.

[0059] The filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical rod, or may be a tubular rod having a hollow inside. Also, the filter rod 22 may be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments may be manufactured in another shape.

[0060] The first segment of the filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment is a tubular structure with a hollow inside. When the heater 13 is inserted by the first segment, it is possible to prevent the phenomenon that the internal substance of the tobacco rod 210 is pushed backward, and a cooling effect of the aerosol is also generated. The diameter of the hollow contained in the first segment is appropriately adopted within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0061] The length of the first segment is appropriately adopted within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Desirably, the length of the first segment is 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0062] By adjusting the content of the plasticizer during the manufacture of the first segment, the hardness of the first segment is adjusted. Further, the first segment is manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or a tube made of the same or different materials inside (for example, the hollow).

[0063] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 13 heating the tobacco rod 21. Therefore, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0064] The distance or diameter of the second segment is variously determined according to the form of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the second segment is appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Desirably, the length of the second segment is 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0065] The second segment is manufactured by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a flavoring liquid may be applied to the fibers made of the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment may be manufactured by weaving together fibers with a flavoring liquid applied thereto and fibers made of the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment is formed by a crimped polymer sheet.

[0066] For example, the polymer is made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0067] When the second segment is formed by a woven polymer fiber or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment has one or more channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Here, the channel means a passage through which gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0068] For example, the second segment made of a crimped polymer sheet is formed of a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, for example, between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. Also, the total surface area of the second segment is between about 300 mm 2 / mm and about 1000 mm 2 / mm. Also, the aerosol cooling element is formed of a material having a specific surface area between about 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100 mm 2 / mg.

[0069] On the other hand, the second segment contains a thread containing a volatile fragrance component. Here, the volatile fragrance component is menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thread is filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0070] The third segment of the filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment is appropriately adopted within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment is 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0071] In the process of manufacturing the third segment, it may be manufactured such that a flavor is generated by injecting a flavoring liquid into the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with the flavoring liquid may be inserted into the interior of the third segment. The aerosol generated by the tobacco rod 21 is cooled by passing through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is transmitted to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, an effect of improving the persistence of the flavor transmitted to the user is produced.

[0072] Further, the filter rod 22 includes at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may perform a function of generating a flavor or a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 has a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped with a film. The capsule 23 may be spherical or cylindrical, but is not limited thereto.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 5, the cigarette 3 further includes a front plug 33. The front plug 33 is located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite to the filter rod 32. The front plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from being detached externally, and can prevent the liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 31 into the aerosol generator (1 in FIGS. 1 to 3) during smoking.

[0074] The filter rod 32 includes a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 corresponds to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4, and the second segment 322 corresponds to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4.

[0075] The diameter and the total length of the cigarette 3 correspond to the diameter and the total length of the cigarette 2 in FIG. 4. For example, the length of the front plug 33 is about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 is about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0076] The cigarette 3 is wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. At least one hole for the inflow of outside air or the outflow of internal gas is formed in the wrapper 35. For example, the front plug 33 is wrapped by the first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 is wrapped by the second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 is wrapped by the third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 is wrapped by the fourth wrapper 354. Then, the whole cigarette 3 is repackaged by the fifth wrapper 355.

[0077] In addition, at least one perforation 36 is formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, the perforation 36 is formed in the area surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 serves to transfer the heat generated by the heater 13 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 to the inside of the tobacco rod 31.

[0078] In addition, at least one capsule 34 is included in the second segment 322. Here, the capsule 34 may function to generate a fragrance or to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 has a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped by a film. The capsule 34 may be spherical or cylindrical, but is not limited thereto.

[0079] The first wrapper 351 is a general filter wrapping paper to which a metal foil such as aluminum foil is bonded. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 is included in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, preferably 50.3 μm. Also, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 is included in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, preferably 6.3 μm. Also, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 50 g / m 2 to 55 g / m 2 and is preferably 53 g / m 2

[0080] ​The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 are made of general filter paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 are porous paper or non-porous paper.

