Aerosol generating device and method of operation thereof

Abstract

An aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof are provided, the aerosol generating device including a container having a size for containing an aerosol generating material, a heater for heating the aerosol generating material, a first sensor for detecting puffs, and a controller, the controller controls power supplied to the heater, and when the first sensor detects a first puff and a second puff occurring after the first puff, checks an elapsed time between the first puff and the second puff, compares the elapsed time with a first time threshold, controls a first power supplied to the heater if the elapsed time is less than the first time threshold, and controls a second power higher than the first power supplied to the heater if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first time threshold.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device and a method of operation thereof. [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 and an operating method thereof that prevent a decrease in the amount of aerosol generated due to leakage from a cartridge when the cartridge storing an aerosol generating material is used again after not being used for a long period of time.

[0005] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that effectively suppresses a decrease in the amount of aerosol generated by controlling the amount of power supplied to the heater in proportion to the time the cartridge is left unused.

[0006] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that effectively suppresses a decrease in the amount of aerosol generated by controlling the amount of power used to preheat the heater in proportion to the time the cartridge is left unused.

[0007] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof that gradually varies the amount of power supplied to a heater to minimize any strange sensation that may be felt by a user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to one aspect of the subject matter described in the present application, an aerosol generating device includes a container sized to hold an aerosol generating material, a heater for heating the aerosol generating material, a first sensor for detecting puffs, and a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the power supplied to the heater, and when the first sensor detects a first puff and a second puff occurring after the first puff, checks the elapsed time between the first puff and the second puff, compares the elapsed time with a first set time, and controls a first power supplied to the heater if the elapsed time is less than the first set time, and controls a second power higher than the first power supplied to the heater if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first set time.

[0009] According to another aspect of the subject matter described herein, there is provided a method for operating an aerosol generating device having a heater, the method including: when a sensor detects a first puff and a second puff occurring after the first puff, determining an elapsed time between the first puff and the second puff, comparing the elapsed time with a first set time, controlling a first power supplied to the heater if the elapsed time is less than the first set time, and controlling a second power supplied to the heater that is higher than the first power if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first set time. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, when a cartridge storing an aerosol-generating material is used again after not being used for a long period of time, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the amount of aerosol generated due to leakage occurring in the cartridge.

[0011] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the amount of power supplied to the heater can be controlled in proportion to the time the cartridge is left unused, thereby effectively suppressing the decrease in the amount of aerosol generated.

[0012] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the amount of power used to preheat the heater can be controlled in proportion to the time the cartridge is left unused, thereby effectively suppressing a decrease in the amount of aerosol generated.

[0013] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the amount of power supplied to the heater can be gradually varied to minimize any strange sensations that may be felt by the user.

[0014] 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]

[0015] [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. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol generating device. [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] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a stick. [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method of operating an aerosol generating device. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the method of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the method of FIG. 8. [Figure 11] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the method of FIG. 8. [Figure 12] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method of operating an aerosol generating device. [Figure 13] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 12. [Figure 14] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method of operating an aerosol generating device. [Figure 15] 15A to 15C are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 14. [Figure 16] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method of operating an aerosol generating device. [Figure 17] 17A to 17C are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 16. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or similar components will be given the same reference numerals even if they are shown in different drawings, and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] 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 .

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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).

[0026] The input / output interface 12 may include an input device that receives commands from a user and / or an output device 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 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] The aerosol generating material may further include an aerosol forming agent such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0032] The aerosol generation module 13 can include at least one heater 131 .

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] On the other hand, the aerosol generation module 13 can also generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substance by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

[0038] The aerosol generating module 13 may be referred to as a cartomizer, an atomizer, a vaporizer, or the like.

[0039] 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 .

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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, at least one temperature profile, data on the user's inhalation pattern, data on charging and discharging, etc. Here, puffing 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.

[0043] 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.).

[0044] 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.

[0045] The sensor module 15 can include at least one sensor.

[0046] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for detecting a puff (hereinafter referred to as a puff sensor 151). Here, the puff sensor 151 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.

[0047] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a temperature sensor) that senses the temperature of the heater 131 included in the aerosol generation module 13, the temperature of the aerosol generation material, etc.

[0048] Here, the heater 131 included in the aerosol generation module 13 may also function as a temperature sensor. For example, the electrically resistive material of the heater 131 may be a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). The sensor module 15 can sense the temperature of the heater 131 by measuring the resistance of the heater 131, which changes depending on the temperature.

[0049] For example, if a stick can be inserted into the main body of the aerosol generating device 10, the sensor module 15 can include a sensor that detects the insertion of the stick (hereinafter referred to as stick detection sensor 152).

