Aerosol generating device including a heater

Abstract

The aerosol generating device includes a heater configured to heat an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article including a plurality of segments separated from one another, each segment including a plurality of sections, the heater, an airflow path regulator configured to form an airflow path passing through any one of the plurality of segments, and a processor configured to operate the heater under a first heating condition using a first temperature profile corresponding to a first one of the plurality of sections of the segment in which the airflow path is formed.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The disclosure relates generally to aerosol generating devices, and more particularly to aerosol generating devices that include a heater. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles have been developed that contain tobacco leaves to which flavoring materials have been added. When the aerosol-generating articles are burned or heated, a nicotine-containing aerosol can be delivered to the user. The background art described above was retained or acquired during the process of deriving this disclosure, and is not necessarily publicly known prior to the filing of this disclosure. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] One aspect of the disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that includes a heater configured to operate under heating conditions that are varied by a temperature profile corresponding to a section (e.g., a unitary medium) within the aerosol-generating article. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The aerosol generating device includes a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating article including a plurality of segments separated from one another, each segment including a plurality of sections; an airflow path adjuster configured to form an airflow path passing through any one of the plurality of segments; and a processor configured to operate the heater under first heating conditions using a first temperature profile corresponding to a first section of the plurality of sections of the segment in which the airflow path is formed.

[0005] The processor may be configured to change the first heating condition of the heater to a second heating condition using a second temperature profile corresponding to a second section among multiple sections of the segment in which the airflow path is formed.

[0006] The airflow path adjuster may include a plurality of flexible membranes respectively corresponding to the plurality of segments, and the opening degrees of the plurality of flexible membranes may be configured to be adjustable.

[0007] When any one of the plurality of flexible membranes is at least partially open, at least one remaining membrane may be configured to be closed.

[0008] A plurality of airflow paths passing through the plurality of segments respectively may be arranged in parallel.

[0009] The processor may be configured to receive an updated temperature profile from an external device.

[0010] The processor may be configured to receive the temperature profile from the external device in firmware code form.

[0011] The processor may be configured to receive the temperature profile from the external device wirelessly.

[0012] The first section may include any one of a plurality of unit media defining the segment, and the unit media may include a plurality of components and pores defined between the plurality of components.

[0013] The heater may include a convection heater configured to convectively heat the aerosol-generating article.

[0014] The aerosol generating device includes a heater configured to heat an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article including a segment, the segment including a plurality of sections, and a processor configured to operate the heater using a first temperature profile corresponding to a first section of the plurality of sections.

[0015] The processor may be configured to change the first heating condition of the heater to a second heating condition using a second temperature profile corresponding to a second section of the plurality of sections.

[0016] The processor may be configured to receive an updated temperature profile from an external device.

[0017] The processor may be configured to receive the temperature profile from the external device in firmware code form.

[0018] The processor may be configured to receive the temperature profile from the external device wirelessly. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to one embodiment, an airflow path may be formed only in a portion of the aerosol-generating article that is to be heated. According to one embodiment, aerosols of various components may be provided to a user by simply wearing the aerosol-generating article once. According to one embodiment, various media may be heated individually. According to one embodiment, airflow may be controlled in a non-contact manner. The effects of the aerosol generating device including a heater according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0020] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of particular embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a unit medium according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a layer according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment; [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment with the first membrane open. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 shows an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment with the second membrane open. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 shows an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment with the third membrane open. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to one embodiment with the fourth membrane open. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device in a state where a first airflow path is formed according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device in a state where a second airflow path is formed according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device in a state where a third airflow path is formed according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device in a state where a first airflow path is formed according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device in a state where a second airflow path is formed according to an embodiment. [Figure 16]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device in a state where a third airflow path is formed according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device receiving a temperature profile from an external device according to one embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 shows an aerosol generating device that changes the heating conditions of a heater using a temperature profile corresponding to one section of a single segment of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device that changes the heating conditions of a heater using a temperature profile corresponding to one section of any one of multiple segments of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structural or functional descriptions disclosed in this specification are merely examples for the purpose of describing the embodiments, and the embodiments may be implemented in various different forms, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. It should be understood that all modifications, equivalents, or alternatives to the embodiments are included in the scope of the claims.

[0023] The terms used in the embodiments are merely used for the purpose of explanation and are not to be construed as being limiting. A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this specification, the terms "comprise" or "have" indicate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. Commonly used predefined terms should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning they have in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning unless expressly defined herein.

[0025] In addition, in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals regardless of the reference numerals, and redundant description thereof will be omitted. In the description of the embodiments, if a detailed description of related known technology is determined to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the embodiments, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0026] Furthermore, in describing components of the embodiments, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are merely used to distinguish the component from other components, and do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components. When a component is described as being "coupled," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly coupled or connected to the different component, but additional components may be "coupled," "coupled," or "connected" between the components.

[0027] Components having common functions with components included in one embodiment will be described using the same names in other embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, the description of one embodiment will be applied to other embodiments, and detailed description will be omitted to the extent that they overlap.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment.

[0029] 1, the aerosol-generating article 10 is configured to generate an aerosol, for example, by transitioning from a solid phase to a gas phase or from a liquid phase to a gas phase in a specific environment (e.g., a temperature environment of about 200° C.).

[0030] The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a solid body having a substantially polygonal cross section. For example, the cross section of the aerosol-generating article 10 oriented parallel to the XY plane may be rectangular. In an embodiment not shown, the aerosol-generating article 10 may comprise a solid body having a substantially circular or elliptical cross section.

[0031] The aerosol-generating article 10 has a first width or first diameter (e.g., dimension in the X direction), a second width or second diameter (e.g., dimension in the Y direction), and a length (e.g., dimension in the Z direction). The first width or first diameter of the aerosol-generating article 10 may be substantially the same as the second width or second diameter of the aerosol-generating article 10. The length of the aerosol-generating article 10 is greater than the first width or first diameter of the aerosol-generating article 10. The length of the aerosol-generating article 10 is greater than the second width or second diameter of the aerosol-generating article 10. For example, the first width or first diameter of the aerosol-generating article 10 may be about 0.6 cm. The length of the aerosol-generating article 10 may be about 5 cm.