[0081] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 is 35000 CU, but it is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 is included in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, and preferably, it is 78 μm. Further, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 20 g / m 2 to 25 g / m 2 and is preferably 23.5 g / m 2

[0082] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 is 24000 CU, but it is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 is included in the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and preferably, it is 68 μm. Further, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 is 20 g / m 2 to 25 g / m 2 and is preferably 21 g / m 2

[0083] The fourth wrapper 354 is made of PLA laminated paper. Here, the PLA laminated paper means a triple-layer paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 is included in the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and preferably, it is 110 μm. Further, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is 80 g / m 2 to 100 g / m 2 and is preferably 88 g / m 2

[0084] The fifth wrapper 355 is made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) means paper specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are improved compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is 57 g / m 2 to 63 g / m 2 and is preferably 60 g / m 2 ​​​It is so. Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 is included within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably is 67 μm.

[0085] The fifth wrapper 355 is internally added with a predetermined substance. Here, as an example of the predetermined substance, there is silicon, but it is not limited thereto. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that is not oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above-described properties can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

[0086] The front plug 33 is made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the front plug 33 is made by adding a plasticizer (for example, triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow is included within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and preferably is included within the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the front plug 33 is 5.0. Also, the cross-section of the filaments constituting the front plug 33 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the front plug 33 is included within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and preferably is included within the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the front plug 33 is 28,000.

[0087] Also, if necessary, the front plug 33 includes at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel is manufactured in various ways.

[0088] The tobacco rod 31 corresponds to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to FIG. 4. Therefore, the specific description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0089] The first segment 321 is made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment is a tubular structure with a hollow inside. The first segment 321 is made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the mono-denier and total denier of the first segment 321 are the same as those of the front plug 33.

[0090] The second segment 322 is made of cellulose acetate. The mono-denier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 is included in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably included in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the mono-denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 is 9.0. Also, the cross-section of the filaments of the second segment 322 is Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 is included in the range of 20000 to 30000, preferably 25000.

[0091] FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of an aerosol generating device 100 according to an embodiment, and FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for explaining the connection between the control unit and the susceptor shown in FIG. 6. The aerosol generating device 100 according to the embodiment generates an aerosol by heating a cigarette 2 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 100 by an induction heating method. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 supplies power to the induction coil 131 to generate a variable magnetic field. At this time, at least a part of the cigarette 2 is heated through a heating member 130 that generates heat by the variable magnetic field, and an aerosol is generated when the cigarette 2 is heated. Here, although it is described that the aerosol generating device 100 is an induction heating method, it is needless to say that the embodiment can be equally applied to an aerosol generating device of a resistance heater method.

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a heating member 130 for heating the inserted cigarette 2, and a coil 131 for inducing a variable magnetic field in the heating member 130 to heat a position corresponding to the aerosol generating article of the cigarette 2.

[0093] In one embodiment, the heating member 130 is a susceptor. Hereinafter, the heating member and the susceptor will be described in the same sense. The susceptor surrounds at least a part of the outer surface of the cigarette 2 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the susceptor surrounds at least a part of the portion containing the aerosol generating substance and the portion containing the tobacco substance.

[0094] In one embodiment, the induction coil 131 is arranged to surround the outer peripheral surface of the susceptor 130 and generates a variable magnetic field through the power supplied from the battery. In one embodiment, the induction coil 131 is preset with an alternating current value A and a frequency value capable of heating the susceptor 130. For example, the induction coil 131 is set in the range of about 120 mA to 140 mA for the alternating current value and in the range of about 130 KHz to 150 KHz for the frequency value. However, the alternating current value and the frequency value of the induction coil 131 are not limited thereto and can be variously changed depending on the material, thickness or form of the susceptor 130.

[0095] Sensing lines 600 or wires for measuring temperature are connected to both outer sides of the susceptor 130. The control unit 600 applies a sensor control signal, for example, a voltage signal or a current signal, through the sensing line 600 and reads a sensor output signal measured from the susceptor 130, for example, a resistance value or a capacitance value.

[0096] In an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a first sensor that measures the temperature of the heating member 130 that heats the aerosol generating substance, and a second sensor that detects the characteristics of the aerosol generating substance. Here, the first sensor is a contact temperature sensor such as a thermocouple, an RTD (resistance temperature detector), a thermistor, or a temperature label. The second sensor is a capacitance sensor or a capacitance sensor that detects the characteristics of the cigarette 2 housed in the susceptor 130. The second sensor detects whether the housed cigarette 2 is an over-wet cigarette. Further, the second sensor can also detect whether a cigarette is housed or inserted into the susceptor 130. The first and second sensors will be described later with reference to FIG. 8.