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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. The connection terminal may also function as a cartridge detection sensor. For example, the sensor module 15 may detect the attachment / detachment of the cartridge 200 to / from the main body 100 based on a current flowing through the connection terminal, a voltage applied to the connection terminal, etc.

[0052] 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.

[0053] For example, the sensor module 15 may include at least one sensor (hereinafter referred to as a "motion sensor") that senses the movement of the aerosol generating device 10. Here, the motion sensor may be embodied by at least one of a gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] The aerosol generation device 10 can 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] The control unit 17 can determine whether a puff has occurred by the puff sensor 151 included in the sensor module 15. For example, the control unit 17 can check the temperature change, flow rate change, pressure change, voltage change, etc. in the aerosol generating device 10 based on the sensing value of the puff sensor 151, and can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the confirmed results based on the sensing value of the puff sensor 151.

[0064] 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 temperature of the heater 131 to be changed or maintained based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 14.

[0065] The control unit 17 may control the heater 131 to cut off the power supply under predetermined conditions. For example, the control unit 17 may control the heater 131 to cut off the power supply 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] The control unit 17 can control the supply of power to the heater 131 using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0068] 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.

[0069] For example, the control unit 17 can determine a target temperature based on the temperature profile, and can control the power supplied to the heater 131 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method using a difference between the temperature of the heater 131 and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0070] For example, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater 131 based on the temperature profile. The control unit 17 can control the length of the heating section in which the heater 131 is heated, the amount of power supplied to the heater 131 during the heating section, etc. The control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater 131 based on the target temperature of the heater 131.

[0071] Meanwhile, although the PWM method and the PID method have been described as examples of control methods for supplying power to the heater 131, 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.

[0072] The control unit 17 can determine the temperature of the heater 131 and can adjust the power supplied to the heater 131 depending on the temperature of the heater 131. For example, the control unit 17 can determine the temperature of the heater 131 by checking the resistance value of the heater 131, the current flowing through the heater 131, and / or the voltage applied to the heater 131.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 2 to 4 are diagrams illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device 10 can include a body 100 and / or a cartridge 200 .

[0076] Referring to FIG. 2, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 configured to allow the stick 20 to be inserted into a space formed by a housing 101.

[0077] 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.

[0078] The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generation device 10, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first part, or both the first part and the second part, may be inserted into the aerosol generation device 10. A user can inhale the aerosol by holding the second part in their mouth. Here, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user's mouth through the second part.

[0079] The main body 100 may be formed in a structure that allows external air to flow into the main body 100 when the stick 20 is inserted. Here, the external air that has flowed into the main body 100 may pass through the stick 20 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0080] The heater may be positioned within the body 100 at a location corresponding to where the stick 20 is inserted into the body 100. In this illustration, the heater is shown as an electrically conductive heater 110 comprising a needle-like electrically conductive track, although the invention is not limited in this respect.

[0081] The heater can heat the inside and / or outside of the stick 20 using power supplied from the battery 16. An aerosol can be generated in the heated stick 20. A user can inhale the tobacco-flavored aerosol by inhaling through one end of the stick 20 with their mouth.

[0082] Meanwhile, the control unit 17 may control the heater to supply power even when the stick 20 is not inserted, depending on a predetermined condition. For example, when a cleaning function for cleaning the space into which the stick 20 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] When the inserted stick 20 is removed, the control unit 17 can initialize the current number of puffs stored in the memory 14.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment can include a body 100 that supports a cartridge 200, and the cartridge 200 that stores an aerosol generating substance.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] A part of the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 230 of the cartridge 200, and the remaining part can be exposed to the outside.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 4, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 that supports a cartridge 200, and the cartridge 200 holds an aerosol-generating substance. The main body 100 may be configured so that the stick 20 can be inserted into the insertion space 130.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 5 to 7 are diagrams illustrating a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description of the same content as in FIGS. 5 to 7 will be omitted.

[0099] 5, 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.

[0100] Although the filter rod 22 is shown in Figure 5 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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 It can be made from materials between 1 / mg.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 6, 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.

[0126] 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 5. Second segment 322 can correspond to the third segment of filter rod 22 of Figure 5.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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. 3 to the interior of the tobacco rod 31.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] The tobacco rod 31 may correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to Figure 5. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 7, 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 encase the medium portion 410. The wrapper 440 may encase the cooling portion 420. The wrapper 440 may encase the filter portion 430. The stick 40 may have a cylindrical shape.

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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.

[0146] Therefore, each granule of the medium 411 cannot be separated from the medium portion 410 and the stick 40 .

[0147] 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 portion 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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.

[0153] 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.