[0032] In embodiments not shown, the first width or first diameter of the aerosol-generating article 10 may be different from the second width or second diameter of the aerosol-generating article 10. The length of the aerosol-generating article 10 may be substantially the same as or smaller than the first width or first diameter of the aerosol-generating article 10. The length of the aerosol-generating article 10 may be substantially the same as or smaller than the second width or second diameter of the aerosol-generating article 10.

[0033] The aerosol-generating article 10 includes a plurality of unit media U1, U2, U3, U4, U5, U6, U7, U8, U9, and U10. Here, the unit media U1-U10 may be the smallest unit of media (e.g., a number of pieces) that a user inhales from the aerosol-generating article 10. While Fig. 1 shows ten unit media U1-U10, the number is not limited to ten, and the aerosol-generating article 10 may include a variety of numbers of unit media.

[0034] The plurality of unit media U1-U10 can define one segment S1. As an example, the segment S1 may be a packaged item in which the plurality of unit media U1-U10 are packaged. As an example, the segment S1 may be a unit item provided to an aerosol generating device (not shown).

[0035] The plurality of unit media U1-U10 have substantially the same shape as one another. For example, the plurality of unit media U1-U10 have substantially hexahedral shapes. However, the shape of the plurality of unit media U1-U10 is not limited thereto and may be realized in various different shapes (e.g., cylindrical). In an embodiment not shown, the shape of at least one of the plurality of unit media U1-U10 may be different from the shape of at least one of the other unit media. For example, the first unit medium U1 to the fifth unit medium U5 may be realized as hexahedrons, while the sixth unit medium U6 to the tenth unit medium U10 may be realized as cylinders.

[0036] The plurality of unit media U1-U10 may each include components with various composition ratios. For example, the composition of any one unit medium (e.g., the first unit medium U1) may be at least partially different from the composition of another unit medium (e.g., the second unit medium U2). For example, the composition of any one unit medium (e.g., the second unit medium U2) may be the same as the composition of another unit medium (e.g., the third unit medium U3). For example, the composition ratio of the components of any one unit medium (e.g., the second unit medium U2) may be different from the composition ratio of the components of another unit medium (e.g., the third unit medium U3). For example, the composition ratio of the components of any one unit medium (e.g., the third unit medium U3) may be the same as the composition ratio of the components of another unit medium (e.g., the fourth unit medium U4).

[0037] The multiple unit media U1-U10 may be realized in shapes having various dimensions. The width or diameter (e.g., the dimension in the X direction and / or the dimension in the Y direction) of any one unit medium (e.g., the first unit medium U1) may be different from the width or diameter (e.g., the dimension in the X direction and / or the dimension in the Y direction) of another unit medium (e.g., the second unit medium U2). The width or diameter (e.g., the dimension in the X direction and / or the dimension in the Y direction) of any one unit medium (e.g., the second unit medium U2) may be the same as the width or diameter (e.g., the dimension in the X direction and / or the dimension in the Y direction) of another unit medium (e.g., the third unit medium U3). The length (e.g., the dimension in the Z direction) of any one unit medium (e.g., the second unit medium U2) may be different from the length (e.g., the dimension in the Z direction) of another unit medium (e.g., the third unit medium U3). The length (e.g., dimension in the Z direction) of any one unit medium (e.g., first unit medium U1) may be the same as the length (e.g., dimension in the Z direction) of another unit medium (e.g., second unit medium U2).

[0038] The multiple medium units U1-U10 can be stacked. Any one medium unit (e.g., the second medium unit U2) may be disposed on another medium unit (e.g., the first medium unit U1). Any one medium unit and a different medium unit adjacent to it may be directly adjacent to each other. The stacking direction of the multiple medium units U1-U10 may be substantially the same as the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article 10.

[0039] The aerosol-generating article 10 may not include a filter. A filter-less aerosol-generating article 10 may include a larger number of unit media U1-U10.

[0040] In an embodiment not shown, the aerosol-generating article 10 may include a single unit of medium. The single unit of medium may define the segment S1.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a unit medium according to one embodiment.

[0042] Referring to FIG. 2 , the unit medium UM (e.g., unit mediums U1-U10 in FIG. 1 ) has a substantially hexahedral shape. The unit medium UM has a first dimension (e.g., a dimension in the X direction), a second dimension (e.g., a dimension in the Y direction), and a third dimension (e.g., a dimension in the Z direction). The first dimension, the second dimension, and the third dimension may be substantially the same as each other. At least two of the first dimension, the second dimension, and the third dimension may be different from each other. In an embodiment not shown, the unit medium UM includes a solid (e.g., a cylinder) having a substantially circular or elliptical cross section. The unit medium UM has substantially the same diameter and length as each other. The unit medium UM may have different diameters and lengths as each other. In an embodiment not shown, the unit medium UM may include a torus shape.

[0043] The unit medium UM includes multiple layers L1 and L2. For example, the unit medium UM includes a first layer L1 and a second layer L2. However, the number of layers defining the unit medium UM is not limited to the example shown, and may be realized as various numbers of layers. As an example, the unit medium UM includes a single layer. As an example, the unit medium UM may include three or more layers.

[0044] The multiple layers L1, L2 may be stacked. Any one layer (e.g., the second layer L2) may be disposed on another layer (e.g., the first layer L1). Any one layer and its adjacent layer may be in direct contact with each other. The stacking direction of the multiple layers L1, L2 may be substantially the same as the dimension of one direction (e.g., the dimension in the Z direction) of the unit medium UM.

[0045] The layers L1, L2 comprise different components, for example, the first layer L1 comprises at least one component C11, C12, C13 involved in aerosol formation, and the second layer L2 comprises at least one component C21, C22 adapted to be carried or bound to the formed aerosol.

[0046] The first layer L1 includes an aerosol former C11. The aerosol former C11 may also be referred to as a humectant. For example, the aerosol former C11 may include at least one of propylene glycol or glycerin, or a combination thereof.

[0047] The first layer L1 includes about 100% by weight or less, about 99.5% by weight or less, about 99% by weight or less, or about 95% by weight or less of the aerosol-forming agent C11. The first layer L1 includes more than about 0% by weight, about 69.5% by weight or more, or about 70% by weight or more of the aerosol-forming agent C11. The first layer L1 includes a flavoring agent C12. For example, the flavoring agent C12 may include at least one component of menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, or a fruity flavor component, or a combination thereof. The first layer L1 may include about 1% by weight or less, about 0.5% by weight or less, or about 0.3% by weight or less of the flavoring agent C12. In some embodiments, the first layer L1 is substantially free of the flavoring agent C12.

