Aerosol Generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed, which includes a body including an optical sensor, and a cartridge coupled to the body, the cartridge including a light guide having a polyhedral shape and a chamber for storing a liquid aerosol generating material, the optical sensor being disposed adjacent to and facing the light guide when the cartridge is coupled to the body, and the light guide being disposed at or adjacent to a lower end of the chamber such that at least one of a plurality of surfaces of the light guide is exposed to an interior of the chamber.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol generating devices. [Background technology]

[0002] An aerosol generating device is used to extract a predetermined component from a medium or substance via an aerosol. The medium may contain a variety of components. The components contained in the medium may be flavorings of a variety of components. For example, the components contained in the medium may include nicotine, herbal, and / or coffee components. In recent years, much research has been conducted on such aerosol generating devices. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] The present disclosure is directed to solving the above-mentioned problems and other problems.

[0004] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can accurately determine the presence or absence of a liquid aerosol generating substance in a cartridge.

[0005] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device that can adjust the power supplied to a heater based on the presence or absence of a liquid aerosol generating substance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the subject matter described in this application, an aerosol generating device includes a main body including an optical sensor, and a cartridge coupled to the main body and including a light guide having a polyhedral shape and a chamber for storing a liquid aerosol generating material, wherein the optical sensor is positioned adjacent to and facing the light guide when the cartridge is coupled to the main body, and the light guide is positioned at or adjacent to the lower end of the chamber so that at least one of the multiple surfaces of the light guide is exposed to the interior of the chamber. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] At least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure allows for accurate determination of the presence or absence of a liquid aerosol-generating substance in a cartridge.

[0008] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the power supplied to the heater can be adjusted based on the presence or absence of an aerosol-forming substance.

[0009] Further scope of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of example only. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stick. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stick. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stick. [Figure 7] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating examples of the structure of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 8] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating examples of the structure of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating examples of the structure of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 12] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the aerosol generating device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or similar components are given the same reference numerals even if they are shown in different drawings, and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

[0012] The suffixes "module" and "section" for components used in the following description are used solely for the convenience of explanation of the specification. "Module" and "section" do not have different meanings or roles from each other.

[0013] Furthermore, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed herein, detailed descriptions of related known technologies may be omitted if they may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed herein. The accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and do not limit the technical ideas disclosed herein. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as including all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0014] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first," "second," etc. may be used to describe various components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

[0015] When a component is said to be "connected" to another component, it will be understood that there may be other components in between, whereas when a component is said to be "directly connected" to another component, it will be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0016] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1 , the aerosol generating device 10 may include a communication interface 11 , an input / output interface 12 , an aerosol generating module 13 , a memory 14 , a sensor module 15 , a battery 16 , and / or a control unit 17 .

[0019] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may be composed of only the main body 100. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 10 may be located in the main body 100. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may be composed of the main body 100 and a cartridge 200 that stores an aerosol generating material. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 10 may be located in at least one of the main body 100 and the cartridge 200.

[0020] The communication interface 11 may include at least one communication module for communication with an external device and / or a network. For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wired communication such as a universal serial bus (USB). For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wireless communication such as wireless fidelity (WiFi), Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee, or near field communication (NFC).

[0021] The input / output interface 12 may include an input device that receives commands from a user and / or an output device 122 that outputs information to a user. For example, the input device may include a touch panel, physical buttons, a microphone, etc. For example, the output device 122 may include a display device that outputs visual information such as a display or a light emitting diode (LED), an audio device that outputs auditory information such as a speaker or a buzzer, a motor that outputs tactile information such as a haptic effect, etc.

[0022] The input / output interface 12 can transmit data corresponding to commands input by a user via the input device to other components (etc.) of the aerosol generating device 10. The input / output interface 12 can output information corresponding to data received from other components (etc.) of the aerosol generating device 10 via the output device 122.

[0023] The aerosol-generating module 13 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. Here, the aerosol-generating material can refer to any one or a combination of two or more substances in various states, such as a liquid state, a solid state, or a gel state, that can generate an aerosol.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the liquid aerosol-forming material may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance, including a volatile tobacco flavor component. According to another embodiment, the liquid aerosol-forming material may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. For example, the liquid aerosol-forming material may include water, solvent, nicotine, plant extracts, flavorings, flavoring agents, vitamin mixtures, etc.

[0025] The solid-state aerosol-forming material may include a solid material based on tobacco raw materials, such as reconstituted tobacco sheets, shredded tobacco, or granulated tobacco. The solid-state aerosol-forming material may also include a solid material containing a taste modifier, a flavoring, or the like. For example, the taste modifier may include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium oxide, or the like. For example, the flavoring may include natural substances such as herb granules, or silica, zeolite, dextrin, or the like containing flavoring ingredients.

[0026] The aerosol generating material may further include an aerosol forming agent such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0027] The aerosol generation module 13 can include at least one heater.

[0028] The aerosol generation module 13 may include an electrical resistive heater. For example, the electrical resistive heater may include at least one electrically conductive track and may be heated by passing an electric current through the electrically conductive track. The heated electrical resistive heater may then heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0029] The electrically conductive tracks may comprise an electrically resistive material. As an example, the electrically conductive tracks may be made of a metal material. As another example, the electrically conductive tracks may be made of a ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite of a ceramic material and a metal.

[0030] The electric resistance heater may include an electrically conductive track formed in a variety of shapes, for example, the electrically conductive track may be formed in any one of a tube shape, a plate shape, a needle shape, a rod shape, and a coil shape.

[0031] The aerosol generation module 13 may include a heater that uses induction heating. For example, an induction heater may include an electrically conductive coil, and an alternating magnetic field whose direction periodically changes may be generated by adjusting the current flowing through the electrically conductive coil. When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy loss due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss may occur in the magnetic material. The lost energy may be released as thermal energy, heating the aerosol-generating material adjacent to the magnetic material. Here, the object that generates heat due to the magnetic field may be referred to as a susceptor.

[0032] On the other hand, the aerosol generation module 13 can also generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substance by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

[0033] The aerosol generating module 13 may be referred to as a cartomizer, an atomizer, a vaporizer, or the like.

[0034] When the aerosol generating device 10 is composed of a cartridge 200 that holds an aerosol generating substance and a main body 100 , the aerosol generating module 13 may be disposed in at least one of the main body 100 and the cartridge 200 .

[0035] The memory 14 can store programs for various signal processing and control within the control unit 17, and can store data processed by the control unit 17 and data to be processed.

[0036] For example, memory 14 may store application programs designed to perform various tasks that can be processed by control unit 17, and may selectively provide some of the stored application programs upon request of control unit 17.

[0037] For example, the memory 14 can store the operating time of the aerosol generating device 10, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, the number of times the battery 16 has been charged, the number of times the battery 16 has been discharged, at least one temperature profile, data on the user's inhalation pattern, data on charging and discharging, etc. Here, a puff can refer to the user's inhalation, and inhalation can refer to the situation in which the user inhales through the mouth or nose into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs.

[0038] For example, the memory 140 can store reference light intensity information for determining whether or not a liquid aerosol-forming substance is present.

[0039] The memory 14 may include at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0040] The memory 14 may be disposed in at least one of the main body 100 and the cartridge 200. The memory 14 may be disposed in each of the main body 100 and the cartridge 200. For example, the memory of the main body 100 may store information about the configuration disposed inside the main body 100, such as information about the total capacity of the battery 190. For example, the memory of the main body 100 may store cartridge information received from a cartridge 200 previously or currently coupled to the main body 100, and the memory of the cartridge 200 may store cartridge information including cartridge identification information (ID information), cartridge type information, etc.

[0041] The sensor module 15 can include at least one sensor.