[0154] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the aerosol generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIGS. 9 to 11 are diagrams illustrating the operation of the aerosol generation device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] 8 and 9, the aerosol generating device 10 can sense puffs in operation S810. The puff sensor 151 of the aerosol generating device 10 can sense the first puff and the second puff. The aerosol generating device 10 can sense the first puff and the second puff based on the signal 901 output by the puff sensor 151.

[0156] 2nd Puff f+1 The first puff f For example, the first puff p detected by the puff sensor 151 may be a puff that occurs after the first puff p f and the second puff f+1 Other puffs occurring between puffs may go undetected. For example, the second puff p f+1 The first puff f It can be detected within a few seconds after the occurrence of the second puff, or it can be detected after several tens of hours. For example, f+1The first puff f After the occurrence of puffing, the cartridge 200 may be left unused for a long period of time, and then a puff may be generated by inhalation by the user.

[0157] In operation S820, when the aerosol generating device 10 detects the first puff and the second puff that occurs after the first puff through the puff sensor 151, the aerosol generating device 10 calculates the elapsed time T between the first puff and the second puff. count Count the elapsed time T count The first setting time T S1 can be compared to

[0158] The aerosol generating device 10 starts counting time from the time T0 when the first puff is detected, stops counting at the time T1 when the second puff is detected, and then calculates the counted value as an elapsed time T count The aerosol generating device 10 starts counting from the time when a puff is detected each time the puff is detected, stops counting when the next puff is detected, and calculates the elapsed time. S1 can be stored in advance in the memory 14 of the aerosol generating device 10. The aerosol generating device 10 count The first set time T S1 Compared with the elapsed time T count is the first set time T S1 It can be determined whether the value is equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0159] Elapsed time T count is the first set time T S1 If it is determined that this is the case, the aerosol generation device 10 can supply a second power P2 to the heater 131 in operation S830 to heat the heater 131. The battery 16 of the aerosol generation device 10 can supply the second power P2 to the heater 131. The second power P2 can be higher than the first power P1.

[0160] When a first power P1 is supplied to the heater 131 for a predetermined time, the heater 131 may be heated to a temperature equal to or higher than the vaporization temperature of the aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be heated and vaporized by the heated heater 131. When a second power P2 is supplied to the heater 131 for a predetermined time, the heater 131 may be heated to a temperature equal to or higher than the vaporization temperature of the aerosol-generating material. When the second power P2 is supplied to the heater 131 for a predetermined time, the heater 131 may be heated to a higher temperature than when the first power P1 is supplied for a predetermined time.

[0161] The aerosol generating device 10 may include a container 220 that contains an aerosol generating substance. The container 220 may be formed as a cartridge 200. The aerosol generating substance contained in the container 220 may be impregnated in a liquid transmitting means that is disposed inside the container 220 or adjacent to the container 220 and communicates with the interior of the container 220. The heater 131 may be formed in a structure that wraps around the liquid transmitting means.

[0162] If the cartridge 200 is left unused for an extended period of time, the liquid transfer means may become saturated with a large amount of aerosol-forming material that has leaked from the container 220 of the cartridge 200 .

[0163] By supplying the heater 131 with a second power P2 higher than the first power P1, the heater 131 can heat the liquid transfer means to a high temperature and effectively vaporize the asol generating substance impregnated in the liquid transfer means of the cartridge 200 that has not been used for a long period of time.

[0164] Supplying the first power P1 or the second power P2 to the heater 131 may mean supplying the first power P1 or the second power P2 of a constant magnitude to the heater 131 for each puff. Meanwhile, supplying the first power P1 or the second power P2 to the heater 131 may mean supplying the first power P1 or the second power P2 to the heater 131 for a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) from the time the puff occurs each time the puff occurs, and then supplying the heater 131 with a power lower than the first power P1 or a power lower than the second power P2 after the predetermined time has elapsed. However, the method of supplying the first power P1 or the second power P2 to the heater 131 is not limited thereto.

[0165] Referring to FIG. 10, the aerosol generating device 10 count is the first set time T S1 If it is determined that this is the case, the second power P2 can be supplied to the heater 131 only for the predetermined number of puffs (first set number) (1002 in FIG. 10).

[0166] The aerosol generation device 10 can sense the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on) that occur after the second puff via the puff sensor 151. The aerosol generation device 10 can sense the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on) that occur after the second puff via the puff sensor 151. count is the first set time T S1 In the above cases, the heater 131 can be controlled to supply the second power P2 from the second puff to the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on). The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the second power P2 to the heater 131 up to the (N1-1)th puff that occurs after the second puff, including the second puff.

[0167] The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the first power P1 to the heater 131 for at least one puff that occurs after the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on).