[0097] In an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a first sensor 611 and a second sensor 612, and a switching module 613 connected to a shared sensor signal line 600 connected to the heating member 130. The control unit 610 switches the switching module 613 to perform temperature measurement by the first sensor or detection of the characteristics of the aerosol generating article (for example, a cigarette) by the second sensor. That is, the first sensor 611 and the second sensor 612 perform their respective sensing operations (for example, temperature measurement and characteristic detection) based on the information regarding the heating member 130 collected through the shared sensor signal line 600 connected to the heating member 130.

[0098] Further, in an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 further includes a third sensor that detects whether the cigarette 2 is inserted into the susceptor 130. Here, the third sensor may be an inductance sensor, and the coil 131 shown in FIG. 6 can also function as the third sensor. Further, when the second sensor is a capacitance sensor, it can also perform the function of detecting whether the cigarette 2 is inserted into the susceptor 130.

[0099] In response to the third sensor output signal from the third sensor, the control unit 610 switches the switching module and outputs a second sensor control signal to the second sensor. In an embodiment, when a cigarette is inserted, the power consumption of the sensor is reduced by driving the second sensor that detects the characteristics of the cigarette.

[0100] FIG. 8 is a detailed schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 8, the aerosol generating device includes a control unit 610, a first sensor 611, a second sensor 612, a switching module 613, and a susceptor 130.

[0102] The control unit 610, the first sensor 611, the second sensor 612, and the switching module 613 are all arranged on the main PCB. Also, the control unit 610, the first sensor 611, and the second sensor 612 are arranged on the main PCB, and the switching module 613 is separated from the main PCB. Also, the first sensor 611 and the second sensor 612 are controlled by one sensor controller or sensor control unit, or are controlled by their respective sensor control units. Also, the first sensor 611 and the second sensor 612 may be included as functional modules within the control unit 610 or the MCU.

[0103] The switching module 613 is connected to the first sensor 611 and the second sensor 612. Also, the switching module 613 is connected to a shared sensor signal line that is connected to the susceptor 130. The switching module 613 is a SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) switch. The switching module 613 connects the first sensor 611 to the susceptor 130 or connects the second sensor 612 to the susceptor 130 according to the switching signal of the control unit 610.

[0104] The control unit 610 switches the switching module 613 to output a second sensor control signal, such as a voltage signal or a current signal, to the second sensor 612, and detects the characteristics of the aerosol product substance contained in the cigarette accommodated in the susceptor 130. At this time, the first sensor 611 and the susceptor 130 are not physically connected. In an embodiment, when the second sensor 612 is a capacitance sensor, an electric field is formed between the physical sensing line, the susceptor, and the inserted cigarette by the voltage or current signal applied to the outside of the susceptor 130. When a super wet cigarette is inserted, the increase in the moisture content or the capacitance (capacitance C) is sensed. Here, the criterion for distinguishing between the general state and the super wet state means a state containing moisture of about 15 wt% or more of the total weight of the aerosol product substance of the cigarette 2. Therefore, when the capacitance value is large based on the reference capacitance value corresponding to 15 wt%, it is determined as a super wet cigarette. However, it goes without saying that the moisture content for determining the state of the aerosol product (for example, the general state or the super wet state) is not limited to this and can be variously changed depending on the manufacturer's design and the like.

[0105] When the cigarette 2 accommodated in the susceptor 130 is not a super wet cigarette, the control unit 610 heats it according to the first heating profile. On the other hand, in the case of a super wet cigarette, it is heated according to a second heating profile different from the first heating profile. For example, the second heating profile has a longer preheating section than the first heating profile.

[0106] After detecting the characteristics of the aerosol product substance through the second sensor 612, the control unit 610 switches the switching module 613 to output a first sensor control signal to the first sensor 611 and measures the temperature of the susceptor 130. At this time, the second sensor 612 and the susceptor 130 are not physically connected. In an embodiment, when the first sensor 611 is a thermocouple, a current flows through the wires connected to both sides of the susceptor, and the temperature change is sensed from the change in the resistance value.

