Aerosol generating device and method of operation thereof

Abstract

An aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof are disclosed. The aerosol generating device of the present disclosure includes a body, a first container including a wick and a heater, a second container for storing a liquid, an interface for receiving a user input, and a controller. The body and the first container are detachably coupled to each other. The first container and the second container are detachably coupled to each other. When the first container and the second container are separated while the body and the first container are coupled to each other, the controller determines whether a predetermined input is received within a predetermined time corresponding to a cleaning function, and controls the controller to supply power to the heater according to a temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function if the predetermined input is received within the predetermined time.

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 that can be independently switched between a liquid storage configuration and a wick-containing configuration.

[0005] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device that can remove impurities attached to the wick to extend the shelf life of the wick-containing device.

[0006] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device that can remove liquid absorbed in the wick, such as when changing the liquid storage configuration.

[0007] It is still another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device that can prevent the heater from being heated unintentionally by the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above-mentioned object, an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a body, a first container including a wick and a heater, a second container for storing a liquid, an interface for receiving a user input, and a controller. The body and the first container may be detachably coupled to each other. The first container and the second container may be detachably coupled to each other. When the first container and the second container are separated while the body and the first container are coupled, the controller may determine whether a predetermined input is received within a predetermined time corresponding to a cleaning function, and if the predetermined input is received within the predetermined time, control the controller to supply power to the heater according to a temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the liquid storage structure and the wick-containing structure can be interchanged independently of each other.

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, impurities attached to the wick can be removed to extend the shelf life of the wick-containing composition.

[0011] In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, liquid absorbed by the wick can be removed, such as when changing the liquid storage configuration.

[0012] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent the heater from being heated unintentionally by the user.

[0013] 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.

[0014] 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]

[0015] [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 an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9a] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9b] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11a] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11b] 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

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

[0017] 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.

[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 100 may include a communication interface 110, an input / output interface 120, an aerosol generating module 130, a memory 140, a sensor module 150, a battery 160, and / or a control unit 170.

[0024] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 may be composed of only a main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 100 may be located in the main body. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 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 100 may be located in at least one of the main body and the cartridge.

[0025] The communication interface 110 may include at least one communication module for communication with an external device and / or a network. For example, the communication interface 110 may include a communication module for wired communication such as a universal serial bus (USB). For example, the communication interface 110 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 120 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 120 can transmit data corresponding to commands input by a user via an input device to other components (etc.) of the aerosol generating device 100. The input / output interface 120 can output information corresponding to data received from other components (etc.) of the aerosol generating device 100 via an output device.

[0028] The aerosol-generating module 130 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, which can be any one or a combination of two or more substances in various states, such as a liquid, solid, or gel, 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 130 can include at least one heater.

[0033] The aerosol generation module 130 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 130 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-generating module 130 can also generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

[0038] The aerosol generation module 130 may be referred to as a cartomizer, atomizer, vaporizer, or the like.

[0039] The memory 140 can store programs for signal processing and control in the control unit 170, and can store data processed by the control unit 170 and data to be processed.

[0040] For example, the memory 140 may store application programs designed to perform various tasks that can be processed by the control unit 170, and may selectively provide some of the stored application programs upon request from the control unit 170.

[0041] For example, the memory 140 may store the operating time of the aerosol generating device 100, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, the number of times the battery 160 has been charged, the number of times the battery 160 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.

[0042] The memory 140 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.).

[0043] The sensor module 150 may include at least one sensor.

[0044] For example, the sensor module 150 may include a sensor for detecting puffs (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.

[0045] For example, the sensor module 150 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.

[0046] For example, the sensor module 150 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a temperature sensor) that detects the temperature of the heater included in the aerosol generation module 130, the temperature of the aerosol-generating material, etc. Here, the heater included in the aerosol generation module 130 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 150 may sense the temperature of the heater by measuring the resistance of the heater, which changes depending on the temperature.

[0047] For example, if a stick can be inserted into the main body of the aerosol generating device 100, the sensor module 150 may include a sensor that detects the insertion of the stick (hereinafter referred to as a stick detection sensor).

[0048] For example, if the aerosol generating device 100 includes a cartridge, the sensor module 150 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] For example, the sensor module 150 may include a voltage sensor that detects the voltage applied to a component (e.g., a battery 160) provided in the aerosol generating device 100 and / or a current sensor that detects the current.