[0042] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for detecting a puff (hereinafter referred to as a puff sensor). Here, the puff sensor may be implemented by a proximity sensor such as an IR sensor, a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, or the like.

[0043] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for detecting a puff (hereinafter referred to as a puff sensor). Here, the puff sensor may be implemented by a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, or the like.

[0044] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a temperature sensor) that detects the temperature of the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13, the temperature of the aerosol-generating material, etc. Here, the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13 may also function as a temperature sensor. For example, the electrically resistive material of the heater may be a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). The sensor module 15 may sense the temperature of the heater by measuring the resistance of the heater, which changes depending on the temperature.

[0045] For example, if a stick can be inserted into the main body of the aerosol generation device 10, the sensor module 15 can include a sensor that detects the insertion of the stick (hereinafter referred to as a stick detection sensor).

[0046] For example, if the aerosol generating device 10 includes a cartridge 200, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a cartridge detection sensor) that detects the attachment / detachment, position, etc. of the cartridge 200 relative to the main body 100.

[0047] Here, the stick detection sensor 152 and / or the cartridge detection sensor may be implemented using an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance-type sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC) using the Hall effect, etc. According to some embodiments of the present invention, the cartridge detection sensor may include a connection terminal. The connection terminal may be provided on the main body 100, and may be electrically connected to an electrode provided on the cartridge 200 when the cartridge 200 is coupled to the main body 100.

[0048] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a voltage sensor that detects the voltage applied to a component (e.g., the battery 16) provided in the aerosol generating device 10 and / or a current sensor that detects the current.

[0049] For example, the sensor module 15 may include at least one sensor (hereinafter referred to as "motion sensor" 154) that senses the movement of the main body 100 and / or the cartridge 200 of the aerosol generating device 10. Here, the motion sensor 154 may be embodied by at least one of a gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor. The motion sensor 154 may be disposed in at least one of the main body 100 and the cartridge 200.

[0050] For example, the sensor module 15 may include at least one optical sensor 155 that measures the amount of light. The optical sensor 155 may sense the amount of light (light intensity) reflected from at least one surface exposed to the chamber C1 that stores the liquid aerosol-generating material.

[0051] The optical sensor 155 can emit light onto at least one surface exposed to the chamber C1, receive light reflected from the at least one surface of the emitted light, and output a signal corresponding to the received reflected light. The optical sensor 155 can output a signal corresponding to the amount of reflected light received.

[0052] The battery 16 can supply power used for the operation of the aerosol generation device 10 under the control of the control unit 17. The battery 16 can supply power to other components provided in the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the battery 16 can supply power to a communication module included in the communication interface 11, an output device included in the input / output interface 12, a heater included in the aerosol generation module 13, etc.

[0053] The battery 16 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 16 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium-ion battery or a lithium polymer (Li-Polymer) battery. For example, if the battery 16 is rechargeable, the charge rate (C-rate) of the battery 16 may be, but is not limited to, 10C and the discharge rate (C-rate) of the battery 16 may be, but is not limited to, 10C to 20C. For stable use, the battery 16 may be manufactured to maintain 80% or more of its full capacity even after 2000 charge / discharge cycles.

[0054] The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a battery protection circuit module (PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 16. The battery protection module (PCM) may be disposed adjacent to the upper surface of the battery 16. For example, to prevent overcharging and over-discharging of the battery 16, the battery protection module (PCM) may cut off the electrical path to the battery 16 when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery 16, when an overvoltage is applied to the battery 16, when an overcurrent flows through the battery 16, or the like.

[0055] The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a charging terminal to which externally supplied power is input. For example, a charging terminal may be formed on one side of the body of the aerosol generating device 10, and the aerosol generating device 10 may charge the battery 16 using power supplied through the charging terminal. Here, the charging terminal may be a wired terminal for USB communication, a pogo pin, or the like.

[0056] The aerosol generation device 10 can also wirelessly receive power supplied from an external source via the communication interface 11. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can receive power wirelessly using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication, and can charge the battery 16 using the wirelessly supplied power.

[0057] The control unit 17 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generation device 10. The control unit 17 is connected to each component provided in the aerosol generation device 10, and can transmit and / or receive signals between each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0058] The control unit 17 may include at least one processor, and may use the processor to control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 10. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a CPU (central processing unit). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC, or a processor based on other hardware.

[0059] The control unit 17 can perform any one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the control unit 17 can execute any one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generation device 10 (e.g., preheating function, heating function, charging function, cleaning function, etc.) depending on the state of each component provided in the aerosol generation device 10, a user command received via the input / output interface 12, etc.

[0060] The control unit 17 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generation device 10 based on the data stored in the memory 14. For example, the control unit 17 can control the battery 16 to supply a predetermined amount of power to the aerosol generation module 13 for a predetermined period of time based on data about the temperature profile, the user's inhalation pattern, etc. stored in the memory 14.

[0061] The control unit 17 can determine whether a puff has occurred using the puff sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the control unit 17 can check changes in temperature, flow rate, pressure, voltage, etc. within the aerosol generating device 10 based on the sensing value of the puff sensor, and can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the confirmed results based on the sensing value of the puff sensor.

[0062] The control unit 17 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generating device 10 depending on whether or not a puff is performed and / or the number of puffs. For example, the control unit 17 can control the heater temperature to be changed or maintained based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 14.

[0063] The control unit 17 can control the power supply to the heater to be cut off under predetermined conditions, such as when the stick is removed and the cartridge 200 is separated, when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs, when no puffs are detected for a preset time, or when the remaining charge of the battery 16 is less than a predetermined value.

[0064] The control unit 17 may calculate the remaining amount of power stored in the battery 16. For example, the control unit 17 may calculate the remaining amount of power in the battery 16 based on the sensing values ​​of the voltage sensor and / or the current sensor included in the sensor module 15.

[0065] The control unit 17 can control the supply of power to the heater using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0066] For example, the control unit 17 may use a PWM method to control the supply of a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to the heater, where the control unit 17 may control the power supplied to the heater by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0067] For example, the control unit 17 can determine a target temperature based on the temperature profile. Here, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater using a PID method, which is a feedback control method using a difference between the heater temperature and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0068] For example, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the temperature profile. The control unit 17 can control the length of the heating section in which the heater is heated, the amount of power supplied to the heater during the heating section, etc. The control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the target temperature of the heater.

[0069] Meanwhile, although the PWM method and the PID method have been described as examples of control methods for supplying power to the heater, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various control methods such as a Proportional-Integral (PI) method and a Proportional-Differential (PD) method can be used.

[0070] The control unit 17 can determine the temperature of the heater and adjust the power supplied to the heater depending on the temperature of the heater. For example, the control unit 17 can determine the temperature of the heater by checking the resistance value of the heater, the current flowing through the heater, and / or the voltage applied to the heater.

[0071] Meanwhile, the control unit 17 may control the heater to supply power under preset conditions. For example, when a cleaning function for cleaning a space where the stick is inserted is selected according to a command input by the user via the input / output interface 12, the control unit 17 may control the heater to supply a predetermined amount of power.

[0072] 2 and 3 are diagrams illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 2, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment can include a body 100 that supports a cartridge 200, and the cartridge 200 stores an aerosol generating substance.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be configured to be detachable from the main body 100. According to another embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be configured integrally with the main body 100. For example, the cartridge 200 may be attached to the main body 100 by inserting at least a portion of the cartridge 200 into an internal space formed by the housing 101 of the main body 100.

[0075] The main body 100 may be formed in a structure that allows external air to flow into the main body 100 when the cartridge 200 is inserted. Here, the external air that has flowed into the main body 100 may flow into the user's mouth through the cartridge 200.