[0048] The first layer L1 includes a binder C13. The binder C13 may also be referred to as a resin. The binder C13 may be capable of binding at least two components together (e.g., binding at least two aerosol-forming agents C11, binding at least two flavoring agents C12, or binding at least one aerosol-forming agent C11 and at least one flavoring agent C12). The first layer L1 may include about 30% by weight or less, about 25% by weight or less, about 20% by weight or less, about 15% by weight or less, about 10% by weight or less, about 5% by weight or less, about 3% by weight or less, about 2% by weight or less, or about 1% by weight or less of the binder C13. In some embodiments, the first layer L1 is substantially free of the binder C13.

[0049] At least one ingredient included in the first layer L1 (eg, the aerosol-forming agent C11 and / or the flavoring agent C12) may be in granular or powder form.

[0050] The second layer L2 includes an aerosol substrate C21. The aerosol substrate C21 may include at least one of tobacco or vitamins, or a combination thereof. The tobacco includes at least one of leaf form or stem form, or a combination thereof. The tobacco includes at least one of flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, orient tobacco, or other specialty leaf tobacco, or a combination thereof. The vitamins may include at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, or vitamin E, or a combination thereof. The second layer L2 includes about 50% by weight or less, about 30% by weight or less, about 20% by weight or less, or about 15% by weight or less of the aerosol substrate C21. For example, the second layer L2 may comprise at least one of about 50% by weight or less flue-cured tobacco, about 30% by weight or less Burley tobacco, about 15% by weight or less Orient tobacco, or about 15% by weight or less specialty tobacco, or a combination thereof. The second layer L2 may comprise at least about 5% by weight, at least about 20% by weight, or at least about 30% by weight of the aerosol substrate C21. For example, the second layer L2 may comprise at least one of about 30% by weight or more flue-cured tobacco, about 20% by weight or more Burley tobacco, about 5% by weight or more Orient tobacco, or greater than 0% specialty tobacco, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the second layer L2 does not comprise specialty tobacco.

[0051] The second layer L2 includes a binder C22. The binder C22 allows at least two aerosol substrates C21 to be bound together. The second layer L2 may include about 30% by weight or less, about 25% by weight or less, about 20% by weight or less, about 15% by weight or less, about 10% by weight or less, about 5% by weight or less, about 3% by weight or less, about 2% by weight or less, or about 1% by weight or less of the binder C22. In some embodiments, the second layer L2 is substantially free of the binder C22.

[0052] In an embodiment not shown, the second layer L2 may include a flavoring agent.

[0053] At least one component contained in the second layer L2 (eg, the aerosol base C21) may be in granular or powder form.

[0054] The first layer L1 has a first thickness. For example, the first thickness may be approximately 0.2 cm. The second layer L2 has a second thickness that is greater than the first layer L1. For example, the second thickness may be approximately 0.3 cm. In an embodiment not shown, the first thickness may be substantially the same as or greater than the second thickness.

[0055] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a layer according to one embodiment.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 3, a layer L (e.g., the first layer L1 and / or the second layer L2 in FIG. 2) includes a plurality of components C (e.g., at least one of the aerosol-forming agent C11, flavoring agent C12, binder C13, aerosol base C21, or binder C22 in FIG. 2, or a combination thereof).

[0057] The layer L includes pores G defined between the multiple components C. The pores G may impart porosity to the layer L. The pores G can uniformly release the components (e.g., at least one component of the aerosol-forming agent C11 or the flavoring agent C12, or a combination thereof) from the layer L. The pores G can increase the amount of release of the components. The pores G can increase the surface area of ​​the components in a specific environment (e.g., a temperature environment of about 200°C). The pores G can improve the efficiency of thermal energy transfer to the components.

[0058] Pores G may be void spaces. Air entering layer L can contact components through pores G and exit layer L. In embodiments not shown, layer L may include partially charged interstitial material in pores G.

[0059] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment.

[0060] 4, an aerosol-generating article 10-1 (e.g., the aerosol-generating article 10 shown in FIG. 1) includes multiple segments S1 and S2. For example, the aerosol-generating article 10-1 includes a first segment S1 and a second segment S2. The first segment S1 includes multiple stacked first unit media UA. The second segment S2 includes multiple stacked second unit media UB.

[0061] Multiple segments S1, S2 may be arranged in one aerosol-generating article 10-1. For example, a user can inhale aerosols of various flavors by simply charging the aerosol-generating article 10-1 into the aerosol generating device (e.g., the aerosol generating device 100 in FIG. 5) once.

[0062] The multiple segments S1, S2 can be arranged substantially side by side (e.g., juxtaposed) in one aerosol-generating article 10-1, for example, such that the stacking direction of the multiple first unitary media UA included in the first segment S1 is substantially parallel to the stacking direction of the multiple second unitary media UB included in the second segment S2.

[0063] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0064] 5, aerosol generating device 100 includes housing 110. Housing 110 includes a mouth end 110A, a device end 110B opposite mouth end 110A, and an extension 110C extending between mouth end 110A and device end 110B. For example, housing 110 may include a solid body having a substantially circular or elliptical cross section (e.g., a cylinder), but is not limited thereto, and may be realized as a solid body having a cross section of various shapes.

[0065] The housing 110 includes a first portion 111A and a second portion 111B. The first portion 111A is defined on a first side (e.g., the left side in FIG. 5 ) of the extension 110C. The second portion 111B is defined on a second side (e.g., the right side in FIG. 5 ) opposite the first side of the extension 110C.