[0051] The battery 160 may supply power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 100 under the control of the control unit 170. The battery 160 may supply power to other components included in the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the battery 160 may supply power to a communication module included in the communication interface 110, an output device included in the input / output interface 120, a heater included in the aerosol generating module 130, etc.

[0052] The battery 160 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 160 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium-ion battery or a lithium polymer (Li-Polymer) battery. For example, if the battery 160 is rechargeable, the charge rate (C-rate) of the battery 160 may be, but is not limited to, 10C and the discharge rate (C-rate) of the battery 160 may be, but is not limited to, 10C to 20C. For stable use, the battery 160 may be manufactured to maintain 80% or more of its total capacity even after 2000 charge / discharge cycles.

[0053] The aerosol generating device 100 may further include a protection circuit module (PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 160. The protection circuit module (PCM) may be disposed adjacent to the upper surface of the battery 160. For example, to prevent overcharging and over-discharging of the battery 160, the protection circuit module (PCM) may cut off the electrical path to the battery 160 when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery 160, when an overvoltage is applied to the battery 160, when an overcurrent flows through the battery 160, etc.

[0054] The aerosol generating device 100 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 100, and the aerosol generating device 100 may charge the battery 160 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.

[0055] The aerosol generating device 100 can also wirelessly receive power supplied from an external source via the communication interface 110. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 can receive power wirelessly using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication, and can charge the battery 160 using the wirelessly supplied power.

[0056] The control unit 170 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 100. The control unit 170 is connected to each component provided in the aerosol generating device 100, and can transmit and / or receive signals between each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0057] The control unit 170 may include at least one processor and may use the processor to control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 100. 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.

[0058] The control unit 170 can perform any one of a plurality of functions of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the control unit 170 can execute any one of a plurality of functions of the aerosol generating device 100 (e.g., a preheating function, a heating function, a charging function, a cleaning function, etc.) depending on the state of each component provided in the aerosol generating device 100, a user command received via the input / output interface 120, etc.

[0059] The control unit 170 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generating device 100 based on the data stored in the memory 140. For example, the control unit 170 can control the battery 160 to supply a predetermined amount of power to the aerosol generating module 130 for a predetermined period of time based on data about the temperature profile, the user's inhalation pattern, etc. stored in the memory 140.

[0060] The control unit 170 can determine whether a puff has occurred through the puff sensor included in the sensor module 150. For example, the control unit 170 can check a temperature change, a flow rate change, a pressure change, a voltage change, etc. in the aerosol generating device 100 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.

[0061] The control unit 170 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generating device 100 depending on whether or not a puff is performed and / or the number of puffs. For example, the control unit 170 can control the heater temperature to be changed or maintained based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 140.

[0062] The control unit 170 may 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 160 is less than a predetermined value.

[0063] The control unit 170 may calculate the remaining amount of power (hereinafter referred to as the remaining amount) stored in the battery 160. For example, the control unit 170 may calculate the remaining amount of the battery 160 based on the sensing values ​​of a voltage sensor and / or a current sensor included in the sensor module 150.

[0064] The control unit 170 may 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.

[0065] For example, the control unit 170 may control the heater to receive a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio using a PWM method. Here, the control unit 170 may control the power supplied to the heater by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0066] For example, the control unit 170 may determine a target temperature as a control target based on the temperature profile. Here, the control unit 170 may control the power supplied to the heater using a PID method, which is a feedback control method based on 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] Meanwhile, the control unit 170 may control the heater to supply power under preset conditions. For example, when a cleaning function for cleaning the heater is selected according to a command input by the user via the input / output interface 120, the control unit 170 may control the heater to supply a predetermined amount of power.

[0069] 2, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a body 10 and cartridges 20 and 30. The cartridges 20 and 30 may include a first container 20 and a second container 30. The cartridges 20 and 30 may be coupled to the body 10.

[0070] The body 10 can accommodate a power source 11 (e.g., battery 160 in FIG. 1) and a control unit 12 (e.g., control unit 170 in FIG. 1). The power source 11 can provide the power necessary for the configuration to operate. The power source 11 can be referred to as a battery 11. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the configuration.

[0071] The first container 20 may include a first chamber C1 therein. The first container 20 may include a wick 25. The wick 25 may be disposed in the first chamber C1. An upper end of the wick 25 may protrude from the first chamber C1 to the upper side of the first container 20.