[0076] The control unit 17 can determine whether the cartridge 200 is attached or detached by using a cartridge detection sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the cartridge detection sensor can transmit a pulse current through one terminal connected to the cartridge 200. Here, the cartridge detection sensor can detect whether the cartridge 200 is attached or detached based on whether the pulse current is received through another terminal.

[0077] The cartridge 200 may include a heater 210 for heating an aerosol-generating substance and / or a reservoir 220 for storing the aerosol-generating substance. For example, a liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating substance may be disposed inside the reservoir 220. The electrically conductive track of the heater 210 may be formed in a structure that wraps around the liquid transfer means. Here, the liquid transfer means may be heated by the heater 210 to generate an aerosol. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick made of cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0078] The cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 230 configured to allow the insertion of the stick 20. For example, the cartridge 200 may include an insertion space formed by an inner wall (not shown) extending circumferentially along the direction in which the stick 20 is inserted. Here, the insertion space may be formed by opening the inside of the inner wall upward and downward. The stick 20 may be inserted into the insertion space 230 formed by the inner wall.

[0079] The insertion space into which the stick 20 is inserted may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of a portion of the stick 20 to be inserted into the insertion space. For example, if the stick 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the insertion space may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0080] When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space, the outer circumferential surface of the stick 20 is surrounded by the inner wall and can come into contact with the inner wall.

[0081] The stick 20 may be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the stick 20 may be divided into a first portion containing an aerosol-generating material and a second portion containing a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second portion of the stick 20 may also contain an aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material manufactured in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

[0082] The entire first portion may be inserted into the insertion space 230, and the second portion may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first portion, or both the first and second portions, may be inserted into the insertion space 230. A user can inhale aerosol while holding the second portion in their mouth. Here, aerosol is generated when external air passes through the first portion, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user's mouth through the second portion.

[0083] A user can inhale the aerosol while holding one end of the stick 20 in their mouth. The aerosol generated by the heater 210 can be delivered to the user's mouth through the stick 20. As the aerosol passes through the stick 20, the substance contained in the stick 20 is added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with the added substance can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick 20.

[0084] The control unit 17 can monitor the number of puffs based on the sensing value of the puff sensor from the time the stick 20 is inserted.

[0085] When the inserted stick 20 is removed, the control unit 17 can initialize the current number of puffs stored in the memory 14.

[0086] 3, an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 supporting a cartridge 200, and the cartridge 200 storing an aerosol-generating substance. The main body 100 may be configured so that the stick 20 can be inserted into an insertion space 130.

[0087] The aerosol generating device 10 may include a first heater that heats the aerosol-generating material stored in the cartridge 200. For example, when a user inhales through one end of the stick 20 into the mouth, the aerosol generated by the first heater can pass through the stick 20. Here, a flavor can be added to the aerosol as it passes through the stick 20. The flavored aerosol can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick 20.

[0088] Meanwhile, according to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a first heater that heats the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and a second heater that heats the stick 20 inserted into the main body 100. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and the stick 20 using the first heater and the second heater, respectively.

[0089] 4 to 6 are diagrams illustrating a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description of the contents overlapping with those in FIGS. 4 to 6 will be omitted.

[0090] 4, a stick 20 according to one embodiment can include a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. The first portion described above with reference to FIG. 2 can include the tobacco rod 21. The second portion described above with reference to FIG. 2 can include the filter rod 22.

[0091] Although the filter rod 22 is shown in Figure 4 as a single segment, this is not limiting. In other words, the filter rod 22 may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a first segment that cools the aerosol and a second segment that filters a specific component contained in the aerosol. If necessary, the filter rod 22 may also include at least one additional segment that performs another function.

[0092] The stick 20 may have a diameter ranging from 5 mm to 9 mm and a length of approximately 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may have a length of approximately 12 mm, the first segment of the filter rod 22 may have a length of approximately 10 mm, the second segment of the filter rod 22 may have a length of approximately 14 mm, and the third segment of the filter rod 22 may have a length of approximately 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0093] The stick 20 may be wrapped in at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may have at least one hole formed therein, allowing external air to enter or internal gas to escape. As an example, the stick 20 may be wrapped in a single wrapper 24. As another example, the stick 20 may be wrapped in two or more overlapping wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped in a first wrapper 241. For example, the filter rod 22 may be wrapped in wrappers 242, 243, and 244. The tobacco rod 21 and the filter rod 22 wrapped in individual wrappers may be combined, and the entire stick 20 may be further wrapped in a third wrapper. If each filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, each segment may be wrapped in an individual wrapper 242, 243, and 244. The entire stick 20, including the combined segments wrapped in individual wrappers, may be further wrapped in another wrapper.

[0094] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of a common filter wrapper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be porous or non-porous. The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may also be made of oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum laminate packaging material.

[0095] The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 88 g / m² to 96 g / m². For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 90 g / m² to 94 g / m². The thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be 125 μm.

[0096] The fourth wrapper 244 may be made of oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 88 g / m² to 96 g / m². For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 90 g / m² to 94 g / m². The thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be 125 μm.

[0097] The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) may refer to paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 57 g / m² to 63 g / m². For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be 60 g / m². 2 The thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be 67 μm.

[0098] The fifth wrapper 245 may include a predetermined material. An example of the predetermined material may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon may have properties such as heat resistance (i.e., small changes due to temperature), oxidation resistance (i.e., no oxidation), resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, any material other than silicon that has the above-mentioned properties may be applied or coated onto the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

[0099] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the stick 20 from burning. For example, when the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater 210, the stick 20 may burn. Specifically, if the temperature of the tobacco rod 21 rises above the flash point of any one of the materials contained in the tobacco rod 21, the stick 20 may burn. Even in such a case, the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-flammable material, so the stick 20 can be prevented from burning.

[0100] In addition, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the main body 100 from being contaminated by the substance produced in the stick 20. A liquid substance can be produced in the stick 20 when the user puffs. For example, a liquid substance (e.g., water) can be produced when the aerosol produced in the stick 20 is cooled by external air. The fifth wrapper 245 wraps the stick 20, thereby preventing the liquid substance produced in the stick 20 from leaking out of the stick 20.

[0101] The tobacco rod 21 may contain an aerosol-forming substance. For example, the aerosol-forming substance may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The tobacco rod 21 may also contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. 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.

[0102] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in a variety of ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from a sheet. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from a strand. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured from finely chopped tobacco sheets. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be surrounded by a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material can be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil. For example, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can uniformly distribute heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 and improve thermal conductivity to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the tobacco taste. The thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. Although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 can further include an additional susceptor in addition to the thermally conductive material surrounding the exterior.

[0103] The filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. However, the shape of the filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical rod. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a tube-type rod having a hollow interior. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a recess-type rod. When the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

[0104] The first segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure having a hollow interior. The first segment prevents the inner material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed backward when the heater 110 is inserted, and also provides a cooling effect for the aerosol. The diameter of the hollow interior of the first segment may be an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0105] The length of the first segment can be an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the first segment can be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0106] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 110 heating the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0107] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways depending on the shape of the stick 20. For example, the length of the second segment can be appropriately set within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment can be about 14 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0108] The second segment can be made by weaving polymer fibers, in which case a flavor liquid can be applied to the polymer fibers, or by weaving the polymer fibers together with separate fibers that have been coated with a flavor liquid, or by forming the second segment from a crimped polymer sheet.

[0109] For example, the polymer may be made from 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.

[0110] The second segment may be formed from woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, such that the second segment includes one or more longitudinally extending channels, where a channel may refer to a passageway through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0111] For example, the second segment of crimped polymer sheet may be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, such as between about 10 μm and about 250 μm, and the total surface area of ​​the second segment may be less than about 300 mm 2 / mm and approximately 1000mm 2 / mm. The aerosol cooling element may have a specific surface area of ​​about 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100mm 2 1 / mg of material.