[0168] Also referring to FIG. 8, the elapsed time T count is the first set time T S1If it is determined that the second power P2 is less than the first power P1, the aerosol generation device 10 can heat the heater 131 with the first power P1 in operation S840 (1001 in FIG. 10). The battery 16 of the aerosol generation device 10 can supply the first power P1 to the heater 131. The first power P1 can be lower than the second power P2.

[0169] First set time T S1 may be a time that reflects the time that the cartridge 200 has been left unused for an extended period of time. For example, the first set time T S1 The first set time T may be 72 hours. S1 can be set based on experimental data, etc. However, the first set time T S1 is not limited to this.

[0170] The magnitude of the second power P2 can be set to be greater than the magnitude of the first power P1 by a predetermined percentage or more.

[0171] [Table 1]

[0172] Referring to Table 1, the first power P1 may be the power supplied to the heater 131 to heat the heater 131 in a general heating mode (normal mode). For example, in the first device, the first power P1 may be set to approximately 9 watts (W). For example, in the second device, the first power P1 may be set to approximately 7.5 watts (W). However, the magnitude of the first power P1 is not limited thereto and may have different values ​​depending on the type of aerosol generating device 10 used, the type of aerosol generating material, etc. The second power P2 may be the power supplied to the heater 131 to heat the heater 131 in a leak heating mode (boost mode). For example, in the first device, the second power P2 may be set to approximately 10 to 12 watts (W). In the first device, the magnitude of the second power P2 may be approximately 110 to 130% of the first power P1. For example, in the second device, the second power P2 may be set to approximately 12 watts (W). In the second device, the magnitude of the second power P2 may be approximately 130 to 160% of the first power P1, but the magnitude of the second power P2 is not limited to this and may vary depending on the type of aerosol generation device 10 used, the type of aerosol-generating material, etc.

[0173] Meanwhile, the first set number N1 may refer to the number of puffs from the second puff to the puff at which an average amount of aerosol atomization occurs even when the first power P1 is supplied to the heater 131. For example, the first set number N1 may be 5. The first set number N1 may be set based on experimental data, etc. However, the first set number N1 is not limited to this.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 11, the aerosol generating device 10 count is the first set time T S1 If it is determined that the number of puffs is equal to or greater than the first power P1, a power higher than the first power P1 can be supplied to the heater 131 for a predetermined number (first set number) of puffs. The aerosol generation device 10 can control the power supplied to the heater 131 to gradually decrease from the second power P2 to the first power P1 for the second puff to the first set number N1 of puffs (1102 in FIG. 11).

[0175] For example, the aerosol generating device 10 may perform the first set number of puffs N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9, N10, N11, N12, N13, N14, N15, N16, N17, N18, N19, N19, N20, N21, N22, N23, N24, N25, N26, N27, N2 13 The puffs can be divided into three puff sections. The aerosol generation device 10 applies the second power P 23 , P2 is supplied to the heater 131, and N 11 puff to N 12 - Second power P for the first puff 23 The fourth power P is lower than 22 is supplied to the heater 131, and N 12 puff to N 13 -For the first puff, the fourth power P 22 The fifth power P is lower than 21 can be supplied to the heater 131. Here, the fourth power P 22 and the 5th Power Company P 21 may be a power higher than the first power P1.

[0176] The aerosol generating device 10 can be controlled to supply the first power P1 to the heater 131 for at least one puff that occurs after the first set number N1 of puffs (or the like). 13 Although the puffs are divided into three puff sections in this example, the number of divided puff sections is not limited thereto and may be two or four or more.

[0177] First set number of times N1, N 13 If the power supplied to the heater 131 is reduced from the second power P2 to the first power P1 after the first set number of puffs N1, a sudden change in the amount of atomization generated by the puffs may occur. The aerosol generation device 10 controls the power supplied to the heater 131 to be gradually reduced from the second power P2 to the first power P1 from the second puff to the first set number of puffs N1, thereby minimizing the strange feeling that the user may experience due to the change in the amount of atomization.

[0178] Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. 13 is a diagram explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description of the content in Fig. 12 that overlaps with Fig. 8 will be omitted.

[0179] 12 and 13, the aerosol generation device 10 can sense puffs in operation S1210. The puff sensor 151 of the aerosol generation device 10 can sense the first puff and the second puff. The aerosol generation device 10 can sense the first puff and the second puff based on the signal output by the puff sensor 151.

[0180] In operation S1220, when the aerosol generating device 10 detects the first puff and the second puff that occurs after the first puff via the puff sensor 151, the aerosol generating device 10 calculates the elapsed time T between the first puff and the second puff. count Count the elapsed time T count The first setting time T S1 can be compared to

[0181] Elapsed time T count is the first set time T S1 If it is determined that the elapsed time T count The second setting time T S2 Here, the second set time T S2 is the first set time T S1 It may be a longer time than that.