[0066] The housing 110 includes a plurality of interior spaces. The housing 110 includes a first partition 111C. The first partition 111C is disposed between the first portion 111A and the second portion 111B of the housing 110. The first partition 111C may extend between the mouse end 110A and the device end 110B. The first partition 111C includes an at least partially open region. The housing 110 includes a second partition 111D. The second partition 111D includes an at least partially open region. The second partition 111D may connect an inner surface of the extension portion 110C and one side (e.g., the left side in FIG. 5 ) of the first partition 111C. The second partition 111D may extend in a direction intersecting (e.g., substantially perpendicular to) the extension direction of the first partition 111C. The housing 110 includes a third partition 111E. The third partition 111E may connect the inner surface of the extension portion 110C and the other side (e.g., the right side in FIG. 5) of the first partition 111C. The third partition 111E may extend in a direction intersecting (e.g., substantially perpendicular to) the extension direction of the first partition 111C. The extension direction of the third partition 111E is substantially parallel to the extension direction of the second partition 111D. The third partition 111E may have a substantially closed region. At least one of the first partition 111C, the second partition 111D, and the third partition 111E can act as a heat transfer barrier having a relatively low heat transfer coefficient.

[0067] The housing 110 includes a storage chamber 112. The storage chamber 112 may be configured to store the aerosol-generating article 10. The storage chamber 112 is at least partially defined on one side of the housing 110 (e.g., the right side in FIG. 5 ). The storage chamber 112 has a volume defined by a portion of the mouth end 110A, a portion of the first partition 111C, a partial area of ​​the interior surface of the extension 110C, and a portion of the third partition 111D. The storage chamber 112 may have any length suitable for storing a plurality of stacked unit media UM that define one segment S.

[0068] The housing 110 includes an inlet 113 through which the aerosol-generating article 10 passes into the receiving chamber 112. The inlet 113 may have a substantially circular or elliptical shape, but is not limited to such, and may have a shape that is complementary to the shape of the aerosol-generating article 10. The inlet 113 may be located in a region of the mouth end 110A of the second portion 111B of the housing 110 (e.g., the right-hand region in FIG. 5 ). In an embodiment not shown, the inlet 113 may be configured to be opened and closed by any suitable mechanism (e.g., a hinged cover or door).

[0069] The housing 110 includes a heating chamber 114. The heating chamber 114 may be configured to accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 10 (e.g., any one of the plurality of unit mediums UM' defining one segment S, preferably the top unit medium UM'). The portion of the aerosol-generating article 10 accommodated in the heating chamber 114 (e.g., the unit medium UM') is heated. The heating chamber 114 is at least partially defined on one side of the housing 110 (e.g., the left side in FIG. 5 ). The heating chamber 114 includes a volume defined by the mouth end 110A, a portion of the first partition 111C, a portion of the second partition 111D, and a partial area of ​​the inner surface of the extension 110C. The dimension (e.g., length) or volume of the heating chamber 114 may be substantially the same as or smaller than the corresponding dimension (e.g., length) or volume of the accommodation chamber 112.

[0070] The housing 110 includes an intermediate opening 115. The intermediate opening 115 allows at least a portion (e.g., unit medium UM') of the aerosol-generating article 10 contained in the storage chamber 112 to pass through the intermediate opening 115 and be contained in the heating chamber 114. The intermediate opening 115 may have a substantially circular or elliptical shape, but is not limited thereto, and may also have a shape (e.g., a hexahedron) that is complementary to the shape of the portion (e.g., unit medium UM') of the aerosol-generating article 10. The intermediate opening 115 may be disposed in the first partition 111C. In an embodiment not shown, the intermediate opening 115 may be configured to be opened and closed by any suitable mechanism (e.g., a hinged cover or door).

[0071] The housing 110 includes an outlet 116 through which at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 10 (e.g., unit medium UM') contained in the heating chamber 114 passes to exit the housing 110. The outlet 116 may have a substantially circular or elliptical shape, but is not limited thereto, and may have a shape (e.g., a hexahedron) that is complementary to the shape of the portion of the aerosol-generating article 10 (e.g., unit medium UM'). The outlet 116 may be located on a side surface of the extension 110C of the first portion 111A of the housing 110. In an embodiment not shown, the outlet 116 may be configured to be opened and closed by any suitable mechanism (e.g., a hinged cover or door).

[0072] The housing 110 includes one or more vents 117. The vents 117 may be configured to vent at least one gaseous substance (e.g., air) inside the housing 110 to the outside of the housing 110 or to allow an external gaseous substance to flow into the housing 110. For example, the housing 110 includes four vents 117 arranged in a row along the side surface of the extension 110C.

[0073] The housing 110 includes guides 118A and 118B. The guides 118A and 118B are configured to guide the movement of at least one unit of medium UM of the aerosol-generating article 10 disposed in the storage chamber 112. For example, the guides 118A and 118B may be realized as side walls. The guides 118A and 118B may align at least one unit of medium UM to its original position in certain situations (e.g., when at least one unit of medium UM is tilted). In one embodiment, the housing 110 includes a first guide 118A. The first guide 118A may be disposed on an inner surface of the extension 110C on one side of the housing 110 (e.g., the right side in FIG. 5 ) or adjacent to the inner surface (e.g., spaced a distance from the inner surface). The first guide 118A extends between the mouth end 110A and the third partition 111E. In one embodiment, the housing 110 includes a second guide 118B. The second guide 118B may be positioned on or adjacent to (e.g., spaced a distance from) the interior surface of the first partition 111C on one side (e.g., the middle side in FIG. 5 ) of the housing 110. The second guide 118B may extend along the first partition 111C from the third partition 111E toward the mouse end 110A. The second guide 118B leaves the middle opening 115 substantially unobstructed.

[0074] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a mouthpiece 120. The mouthpiece 120 may have any shape suitable for delivering an aerosol to a user's oral and / or nasal cavities. For example, the mouthpiece 120 may have a tapered shape having a width that decreases from the mouth end 110A. The mouthpiece 120 may be located in a region of the mouth end 110A (e.g., the left region in FIG. 5 ) in the first portion 111A of the housing 110.

[0075] In an embodiment not shown, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a sensor. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature within the heating chamber 114. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a puff sensor configured to detect a user's puffing action through the mouthpiece 120. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a pressure sensor configured to detect the pressure within the heating chamber 114. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a humidity sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a GPS sensor, a proximity sensor, an optical sensor, or any other suitable sensor or combination thereof. The sensor may be included in the mouthpiece 120, but is not limited thereto, and may be located in any suitable position within the housing 110 taking into account the operating environment of the sensor.