[0112] Meanwhile, the second segment can include a thread containing a volatile flavor component, which can be, but is not limited to, menthol. For example, the thread can be loaded with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0113] The third segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be appropriately selected within a range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be approximately 12 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0114] The filter rod 22 may be manufactured to emit a flavor. For example, a flavoring liquid may be sprayed onto the filter rod 22. For example, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted into the filter rod 22.

[0115] The filter rod 22 may also include at least one capsule 23. The capsule 23 may function to generate a flavor. The capsule 23 may also function to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is enclosed in a coating. The capsule 23 may have, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0116] 5, the stick 30 according to one embodiment may further include a front end plug 33. The front end plug 33 is located on one side of the tobacco rod 31, facing the filter rod 32. The front end plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching to the outside. The front end plug 33 can prevent aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generation device 100.

[0117] Filter rod 32 can include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. First segment 321 can correspond to the first segment of filter rod 22 of Figure 4. Second segment 322 can correspond to the third segment of filter rod 22 of Figure 4.

[0118] The diameter and overall length of the stick 30 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the stick 20 in Figure 4. For example, but not limited to, the length of the front end plug 33 may be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be about 14 mm.

[0119] The stick 30 may be wrapped in at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole formed therein through which external air can enter or internal gas can escape. For example, the front end plug 33 may be wrapped in a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 may be wrapped in a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 may be wrapped in a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 may be wrapped in a fourth wrapper 354. The entire stick 30 may then be rewrapped in a fifth wrapper 355.

[0120] In addition, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, but not limited to, the perforation 36 may be formed in the area surrounding the tobacco rod 31. For example, the perforation 36 may serve to transfer heat generated by the heater 210 shown in FIG. 2 to the interior of the tobacco rod 31.

[0121] The second segment 322 may also include at least one capsule 34. The capsule 34 may also function to generate a flavor. The capsule 34 may also function to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is enclosed in a coating. The capsule 34 may have, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0122] The first wrapper 351 may be formed by bonding a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, to a common filter wrapper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be 50.3 μm. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm. For example, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be 6.3 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be 50 g / m 2 ~55g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 53 g / m 2 It could be.

[0123] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be made of a common filter wrapper, for example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be a porous wrapper or a non-porous wrapper.

[0124] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be, but is not limited to, 35,000 CU. The thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. For example, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be 78 μm. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be 20 g / m. 2 ~25g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 23.5 g / m 2 It could be.

[0125] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be, but is not limited to, 24000 CU. The thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of 60 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be 68 μm. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of 20 g / m2 to 25 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be 21 g / m2. 2 It could be.

[0126] The fourth wrapper 354 may be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper may refer to a triple-ply paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and another paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 100 μm to 120 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be 110 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be 80 g / m 2 ~100g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 88 g / m 2 It could be.

[0127] The fifth wrapper 355 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) may refer to a paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is 57 g / m 2 ~63g / m 2 For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 60 g / m 2 The thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be 67 μm.

[0128] The fifth wrapper 355 may include a predetermined material. An example of the predetermined material may be, but is not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance (i.e., small changes due to temperature), oxidation resistance (i.e., no oxidation), resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, any material other than silicon that has the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

[0129] The front end plug 33 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the front end plug 33 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate toe. The mono-denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate toe may be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono-denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate toe may be in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. For example, the mono-denier of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 may be 5.0. The cross section of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the front end plug 33 may be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the front end plug 33 may be in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the front end plug 33 may be 28,000.

[0130] Optionally, the front end plug 33 may also include at least one channel, the cross section of which may be fabricated in a variety of shapes.

[0131] The tobacco rod 31 may correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to Figure 4. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0132] The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a hollow, tubular structure. The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate to which a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) is added. For example, the mono-denier and total denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the mono-denier and total denier of the front end plug 33.

[0133] The second segment 322 may be made of cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 may be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be 9.0. The cross section of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 may be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the second segment 322 may be 25,000.

[0134] 6, the stick 40 may include a medium portion 410. The stick 40 may include a cooling portion 420. The stick 40 may include a filter portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the medium portion 410 and the filter portion 430. The stick 40 may include a wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 may wrap the medium portion 410. The wrapper 440 may wrap the cooling portion 420. The wrapper 440 may wrap the filter portion 430. The stick 40 may have a cylindrical shape.

[0135] The medium portion 410 may include a medium 411. The medium portion 410 may include a first medium cover 413. The medium portion 410 may include a second medium cover 415. The medium 411 may be disposed between the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415. The first medium cover 413 may be disposed at one end of the stick 40. The length of the medium portion 410 may be 24 mm.

[0136] The medium 411 may contain various substances. The substances contained in the medium may be flavoring substances. The medium 411 may be composed of a plurality of granules. Each of the granules may have a size of 0.4 mm to 1.12 mm. The medium 411 may be filled with the granules approximately 70% of the interior thereof. The length L2 of the medium 411 may be 10 mm. The first medium cover 413 may be composed of an acetate material. The second medium cover 415 may be composed of an acetate material. The first medium cover 413 may be composed of a paper material. The second medium cover 415 may be composed of a paper material. At least one of the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415 may be composed of a paper material and may have a wrinkled shape, forming a plurality of gaps between them for air to flow. The gaps may be smaller than the size of each granule of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L3 of the second medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be 7 mm. The length L2 of the second medium cover 413 may be 7 mm.

[0137] Therefore, each granule of the medium 411 cannot be separated from the medium portion 410 and the stick 40 .

[0138] The cooling portion 420 may have a cylindrical shape. The cooling portion 420 may have a hollow shape. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the medium portion 410 and the filter portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the second medium cover 415 and the filter portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be formed in a tubular shape surrounding the cooling passage 424 therein. The cooling portion 420 may be thicker than the wrapper 440. The cooling portion 420 may be made of a paper material that is thicker than the wrapper 440. The length L4 of the cooling portion 420 may be the same as or approximately the same as the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L4 of the cooling portion 420 and the cooling passage 424 may be 10 mm. When the stick 40 is inserted into the aerosol generation device 10, at least a portion of the cooling portion 420 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generation device 10.

[0139] Therefore, the cooling unit 420 supports the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, thereby ensuring the rigidity of the stick 40. Furthermore, the cooling unit 420 supports the wrapper 440 between the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, thereby ensuring a location where the wrapper 440 is adhered. Furthermore, the heated air and aerosol can be cooled while passing through the cooling passage 424 inside the cooling unit 420.

[0140] The filter part 430 may be made of an acetate filter. The filter part 430 may be disposed at the other end of the stick 40. When the stick 40 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 10, the filter part 430 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 10. A user may hold the filter part 430 in their mouth and inhale air. The length L5 of the filter part 430 may be 14 mm.

[0141] The wrapper 440 may wrap or surround the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430. The wrapper 440 may form the outer shape of the stick 40. The wrapper 440 may be made of a paper material. The adhesive portion 441 may be formed on one side edge of the wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 wraps the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430, and the adhesive portion 441 formed on one side edge and the other side edge may be adhered to each other. The wrapper 440 wrapping the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430 does not have to cover one end and the other end of the stick 40.

[0142] Therefore, the wrapper 440 can fix the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420 and the filter portion 430 and prevent them from coming off the stick 40.

[0143] The first thin film 443 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be disposed between the wrapper 440 and the first medium cover 413, or may be disposed outside the wrapper 440. The first thin film 443 may surround the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be made of a metal material. The first thin film 443 may be made of an aluminum material. The first thin film 443 may be adhered to or coated on the wrapper 440.

