Aerosol Generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol generating device includes a housing having an insertion space, a heater for heating a stick inserted into the insertion space, a first sensor, a second sensor, a power supply circuit for adjusting the supply of power to the second sensor, and a control unit electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor, respectively. The first sensor can output a first signal corresponding to the state of the insertion space to the control unit, and a second signal corresponding to the insertion of the stick into the insertion space to the power supply circuit. When the state of the first sensor is a defective state, the control unit outputs a third signal corresponding to the defective state to the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit supplies the power to the second sensor based on the reception of at least one of the second signal and the third signal.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

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

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

[0004] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device that can instantly activate a specific sensor upon insertion of the stick.

[0005] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can appropriately change the configuration for controlling the supply of power to a specific sensor depending on the situation.

[0006] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can minimize the influence of an error occurring in any one of a plurality of sensors on the other sensors. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above-mentioned object, an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure can include a housing having an insertion space, a heater for heating a stick inserted into the insertion space, a first sensor, a second sensor, a power supply circuit for adjusting the supply of power to the second sensor, and a controller electrically connected to the first sensor and the second sensor, respectively. The first sensor can output a first signal corresponding to the state of the insertion space to the controller, and a second signal corresponding to the insertion of the stick into the insertion space to the power supply circuit. If the state of the first sensor is faulty, the controller can output a third signal corresponding to the faulty state to the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit can supply the power to the second sensor based on receiving at least one of the second signal and the third signal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, upon insertion of the stick, a specific sensor can be immediately activated.

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the configuration for controlling the supply of power to a specific sensor can be appropriately changed depending on the situation.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to minimize the influence of an error occurring in any one of a plurality of sensors on the other sensors.

[0011] 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. The above and other objects, features and characteristics of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 illustrates a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals will be used to designate the same or similar components even if they are shown in different drawings, and redundant description thereof will be omitted.

[0014] The suffixes "module" and "section" for components used in the following description are used solely for the convenience of explanation of the specification, and "module" and "section" do not have different meanings or roles from each other.

[0015] 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.

[0016] 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.

[0017] 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.

[0018] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] 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 .

[0021] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may be composed of only a main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 10 may be located in the main body. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may be composed of a cartridge that stores the aerosol generating material and the main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 10 may be located in at least one of the main body and the cartridge.

[0022] 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).

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] The aerosol-generating module 13 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. Here, the aerosol-generating material can be 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] The aerosol generating material may further include an aerosol forming agent such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0029] The aerosol generation module 13 can include at least one heater.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] On the other hand, the aerosol generation module 13 can also generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substance by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

[0035] The aerosol generating module 13 may be referred to as a cartomizer, an atomizer, a vaporizer, or the like.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] For example, the memory 14 may store the operating time of the aerosol generating device 10, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, the number of times the battery 16 has been charged, the number of times the battery 16 has been discharged, at least one temperature profile, data on the user's inhalation pattern, data on charging and discharging, etc. Here, a puff may refer to the user's inhalation, and inhalation may be a situation in which the user inhales through the mouth or nose into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs.

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

[0040] The sensor module 15 can include at least one sensor.

[0041] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor for detecting a puff (hereinafter referred to as a puff sensor). Here, the puff sensor may be implemented by a proximity sensor such as an IR sensor, a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, or the like.

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

[0043] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a temperature sensor) that detects the temperature of the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13, the temperature of the aerosol-generating material, etc. Here, the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13 may also function as a temperature sensor. For example, the electrically resistive material of the heater may be a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance. The sensor module 15 may sense the temperature of the heater by measuring the resistance of the heater, which changes depending on the temperature.

[0044] For example, if a stick can be inserted into the main body of the aerosol generation device 10, the sensor module 15 can include a sensor that detects the insertion of the stick (hereinafter referred to as a stick detection sensor).

[0045] For example, if the aerosol generation device 10 includes a cartridge, 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 relative to the main body.

[0046] Here, the stick detection sensor and / or cartridge detection sensor may be implemented by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance-type sensor, a resistance sensor, a hall sensor (hall IC) using the hall effect, or the like.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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 total capacity even after 2000 charge / discharge cycles.

[0050] The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a protection circuit module (PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 16. The protection circuit 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 protection circuit 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] The aerosol generation device 10 can also wirelessly receive power supplied from an external source via the communication interface 11. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can receive power wirelessly using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication, and can charge the battery 16 using the wirelessly supplied power.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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 central processing unit (CPU). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or a processor based on other hardware.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] The control unit 17 can determine whether a puff has occurred through the puff sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the control unit 17 can check changes in temperature, flow rate, pressure, voltage, etc. within the aerosol generating device 10 based on the sensing value of the puff sensor, and can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the confirmed results based on the sensing value of the puff sensor.