[0107] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the control unit 610 and the heating control unit 620 shown in FIG. 8.

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the control unit 610 includes a temperature determination unit 614, an insertion determination unit 615, and a overhumidity determination unit 616. Further, the control unit 610 controls the heating control unit 620, and the heating control unit 620 provides AC power to the coil 131 shown in FIG. 6.

[0109] The temperature determination unit 614 determines the temperature of the susceptor 130 based on the first sensor output signal output from the first sensor 611.

[0110] The insertion determination unit 615 determines whether or not the cigarette 2 is accommodated in the susceptor 130 based on the sensor output signal from the second sensor 612 or a separate third sensor (coil or inductance sensor shown in FIG. 6).

[0111] The overhumidity determination unit 616 determines whether or not the aerosol product or article of the cigarette 2 accommodated in the susceptor 130 is in an overhumid state based on the second sensor output signal from the second sensor 612.

[0112] In the embodiment, when the insertion determination unit 615 determines that a cigarette is inserted, the control unit 610 switches the switching module 613 and outputs a second sensor control signal to the second sensor 612. The overhumidity determination unit 616 determines whether or not the cigarette 2 accommodated in the susceptor 130 is in an overhumid state based on the second sensor output signal output from the second sensor 612.

[0113] The control unit 610 loads the first heating profile or the second heating profile stored in a memory (not shown) according to the determination result of the overhumidity determination unit 616. Outputs a heating control signal according to the first heating profile or the second heating profile to the heating control unit 620, and the heating control unit 620 provides AC power corresponding to the heating control signal to the coil 131.

[0114] In the embodiment, after the determination by the overhumidity determination unit 616, the control unit 610 switches the switching module 613 and outputs a first sensor control signal to the first sensor 611. The temperature determination unit 614 receives a first sensor output signal from the first sensor 611 and determines the temperature of the susceptor 130 that is currently being heated.

[0115] Based on the temperature determined by the temperature determination unit 614, when it is necessary to maintain or readjust the temperature of the susceptor 130, the control unit 610 controls to follow the target temperature on the heating profile through PID control.

[0116] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to still another embodiment.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 10, the aerosol generating device 1000 includes a control unit 1010, a sensing unit 1020, an output unit 1030, a battery 1040, a heater 1050, a user input unit 1060, a memory 1070, and a communication unit 1080. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1000 is not limited to what is shown in FIG. 6. That is, those skilled in the art will understand that depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1000, some of the configurations shown in FIG. 6 may be omitted or new configurations may be further added.

[0118] The sensing unit 1020 senses the state of the aerosol generating device 1000 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1000 and transmits the sensed information to the control unit 1010. The control unit 1010 controls the aerosol generating device 1000 based on the sensed information so that various functions such as operation control of the heater 1050, restriction of smoking, determination of insertion of an aerosol generating article (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.), and notification display are performed.

[0119] The sensing unit 1020 includes at least one of a temperature sensor 1022, an insertion sensing sensor 1024, and a puff sensor 1026, but is not limited thereto.

[0120] The temperature sensor 1022 senses the temperature at which the heater 1050 (or the aerosol generating substance) is heated. The aerosol generating device 1000 comprises a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the heater 1050, or the heater 1050 itself serves as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 1022 may be arranged around the battery 1040 so as to monitor the temperature of the battery 1040. In an embodiment, the temperature sensor 1022 measures the temperature of the heater 1050 before it is heated.

[0121] In an embodiment, the temperature sensor 1022 is a first sensor and is also a thermocouple that measures a change in resistance through a wire connected to the outside of the susceptor 130.

[0122] The insertion sensing sensor 1024 senses the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 1024 includes at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light 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. In an embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor 1024 is also a second sensor that is a capacitance sensor or a third sensor that is an inductance sensor. Further, the second sensor determines the physical characteristics of the cigarette housed in the susceptor 130, i.e., a state of overhumidity. In an embodiment, the first sensor and the second sensor share a physical sensing line (e.g., the shared sensor signal line 600) connected to both sides of the susceptor 130.

[0123] The puff sensor 1026 senses the user's puff based on various physical changes in the air flow path or air flow channel. For example, the puff sensor 1026 senses the user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow rate change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0124] In addition to the sensors 1022 to 1026 described above, the sensing unit 1020 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.