[0144] The second thin film 445 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second medium cover 415. The second thin film 445 may be disposed between the wrapper 440 and the second medium cover 415, or may be disposed outside the wrapper 440. The second thin film 445 may be made of a metal material. The second thin film 445 may be made of an aluminum material. The second thin film 445 may be adhered to or coated on the wrapper 440.

[0145] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the structure of an aerosol generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIGS. 8 to 11 are diagrams illustrating the aerosol generation device.

[0146] Here, "upstream" and "downstream" can be determined based on the direction of airflow that flows so that the generated aerosol is inhaled into the user's mouth or lungs when the user inhales using the stick. For example, in Figures 4 and 5, the aerosol generated in the tobacco rods 21 and 31 flows toward the filter rods 22 and 32, so the tobacco rods 21 and 31 are located upstream of the filter rods 22 and 32, and the filter rods 22 and 32 are located downstream of the tobacco rods 21 and 31. "Upstream" and "downstream" can be determined based on the relative positions of the components.

[0147] Here, the directions of the aerosol generation device 10 can be defined based on a Cartesian coordinate system. In the Cartesian coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generation device 10. Here, based on the origin, the direction toward +x can mean the rightward direction, and the direction toward -x can mean the leftward direction. The y-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generation device 10. Here, based on the origin, the direction toward +y can mean the upward direction, and the direction toward -y can mean the downward direction. The z-axis direction can be defined as the front-to-back direction of the aerosol generation device 10. Based on the origin, the direction toward +z can mean the forward direction, and the direction toward -z can mean the backward direction.

[0148] 7 to 9 , the aerosol generation device 10 may include a main body 100 and a cartridge 200. The aerosol generation device 10 may include a heater 210, a light sensor 155, a light guide 250, a light guide connecting unit 260, a battery 16, and / or a control unit 17.

[0149] The cartridge 200 is detachable from the main body 100. A chamber C1 may be formed inside the cartridge 200.

[0150] Cartridge 200 may include an outer wall and an inner wall. Chamber C1 may be defined by the space between the outer wall and the inner wall. Chamber C1 may store a liquid aerosol-generating substance therein. The liquid aerosol-generating substance in chamber C1 may be heated by heater 210.

[0151] Heater 210 may be electrically connected to battery 16 and / or control unit 17. Heater 210 is located adjacent to chamber C1 and may heat a wick impregnated with a liquid aerosol-generating material within chamber C1. Heater 210 may heat the liquid aerosol-generating material within the wick.

[0152] The cartridge 200 or the main body 100 may include an insertion space 130, 230. One end of the insertion space 130, 230 may be open to form an opening. The insertion space 130, 230 may be exposed to the outside through the opening. The opening may be defined as one end of the insertion space 130, 230. The insertion space 130, 230 may be elongated in the vertical direction. The insertion space 130, 230 may be formed as a space surrounded by an inner wall elongated in the vertical direction. The stick 40 may be inserted into the insertion space 130, 230.

[0153] The cartridge 200 may be disposed so as to contact the main body 100. The cartridge 200 may be coupled to or separated from the main body 100. One side wall and a bottom wall of the outer wall of the cartridge 200 may contact the main body 100. The insertion spaces 130, 230 may be formed adjacent to one side wall of the outer wall of the cartridge 200 that contacts the main body 100.

[0154] The cartridge 200 can include a light guide 250. The light guide 250 can have a polyhedron shape. The light guide 250 can include multiple outer surfaces that form the polyhedron.

[0155] Light guide 250 may be located at or adjacent to the lower end of chamber C1. At least one of the faces forming the polyhedron of light guide 250 may be exposed to chamber C1. The liquid aerosol-generating material contained in chamber C1 and / or the air in chamber C1 may come into contact with at least one face exposed to the interior of chamber C1.

[0156] 7, the light guide 250 may be disposed on one side of the lower surface of the cartridge 200. In the light guide 250, at least one of the multiple faces forming a polyhedron may be exposed to the chamber C1 on the lower surface of the cartridge 200.

[0157] 8, the light guide 250 may be disposed adjacent to the lower end of one side of the cartridge 200. In the light guide 250, at least one of the multiple faces forming a polyhedron may be exposed within the chamber C1 on one side of the cartridge 200.

[0158] 9, the light guide 250 may be disposed at a corner formed by the bottom surface and one side surface of the cartridge 200. At least one of the multiple faces forming the polyhedron of the light guide 250 may be exposed to the inside of the chamber C1 at the corner of the cartridge 200.

[0159] The body 100 may include a light sensor 155. The light sensor 155 may be located adjacent to the light guide 250 when the cartridge 200 is coupled to the body 100.

[0160] The optical sensor 155 may be disposed facing the light guide 250. The light emitting unit 1551 and the light receiving unit 1552 of the optical sensor 155 may be disposed facing the light guide 250. When the cartridge 200 is coupled to the main body 100, the light emitting unit 1551 of the optical sensor 155 may emit light through the light guide 250 toward at least one of the surfaces of the light guide 250 that is exposed to the interior of the chamber C1. When the cartridge 200 is coupled to the main body 100, the light receiving unit 1552 of the optical sensor 155 may receive, through the light guide 250, light reflected by at least one of the surfaces of the light guide 250 that is exposed to the interior of the chamber C1.

[0161] The light emitting unit 1551 and the light receiving unit 1552 of the optical sensor 155 may be disposed adjacent to each other. The optical sensor 155 may be configured in the form of a single module including the light emitting unit 1551 and the light receiving unit 1552. For example, referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the light emitting unit 1551 and the light receiving unit 1552 may be disposed parallel to each other and facing one of the multiple surfaces of the light guide 250 that is exposed to the outside of the cartridge 200.

[0162] The light-emitting unit 1551 and the light-receiving unit 1552 of the optical sensor 155 may be spaced apart from each other. The light-emitting unit 1551 and the light-receiving unit 1552 of the optical sensor 155 may be located at different positions on the cartridge 200. For example, referring to FIG. 9 , the light-emitting unit 1551 may be located adjacent to a lower end of one side of the cartridge 200 or adjacent to one side of the lower surface. The light-receiving unit 1552 may be located adjacent to one side of the lower surface of the cartridge 200 or adjacent to a lower end of one side of the cartridge 200. The light-emitting unit 1551 may be located facing one of the multiple surfaces of the light guide 250 that is exposed to the outside of the cartridge 200, and the light-receiving unit 1552 may be located facing the other of the multiple surfaces of the light guide 250 that is exposed to the outside of the cartridge 200. For example, the direction in which the light-emitting unit 1551 faces and the direction in which the light-receiving unit 1552 faces may be perpendicular to each other.

[0163] The main body 100 or the cartridge 200 may include a light guide connector 260. The light guide connector 260 may be formed of an optical fiber. When the cartridge 200 is coupled to the main body 100, one end of the light guide connector 260 may be positioned adjacent to the light emitting unit 1551 and the light receiving unit 1552 of the optical sensor 155, and the other end may be positioned adjacent to the light guide 250.

[0164] When the cartridge 200 is coupled to the main body 100, the light emitted from the light emitting portion 1551 of the optical sensor 155 is propagated to the light guide 250 through the inside of the light guide connecting portion 260, and can be incident on at least one of the multiple surfaces of the light guide 250 that is exposed to the inside of the chamber C1 through the inside of the light guide 250.

[0165] When the cartridge 200 is coupled to the main body 100, light reflected by at least one surface of the light guide 250 that is exposed to the interior of the chamber C1 propagates through the interior of the light guide 250 to the light guide connector 260 and can be incident on the light receiving unit 1552 of the light sensor 155 through the interior of the light guide connector 260. Although FIG. 7 illustrates a structure in which the cross section of the light guide connector 260 is linear, the shape of the light guide connector 260 is not limited thereto and can be any shape as long as it connects the light sensor 155 and the light guide connector 260. Even if the light sensor 155 is not located adjacent to the light guide 250 or if the light sensor 155 faces in a direction other than the direction in which the light guide 250 is located, light can propagate between the light sensor 155 and the light guide 250 via the light guide connector 260.