[0076] The aerosol-generating device 100 includes a lifting structure 130. The lifting structure 130 may be configured to lift at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 10 (e.g., at least one of the plurality of unit media UM defining the segment S). For example, the lifting structure 130 is configured to lift stacked unit media UM contained in a storage region 112A of the storage chamber 112 that is closer to the device end 110B than the mouth end 110A, to a separation region 112B of the storage chamber 112 that is closer to the mouth end 110A than the device end 110B.

[0077] In one embodiment, the lifting structure 130 includes a support 131 configured to support the aerosol-generating article 10, and an elastic body 132 configured to elastically support the support 131. For example, the support 131 may be realized as a plate having a cross-section of various shapes (e.g., a circular, elliptical, or polygonal cross-section), but is not limited thereto and may be realized as various structures capable of supporting the aerosol-generating article 10. The support 131 contacts the lowest unit medium UM among the plurality of unit mediums UM defining the segment S. For example, the elastic body 132 may include a compression spring. One end of the elastic body 132 may be placed on the third partition 111E. The other end of the elastic body 132 may be connected to the support 131.

[0078] The aerosol-generating device 100 includes a divider 140. The divider 140 is configured to separate the aerosol-generating article 10 contained in the storage chamber 112 into at least portions (e.g., unit media UM). The divider 140 is configured to transfer the separated portions to the heating chamber 114. The divider 140 may be disposed in the first guide 118A and / or on an inner surface of the extension 110C. In an embodiment not shown, the divider 140 may include a blade (not shown) configured to partially cut the aerosol-generating article 10 and a pusher (not shown) configured to push the cut portions into the heating chamber 114.

[0079] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a heater 150. The heater 150 may be configured to generate heat. The heater 150 is disposed in a space defined by the device end 110B, a portion of the first partition 111C, a portion of the inner surface of the extension 110C, and the second partition 111D. The heater 150 is disposed in a space separated from the heating chamber 114. The space in which the heater 150 is disposed may be in fluid communication with one or more vents 117.

[0080] In one embodiment, heater 150 comprises an electrically resistive heater. For example, heater 150 may comprise an electrically conductive track.

[0081] In one embodiment, the heater 150 includes an induction heater. For example, the heater 150 may include an electrically conductive coil. As an example, each unit medium UM, UM′ of the aerosol-generating article 10 may include a susceptor. As an example, the susceptor may be disposed in the heating chamber 114.

[0082] In one embodiment, the heater 150 includes a convection heater. The convection heater may not be in contact with the unit medium UM′ contained in the heating chamber 114. The convection heater is configured to heat air, and the heated air is caused to convect inside the heating chamber 114 to transfer thermal energy to the unit medium UM′ contained in the heating chamber 114.

[0083] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a battery 160. The battery 160 is configured to generate power required for operation of the aerosol generating device 100. The battery 160 is configured to supply power to the heater 150. The battery 160 is configured to supply power to at least one electronic component included in the aerosol generating device 100 (e.g., a sensor, a memory, a communication unit, a processor, or other electronic component, or a combination thereof). For example, the battery 160 may include a lithium polymer battery. The battery 160 may be disposed in a space defined by the device end 110B, a portion of the inner surface of the extension 110C, a portion of the first partition 111C, and a portion of the second partition 111D.

[0084] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a processor 170. The processor 170 may also be referred to as a controller. The processor 170 is configured to process or calculate data necessary for the operation of the aerosol generating device 100 and to control the operations required of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the processor may be realized as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be realized as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executed by the microprocessor is stored.

[0085] The processor 170 may be disposed in a space different from the space in which the battery 160 is disposed. For example, the processor 170 may be disposed in a space defined by the device end 110B, a portion of the inner surface of the extension 110C, a portion of the first partition 111C, and a portion of the third partition 111D. The processor 170 is electrically connected to the battery 160 through at least a portion of the open area of ​​the first partition 111C.

[0086] The processor 170 is configured to manage the power provided from the battery 160 to the heater 150. For example, the processor 170 may control the switching of switching components between the battery 160 and the heater 150.

[0087] The processor 170 processes data based on values ​​detected by a sensor (not shown) included in the aerosol generating device 100. As an example, the processor 170 controls the start or end of operation of the heater 150 based on the pressure in the heating chamber 114 detected by a pressure sensor. As an example, the processor 170 controls the operation of the heater 150 so as to substantially maintain the target temperature of the heating chamber 114.

[0088] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a filter 180. The filter 180 is configured to filter the aerosol transmitted from the heating chamber 114 to the user's oral or nasal cavity through the mouthpiece 120. The filter 180 can filter at least some of the components contained in the aerosol generated from the filterless aerosol-generating article 10. For example, the filter 180 can reduce the penetration of fine granular and / or powdery components, which are generated by repeated heating of the heater 150 and whose binder has melted and weakened their cohesion, into the user's oral or nasal cavity through the mouthpiece 120. The filter 180 can reduce the accumulation of residues of the unit medium UM' in the housing 110. The filter 180 is disposed between the mouthpiece 120 and the heating chamber 114.

[0089] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a cooler 190. The cooler 190 is configured to adjust the temperature of the aerosol delivered from the heating chamber 114 to the user's oral or nasal cavity through the mouthpiece 120 to a target temperature. For example, the cooler 190 may include a Peltier element. The cooler 190 is disposed between the mouthpiece 120 and the heating chamber 114. The cooler 190 may be disposed closer to the heating chamber 114 than the filter 180.

[0090] In an embodiment not shown, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a display. The display is configured to visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 100 to a user. For example, the display can provide various information including the status of the battery 160, the status of the heater 150, and the usage status of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the display may include at least one of a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), or a combination thereof.

[0091] In an embodiment not shown, the aerosol generating device 100 includes an actuator. The actuator is configured to control the operation of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the actuator includes a button that controls ON / OFF operation of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0092] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment in which the first membrane is open. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment in which the second membrane is open. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment in which the third membrane is open. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment in which the fourth membrane is open.

[0093] 6 to 10, the aerosol-generating device 100-1 includes a heater 150 configured to heat an aerosol-generating article 10-1 including a plurality of segments S1, S2, S3, and S4. For example, the heater 150 may include a convection heater that is spaced apart from the aerosol-generating article 10-1 without contacting the aerosol-generating article 10-1 and configured to convectively heat the air around the aerosol-generating article 10-1.