[0058] The control unit 17 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generating device 10 depending on whether or not a puff is performed and / or the number of puffs. For example, the control unit 17 can control the heater temperature to be changed or maintained based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 14.

[0059] The control unit 17 can control the power supply to the heater to be cut off under predetermined conditions, such as when the stick is removed and the cartridge 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.

[0060] The control unit 17 may calculate the remaining amount of power (hereinafter referred to as the remaining amount) stored in the battery 16. For example, the control unit 17 may calculate the remaining amount of the battery 16 based on the sensing values ​​of the voltage sensor and / or the current sensor included in the sensor module 15.

[0061] The control unit 17 can control the supply of power to the heater using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0062] 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.

[0063] For example, the control unit 17 can determine a target temperature based on the temperature profile. Here, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater using a PID method, which is a feedback control method using a difference between the heater temperature and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0064] Meanwhile, although the PWM method and the PID method have been described as examples of control methods for supplying power to the heater, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various control methods such as a Proportional-Integral (PI) method and a Proportional-Differential (PD) method can be used.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 2 to 4 are diagrams illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device 10 can include a body 100 and / or a cartridge 200 .

[0068] 2, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment can include a body 100 and a cartridge 200. The body 100 supports the cartridge 200, which can contain an aerosol generating material.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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 to the user's mouth through the cartridge 200.

[0071] 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.

[0072] The cartridge 200 may include a first heater 210 that heats the aerosol-generating substance and / or a reservoir 220 that stores 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 first heater 210 may be formed in a structure that wraps around the liquid transfer means. Here, the aerosol may be generated by heating the liquid transfer means by the first heater 210. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick made of cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0073] The cartridge 200 may include a mouthpiece 225. Here, the mouthpiece 225 may be a part that is inserted into the oral cavity of a user. The mouthpiece 225 may have an exhaust hole through which the aerosol is exhausted to the outside during a puff.

[0074] 3, 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] A user can inhale the aerosol while holding one end of the stick 20 in their mouth. The aerosol generated by the first 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] When the inserted stick 20 is removed, the control unit 17 can initialize the current number of puffs stored in the memory 14.

[0081] The cartridge 200 may include a second heater 215 that heats the stick 20. The second heater 215 may be disposed at a position within the cartridge 200 that corresponds to the position of the stick 20 when the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 230. The second heater 215 may be composed of an electric conductive heater and / or an induction heater. The second heater 215 may heat the inside and / or outside of the stick 20 using power supplied from the battery 16.

[0082] 4, an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 supporting a cartridge 200, and the cartridge 200 storing an aerosol-generating substance. The main body 100 may be configured so that the stick 20 can be inserted into an insertion space 130.

[0083] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a first heater 210 that heats the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and a second heater 115 that heats the stick 20 inserted into the main body 100. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may generate an aerosol by using the first heater 210 and the second heater 115 to heat the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and the stick 20, respectively.

[0084] 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 in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

[0085] Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130 formed in the housing 101 of the main body 100 will be described.

[0086] 5 and 6 are diagrams illustrating a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0087] 5, a cigarette 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. 4 can include the tobacco rod 21. The second portion described above with reference to FIG. 4 can include the filter rod 22.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). The sterilized paper (MFW) may be 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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 the channels may be passageways through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) may pass.

[0108] For example, the second segment of crimped polymer sheet may be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, such as between about 10 μm and about 250 μm, and the total surface area of ​​the second segment may be less than about 300 mm 2 / mm and approximately 1000mm 2 / mm. The aerosol cooling element may have a specific surface area of ​​about 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100mm 2 1 / mg of material.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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 prevents the tobacco rod 31 from detaching to the outside. The front-end plug 33 prevents aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generation device 10.

[0114] 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.

[0115] The diameter and overall length of the stick 30 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the stick 20 in Figure 5. 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] The fourth wrapper 354 may be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, the PLA laminated paper may be 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.

[0124] The fifth wrapper 355 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). The sterilized paper (MFW) may be 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 7 to 12 are diagrams illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 7, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a housing 101 having an insertion space 130 formed therein, a heater 110, a plurality of sensors 151, 153, 155, a battery 16, and / or a printed circuit board 700.

[0133] The insertion space 130 may be a space formed in the housing 101 that constitutes the exterior of the aerosol generating device 10. The insertion space 130 may have one end open to form an opening. The insertion space 130 may be exposed to the outside through the opening. The opening may be defined as one end of the insertion space 130.