[0166] The control unit 17 can activate the optical sensor 155 and receive a signal output from the optical sensor 155. The signal output from the optical sensor 155 can be an analog signal or a digital signal.

[0167] The control unit 17 determines the amount of light (light intensity) received by the optical sensor 155 based on the signal received from the optical sensor 155, and determines whether the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1 has been consumed based on the amount of light received. The process by which the control unit 17 determines whether or not a liquid is present will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 12.

[0168] When the liquid aerosol generating material is exhausted, the control unit 17 can output guidance information via the output device 122. The control unit 17 can output information regarding the exhaustion of the liquid aerosol generating material and / or the replacement of the cartridge 200.

[0169] The battery 16 can supply power to the heater 210 under the control of the control unit 17 .

[0170] 10 and 11 are diagrams illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10 is an enlarged view of the periphery of the light guide when a liquid aerosol-generating substance is present in the chamber, and Fig. 11 is an enlarged view of the periphery of the light guide when a liquid aerosol-generating substance is not present in the chamber.

[0171] 10 and 11, the light emitting unit 1551 of the optical sensor 155 may include at least one light source that generates light. For example, the light emitting unit 1551 may include a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a laser diode (LD), etc. Here, the plurality of light sources included in the light emitting unit 1551 may be arranged in a certain pattern.

[0172] The light emitting unit 1551 can emit light in a predetermined direction. For example, the light emitting unit 1551 can include a first condenser (not shown) that condenses light generated by a light source toward an object. Here, the first condenser can be an imaging lens, a diffractive optical element (DOE), etc.

[0173] The light receiving unit 1552 may include a photodiode that is sensitive to light, and may output an electrical signal corresponding to the light incident on the photodiode.

[0174] The light receiving unit 1552 may include a second light collecting unit (not shown) that collects light reflected from the object (hereinafter referred to as reflected light). For example, the reflected light collected by the second light collecting unit may be transmitted to a photodiode included in the light receiving unit 1552. Here, the second light collecting unit may include a lens that receives the reflected light incident in a predetermined direction.

[0175] The light receiving unit 1552 may further include an optical filter (not shown) that selectively transmits light in a specific wavelength range. For example, the optical filter may be an infrared pass filter that selectively transmits infrared light with wavelengths of 780 nm to 1000 nm.

[0176] The light emitting unit 1551 may emit light toward the light guide 250. The light emitting unit 1551 may emit light toward the inside of the chamber C1. The emitted light propagates inside the light guide 250 and may be reflected or refracted by at least one surface of the light guide 250 that is exposed to the inside of the chamber C1.

[0177] The light receiving unit 1552 can receive reflected light. The light receiving unit 1552 can receive reflected light that is reflected by at least one surface exposed to the inside of the chamber C1 out of the light emitted from the light emitting unit 1551. The light receiving unit 1552 can output an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of reflected light incident on the photodiode.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 10, the surfaces of the light guide 250 exposed to the inside of the chamber C1 may include a first surface 251 and a second surface 252.

[0179] The first surface 251 may be disposed at a certain angle relative to the lower surface of the chamber C1 and in a tilted direction relative to the lower surface of the chamber C1. The first surface 251 may be exposed inside the chamber C1. The second surface 252 has one end in contact with one end of the first surface 251 and may be disposed at a certain angle relative to the lower surface of the chamber C1 and in a tilted direction relative to the lower surface of the chamber C1. The second surface 252 may be exposed inside the chamber C1.

[0180] Based on the front-rear direction (direction perpendicular to the x-axis and y-axis) of the aerosol generation device 10, the cross section of the light guide 250 perpendicular to the front-rear direction may be a polygon. For example, the cross section of the light guide 250 may be a pentagon. For example, the cross section of the light guide 250 may be an N-gon.

[0181] The light guide 260 may be formed of a transparent or translucent material that can transmit light. For example, the light guide 260 may be formed of a transparent or translucent plastic or glass material. For example, the light guide 260 may contain a liquid or gas inside that can transmit light. The refractive index n1 of the light guide 260 may be smaller than the refractive index n3 of the liquid aerosol-generating material. The refractive index n1 of the light guide 260 may be larger than the refractive index n2 of air.

[0182] The refractive index n3 of the liquid aerosol generating material can be about 1.40 or greater. For example, the liquid aerosol generating material can include at least one of materials such as propylene glycol (refractive index about 1.44) or glycerin (refractive index about 1.47).

[0183] The light emitting unit 1551 may be arranged to face the first surface 251 of the light guide 250. Light 901 emitted from the light emitting unit 1551 may propagate through the inside of the light guide 250 and be incident on the first surface 251. The emitted light 901 may be partially reflected by the first surface 251 and partially refracted 902B by the first surface 251. Of the emitted light 901, light 902A reflected by the first surface 251 may be incident on the second surface 252. The light 902A incident on the second surface 252 may be partially reflected by the second surface 252 and partially refracted 903B by the second surface 252. The light 903A reflected by the second surface 252 may propagate through the inside of the light guide 250 and be incident on the light receiving unit 1552.

[0184] Since the refractive index n1 of the light guide 260 is smaller than the refractive index n3 of the liquid aerosol generating substance, when liquid aerosol generating substance A is present in chamber C1, part of the light 901, 902A incident on the first surface 251 and the second surface 252 is refracted and propagated inside the liquid aerosol generating substance A, and only the remaining part is reflected.

[0185] 11, when liquid aerosol generating material A is consumed in chamber C1, first surface 251 and second surface 252 of light guide 250 may be in contact with air B in chamber C1. Light 1001 emitted from light emitting unit 1551 may propagate through the interior of light guide 250 and be incident on first surface 251. When a first angle X (unit: degrees) is formed between light 1001 incident on first surface 251 and first surface 251, first angle X may satisfy the following mathematical formula 1:

[0186] (Number 1) X<90-arcsin(n2 / n1)

[0187] where n1 is the refractive index of the light guide 250 and n2 is the refractive index of air B.

[0188] Since the refractive index n1 of the light guide 250 is greater than the refractive index n2 of air B, when the emitted light 1001 is incident on the first surface 251 at a first angle X that satisfies the above mathematical formula 1, the incident light 1001 is not refracted at the first surface 251 and can be totally reflected (total internal reflection).

[0189] Furthermore, when a second angle formed by the light 1002 reflected by the first surface 251 and incident on the second surface 252 with respect to the second surface 252 is defined as Y, the second angle Y can satisfy the following mathematical formula 2.

[0190] (Number 2) Y<90-arcsin(n2 / n1)

[0191] When the light 1002 incident on the second surface 252 is incident on the second surface 252 at the second angle Y that satisfies Equation 2, the incident light 1002 is not refracted at the second surface 252 and can be totally reflected (total internal reflection).

[0192] Light 1001 emitted from the light-emitting portion 1551 and incident on the first surface 251 is totally reflected by the first surface 251, and light 1002 reflected by the first surface 251 and incident on the second surface 252 is totally reflected by the second surface 252 and can be incident on the light-receiving portion 1552.

[0193] In this case, the amount of light 1003 incident on the light receiving unit 1552 under the condition that the light is totally reflected by the first surface 251 and the second surface 252 (when the liquid aerosol generating substance A in the chamber C1 has been consumed) may be greater than the amount of light 903A incident on the light receiving unit 1552 under the condition that the incident light is partially refracted by the first surface 251 and the second surface 252 (when the liquid aerosol generating substance A in the chamber C1 has not been consumed). The amount of light 1003 incident through the light receiving unit 1552 under the condition that the light is totally reflected by both the first surface 251 and the second surface 252 can be set to a reference light amount. Information on the set reference light amount can be stored in advance in the memory 14.