[0094] The multiple segments S1, S2, S3, and S4 are arranged substantially side by side (e.g., side by side) in one aerosol-generating article 10-1. For example, the first segment S1, the second segment S2, the third segment S3, and the fourth segment S4 may be arranged sequentially in one direction (e.g., counterclockwise) within the aerosol-generating article 10-1.

[0095] The aerosol-generating device 100-1 includes an airflow path adjuster 151. The airflow path adjuster 151 is configured to form airflow paths P1, P2, P3, and P4 that pass through any one of multiple segments S1, S2, S3, and S4 within the aerosol-generating article 10-1. For example, the airflow path adjuster 151 may form a first airflow path P1 that passes through the first segment S1. In this case, the airflow path adjuster 151 prevents air from passing through the second segment S2, the third segment S3, and the fourth segment S4.

[0096] The airflow path regulator 151 includes a plurality of membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D. For example, the airflow path regulator 151 includes a first membrane 152A corresponding to the first segment S1, a second membrane 152B corresponding to the second segment S2, a third membrane 152C corresponding to the third segment S3, and a fourth membrane 152D corresponding to the fourth segment S4.

[0097] The plurality of membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D are configured to be opened and closed. For example, the plurality of membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D are opened and closed by elastic deformation. For example, the plurality of membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D may be opened and closed by a mechanical actuator (not shown). For example, the plurality of membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D are opened and closed by an electric / electronic driver (not shown).

[0098] The air heated by the heater 150 can be guided to flow through each membrane to the corresponding segment. For example, the first membrane 152A is opened to allow the air heated by the heater 150 to flow through the first segment S1 and not to flow to other segments (e.g., the second segment S2, the third segment S3, and / or the fourth segment S4), while the second membrane 152B, the third membrane 152C, and the fourth membrane 152D are closed.

[0099] The opening of the plurality of membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, 152D is adjustable. The membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, 152D may transition from a generally closed first state to an at least partially open second state. In the second state, the membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, 152D may be partially (e.g., about 70%) or fully (e.g., about 100%) open. The membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, 152D may transition from the second state to the first state.

[0100] The opening and closing operations of the membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D are linked to one another. For example, the second membrane 152B, the third membrane 152C, and the fourth membrane 152D can perform a closing operation dependent on the opening operation of the first membrane 152A.

[0101] The opening and closing operations of the membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D may be performed independently. For example, the first membrane 152A may be open while the second membrane 152B, the third membrane 152C, and the fourth membrane 152D are configured to remain closed.

[0102] The opening and closing operations of the multiple membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D can be performed in a determined order. For example, referring to Figures 7 to 10 in order, the states of first membrane 152A / second membrane 152B / third membrane 152C / fourth membrane 152D may be open / closed / closed / closed at a first time, closed / open / closed / closed at a second time after the first time, closed / closed / open / closed at a third time after the second time, and closed / closed / closed / open at a fourth time after the third time.

[0103] The plurality of membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D are disposed between the heater 150 and the aerosol-generating article 10-1. The plurality of membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D are spaced apart from the heater 150 and / or the aerosol-generating article 10-1.

[0104] The plurality of membranes 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D may comprise any material suitable for withstanding heat and fatigue caused by repetitive operations (e.g., opening and closing).

[0105] Figure 11 shows an aerosol generator according to an embodiment in a state where a first airflow path is formed, Figure 12 shows an aerosol generator according to an embodiment in a state where a second airflow path is formed, and Figure 13 shows an aerosol generator according to an embodiment in a state where a third airflow path is formed.

[0106] Referring to Figures 11 to 13, the aerosol generating device 100-2 includes an airflow path adjuster 151-1 configured to form airflow paths P1, P2, P3 passing through any one of multiple segments S1, S2, S3 within the aerosol generating article 10-1.

[0107] The multiple airflow paths P1, P2, and P3 are formed in a substantially vertical configuration. In the aerosol generation device 100-2, the upstream ends of the respective airflow paths P1, P2, and P3 may be positioned relatively lower than the downstream ends of the respective airflow paths P1, P2, and P3. For example, a heater (not shown) positioned relatively lower in the aerosol generation device 100-2 may be adjacent to the upstream ends of the respective airflow paths P1, P2, and P3, while a mouthpiece (not shown) positioned relatively higher in the aerosol generation device 100-2 may be adjacent to the downstream ends of the respective airflow paths P1, P2, and P3.

[0108] The multiple airflow paths P1, P2, and P3 may be arranged in parallel. Here, "arranged in parallel" means, for example, that the airflow paths are divided into a first airflow path P1, a second airflow path P2, and a third airflow path P3. In other words, this means that the multiple airflow paths P1, P2, and P3 are arranged so that air passing through the first airflow path P1 does not pass through the second airflow path P2 and the third airflow path P3.

[0109] The airflow path conditioner 151-1 includes a first membrane M1. The first membrane M1 includes a first upstream membrane M11 adjacent to the upstream end of the first segment S1 and a first downstream membrane M12 adjacent to the downstream end of the first segment S1. The first upstream membrane M11 and the first downstream membrane M12 may be configured to open and close substantially simultaneously.

[0110] The airflow path conditioner 151-1 includes a second membrane M2. The second membrane M2 includes a second upstream membrane M21 adjacent to the upstream end of the second segment S2 and a second downstream membrane M22 adjacent to the downstream end of the second segment S2. The second upstream membrane M21 and the second downstream membrane M22 may be configured to open and close substantially simultaneously.

[0111] The airflow path regulator 151-1 includes a third membrane M3. The third membrane M3 includes a third upstream membrane M31 adjacent to the upstream end of the third segment S3 and a third downstream membrane M32 adjacent to the downstream end of the third segment S3. The third upstream membrane M31 and the third downstream membrane M32 may be configured to open and close substantially simultaneously.

[0112] The first membrane M1, the second membrane M2, and the third membrane M3 are configured to be optionally open or closed. For example, to form a first airflow path P1 through the first segment S1, the first upstream membrane M11 and the first downstream membrane M12 are at least partially open, while the second upstream membrane M21, the second downstream membrane M22, the third upstream membrane M31, and the third downstream membrane M32 are closed.

[0113] Figure 14 shows an aerosol generator according to an embodiment in a state where a first airflow path is formed, Figure 15 shows an aerosol generator according to an embodiment in a state where a second airflow path is formed, and Figure 16 shows an aerosol generator according to an embodiment in a state where a third airflow path is formed.