[0182] First set time T S1 and the second set time T S2 can be stored in advance in the memory 14 of the aerosol generating device 10. The aerosol generating device 10 count The first set time T S1 and the second set time T S2 Compared with the elapsed time T count is the first set time T S1 and the second set time T S2It can be determined whether the value is equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0183] Elapsed time T count is the second set time T S2 If it is determined that this is the case, the aerosol generation device 10 can supply a third power P3 to the heater 131 to heat the heater 131 in operation S1250. The battery 16 of the aerosol generation device 10 can supply the third power P3 to the heater 131. The third power P2 can be higher than the second power P2 and the first power P1.

[0184] Elapsed time T count is the second set time T S2 Less than the first set time T S1 If it is determined that this is the case, the aerosol generation device 10 can supply a second power P2 to the heater 131 to heat the heater 131 in operation S1240. The battery 16 of the aerosol generation device 10 can supply the second power P2 to the heater 131. The second power P2 can be lower than the third power P3 and higher than the first power P1.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 13, the aerosol generating device 10 count is the second set time T S2 If it is determined that the number of puffs is equal to or greater than the predetermined number of puffs, the third power P3 can be supplied to the heater 131 only for the predetermined number of puffs (first set number of puffs) (1303 in FIG. 13). count is the second set time T S2 Less than the first set time T S1 If it is determined that this is the case, the second power P2 can be supplied to the heater 131 only for the predetermined number of puffs (first set number) (1302 in FIG. 13).

[0186] The aerosol generation device 10 can sense the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on) that occur after the second puff via the puff sensor 151. The aerosol generation device 10 can sense the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on) that occur after the second puff via the puff sensor 151. count is the second set time T S2In the above cases, the heater 131 can be controlled to be supplied with the third power P3 from the second puff to the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on). The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the third power P3 to the heater 131 from the second puff to the (N1-1)th puff that occurs after the second puff, including the second puff.

[0187] The aerosol generating device 10 count is the second set time T S2 Less than the first set time T S1 In the above cases, the heater 131 can be controlled to supply the second power P2 from the second puff to the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on). The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the second power P2 to the heater 131 up to the (N1-1)th puff that occurs after the second puff, including the second puff.

[0188] The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the first power P1 to the heater 131 for at least one puff that occurs after the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on).

[0189] Also referring to FIG. 12, the elapsed time T count is less than the first set time TS1, the aerosol generation device 10 can heat the heater 131 with a first power P1 in operation S1260. The battery 16 of the aerosol generation device 10 can supply the first power P1 to the heater 131. The first power P1 can be lower than the second power P2 and the third power P3 (1301 in FIG. 13).

[0190] First set time T S1 may be a time that reflects the time that the cartridge 200 has been left unused for an extended period of time. For example, the first set time T S1 The second set time T may be 72 hours. S2 is the first set time T S1 For example, the first set time T S1 The first set time T S1and the second set time T S2 can be set based on experimental data, etc. However, the first set time T S1 and the second set time T S2 is not limited to this.

[0191] The aerosol generating device 10 can effectively suppress a decrease in the amount of aerosol generated by controlling the amount of power supplied to the heater 131 in proportion to the time the cartridge 200 is left unused.

[0192] Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. 15 is a diagram explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description of the contents of Fig. 14 that overlap with Fig. 8 and Fig. 12 will be omitted.

[0193] 14 and 15, the aerosol generating device 10 can sense puffs in operation S1410. The puff sensor 151 of the aerosol generating device 10 can sense the first puff and the second puff.

[0194] In operation S1420, when the aerosol generating device 10 detects the first puff and the second puff that occurs after the first puff via the puff sensor 151, the aerosol generating device 10 calculates the elapsed time T between the first puff and the second puff. count Count the elapsed time T count The first setting time T S1 can be compared to

[0195] Elapsed time T count is the first set time T S1 If it is determined that the elapsed time T count The second setting time T S2 Here, the second set time T S2 is the first set time T S1 It may be a longer time than that.

[0196] Elapsed time Tcount is the second set time T S2 If it is determined that this is the case, the aerosol generating device 10 can supply a second power P2 to the heater 131 in operation S1450 to heat the heater 131. The second power P2 can be higher than the first power P1.

[0197] The aerosol generation device 10 can supply the second power P2 to the heater 131 only for the second set number N2 of puffs (1502 in FIG. 15). The second set number N2 can be a number greater than the first set number N1.