[0072] The first container 20 may include a heater 2531. The heater 2531 may be disposed in the first chamber C1. The heater 2531 may heat the wick 25. The heater 2531 may be attached to the wick 25. The first container 20 may include a terminal 223 therein. The terminal 223 may be exposed to the underside of the first container 20. The terminal 223 may be electrically connected to the heater 2531. The first container 20 may be referred to as a lower container 20 or a heating module 20.

[0073] The first container 20 may include a first air inlet 241 formed by opening the first chamber C1. The first container 20 may include a first air outlet 242 formed by opening the first chamber C1.

[0074] The second container 30 may include a second chamber C2 therein. The second container 30 may store a liquid in the second chamber C2. The second container 30 may include an airflow discharge channel 340. Both ends 341 and 342 of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be open. The airflow discharge channel 340 may be separated from the second chamber C2. The second container 30 may be referred to as an upper container 30 or a liquid storage portion 30.

[0075] The mouthpiece 35 may be coupled to the upper side of the second container 30. The mouthpiece 35 may cover the top of the second container 30. The mouthpiece 35 may have a second airflow outlet 354 therein. The second airflow outlet 354 may be in communication with the other end 342 of the airflow exhaust passage 340.

[0076] The first container 20 may be coupled to the body 10. The first container 20 may be inserted into the body 10. When the first container 20 is coupled to the body, the heater 2531 may be electrically connected to the power source 11 via the terminal 223. The heater 2531 may receive power from the power source 11 and generate heat. The heater 2531 may be a resistive heater.

[0077] The second container 30 may be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20. The coupling of the second container 30 to the first container 20 may include the second container 30 being directly coupled to the first container 20, or the second container 30 being indirectly coupled to the first container 20 by being coupled to the body 10.

[0078] When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, the second container 30 can supply the stored liquid to the wick 25. The wick 25 can absorb the liquid supplied from the second container 30. The heater 2531 can heat the wick that has absorbed the liquid to generate an aerosol in the first chamber C1.

[0079] The body 10 may have an opening on one side to form a second airflow inlet 141. When the first container 20 is coupled to the body 10, the first airflow inlet 241 may be connected to the second airflow inlet 141. When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, one end 341 of the airflow discharge passage 340 may be connected to the first airflow outlet 242. This may form a passage through which air flows. A user may inhale air by holding the mouthpiece 35 in their mouth. When the user inhales, external air may be provided to the user by sequentially passing through the second airflow inlet 141, the first airflow inlet 241, the first chamber C1, the first airflow outlet 242, the airflow discharge passage 340, and the second airflow outlet 354. The air may flow together with the aerosol generated in the first chamber C1.

[0080] The puff sensor 461 can output a signal corresponding to a puff. For example, the puff sensor 461 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generation device 100. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generation device 100 can correspond to the pressure of an airflow passage through which gas flows. The puff sensor 461 can be disposed in a position corresponding to the airflow passage through which air flows in the aerosol generation device 100. For example, the puff sensor 461 can be disposed inside the body 10 adjacent to the first airflow inlet 241.

[0081] The first container 20 and the second container 30 can be replaced independently. For example, the consumption cycle of the liquid stored in the second container 30 and the appropriate replacement cycle of the first container 20 may be different. A user can replace only the second container 30 separately, or only the first container 20 separately. For example, the consumption cycle of the liquid stored in the second container 30 may be shorter than the appropriate replacement cycle of the first container 20, and while the second container 30 is replaced multiple times, the first container 20 can be replaced only once. This allows the first container 20 to be used for a longer period of time, and reduces cartridge replacement costs.

[0082] 3 to 5, the first container 20 may be detachably coupled to the body 10. The first coupler 151 may detachably couple the first container 20 and the body 10 to each other. For example, the first coupler 151 may include a hook groove 225 and a hook 125 detachably fastened to the hook groove 225. The hook 125 may be made of a material such as rubber or silicone to seal the gap between the body and the first container 20 around the second air inlet 141. As another example, the first coupler 151 may couple the first container 20 to the body 10 by magnetic force.