[0194] Alternatively, the refractive index n1 of the light guide 260 may be greater than the refractive index n3 of the liquid aerosol-generating material, and the refractive index n1 of the light guide 260 may be greater than the refractive index n2 of air.

[0195] 10 again, light 901 emitted from the light emitting unit 1551 may propagate through the inside of the light guide 250 and be incident on the first surface 251. A first angle X formed by the light 901 incident on the first surface 251 with respect to the first surface 251 may satisfy the following mathematical formula 3.

[0196] (Number 3) X>90-arcsin(n3 / n1)

[0197] where n1 is the refractive index of light guide 250 and n3 is the refractive index of liquid aerosol generating material A.

[0198] Even if the refractive index n1 of light guide 250 is greater than the refractive index n3 of liquid aerosol generating material A, when emitted light 901 is incident on first surface 251 at first angle X that satisfies Equation 3 above, incident light 901 may not be totally reflected by first surface 251. A portion of incident light 901 may be reflected by first surface 251, and the remaining portion may be refracted by first surface 251.

[0199] Furthermore, when a second angle formed by the light 902 reflected by the first surface 251 and incident on the second surface 252 with respect to the second surface 252 is defined as Y, the second angle Y can satisfy the following mathematical formula 4.

[0200] (Number 4) Y>90-arcsin(n3 / n1)

[0201] When light 902A incident on second surface 252 is incident on second surface 252 at second angle Y that satisfies Equation 4 above, incident light 902A may not be totally reflected at second surface 252. A portion of incident light 902A may be reflected at second surface 252, and the remaining portion may be refracted at second surface 252.

[0202] When the refractive index n1 of the light guide 260 is greater than the refractive index n3 of the liquid aerosol generating material and the refractive index n2 of the air, the first angle X and the second angle Y can satisfy all of the above mathematical expressions 1 to 4. Therefore, the first angle X and the second angle Y can satisfy the following mathematical expression 5.

[0203] (Number 5) 90-arcsin(n3 / n1) <X<90-arcsin(n2 / n1)

[0204] 90-arcsin(n3 / n1) <Y<90-arcsin(n2 / n1)

[0205] In this case, the amount of light 1003 incident on light receiving unit 1552 when liquid aerosol generating substance A in chamber C1 has been consumed may be greater than the amount of light 903A incident on light receiving unit 1552 when liquid aerosol generating substance A in chamber C1 has not been consumed. The amount of light 1003 incident through light receiving unit 1552 under the condition of total reflection at both first surface 251 and second surface 252 (when liquid aerosol generating substance A in chamber C1 has been consumed) can be set to a reference light amount. Information about the set reference light amount can be stored in advance in memory 14.

[0206] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0207] 12, the aerosol generating device 10 can detect the insertion of the stick 40 in operation S1210. The stick detection sensor 152 of the aerosol generating device 10 can output a signal corresponding to the stick 40 inserted into the insertion space 130, 230.

[0208] The aerosol generating device 10 can detect that the stick 40 is inserted into the insertion space 130 , 230 based on a signal received from the stick detection sensor 152 .

[0209] Upon detecting the insertion of the stick 40, the aerosol generation device 10 can receive a measurement signal from the motion sensor 154 in operation S1220. The aerosol generation device 10 can include at least one motion sensor 154 that detects movement of the main body 100 and / or cartridge 200 of the aerosol generation device 10. The motion sensor 154 can be embodied by at least one of a gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor. The motion sensor 154 can be disposed in at least one of the main body 100 and the cartridge 200.

[0210] The aerosol generation device 10 can calculate the angle of the chamber C1 in operation S1230. The angle of the chamber C1 can be defined as the angle between the longitudinal direction of the chamber C1 and a vertical line perpendicular to the ground. The motion sensor 154 can measure motion information including the movement state, posture, and tilt degree of the aerosol generation device 10, and output a signal corresponding to the measured information. The aerosol generation device 10 can calculate the angle of the chamber C1 based on the signal received from the motion sensor 154.

[0211] In operation S1240, the aerosol generation device 10 can compare the calculated angle of the chamber C1 with a reference angle and determine whether the calculated angle is equal to or smaller than the reference angle.

[0212] If the calculated angle exceeds the reference angle in operation S1250, the aerosol generation device 10 may output a warning via the output device 122. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 may output information notifying the user that the presence or absence of the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1 cannot be measured due to the chamber C1 being tilted via the output device 122. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 may output information via the output device 122 guiding the user to align the device in a direction perpendicular to the ground because the chamber C1 is tilted.

[0213] After outputting the warning, the aerosol generating device 10 can again receive a measurement signal from the motion sensor 154 (operation S1220).

[0214] In operation S1260, the aerosol generation device 10 may activate the optical sensor 155 if the calculated angle is equal to or less than the reference angle. The aerosol generation device 10 may transmit an activation signal to the optical sensor 155 to activate the optical sensor 155. The aerosol generation device 10 may monitor a signal received from the activated optical sensor 155. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 may receive a signal from the activated optical sensor 155 for a certain period of time from the point in time when the angle of the chamber C1 is calculated.

[0215] When the chamber C1 is tilted relative to the ground, even if a liquid aerosol-generating substance is present in the chamber C1, the liquid aerosol-generating substance may not be located near the light guide 250. The aerosol generating device 10 can accurately determine the presence or absence of the liquid aerosol-generating substance by determining the presence or absence of the liquid aerosol-generating substance based on the signal from the light sensor 155 only when the chamber C1 is positioned at a certain angle or less relative to the direction perpendicular to the ground.

[0216] In operation S1270, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine the presence or absence of the liquid aerosol generating substance in the chamber C1 based on the signal received from the activated optical sensor 155.

[0217] The aerosol generation device 10 can compare the amount of reflected light incident on the light receiving unit 1552 of the light sensor 155 with a reference light amount, based on the signal received from the light sensor 155. For example, the reference light amount can be set to the amount of light 1003 incident via the light receiving unit 1552, or an amount of light that is smaller by a certain level than the amount of light, under the condition that light emitted from the light emitting unit 1551 of the light guide 250 toward the first surface 251 is totally reflected by both the first surface 251 and the second surface 252.

[0218] If the amount of reflected light is equal to or greater than a reference amount, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine that the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1 has been consumed. When the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1 has been consumed, the first surface 251 and the second surface 252 may be in contact with the air in the chamber C1. In this case, total reflection occurs at both the first surface 251 and the second surface 252 of the light guide 250, so the amount of reflected light may be equal to or greater than the reference amount.

[0219] If the amount of reflected light is less than the reference amount, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine that the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1 has not been consumed. If the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1 has not been consumed, the first surface 251 and the second surface 252 may be in contact with the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1. In this case, the reflected light is not totally reflected by the first surface 251 and the second surface 252 of the light guide 250, and therefore the amount of reflected light may be less than the reference amount.

[0220] The aerosol generating device 10 can control the power supplied to the heater 210 based on the presence or absence of the liquid aerosol generating substance.

[0221] In operation S1280, the aerosol generating device 10 can be controlled to cut off the supply of power to the heater 210 when the amount of liquid aerosol generating substance in the chamber C1 is exhausted.

[0222] In operation S1290, the aerosol generating device 10 can be controlled so that power is supplied to the heater 210 if the amount of liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1 has not been consumed.