[0125] The output unit 1030 outputs information about the state of the aerosol generating device 1000 and provides it to the user. The output unit 1030 includes at least one of a display unit 1032, a haptic unit 1034, and an acoustic output unit 1036, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 1032 and the touch pad form a layer structure to form a touch screen, the display unit 1032 is also used as an input device in addition to the output device.

[0126] The display unit 1032 visually provides information about the aerosol generating device 1000 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1000 means various information such as the charge / discharge state of the battery 1040 of the aerosol generating device 1000, the preheating state of the heater 1050, the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article, or the state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 1000 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal article), and the display unit 1032 outputs the information to the outside. The display unit 1032 is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. Also, the display unit 1032 may be in the form of an LED light emitting element.

[0127] The haptic unit 1034 converts an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus and provides information about the aerosol generating device 1000 to the user tactilely. For example, the haptic unit 1034 includes a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0128] The audio output unit 1036 provides information about the aerosol generator 1000 to the user auditorily. For example, the audio output unit 1036 converts an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and outputs it externally.

[0129] The battery 1040 supplies the power used for the operation of the aerosol generator 1000. The battery 1040 supplies power so that the heater 1050 is heated. Also, the battery 1040 supplies the power necessary for the operation of other components (for example, the sensing unit 1020, the output unit 1030, the user input unit 1060, the memory 1070, and the communication unit 1080) provided in the aerosol generator 1000. The battery 1040 is a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 1040 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0130] The heater 1050 is supplied with power from the battery 1040 and heats the aerosol generating substance. Although not shown in FIG. 10, the aerosol generator 1000 further includes a power conversion circuit (for example, a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 1040 and supplies it to the heater 1050. Also, when the aerosol generator 1000 generates aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 1000 further includes a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power source of the battery 1040 into an AC power source.

[0131] The control unit 1010, the sensing unit 1020, the output unit 1030, the user input unit 1060, the memory 1070, and the communication unit 1010 are supplied with power from the battery 1040 and perform functions. Although not shown in FIG. 10, it further includes a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the battery 1040 and supplies it to each component.

[0132] In one embodiment, the heater 1050 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. Further, the heater 1050 may be embodied as a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate with an electrically conductive track disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0133] In another embodiment, the heater 1050 is an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 1050 includes a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol generating material.

[0134] In one embodiment, there may be a plurality of heaters 1050. For example, the heater 1050 may include a first heater for heating a cigarette and a second heater for heating a liquid composition.

[0135] The user input unit 1060 receives information input from the user or outputs information to the user. For example, the user input unit 1060 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. Further, although not shown in FIG. 10, the aerosol generating device 1000 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and through the connection interface such as a USB interface, it connects to another external device to transmit and receive information or charges the battery 1040.

[0136] The memory 1070 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1000, and stores the data processed by the control unit 1010 and the data to be processed. The memory 1070 includes at least one type of recording medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (for example, 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 1070 stores data such as the operation time of the aerosol generating device 1000, the maximum puff count, the current puff count, at least one temperature profile, and the smoking pattern of the user. In an embodiment, the memory 1070 stores a plurality of temperature profiles.

[0137] The communication unit 1080 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 1080 includes a short-range communication unit 1082 and a wireless communication unit 1084.

[0138] The short-range communication unit 1082 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.

[0139] The wireless communication unit 1084 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 1084 may confirm and authenticate the aerosol generating device 1000 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., the International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0140] The control unit 1010 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1000. In one embodiment, the control unit 1010 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 in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that it may also be embodied in other forms of hardware.

[0141] The control unit 1010 controls the temperature of the heater 1050 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 1040 to the heater 1050. For example, the control unit 1010 controls the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery 1040 and the heater 1050. In another example, according to the control command of the control unit 1010, a direct heating circuit may control the power supply to the heater 1050.

[0142] When the operation of the aerosol generating device 1000 is started, the control unit 1010 controls the power supply to the heater 1050 according to a preset temperature profile or a preset preheating profile.