[0083] The second container 30 may be detachably coupled to the first container 20. The second container 30 may be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20. The second container 30 may be coupled to the body 10 and indirectly coupled to the first container 20. The second coupler 152 may detachably couple the second container 30 and the body 10 to each other. For example, the second coupler 152 may include a hook groove 325 and a hook 135 detachably fastened to the hook groove 325. As another example, the second coupler 152 may couple the second container 30 and the body 10 by magnetic force.

[0084] The first container 20 may be detachably coupled to the body 10. A first coupler 151 may detachably couple the first container 20 and the body 10 to each other. The second container 30 may be detachably coupled to the first container 20. The second container 30 may be indirectly coupled to the first container 20 by being coupled to the body 10 via a second coupler 152. The second container 30 may be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20.

[0085] When the second container 30 is combined with the first container 20, the second container 30 can supply liquid to the wick 25. The liquid stored in the second chamber C2 can pass through the liquid outlet 314 and be absorbed into the absorption section 316. The absorption section 316 that has absorbed the liquid can contact the second wick part 252 and transfer the liquid. The liquid absorbed into the second wick part 252 can diffuse into the first wick part 251. The heater 3531 can heat the first wick part 251 that has absorbed the liquid to generate an aerosol.

[0086] According to one embodiment, a film may be detachably attached to the absorbent part 316. The film may be attached to the lower part of the absorbent part 316. The edge of the film may be attached to the lower surface of the bracket 317. The film may be made of a waterproof material. The film may prevent liquid from leaking from the absorbent part 316. Before combining the second container 30 with the first container 20, the user may remove the film from the absorbent part 316.

[0087] The sealer 26 may seal the periphery of the liquid inlet 235 through which the wick 25 is exposed from the first chamber C1. When the second container 30 is attached to the upper side of the first container 20, the sealer 26 may seal between the first container 20 and the second container 30. The sealing walls 266 and 267 may protrude toward the second container 30. The sealing walls 266 and 267 may be in close contact with the second container 30. The sealing walls 266 and 267 may surround the periphery of the liquid inlet 235. This may prevent liquid discharged from the second container 30 from leaking into the gap between the first container 20 and the second container 30.

[0088] The sealer 26 may include an air flow sealing portion 268. The air flow sealing portion 268 may surround the periphery of the first air flow outlet 242. The second sealing wall 267 may protrude higher than the air flow sealing portion 268. The air flow sealing portion 268 may be formed outside the sealing walls 266 and 267.

[0089] The cartridge detection sensor 471 may be installed inside the body 10. The cartridge detection sensor 471 may sense whether the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20. The control unit 12 may control the operation of various components based on the sensing of the cartridge detection sensor 471. For example, the cartridge detection sensor 471 may be a contact sensor. The cartridge detection sensor 471 may sense whether the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20 through physical contact. When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, physical contact may occur at the cartridge detection sensor 471. The cartridge detection sensor 471 may detect the physical contact that occurs at the cartridge detection sensor 471. For example, physical contact may occur when the cartridge detection sensor 471 comes into direct contact with the second container 30. For example, physical contact may occur via an intermediary component between the cartridge detection sensor 471 and the second container 30.

[0090] The pusher 40 may be disposed between the cartridge detection sensor 471 and the second container 30. The pusher 40 may be inserted into the pusher movement path 44. The pusher 40 may include a first pusher part 41 and a second pusher part 42. The first pusher part 41 and the second pusher part 42 may be coupled to each other one above the other. The pusher 40 may extend longitudinally between the cartridge detection sensor 471 and the second container 30. The pusher 40 may move between the cartridge detection sensor 471 and the second container 30. One end of the pusher 40 may be disposed adjacent to the second container 30. One end of the pusher 40 may be exposed toward the second container 30 through one end of the pusher movement path 44. The other end of the pusher 40 may be disposed adjacent to the cartridge detection sensor 471. The other end of the pusher 40 may be exposed toward the cartridge detection sensor 471 through the other end of the pusher movement path 44.

[0091] For example, the pusher 40 and the pusher moving path 44 may have a shape that extends vertically. The pusher 40 can move up and down. When the second container 30 is coupled to the upper side of the first container 20, the lower portion 312 of the second container 30 contacts the upper end of the pusher 40 and pushes the pusher 40 downward, so that the lower end of the pusher 40 can contact the cartridge detection sensor 471.