[0134] The stick 20 may be inserted into the insertion space 130. The insertion space 130 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the stick 20. For example, if the cross section of the stick 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the insertion space 130 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. A portion of the stick 20 may be inserted into the insertion space 130. The remaining portion of the stick 20 excluding the portion inserted into the insertion space 130 may be exposed to the outside.

[0135] The heater 110 may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space 130. The heater 110 may heat the interior and / or exterior of the stick 20 using power supplied from the battery 16. The heater 110 may be composed of an electrically conductive heater and / or an induction heater.

[0136] The inductive sensor 151 may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor 151 may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space 130. For example, when a magnetic field changes around a coil through which a current flows, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the alternating current.

[0137] The induction sensor 151 can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil. For example, the induction sensor 151 can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil. For example, when the stick 20 including the first wrapper 241 made of a metallic material is inserted into the insertion space 230, the magnetic field around the coil can be changed by the first wrapper 241. Here, the inductance value of the coil can be changed in response to the change in the magnetic field caused by the first wrapper 241.

[0138] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include an electrode formed to surround at least a portion of the insertion space 130. The electrode may be made of a conductive material. For example, the electrode may be made of a metal material with high conductivity, such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), or aluminum (Al).

[0139] The signal level of the capacitance sensor may represent a value corresponding to the capacitance around the electrodes provided in the capacitance sensor. When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130, the capacitance around the electrodes provided in the capacitance sensor may change depending on the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130.

[0140] Meanwhile, the degree of change in the signal level of the capacitance sensor may correspond to the amount of moisture contained in the stick 20. For example, as the amount of moisture contained in the stick 20 increases, the degree of change in the signal level of the capacitance sensor 150 due to the insertion of the stick 20 into the insertion space 130 may increase.

[0141] The proximity sensor 153 can sense an object inserted into and placed nearby the insertion space 130. The proximity sensor 153 may be placed facing the insertion space 130. The proximity sensor 153 may be placed adjacent to the lower end of the insertion space 130.

[0142] The proximity sensor 153 may be an optical proximity sensor. In the following description, the proximity sensor 153 will be described as an optical proximity sensor. The proximity sensor 153 can emit light toward the insertion space 130. The proximity sensor 153 may include a light-emitting element that emits light toward the insertion space 130 and a light-receiving element that outputs a signal corresponding to the incident light.

[0143] The light emitting element can emit infrared light with a wavelength of 780 nm to 1 mm. The light emitting element can include a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a laser diode (LD), or the like as a light source. The proximity sensor 153 can include a first light collecting element that collects light generated by the light source toward the insertion space 130. Here, the first light collecting element can be composed of an imaging lens, a diffractive optical element (DOE), or the like.

[0144] The light receiving element may include a photodiode, a phototransistor, or the like that reacts to light. The proximity sensor 153 may include a second light collecting element that collects light emitted from a light source and reflected (hereinafter, referred to as reflected light). For example, the reflected light collected by the second light collecting element may be transmitted to the photodiode. Here, the second light collecting element may include a lens that receives reflected light incident from a predetermined direction.

[0145] The proximity sensor 153 may further include an optical filter that selectively transmits light in a specific wavelength range. For example, if the light source emits infrared light with a wavelength of 780 nm to 1 mm, the optical filter may be an infrared pass filter that selectively passes infrared light.

[0146] According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 10 may further include a color sensor that detects the color of an object. The color sensor may detect a value for an optical characteristic corresponding to the color of the object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical characteristic may be the wavelength of light. The color sensor may be embodied as an integral part of the proximity sensor 153, or may be embodied as a separate component separate from the proximity sensor 153. In the present disclosure, the color sensor may be embodied as an integral part of the proximity sensor 153, but is not limited thereto.

[0147] At least a portion of the wrapper 24 constituting the stick 20 may change color in response to the aerosol. The color sensor may be disposed in a position corresponding to where at least a portion of the wrapper 24, whose color changes in response to the aerosol, will be disposed when the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130. For example, before a user uses the stick 20, the color of at least a portion of the wrapper 24 may be a first color. Here, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device 10 passes through the stick 20, at least a portion of the wrapper 24 may become wet with the aerosol, causing the color of at least a portion of the wrapper 24 to change to a second color. Meanwhile, after changing from the first color to the second color, the color of at least a portion of the wrapper 24 may remain at the second color.

[0148] The puff sensor 155 can sense the flow of gas flowing into the housing 101. The puff sensor 155 can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor 155 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generation device 10. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generation device 10 can correspond to the pressure of an airflow passage through which the gas flows. In this embodiment, the puff sensor 155 is described as being embodied as a pressure sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generation device 10, but is not limited to this.