[0198] The aerosol generation device 10 can detect the second set number of puffs N2 (and so on) that occur after the second puff via the puff sensor 151. The aerosol generation device 10 can detect the second set number of puffs N2 (and so on) that occur after the second puff via the puff sensor 151. count is the second set time T S2 In the above cases, the heater 131 can be controlled to be supplied with the second power P2 from the second puff to the second set number N2 of puffs (and so on). The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the second power P2 to the heater 131 from the second puff to the (N2-1)th puff that occurs after the second puff, including the second puff.

[0199] The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the first power P1 to the heater 131 for at least one puff that occurs after the second set number N2 of puffs (and so on).

[0200] Elapsed time T count is the second set time T S2 Less than the first set time T S1 If it is determined that this is the case, the aerosol generation device 10 can supply the second power P2 to the heater 131 to heat the heater 131 in operation S1440.

[0201] The aerosol generation device 10 can supply the second power P2 to the heater 131 only for the first set number N1 of puffs (1501 in FIG. 15). The first set number N1 can be smaller than the second set number N2.

[0202] The aerosol generation device 10 can sense the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on) that occur after the second puff via the puff sensor 151. The aerosol generation device 10 can sense the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on) that occur after the second puff via the puff sensor 151. count is the second set time T S2 Less than the first set time T S1 In the above cases, the heater 131 can be controlled to supply the second power P2 from the second puff to the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on). The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the second power P2 to the heater 131 up to the (N1-1)th puff that occurs after the second puff, including the second puff.

[0203] The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the first power P1 to the heater 131 for at least one puff that occurs after the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on).

[0204] Also referring to FIG. 14, the elapsed time T count is the first set time T S1 If it is determined that the power P1 is less than the predetermined power P1, the aerosol generation device 10 can heat the heater 131 with the first power P1 in operation S1460. The battery 16 of the aerosol generation device 10 can supply the first power P1 to the heater 131.

[0205] The first set number N1 and / or the second set number N2 may refer to the number of puffs from the second puff to the puff at which an average amount of aerosol atomization occurs even when the first power P1 is supplied to the heater 131. For example, the first set number N1 may be 5 puffs. For example, the second set number N2 may be 10 puffs. The first set number N1 and the second set number N2 may be set based on experimental data, etc. However, the first set number N1 and the second set number N2 are not limited thereto.

[0206] The aerosol generating device 10 can effectively suppress a decrease in the amount of aerosol generated by controlling the amount of power supplied to the heater 131 in proportion to the time the cartridge 200 is left unused.

[0207] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0208] 16 and 17, the aerosol generating device 10 can sense a puff in operation S1610. The aerosol generating device 10 detects a third puff p based on a signal 1702 output by the puff sensor 151. f can be sensed.

[0209] The aerosol generating device 10 can detect the insertion of the stick 400 in operation S1620. The aerosol generating device 10 can include an insertion portion 214 having a long space formed therein and a stick detection sensor 152 that outputs a signal corresponding to the stick 400 inserted into the insertion portion 214. The aerosol generating device 10 can detect the insertion of the stick 400 based on a signal 1701 output by the stick detection sensor 152.

[0210] Insert the stick 400 at the third puff point. f For example, the third puff p detected by the puff sensor 151 can be detected after the third puff p f Any puffs occurring between the insertion of the stick 400 and the third puff p may not be detected. f It can be detected within a few seconds after the occurrence of puff p, or it can be detected after several tens of hours. For example, the insertion of the stick 400 f This can be detected after the cartridge 200 has been left unused for an extended period of time.

[0211] In operation S1630, when the aerosol generating device 10 detects the third puff via the puff sensor 151 and detects the insertion of the stick 400 via the stick detecting sensor 152, the aerosol generating device 10 calculates a second elapsed time T from the third puff detecting time T0 to the stick 400 insertion detecting time T2. count2 The counted second elapsed time T count2 The third setting time T S3 can be compared to

[0212] The aerosol generating device 10 starts counting time from the time T0 when the third puff is detected, stops counting at the time T2 when the insertion of the stick 400 is detected, and then calculates the counted value as a second elapsed time T count2 The aerosol generating device 10 can calculate the second elapsed time by starting counting from the time when the puff is detected and stopping counting when the insertion of the stick 400 is detected. If the counting is started from the time when the puff is detected and another puff is detected before the insertion of the stick 400 is detected, the aerosol generating device 10 calculates the second elapsed time T count2 You may no longer be able to judge this.

[0213] Third setting time T S3 may be stored in advance in the memory 14 of the aerosol generating device 10. The aerosol generating device 10 count2 The third set time T S3 Compared with the second elapsed time T count2 is the third set time T S3 It can be determined whether the value is equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0214] Second elapsed time T count2 is the third set time T S3 If it is determined that this is the case, the aerosol generation device 10 can supply a second power P2 to the heater 131 in operation S1640 to heat the heater 131. The second power P2 can be higher than the first power P1.