[0092] The cartridge detection sensor 471 can transmit a detection signal corresponding to the physical contact to the control unit 12. The control unit 12 can determine whether the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20 based on the detection signal received from the cartridge detection sensor 471.

[0093] As a result, the cartridge detection sensor 471 can detect whether the second container 30 is connected to the first container 20 without requiring an additional terminal configuration for electrical connection. This simplifies the configuration of the second container 30 for sensing, reducing manufacturing costs. Furthermore, when determining whether the second container 30 is connected using a physical contact method, the influence of external noise is reduced, improving sensing accuracy.

[0094] The actuator 472 may transmit physical contact to the cartridge detection sensor 471 by being pushed by the pusher 40. The actuator 472 may be formed integrally with the cartridge detection sensor 471. The actuator 472 may protrude elongatedly from the cartridge detection sensor 471 toward the pusher 40. The actuator 472 may provide a repulsive force to the pusher 40 in a direction away from the cartridge detection sensor 471. The actuator 472 may provide a repulsive force to the pusher 40 from one end of the pusher movement path 44 to the other end. For example, the actuator 472 may provide a repulsive force that pushes the pusher 40 upward.

[0095] When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, the pusher 40 can push the actuator 472 toward the cartridge detection sensor 471. When the pusher 40 pushes the actuator 472 toward the cartridge detection sensor 471, the cartridge detection sensor 471 can detect physical contact. When the second container 30 is separated from the first container 20, the pusher 40 can move in a direction away from the cartridge detection sensor 471 due to the repulsive force of the actuator 472. Here, the pusher 40 can return to the position it was in before the second container 30 was coupled to the first container 20.

[0096] A sealing membrane 48 may be formed between the cartridge detection sensor 471 and the pusher movement path 44. The sealing membrane 48 may be formed between the actuator 472 and the pusher movement path 44. The sealing membrane 48 is made of an elastic material and is capable of deforming. For example, the sealing membrane may be made of rubber or silicone.

[0097] When the actuator 472 pushes out the sealing membrane 48, the sealing membrane 48 may have a shape that bulges toward the pusher 40. When the pusher 40 presses the cartridge detection sensor 471, the curvature of the sealing membrane 48 may decrease or the sealing membrane 48 may deform so as to bulge toward the cartridge detection sensor 471. As a result, the sealing membrane 48 can prevent foreign matter such as liquid from leaking around the cartridge detection sensor 471 through the pusher moving path 44.

[0098] Although the present disclosure describes cartridge detection sensor 471 as a contact sensor, this is not limiting. According to one embodiment, cartridge detection sensor 471 may be a non-contact sensor. For example, cartridge detection sensor 471 may be one of a magnetic proximity sensor, an optical proximity sensor, an ultrasonic proximity sensor, an inductive proximity sensor, a capacitive proximity sensor, and an eddy current proximity sensor.

[0099] According to an embodiment, whether the first container 20 is coupled to the body 10 can be detected by a separate sensor or by an electrical connection between the second terminal 223 and the power source 11 .

[0100] 6, the wick 25 can be formed of a porous rigid material that absorbs liquid. For example, the wick 25 can be formed of a porous ceramic. The wick 25 can be more rigid and heat-resistant than a cotton wick.

[0101] Therefore, the core 25 can be embodied in various shapes without or with little deformation. Furthermore, the durability of the core 25 is improved, and the replacement cycle of the first container 20 including the core 25 can be extended.

[0102] The first core part 251 may extend long in the horizontal direction. The first core part 251 may have a hexahedral shape. The second core part 252 may protrude above the first core part 251. The second core part 252 may extend long in the horizontal direction. The second core part 252 may have a hexahedral shape.

[0103] The first core part 251 may be larger than the second core part 252. The circumference corresponding to the side surface 2512 of the first core part 251 may be larger than the circumference corresponding to the side surface 2522 of the second core part 252.

[0104] The heater 2531 may be attached to the first wick part 251. The heater 2531 may form a pattern on the lower surface 2513 of the first wick part 251. The heater 2531 may form various patterns along the longitudinal direction of the first wick part 251. Both ends of the heater 2531 may be disposed adjacent to both ends of the first wick part 251.

[0105] A pair of first terminals 2533 may be formed on both ends of the heater 2531. The first terminals 2533 may be coupled to the lower surface of the first wick part 251. The pair of first terminals 2533 may be disposed adjacent to both ends of the first wick part 251. The first terminals 2533 may protrude below the first wick part 251.