[0143] In the embodiment, the control unit 1010 controls the power supply to the heater 1050 by means of a PID (proportional-integral-differential) control method. That is, the control unit 1010 controls the power supply to the heater 1050 by means of the PID control method so that the heater 1050 has a temperature corresponding to the set temperature profile. For example, the control unit 1010 adjusts the parameter Kp for proportional control, the parameter Ki for integral control, and the parameter Kd for differential control, or adjusts at least one of these parameters to supply power so that the temperature of the heater 1050 reaches the target temperature during the time corresponding to the temperature rise section according to the temperature profile.

[0144] The control unit 1010 analyzes the results sensed by the sensing unit 1020 and controls the subsequent processes. For example, the control unit 1010 controls the power supplied to the heater 1050 so that the operation of the heater 1050 starts or ends based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1020. As another example, the control unit 1010 controls the amount of power supplied to the heater 1050 and the time during which the power is supplied so that the heater 1050 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1020.

[0145] The control unit 1010 controls the output unit 1030 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 1020. For example, if the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 1026 reaches a predetermined number, the control unit 1010 notifies the user through at least one of the display unit 1032, the haptic unit 1034, and the acoustic output unit 1036 that the aerosol generating device 1000 will end soon.

[0146] In one embodiment, the control unit 1010 controls the power supply time and / or the power supply amount to the heater 1050 according to the state of the aerosol generating article sensed by the sensing unit 1020. For example, when the aerosol generating article 15 is in an over-wet state, the control unit 1010 controls the power supply time to the induction coil to increase the preheating time compared to when the aerosol generating article 15 is in a normal state.

[0147] 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 available medium accessible by a computer and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. Also, a computer-readable medium includes both computer storage media and communication media. A computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for the storage of information such as computer-executable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. A communication media typically includes modulated data signals such as computer-executable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data, or other transmission mechanisms, and includes any information delivery media.

[0148] The foregoing description of the embodiments is merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will understand that more various modifications and equivalent other embodiments are possible from these. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention must be determined by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope equivalent to the content described in the claims shall be construed as being included in the scope of protection determined by the claims.

Claims

1. A first sensor for measuring the temperature of a heating member that heats an aerosol generating substance; A second sensor for detecting the characteristics of the aerosol generating substance; A switching module connected to the first sensor and the second sensor and a shared sensor signal line connected to the heating member; An aerosol generating device comprising: a control unit that controls the switching module to receive a first sensor output signal from the first sensor or a second sensor output signal from the second sensor.

2. The heating member is A susceptor that heats the aerosol generating substance in response to a variable magnetic field induced by a coil, according to the aerosol generating device of claim 1.

3. The shared sensor signal line is Connected to the outside of the susceptor, according to the aerosol generating device of claim 2.

4. The first sensor is A thermocouple, according to the aerosol generating device of claim 1.

5. The second sensor is A capacitance sensor, according to the aerosol generating device of claim 1.

6. The second sensor is For detecting whether a cigarette containing the aerosol generating substance is inserted into the heating member, according to the aerosol generating device of claim 1.

7. The switching module is An SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) switch, according to the aerosol generating device of claim 1.

8. Further comprising a third sensor for detecting whether a cigarette containing the aerosol generating substance is inserted into the heating member, The third sensor is An inductance sensor, according to the aerosol generating device of claim 1.

9. The inductance sensor is Comprising a coil configured to induce a variable magnetic field in the heating member, according to the aerosol generating device of claim 8.

10. The control unit is In response to a third sensor output signal from the third sensor, switching the switching module so that the control unit is connected to the second sensor and outputting a second sensor control signal to the second sensor, according to the aerosol generating device of claim 8.

11. The control unit is Switching the switching module so that the control unit is connected to the second sensor and outputting a second sensor control signal to the second sensor, The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein it is determined from the second sensor whether the cigarette containing the aerosol generating substance is an over-wet cigarette based on the second sensor output signal.

12. The control unit After determining whether the cigarette is an over-wet cigarette, switches the switching module so that the control unit is connected to the first sensor, and outputs a first sensor control signal to the first sensor. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11.

13. The control unit When the cigarette is not the over-wet cigarette, controls the temperature of the heating member according to a first heating profile. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11.

14. The control unit When the cigarette is the over-wet cigarette, controls the temperature of the heating member according to a second heating profile different from the first heating profile. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13.

15. The first sensor and the second sensor are controlled by one sensor control unit. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

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