[0114] Referring to Figures 14 to 16, the aerosol generating device 100-3 includes an airflow path adjuster 151-2 configured to form airflow paths P1, P2, P3 passing through any one of multiple segments S1, S2, S3 within the aerosol generating article 10-1.

[0115] The multiple airflow paths P1, P2, and P3 may be formed in a substantially horizontal configuration, with the upstream end of each airflow path P1, P2, and P3 located on a first side (e.g., the left side) of the aerosol generation device 100-3 and the downstream end of each airflow path P1, P2, and P3 located on a second side (e.g., the right side) opposite the first side of the aerosol generation device 100-3.

[0116] The airflow path regulator 151-2 includes a first membrane M1 including a first upstream membrane M11 and a first downstream membrane M12, a second membrane M2 including a second upstream membrane M21 and a second downstream membrane M22, and a third membrane M3 including a third upstream membrane M31 and a third downstream membrane M32.

[0117] The airflow path adjuster 151-2 includes an inlet manifold MI connected to a first upstream membrane M11, a second upstream membrane M21, and a third upstream membrane M31. Air heated by a heater (not shown) can be guided through the inlet manifold MI to flow through any one of the first upstream membrane M11, the second upstream membrane M21, and the third upstream membrane M31.

[0118] The airflow path adjuster 151-2 includes an outlet manifold MO. The outlet manifold MO is connected to the first downstream membrane M12, the second downstream membrane M22, and the third downstream membrane M32. Air passing through any one of the segments passes through the downstream membrane corresponding to that segment, then passes through the outlet manifold MO, and can be delivered to a user via a mouthpiece (not shown).

[0119] The inlet manifold MI and the outlet manifold MO can at least partially surround the aerosol-generating article 10-1. For example, the inlet manifold MI may be located on a first side (e.g., the left side) of the aerosol-generating article 10-1, and the outlet manifold MO may be located on a second side (e.g., the right side) opposite the first side of the aerosol-generating article 10-1. The inlet manifold MI faces the first upstream membrane M11, the second upstream membrane M21, and the third upstream membrane M31. The outlet manifold MO faces the first downstream membrane M12, the second downstream membrane M22, and the third downstream membrane M32.

[0120] FIG. 17 illustrates an aerosol generating device receiving a temperature profile from an external device according to one embodiment.

[0121] 17, the aerosol generating device 100-4 includes a communication unit 171 configured to communicate with an external device 101 via a network in a network environment. The communication unit 171 is configured to communicate with the external device 101 via a short-range wireless communication network. For example, the communication unit 171 includes at least one of a Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication unit, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a Wi-Fi (WLAN) communication unit, a Zigbee (registered trademark) communication unit, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, or an Ant+ communication unit, or a combination thereof.

[0122] The communication unit 171 is configured to automatically or passively (e.g., by user input) receive firmware code from the external device 101 when the aerosol generating device 100-4 comes into proximity with or into contact with the external device 101 within a determined distance range of the external device 101.

[0123] The external device 101 is configured to manufacture an aerosol-generating article (e.g., the aerosol-generating article 10 of FIG. 1 and / or the aerosol-generating article 10-1 of FIG. 4). The external device 101 can store information corresponding to unit media (e.g., unit media U1-U10, UA, UB) in a predetermined format (e.g., firmware code). For example, the external device 101 may store information regarding temperature profiles corresponding to layers constituting the unit media (e.g., the first layer L1 and / or the second layer L2 of FIG. 2). The external device 101 can be configured to update the information regarding the temperature profiles each time an aerosol-generating article is manufactured.

[0124] The temperature profile relates to information about at least one component constituting the layer. The temperature profile for each section includes at least one or a combination of the following heating parameters: a target temperature, a temperature gradient, a heating time, a thickness of a layer within the section, or other related heating parameters. For example, if a first tobacco component constituting a layer contained in a first section (e.g., a first unit medium) of an aerosol-generating article is flue-cured tobacco, and a second tobacco component constituting a layer contained in a second section (e.g., a second unit medium) is Oriental tobacco, the temperature profile corresponding to the first section may be different from the temperature profile corresponding to the second section.

[0125] The communication unit 171 is configured to receive information including a temperature profile from the external device 101. The information regarding the temperature profile received by the communication unit 171 can be transmitted to the processor 170. The processor 170 is configured to update the temperature profile in a memory (not shown). The processor 170 operates a heater (not shown) under heating conditions suitable for the corresponding section of the aerosol-generating article to be heated by the aerosol-generating device 100-4, based on the information regarding the temperature profile for each section of the aerosol-generating article. This allows the optimal tobacco taste to be achieved by varying the heating conditions of the heater depending on the section of the aerosol-generating article that contains different tobacco components. Furthermore, by varying the heating temperature depending on the thickness of the layer contained in the corresponding section of the aerosol-generating article, a desired and uniform amount of atomization can be generated while the aerosol-generating device 100-4 is in use.

[0126] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device that changes the heating conditions of a heater using a temperature profile corresponding to one section of a single segment of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 18, an aerosol-generating article (e.g., aerosol-generating article 10 of FIG. 1) can be realized as a single segment S. The single segment S includes multiple sections T1-T5. One section substantially coincides with a unit medium within the segment S (e.g., unit medium U1-U10). One section includes at least a portion of any one unit medium within the segment S (e.g., first unit medium U1) and at least a portion of another unit medium adjacent to it (e.g., second unit medium U2). One section can at least partially include three or more unit media.

[0128] The aerosol-generating device 100-5 is configured to receive, from the external device 101-1 via the communication unit 171, the temperature profiles of the sections T11-T15 that define the single segment S of the aerosol-generating article. The processor 170 can be configured to control the operation of the heater 150 based on the temperature profiles of the sections T11-T15 received by the communication unit 171. For example, the processor 170 can operate the heater 150 under a first heating condition based on the temperature profile corresponding to the first section T11 to first heat the portion of the single segment S of the aerosol-generating article that corresponds to the first section T11. Then, the processor 170 can operate the heater 150 under a second heating condition, not the first heating condition, based on the temperature profile corresponding to the third section T13 to heat the portion corresponding to the third section T3. As described above, the processor 170 can change the heating conditions of the heater 150 to suit the sections T11-T15.