[0149] Each component included in the aerosol generation device 10 may be mounted on one side and / or the other side of the printed circuit board 700. The components mounted on the printed circuit board 700 may transmit or receive signals to each other via the wiring layer of the printed circuit board 700. The control unit 17 may be mounted on the printed circuit board 700. At least some of the components included in the power supply line implemented to transmit power to each component included in the aerosol generation device 10 may be mounted on the printed circuit board 700.

[0150] The printed circuit board 700 may be disposed adjacent to the battery 16. For example, the printed circuit board 700 may be disposed so that one surface faces the battery 16. The printed circuit board 700 may be electrically connected to the battery 16.

[0151] The heater 110 may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 700 via a first flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) 710. Power stored in the battery 16 may be supplied to the heater 110 via the printed circuit board 700 and the first flexible printed circuit board 710.

[0152] The sensors 151, 153, and 155 may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 700 via the corresponding flexible printed circuit boards 720, 730, and 740, respectively. The sensors 151, 153, and 155 may receive power via the corresponding flexible printed circuit boards 720, 730, and 740, respectively. Power lines corresponding to the sensors 151, 153, and 155 may be configured to be electrically isolated from each other. Signals output from the sensors 151, 153, and 155 may be transmitted to the controller 17 mounted on the printed circuit board 700 via the corresponding flexible printed circuit boards 720, 730, and 740, respectively. Signal lines implemented to transmit signals corresponding to the sensors 151, 153, and 155 may be configured to be electrically isolated from each other.

[0153] 8 and 9, the aerosol generation device 10 may include an upper body 810 and / or a lower body 820. The upper body 810 and / or the lower body 820 may form the outer shape of the aerosol generation device 10.

[0154] Hereinafter, the directions of the aerosol generation device 10 can be defined based on a Cartesian coordinate system. In the Cartesian coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generation device 10. Here, based on the origin, the direction toward +x can be the right direction, and the direction toward -x can be the left direction. The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-to-back direction of the aerosol generation device 10. Based on the origin, the direction toward +y can be the forward direction, and the direction toward -y can be the backward direction. The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-to-down direction of the aerosol generation device 10. Here, based on the origin, the direction toward +z can be the upward direction, and the direction toward -z can be the downward direction.

[0155] The upper body 810 may accommodate various components required for generating aerosol, such as the heater 110 and sensors 151, 153, and 155, inside. The upper body 810 may have an insertion opening 811. The insertion opening 811 may be formed by opening the upper side of the upper body 810. The insertion opening 811 may be formed at a position corresponding to the insertion space 130. The insertion opening 811 may be connected to one end or the upper end of the insertion space 130. The insertion space 130 may be formed in the upper body 810.

[0156] The upper body 810 may include a cover 813. The cover 813 may open and close the insertion space 130. The cover 813 may open and close an opening that exposes the insertion space 130 to the outside. The cover 813 may be disposed adjacent to the opening of the insertion space 130.

[0157] The cover 813 may be movably installed. The cover 813 may move to open and close the insertion space 130. For example, the cover 813 may slide rearward along the upper surface of the upper body 810 to open the insertion space 130. For example, the cover 813 may slide forward along the upper surface of the upper body 810 to close the insertion space 130. Meanwhile, the movement method of the cover 813 is not limited to a sliding movement method. For example, the cover 813 may open and close the insertion space 130 using a rotation method such as a tilt or hinge, as well as a non-rotation method such as a sliding movement.

[0158] The upper body 810 may be disposed above the lower body 820. The upper body 810 may be coupled to the lower body 820.

[0159] The lower body 820 can accommodate various components required for power supply and control, such as the battery 16, the control unit 17, and the printed circuit board 700. The lower body 820 can include a mount 821 that supports the upper body 810. The mount 821 can be configured to cover the upper side of the lower body 820.

[0160] According to one embodiment, a sealing member may be disposed inside the upper body 810. The sealing member may be made of an elastic material. For example, the sealing member may be made of a material such as rubber or silicone. The sealing member may be disposed between components disposed inside the upper body 810. The sealing member may prevent liquid material generated inside the upper body 810 during the aerosol generation process from leaking into gaps between components disposed inside the upper body 810.

[0161] The mount 821 may include a through-hole. At least one of the flexible printed circuit boards 710-740 may be disposed to pass through the through-hole. The flexible printed circuit boards 710-740 may be electrically isolated from one another. By electrically isolating the sensors 151, 153, and 155 from one another, the effect of an error occurring in one of the sensors 151, 153, and 155 on the operation of the other sensors may be minimized.