[0223] Meanwhile, the aerosol generation device 10 calculates the angle and movement of chamber C1 based on the signal received from motion sensor 154 in operation S1230, and compares the angle of chamber C1 with a reference angle and the value corresponding to the movement of chamber C1 with the reference movement in operation S1240. The aerosol generation device 10 can activate optical sensor 155 in operation S1260 if the angle is equal to or less than the reference angle and the value corresponding to the movement is equal to or less than the reference movement. The aerosol generation device 10 can determine whether the liquid aerosol generating material in chamber C1 has been consumed based on the signal received from the activated optical sensor 155.

[0224] The aerosol generating device 10 can accurately determine the presence or absence of a liquid aerosol generating substance by taking into account both the angle and the degree of movement of the chamber C1 and determining the presence or absence of a liquid aerosol generating substance based on the signal from the optical sensor 155 only when both the angle and the degree of movement are below a certain level.

[0225] As described above, at least one embodiment of the present disclosure allows for accurate determination of the presence or absence of liquid aerosol-generating material in a cartridge.

[0226] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the power supplied to the heater can be adjusted based on the presence or absence of an aerosol-forming substance.

[0227] 1 to 12, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a main body 100 including an optical sensor 155, and a cartridge 200 coupled to the main body, the cartridge 200 including a polyhedron-shaped light guide 250 and a chamber C1 for storing a liquid aerosol generating material. The optical sensor 155 may be disposed adjacent to and facing the light guide 250 when the cartridge 200 is coupled to the main body 100. The light guide 250 may be disposed at or adjacent to the lower end of the chamber C1 such that at least one of a plurality of surfaces of the light guide 250 is exposed to the interior of the chamber C1.

[0228] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the light guide 250 may be disposed toward one side of the bottom surface of the cartridge 200, and at least one surface of the light guide 250 may be exposed to the inside of the chamber C1 from the bottom surface of the cartridge 200.

[0229] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the light guide 250 may be positioned adjacent to the lower end of one side of the cartridge 200, and at least one surface of the light guide may be exposed to the interior of the chamber C1 from one side of the cartridge 200.

[0230] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the light guide 250 is disposed in a corner formed by the bottom surface and one side surface of the cartridge 200, and at least one surface of the light guide 250 may be exposed to the interior of the chamber C1 from the corner of the cartridge 200.

[0231] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the optical sensor 155 may include a light emitting unit 1551 that emits light to the light guide 250, and a light receiving unit 1552 that receives reflected light that is reflected by the at least one surface exposed to the interior of the chamber C1 and propagates through the light guide 250.

[0232] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one surface of the light guide 250 exposed to the interior of the chamber C1 may include a first surface 251 and a second surface 252 adjacent to the first surface 251. The emitted light may be reflected or refracted by the first surface 251 and the second surface 252. Of the emitted light, the light reflected by the first surface 251 and the second surface 252 may propagate through the light guide 250 and be incident on the light receiving unit 1552.

[0233] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the refractive index n1 of the light guide 250 may be less than the refractive index n3 of the liquid aerosol generating material and greater than the refractive index n2 of air.

[0234] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the angle X formed by the light emitted from the light emitting portion 1551 and incident on the at least one surface exposed inside the chamber C1 with respect to at least one surface of the light guide 250 may satisfy the mathematical formula: X<90-arcsin(n2 / n1).

[0235] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a light guide connector 260 including an optical fiber. One end of the light guide connector 260 may be connected to the light emitting unit 1551, and the other end of the light guide connector 260 may be disposed adjacent to the light guide 250 when the cartridge 200 is coupled to the main body 100.

[0236] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a control unit 17. The control unit 17 receives a signal corresponding to the amount of light received from the optical sensor 155, and when the amount of light received is equal to or greater than a reference amount of light, the control unit 17 may determine that the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1 has been consumed.

[0237] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a motion sensor 154 and an output device 122. The control unit 17 determines the angle that the chamber C1 forms with respect to a direction perpendicular to a horizontal plane based on a signal received from the motion sensor 154, and outputs a warning via the output device 122 if the angle exceeds a reference angle, and activates the optical sensor 155 if the angle is equal to or less than the reference angle, and determines whether the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1 has been consumed based on the signal received from the optical sensor 155.

[0238] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a long insertion space 130, 230 and a stick detection sensor 152 that outputs a signal corresponding to the stick 40 inserted into the insertion space 130, 230. The control unit 17 detects that the stick 40 is inserted into the insertion space 130, 230 based on the signal received from the stick detection sensor 152, and when the control unit 17 detects the insertion of the stick 40, it activates the optical sensor 155 and determines whether the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber C1 has been consumed based on the signal received from the optical sensor 155.

[0239] The specific embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct, and the structure or function of any or all elements of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be combined with other elements or combined with each other.

[0240] For example, configuration A described in one embodiment of the present disclosure and drawings and configuration B described in another embodiment of the present disclosure and drawings can be combined with each other. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible unless it is described that the combination is not possible.

[0241] While the embodiments have been described above in accordance with a number of exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that many other variations and embodiments are possible for those skilled in the art that fall within the scope of the principles of the present disclosure. More particularly, various modifications and variations are possible in the components and / or arrangements of the subject combinations within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to the modifications and variations of the components and / or arrangements, other uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. a main body including a light sensor; a cartridge coupled to the body, the cartridge including a light guide having a polyhedral shape and a chamber for storing a liquid aerosol generating material; the optical sensor is disposed adjacent to and facing the light guide when the cartridge is coupled to the body; the light guide is disposed at or adjacent to a lower end of the chamber such that at least one of a plurality of surfaces of the light guide is exposed to an interior of the chamber; the light guide is disposed at a corner formed by a bottom surface and one side surface of the cartridge; At least one surface of the light guide is exposed to the interior of the chamber from a corner of the cartridge; The optical sensor a light emitting portion disposed on one side of the cartridge and emitting light to the light guide; An aerosol generating device comprising: a light receiving unit arranged on the lower surface of the cartridge and receiving reflected light reflected by at least one surface exposed to the inside of the chamber and propagated through the light guide.

2. the emitted light is reflected or refracted by at least one surface of the light guide exposed to the interior of the chamber; The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the emitted light is reflected by at least one surface of the light guide exposed inside the chamber and propagates through the light guide and enters the light receiving section.

3. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the refractive index n1 of the light guide is smaller than the refractive index n3 of the liquid aerosol generating substance and is larger than the refractive index n2 of air.

4. 4. The aerosol generating device of claim 3, wherein an angle X formed by light emitted from the light emitting unit and incident on the at least one surface exposed inside the chamber with respect to the at least one surface of the light guide satisfies the mathematical formula: X<90-arcsin(n2 / n1).

5. further comprising a light guide connection portion including an optical fiber; The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein one end of the light guide connecting portion is connected to the light emitting portion, and the other end of the light guide connecting portion is positioned adjacent to the light guide when the cartridge is connected to the main body.

6. Further comprising a control unit; The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the control unit receives a signal corresponding to the amount of light received from the optical sensor, and determines that the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber has been exhausted if the amount of light received is greater than or equal to a reference light amount.

7. A motion sensor and an output device; The control unit determining an angle of the chamber relative to a direction perpendicular to a horizontal plane based on a signal received from the motion sensor; If the angle exceeds a reference angle, output a warning via the output device; The aerosol generating device described in claim 6, wherein if the angle is less than the reference angle, the optical sensor is activated, and based on the signal received from the optical sensor, it is determined whether the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber has been exhausted.

8. Long insertion space and a stick detection sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the stick inserted into the insertion space, The control unit Detecting that the stick is inserted into the insertion space based on a signal received from the stick detection sensor; The aerosol generating device described in claim 6, wherein when the insertion of the stick is detected, the optical sensor is activated and based on the signal received from the optical sensor, it is determined whether the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber has been consumed.

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