[0215] By supplying the heater 131 with a second power P2 higher than the first power P1, the heater 131 heats the liquid transfer means to a high temperature, thereby effectively vaporizing the asol generating substance impregnated in the liquid transfer means of the cartridge 200 that has not been used for a long period of time.

[0216] The aerosol generating device 10 is configured to count2 is the third set time T S3 If it is determined that this is the case, the second power P2 can be supplied to the heater 131 only for the first set number N1 of puffs. The aerosol generation device 10 can perform control so that the second power P2 is supplied to the heater 131 up to the (N1-1)th puff that occurs after the second puff, including the second puff.

[0217] The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the first power P1 to the heater 131 for at least one puff that occurs after the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on).

[0218] Second elapsed time T count2 is the third set time T S3 If it is determined that the power is less than the predetermined power, the aerosol generation device 10 can heat the heater 131 with the first power P1 in operation S1650. The battery 16 of the aerosol generation device 10 can supply the first power P1 to the heater 131.

[0219] The aerosol generating device 10 can effectively suppress a decrease in the amount of aerosol generated by controlling the amount of power supplied to the heater 131 for preheating and heating the heater 131 in proportion to the time the cartridge 200 has been left unused.

[0220] Meanwhile, although not shown in the drawings, the aerosol generating device 10 can detect the removal of the stick 400 in operation S1610. The aerosol generating device 10 can detect the removal of the stick 400 based on the signal 1701 output by the stick detection sensor 152.

[0221] When the aerosol generating device 10 detects the removal and insertion of the stick 400 through the stick detection sensor 152 in operation S1630, the aerosol generating device 10 detects the removal and insertion of the stick 400 through the stick detection sensor 152 in operation S1630. count3 Count the third elapsed time T count3 The third setting time T S3 can be compared to

[0222] The aerosol generating device 10 starts counting time from the time T3 when the removal of the stick 400 is detected, stops counting at the time T2 when the insertion of the stick 400 is detected, and then records the counted value as a third elapsed time T count3 The aerosol generation device 10 can calculate the third elapsed time by starting counting from the time of removal each time the removal of the stick 400 is detected and stopping counting when the insertion of the stick 400 is detected.

[0223] Third elapsed time T count3 is the third set time T S3 If it is determined that this is the case, the aerosol generation device 10 can supply a second power P2 to the heater 131 in operation S1640 to heat the heater 131. The second power P2 can be higher than the first power P1.

[0224] By supplying the heater 131 with a second power P2 higher than the first power P1, the heater 131 can heat the liquid transfer means to a high temperature and effectively vaporize the asol generating substance impregnated in the liquid transfer means of the cartridge 200 that has not been used for a long period of time.

[0225] The aerosol generating device 10 continues for a third elapsed time T count3 is the third set time T S3If it is determined that the number of puffs is equal to or exceeds the first set number N1, the second power P2 can be supplied to the heater 131 only for the first set number N1 of puffs. The aerosol generation device 10 can control the heater 131 to supply the second power P2 up to N1 puffs that have occurred after the time T2 at which the insertion of the stick 400 is detected.

[0226] The aerosol generation device 10 can be controlled to supply the first power P1 to the heater 131 for at least one puff that occurs after the first set number N1 of puffs (and so on).

[0227] Third elapsed time T count3 is the third set time T S3 If it is determined that the power is less than the predetermined power, the aerosol generation device 10 can heat the heater 131 with the first power P1 in operation S1650. The battery 16 of the aerosol generation device 10 can supply the first power P1 to the heater 131.

[0228] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, when a cartridge storing an aerosol-generating material is used again after not being used for a long period of time, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the amount of aerosol generated due to leakage from the cartridge.

[0229] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the amount of power supplied to the heater can be controlled in proportion to the time the cartridge is left unused, thereby effectively suppressing the decrease in the amount of aerosol generated.

[0230] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the amount of power used to preheat the heater can be controlled in proportion to the time the cartridge is left unused, thereby effectively suppressing a decrease in the amount of aerosol generated.

[0231] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the amount of power supplied to the heater can be gradually varied to minimize any strange sensations that may be felt by the user.

[0232] 1 to 17, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a container 220 for storing an aerosol generating material, a heater 131 for heating the aerosol generating material, a puff sensor 151 for detecting puffs, and a control unit 17 for controlling the power supplied to the heater 131. When the control unit 17 detects a first puff and a second puff that occurs after the first puff via the puff sensor 151, it counts the elapsed time between the first puff and the second puff, compares the counted elapsed time with a first set time, and controls the heater 131 to supply a first power if the elapsed time is less than the first set time, and controls the heater 131 to supply a second power higher than the first power if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first set time.