[0162] The plurality of flexible printed circuit boards 710-740 disposed through the through-holes may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 700 disposed inside the lower body 820. For example, the plurality of flexible printed circuit boards 710-740 may be coupled to a plurality of connectors mounted on the printed circuit board 700, respectively. For example, one end of the first flexible printed circuit board 710 may be electrically connected to the heater 110, and the other end of the first flexible printed circuit board 710 may be electrically connected to a first connector corresponding to the battery 16 among the components mounted on the printed circuit board 700. For example, one end of the second flexible printed circuit board 720 may be electrically connected to the induction sensor 150, and the other end of the second flexible printed circuit board 720 may be electrically connected to a second connector corresponding to the controller 17 among the components mounted on the printed circuit board 700.

[0163] 10 to 12, the aerosol generation device 10 may include a power supply circuit that supplies power to a predetermined component. In the present disclosure, a power supply circuit 1000 that adjusts the supply of power to the puff sensor 155 will be described as an example, but is not limited to this.

[0164] The power supply circuit 1000 can be electrically connected to the control unit 17. The power supply circuit 1000 can be electrically connected to the proximity sensor 153. The power supply circuit 1000 can be electrically connected to the puff sensor 155.

[0165] The power supply circuit 1000 may include a first node N1 electrically connected to the proximity sensor 153, a second node N2 electrically connected to the puff sensor 155, a third node N3 electrically connected to the control unit 17, and / or a fourth node N4 to which power is input.

[0166] The power supply circuit 1000 can adjust the supply of power to the puff sensor 155. The power supply circuit 1000 can adjust the supply of power to the puff sensor 155 based on signals received from the control unit 17 and / or the proximity sensor 153. For example, the power supply circuit 1000 can supply power to the puff sensor 155 when a predetermined signal corresponding to the insertion of the stick 20 is input from the proximity sensor 153. For example, the power supply circuit 1000 can supply power to the puff sensor 155 when a predetermined signal corresponding to the state of the proximity sensor 153 is input from the control unit 17.

[0167] The power supply circuit 1000 may include at least one switching element. The operation of the switching element may adjust the supply of power to the puff sensor 155. The switching element included in the power supply circuit 1000 may operate in response to a signal received from the control unit 17 and / or the proximity sensor 153.

[0168] The power supply circuit 1000 may include a first switching element S1 disposed between a third node N3 and a ground terminal GND, and a second switching element S2 disposed between a second node N2 and a fourth node N4.

[0169] The first switching element S1 may be operated by a signal output from the proximity sensor 153. The proximity sensor 153 may output a signal Sp corresponding to the insertion of an object (hereinafter referred to as an insertion signal) to the first node N1 based on the insertion of an object into the insertion space 130. For example, the state of the first node N1 corresponding to the input of the insertion signal Sp may be high, and the state of the first node N1 corresponding to the absence of the input of the insertion signal Sp may be low.

[0170] The first switching element S1 may be turned on by receiving an insert signal Sp via a first node N1. When the first switching element S1 is turned on, the third node N3 may be electrically connected to the ground terminal GND. For example, when the insert signal Sp is input via the first node N1, the state of the first node N1 changes from low to high, thereby turning on the first switching element S1.

[0171] The second switching element S2 may operate according to the state of the third node N3. For example, the second switching element S2 may be turned off when the third node N3 is in a high state, and may be turned on when the third node N3 is in a low state. When the second switching element S2 is turned on, power input via the fourth node N4 may be supplied to the puff sensor 155.

[0172] According to one embodiment, when an insert signal Sp is input through the first node N1, the first switching element S2 is turned on, and the third node N3 is electrically connected to the ground terminal GND. Here, when the third node N3 is electrically connected to the ground terminal GND, the state of the third node N3 may change from high to low.

[0173] The control unit 17 can determine the state of the proximity sensor 153. For example, a liquid substance generated within the upper body 810 can interfere with the operation of a light emitting element or a light receiving element included in the proximity sensor 153, or can cause a short circuit in the power line or signal line of the proximity sensor 153. Here, the control unit 17 can determine the state of the proximity sensor 153 based on a signal received from the proximity sensor 153.