[0129] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device that changes the heating conditions of a heater using a temperature profile corresponding to one section of any one of multiple segments of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment.

[0130] Referring to Figure 19, an aerosol-generating article (e.g., aerosol-generating article 10-1 in Figure 4) can be realized as multiple segments S1 and S2. Each segment includes multiple sections T11-T13 and T21-T23, respectively. One section substantially coincides with a unit medium (e.g., unit medium UA, UB) within the segment. One section includes at least a portion of any one unit medium (e.g., unit medium UA, UB) within the segment and at least a portion of another unit medium (e.g., unit medium UA, UB) adjacent to it. One section can at least partially include three or more unit media.

[0131] The aerosol-generating device 100-6 is configured to receive, via the communication unit 171, temperature profiles for each of the multiple sections T11-T13 and T21-T23 that define the multiple segments S1 and S2 of the aerosol-generating article from the external device 101-2. The processor 170 determines which of the multiple segments S1 and S2 to heat. The processor 170 then instructs the heater 150 to heat another section (e.g., the second section T12) included in the segment to be heated (e.g., the first segment S1). The processor 170 can operate the heater 150 under a first heating condition based on the temperature profile corresponding to the section to be heated (e.g., the second section T12). The processor 170 then instructs the heater 150 to heat a different section (e.g., the third section T13) included in the segment to be heated (e.g., the first segment S1). The processor 170 can operate the heater 150 under a different heating condition other than the first heating condition based on a temperature profile corresponding to the changed heated section (e.g., the third section T13). Alternatively, after the heater 150 operates under the first heating condition, the processor 170 can determine which of the multiple segments S1 and S2 to heat. Thereafter, when the heated segment is changed, the processor 170 instructs the heater 150 to heat the changed heated segment (e.g., the second segment S2). The processor 170 can operate the heater 150 under a third heating condition based on a temperature profile corresponding to a section (e.g., the fourth section T21) included in the changed heated segment.

[0132] The methods according to the present invention may be embodied in the form of program instructions that can be executed by various computer means and stored on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium may include program instructions, data files, data structures, and the like, alone or in combination. The storage medium and program instructions may be specially designed and constructed for the purposes of the present invention, or they may be well-known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of computer-readable storage media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tape, optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program instructions, such as ROM, RAM, and flash memory. Examples of program instructions include not only machine code, such as generated by a compiler, but also high-level language code executed by a computer using an interpreter, for example. The hardware devices described above may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operations described in the present invention, or vice versa.

[0133] Software includes computer programs, codes, instructions, or a combination of one or more thereof, which can configure a processing device to operate as desired or can independently or in combination instruct the processing device. The software and / or data can be permanently or temporarily embodied in any type of machine, component, physical device, virtual device, computer storage medium or device, or transmitted signal wave to be interpreted by the processing device or to provide instructions or data to the processing device. The software can be distributed across computer systems coupled to a network and stored and executed in a distributed manner. The software and data can be stored on one or more computer-readable recording media.

[0134] Although the embodiments have been described above with reference to limited drawings, those skilled in the art may apply various technical modifications and variations based on the above description. For example, the described techniques may be performed in a different order than described, and / or the components of the described systems, structures, devices, circuits, etc. may be combined or combined in a different manner than described, and suitable results may be achieved even if they are replaced or substituted with other components or equivalents.

[0135] Accordingly, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents of the claims are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating article including a plurality of segments separated from one another, each segment including a plurality of sections; an airflow path conditioner configured to form an airflow path passing through any one of the plurality of segments; a processor configured to operate the heater under a first heating condition using a first temperature profile corresponding to a first section among the plurality of sections of the segment in which the airflow path is formed; Housing and An aerosol generating device comprising: the housing includes a storage chamber, the storage chamber containing the aerosol-generating article; a plurality of the segments are arranged side by side in one of the aerosol-generating articles; the heater heats the first section; the airflow path adjuster includes a plurality of flexible membranes respectively corresponding to the plurality of segments, and opening degrees of the plurality of flexible membranes are configured to be adjustable; the plurality of flexible membranes are elastically variable to open and close; Aerosol generator.

2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to change the first heating condition of the heater to a second heating condition using a second temperature profile corresponding to a second section among the multiple sections of the segment in which the airflow path is formed when heating a different section of the multiple sections.

3. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein when any one of the plurality of flexible membranes is at least partially open, at least one remaining membrane is configured to be closed.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of airflow paths passing through the plurality of segments are arranged in parallel.

5. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the processor is configured to receive an updated temperature profile from an external device.

6. The aerosol generating device of claim 5 , wherein the processor is configured to receive the temperature profile from the external device in the form of firmware code.

7. The aerosol generating device of claim 5 , wherein the processor is configured to receive the temperature profile from the external device via wireless communication.

8. An aerosol generating device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the first section of the aerosol generating article includes one of a plurality of unit media defining the segment, and the unit medium includes a plurality of components and pores defined between the plurality of components.

9. 3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heater comprises a convection heater configured to heat the aerosol-generating article by convection.

10. a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating article including a segment, the segment including a plurality of sections; an airflow path conditioner configured to form an airflow path through the segment; a processor configured to operate the heater using a first temperature profile corresponding to a first section of the plurality of sections; Housing and An aerosol generating device comprising: the housing includes a storage chamber, the storage chamber containing the aerosol-generating article; the segments are arranged side by side on one of the aerosol-generating articles, the heater heats the first section; the airflow path adjuster includes a plurality of flexible membranes respectively corresponding to the segments, and the opening degrees of the plurality of flexible membranes are configured to be adjustable; the plurality of flexible membranes are elastically variable to open and close; Aerosol generator.

11. The aerosol generating device of claim 10, wherein the processor is configured to change the first heating condition of the heater to a second heating condition using a second temperature profile corresponding to a second section among the plurality of sections when heating a different section among the plurality of sections.

12. 11. The aerosol generating device of claim 10, wherein the processor is configured to receive an updated temperature profile from an external device.

13. 13. The aerosol generating device of claim 12, wherein the processor is configured to receive the temperature profile from the external device in firmware code form.

14. The aerosol generating device of claim 12 , wherein the processor is configured to receive the temperature profile from the external device via wireless communication.

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