[0233] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 can sense a first set number of puffs occurring after the second puff via the puff sensor 151, and if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first set time, control the heater 131 to supply a second power for the second puff to the first set number of puffs, and control the heater 131 to supply a first power for at least one puff occurring after the first set number of puffs.

[0234] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 may control the power supplied to the heater 131 to gradually decrease from the second power to the first power from the second puff to the first set number of puffs.

[0235] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the magnitude of the second power can be set to 110 to 160% of the magnitude of the first power.

[0236] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 can compare the elapsed time with a second set time that is greater than the first set time, and if the elapsed time is less than the first set time, control the heater 131 to supply the first power, if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first set time but less than the second set time, control the heater 131 to supply the second power, and if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the second set time, control the heater 131 to supply a third power that is higher than the second power.

[0237] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 compares the elapsed time with a second set time greater than the first set time, and if the elapsed time is less than the first set time, controls the heater 131 to supply the first power, if the elapsed time is greater than or equal to the first set time and less than the second set time, controls the heater 131 to supply the second power for a first set number of puffs that occur after the second puff, and if the elapsed time is greater than or equal to the second set time, controls the heater 131 to supply the second power for a second set number of puffs that occur after the second puff, wherein the second set number may be greater than the first set number.

[0238] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device may further include an insertion portion 214 having a long space formed therein and a stick detection sensor 152 that outputs a signal corresponding to the stick 400 inserted into the insertion portion 214. When the control unit 17 detects a third puff through the puff sensor 151 and detects the insertion of the stick 400 through the stick insertion sensor 152, the control unit 17 may count a second elapsed time from the time the third puff is detected to the time the insertion of the stick 400 is detected, compare the counted second elapsed time with a third set time, and if the second elapsed time is less than the third set time, control the heater 131 to supply a fourth power, and if the second elapsed time is equal to or greater than the third set time, control the heater 131 to supply a fifth power higher than the fourth power.

[0239] Meanwhile, an operating method of an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include an operation of detecting a first puff and a second puff occurring after the first puff via a puff sensor 151, an operation of counting the elapsed time between the first puff and the second puff, an operation of comparing the counted elapsed time with a first set time, an operation of controlling the heater 131 to supply a first power if the elapsed time is less than the first set time, and an operation of controlling the heater 131 to supply a second power higher than the first power if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first set time.

[0240] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the operation of controlling to supply the second power may include an operation of detecting a first set number of puffs occurring after the second puff via the puff sensor 151, an operation of controlling to supply the second power to the heater 131 for puffs from the second puff to the first set number of puffs if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first set time, and an operation of controlling to supply the first power to the heater 131 for at least one puff occurring after the first set number of puffs.

[0241] 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.

[0242] 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.

[0243] 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 container sized to contain the aerosol-generating material; a heater that heats the aerosol-generating material; a first sensor for detecting a puff; a control unit; The control unit Controlling the power supplied to the heater; When the first sensor detects a first puff and a second puff occurring after the first puff, the elapsed time between the first puff and the second puff is determined; Detecting a first number of puffs occurring after the second puff via the first sensor; comparing the elapsed time to a first time threshold; controlling a first power supply to the heater if the elapsed time is less than the first time threshold; if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first time threshold, controlling the power supplied to the heater to gradually decrease from a second power higher than the first power to the first power for the first number of puffs; An aerosol generating device that controls the heater to be supplied with the first power for at least one puff that occurs after the first number of puffs.

2. 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the magnitude of the second power is set to 110 to 160% of the magnitude of the first power.

3. an insertion portion that forms a long space; a stick detection sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the stick inserted into the insertion portion, The control unit further When detecting a third puff through the first sensor and detecting the insertion of the stick through the stick insertion sensor, a second elapsed time between detecting the third puff and detecting the insertion of the stick is confirmed; comparing the second elapsed time to a third time threshold; controlling the heater to receive the first power when the second elapsed time is less than the third time threshold; The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the second power is controlled to be supplied to the heater when the second elapsed time is equal to or greater than the third time threshold.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the first sensor is a puff sensor.

5. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the first time threshold is a first set time.

6. 1. A method of operating an aerosol generating device having a heater, comprising: If the sensor detects a first puff and a second puff occurring after the first puff, determining the elapsed time between the first puff and the second puff; sensing a first number of puffs occurring after the second puff via a first sensor; comparing the elapsed time to a first time threshold; controlling a first power supply to the heater if the elapsed time is less than the first time threshold; if the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first time threshold, controlling the power supplied to the heater to gradually decrease from a second power higher than the first power to the first power for the first number of puffs; and controlling the heater to supply the first power for at least one puff that occurs after the first number of puffs.

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