[0174] According to an embodiment, the control unit 17 may determine the state of the proximity sensor 153 depending on whether a predetermined signal is received from the proximity sensor 153. For example, the control unit 17 may determine that the state of the proximity sensor 153 is bad when the control unit 17 does not receive a response signal from the proximity sensor 153 in response to a signal transmitted to the proximity sensor 153.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the control unit 17 may determine that the state of the proximity sensor 153 is in a faulty state when the signal received from the proximity sensor 153 and the signal received from the induction sensor 151 do not correspond to each other. For example, the control unit 17 may determine that the state of the proximity sensor 153 is in a faulty state when the induction sensor 151 detects the stick 20 but the proximity sensor 153 does not detect the stick 20. For example, the control unit 17 may determine that the state of the proximity sensor 153 is in a faulty state when the induction sensor 151 does not detect the stick 20 but the proximity sensor 153 detects the stick 20.

[0176] The control unit 17 can output a signal corresponding to the state of the proximity sensor 153 to the power supply circuit 1000. The signal corresponding to the state of the proximity sensor 153 output from the control unit 17 can be input to the power supply circuit 1000 via the third node N3. For example, when the state of the proximity sensor 153 is a faulty state, the control unit 17 can output a signal Sc corresponding to the faulty state (hereinafter referred to as a fault signal). For example, when the state of the proximity sensor 153 is a steady state, the control unit 17 can output a signal corresponding to the steady state (hereinafter referred to as a normal signal).

[0177] According to one embodiment, the fault signal Sc input via the third node N3 may be a signal corresponding to the ground terminal GND. For example, when a normal signal is input to the power supply circuit 1000 via the third node N3, the state of the third node N3 may be high. When the fault signal Sc is input to the power supply circuit 1000 via the third node N3, the state of the third node N3 may correspond to the ground terminal GND. Here, when the state of the third node N3 corresponds to the ground terminal GND, the state of the third node N3 may be changed from high to low.

[0178] Meanwhile, when the state of the proximity sensor 153 is in a faulty state, the control unit 17 can deactivate the function of the proximity sensor 153. For example, when the state of the proximity sensor 153 is in a faulty state, the control unit 17 can control the power supply circuit that supplies power to the proximity sensor 153 so as to cut off the supply of power to the proximity sensor 153.

[0179] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0180] 13, in operation S1301, the aerosol generating device 10 can be configured so that the proximity sensor 153 controls the supply of power to the puff sensor 155. According to one embodiment, with the proximity sensor 153 configured to control the supply of power to the puff sensor 155, the operation of each component provided in the aerosol generating device 10 can be started.

[0181] In operation S1302, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that the communication state between the control unit 17 and the proximity sensor 153 is good. For example, the control unit 17 of the aerosol generation device 10 can transmit a signal to the proximity sensor 153. Here, if a response signal in response to the signal transmitted from the control unit 17 to the proximity sensor 153 is not output from the proximity sensor 153, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that the state of the proximity sensor 153 is bad.

[0182] In operation S1303, if the communication state between the control unit 17 and the proximity sensor 153 is good, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine whether the proximity sensor 153 detects the stick 20. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine whether an object has been inserted into the insertion space 130 based on the time from when the light-emitting element irradiates light to when the light-receiving element reacts to the reflected light.

[0183] When no object is inserted into the insertion space 130, light irradiated toward the light-emitting insertion space 130 can be reflected by the inner wall forming the insertion space 130 and enter the light-receiving element. On the other hand, when an object is inserted into the insertion space 130, at least a portion of the light irradiated from the light-emitting element toward the insertion space 130 can be reflected by the object inserted into the insertion space 130 before being reflected by the inner wall forming the insertion space 130 and enter the light-receiving element. Therefore, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that a stick 20 has been inserted into the insertion space 130 if the time from when the light-emitting element irradiates light to when the light-receiving element reacts to the reflected light is less than a predetermined time.

[0184] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine whether a stick 20 has been inserted into the insertion space 130 based on the color of the object inserted into the insertion space 130, which is detected via a color sensor. For example, if the color of the object inserted into the insertion space 130 is a first color, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that a new stick has been inserted into the insertion space 130. For example, if the color of the object inserted into the insertion space 130 is a second color, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that a used stick has been inserted into the insertion space 130.

[0185] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine whether a stick 20 has been inserted into the insertion space 130 based on the capacitance around the insertion space 130 detected via a capacitance sensor. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that a stick 20 has been inserted into the insertion space 130 when the degree of change in the signal level of the capacitance sensor is equal to or greater than a predetermined minimum level. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 can determine that a used stick 20 has been inserted into the insertion space 130 when the degree of change in the signal level of the capacitance sensor is equal to or greater than a specific level that is greater than the minimum level.

[0186] In operation S1304, if the stick 20 is not detected by the proximity sensor 153, the aerosol generation device 10 may determine whether the induction sensor 151 detects the stick 20. For example, if the inductance value corresponding to the signal from the induction sensor 151 changes to a value equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the aerosol generation device 10 may determine that the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130. For example, if the inductance value corresponding to the signal from the induction sensor 151 exceeds a predetermined value, the aerosol generation device 10 may determine that the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130.

[0187] When the stick 20 is not detected by the induction sensor 151 and the proximity sensor 153, the aerosol generating device 10 can continuously monitor whether the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130 via the induction sensor 151 and the proximity sensor 153.

[0188] In operation S1305, when the stick 20 is detected by the proximity sensor 153, the aerosol generation device 10 can supply power to the puff sensor 155. For example, the power supply circuit 1000 can supply power to the puff sensor 155 in response to an insertion signal Sp output from the proximity sensor 153 in response to the insertion of the stick 20.

[0189] In operation S1306, the aerosol generating device 10 can determine whether the induction sensor 151 detects the stick 20.

[0190] In operation S1307, the aerosol generation device 10 may be configured so that the control unit 17 controls the supply of power to the puff sensor 155. The aerosol generation device 10 may be configured so that the control unit 17 controls the supply of power to the puff sensor 155 when the state of the proximity sensor 153 is poor. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 may be configured so that the control unit 17 controls the supply of power to the puff sensor 155 when the communication state between the control unit 17 and the proximity sensor 153 is poor. For example, the aerosol generation device 10 may be configured so that the control unit 17 controls the supply of power to the puff sensor 155 when the stick 20 is detected by either the induction sensor 151 or the proximity sensor 153.

[0191] Meanwhile, when the proximity sensor 153 is in a faulty state, the aerosol generation device 10 can deactivate the function of the proximity sensor 153. Here, when the function of the proximity sensor 153 is deactivated, the output of the insertion signal Sp can be interrupted.

[0192] When the control unit 17 is set to control the supply of power to the puff sensor 155 in operation S1308, the aerosol generating device 10 can monitor whether the induction sensor 151 detects the stick 20.

[0193] When the aerosol generation device 10 detects the stick 20 through the induction sensor 151 in operation S1309, it can supply power to the puff sensor 155. For example, when the control unit 17 of the aerosol generation device 10 detects the stick 20 through the induction sensor 151, it can output a fault signal Sc to the power supply circuit 1000. Here, the fault signal Sc output from the control unit 17 can cause the power supply circuit 1000 to supply power to the puff sensor 155.

[0194] The aerosol generation device 10 can supply power to the heater 110 in operation S1310. For example, when the aerosol generation device 10 detects the stick 20 through the induction sensor 151 and the proximity sensor 153, the aerosol generation device 10 can supply power to the heater 110. For example, when the aerosol generation device 10 detects the stick 20 through the induction sensor 151 in a state where the control unit 17 is set to control the supply of power to the puff sensor 155, the aerosol generation device 10 can supply power to the heater 110.

[0195] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generation device 10 may determine whether to supply power to the heater 110 based on the color of the stick 20 detected through the color sensor. For example, when the aerosol generation device 10 detects the stick 20 through the induction sensor 151 and the proximity sensor 153, the aerosol generation device 10 may check the color of the stick 20 detected through the color sensor. Here, if it is determined that the color of the stick 20 is a second color, the aerosol generation device 10 may cut off the supply of power to the heater 110.

[0196] As mentioned above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, upon insertion of the stick 20, certain sensors can be immediately activated.

[0197] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the configuration for controlling the supply of power to a specific sensor can be appropriately changed depending on the situation.

[0198] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to minimize the influence of an error occurring in any one of a plurality of sensors on the other sensors.

[0199] 1 to 13 , an aerosol generating device 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a housing 101 having an insertion space 130, a heater 110 for heating a stick inserted into the insertion space 130, a first sensor 153, a second sensor 155, a power supply circuit 1000 for adjusting the supply of power to the second sensor 155, and a control unit 17 electrically connected to the first sensor 153 and the second sensor 155. The first sensor 153 may output a first signal corresponding to the state of the insertion space 130 to the control unit 17, and a second signal corresponding to the insertion of the stick into the insertion space 130 to the power supply circuit 1000. When the state of the first sensor 153 is in a fault state, the control unit 17 may output a third signal corresponding to the fault state to the power supply circuit 1000. The power supply circuit 1000 may supply the power to the second sensor 155 based on receiving at least one of the second signal and the third signal.

[0200] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first sensor 153 may be an optical proximity sensor including a light-emitting element that emits light and a light-receiving element that detects light.

[0201] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the power supply circuit 1000 may include a first node N1 electrically connected to the first sensor 153, a second node N2 electrically connected to the second sensor 155, a third node N3 electrically connected to the control unit, a fourth node N4 to which the power supply is input, a first switching element S1 arranged between the third node N3 and a ground terminal GND, and a second switching element S2 arranged between the second node N2 and the fourth node N4.

[0202] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the second signal is input via the first node N1, the first switching element S1 may be turned on to electrically connect the third node N3 to the ground GND. When the third node N3 corresponds to the ground GND, the second switching element S2 may be turned on to electrically connect the first node N1 to the fourth node N4. The third node N3 may correspond to the ground GND by receiving the third signal via the third node N3.

[0203] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 can determine that the condition of the first sensor 153 is poor when the control unit 17 does not receive a response signal from the first sensor 153 in response to a signal transmitted to the first sensor 153.

[0204] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a third sensor 151 that outputs a fourth signal corresponding to a state of the insertion space 130. The control unit 17 may determine that the state of the first sensor 153 is a steady state when the first signal and the fourth signal correspond to each other, and may determine that the state of the first sensor 153 is a faulty state when the first signal and the fourth signal do not correspond to each other.

[0205] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 can control the heater 110 to supply power when the first sensor 153 is in a steady state and both the first signal and the fourth signal correspond to the insertion of the stick, and can control the heater 110 to supply power when the first sensor 153 is in a faulty state and the fourth signal corresponds to the insertion of the stick.

[0206] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the third sensor 151 may be an inductive sensor including a coil, and the fourth signal may correspond to a characteristic of a current flowing through the coil.

[0207] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second sensor 155 may be a puff sensor that detects the user's inhalation.

[0208] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the housing 101 may include an upper body 810 in which the heater 110, the first sensor 153, and the second sensor 155 are disposed, and a lower body 820 in which the control unit 17 and a battery 16 that supplies power are disposed. The first sensor 153 may be electrically connected to the control unit 17 via a first signal line. The second sensor 155 may be electrically connected to the control unit 17 via a second signal line electrically separated from the first signal line.

[0209] 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.

[0210] 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.

[0211] 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 housing having an insertion space; a heater for heating the stick inserted into the insertion space; A first sensor; A second sensor; a power supply circuit that controls the supply of power to the second sensor; a control unit electrically connected to each of the first sensor and the second sensor, The first sensor is outputting a first signal to the control unit in response to a state of the insertion space; outputting a second signal to the power supply circuit in response to insertion of the stick into the insertion space; the control unit determines whether the state of the first sensor is a defective state based on the first signal, and outputs a third signal to the power supply circuit when the first signal indicates a defective state; The aerosol generating device is characterized in that the power supply circuit supplies the power to the second sensor based on receiving at least one of the second signal and the third signal.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the first sensor is an optical proximity sensor including a light emitting element that emits light and a light receiving element that detects light.

3. The power supply circuit includes: a first node electrically connected to the first sensor; a second node electrically connected to the second sensor; a third node electrically connected to the control unit; a fourth node to which the power supply is input; a first switching element disposed between the third node and a ground terminal; 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: a second switching element disposed between the second node and the fourth node.

4. the first switching element electrically connects the third node and the ground terminal when the second signal is input via the first node; The aerosol generating device of claim 3, characterized in that the second switching element electrically connects the first node and the fourth node when the third signal is input through the third node and the third node corresponds to the ground terminal.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines that the first sensor is in a bad state when it does not receive a response signal from the first sensor in response to the signal transmitted to the first sensor.

6. a third sensor that outputs a fourth signal corresponding to a state of the insertion space; The control unit If the first signal and the fourth signal correspond to each other, it is determined that the state of the first sensor is a steady state; The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein if the first signal and the fourth signal do not correspond to each other, it is determined that the first sensor is in a faulty state.

7. The control unit If the state of the first sensor is steady state, supplying power to the heater when both the first signal and the fourth signal indicate insertion of the stick; The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein when the first sensor is in a faulty state, power is supplied to the heater when only the fourth signal indicates insertion of the stick.

8. the third sensor is an inductive sensor including a coil; The aerosol generating device according to claim 6 , wherein the fourth signal corresponds to a characteristic of a current flowing through the coil.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the second sensor is a puff sensor that detects inhalation by a user.

10. The housing includes: an upper body in which the heater, the first sensor, and the second sensor are disposed; a lower body in which the control unit and a battery for supplying the power are disposed, the first sensor is electrically connected to the control unit via a first signal line; The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the second sensor is electrically connected to the control unit via a second signal line electrically separated from the first signal line.

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