[0106] The first terminal 2533 is in contact with the second terminal 223, and can electrically connect the heater 2531 and the second terminal 223. The second terminal 223 can support the first terminal 2533 and the lower surface 2513 of the first core part 251.

[0107] 8 to 10 are flowcharts showing a method of operating the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] 8, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the first container 20 is coupled to the body 10 in operation S710. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled based on whether the power source 11 included in the body 10 and the second terminal 223 included in the first container 20 are electrically connected to each other.

[0109] The aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the first container 20 and the second container 30 are coupled together in operation S720.

[0110] 8, when the first container 20 and the second container 30 are combined while the body 10 and the first container 20 are combined, the cartridge detection sensor 471 may output a detection signal corresponding to physical contact. Here, when the first container 20 and the second container 30 are combined, the body 10 and the second container 30 may also be combined.

[0111] Meanwhile, when the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated while the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled together, the output of the detection signal corresponding to the physical contact from the cartridge detection sensor 471 may be stopped. Here, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine that the first container 20 and the second container 30 have been separated from each other when the detection signal corresponding to the physical contact is not output from the cartridge detection sensor 471.

[0112] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 100 may deactivate the operation of at least one component provided in the body 10, etc., when the first container 20 and / or the second container 30 are not coupled to the body 10. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may cut off the supply of power to the heater 2531, the puff sensor 461, etc., when at least one of the first container 20 and the second container 30 is not coupled to the body 10. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may cut off the supply of power to the cartridge detecting sensor 471 when the body 10 and the first container 20 are not coupled to each other.

[0113] In operation S730, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether a predetermined input is received within a predetermined time when the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated from each other while the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled together. Here, the predetermined time may be a time limit previously set corresponding to the cleaning function. Here, the predetermined input may correspond to a user input previously set to execute the cleaning function.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generation device 100 can determine whether a predetermined input has been received based on an input received via the input / output interface 120. For example, the aerosol generation device 100 can determine that a predetermined input has been received when it receives an input of pressing a physical button a predetermined number of times. For example, the aerosol generation device 100 can determine that a predetermined input has been received when it receives a tap input of hitting the aerosol generation device 100 a predetermined number of times based on signals from an acceleration sensor and / or a gyro sensor.

[0115] In operation S740, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is satisfied when a predetermined input is received within a predetermined time. Here, the predetermined condition may correspond to the extent to which the first container 20 has been used. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the cumulative number of puffs related to the cleaning function is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (e.g., 1,000 times). When the cleaning function is executed, the aerosol generating device 100 may initialize the cumulative number of puffs related to the cleaning function. Meanwhile, the predetermined number may be determined based on the number of times the cleaning function has been executed. For example, the predetermined number may decrease as the number of times the cleaning function has been executed increases.

[0116] The aerosol generating device 100 may perform a cleaning operation if a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is satisfied in operation S750. Here, the cleaning operation may refer to an operation of removing impurities generated by the generation of aerosol and accumulated on the wick 25. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may supply power to the heater 2531 according to a temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function. Here, the maximum target temperature for the heater 2531 determined by the temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function (e.g., 300°C) may exceed the maximum target temperature for aerosol generation (e.g., 220°C).

[0117] If the aerosol generating device 100 does not receive a predetermined input within a predetermined time after the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated from each other, the aerosol generating device 100 can cut off the supply of power to the heater 2531. Therefore, even if the aerosol generating device 100 receives a predetermined input for performing a cleaning function due to, for example, an unintended impact on the aerosol generating device 100 by a user, the heater 2531 can be prevented from heating.

[0118] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the second container 30 has been coupled in operation S760. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine that the first container 20 and the second container 30 have been coupled when a detection signal corresponding to physical contact is output from the cartridge detection sensor 471. Here, when the first container 20 and the second container 30 are coupled, the body 10 and the second container 30 may also be coupled.

[0119] The aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the body 10 and the first container 20 are separated from each other in a state in which the second container 30 is separated in operation S770. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine that the body 10 and the first container 20 are separated from each other if the power source 11 included in the body 10 and the second terminal 223 included in the first container 20 are electrically disconnected.

[0120] The aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the cleaning operation is complete when the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled and the first container 20 and the second container 30 remain separated from each other in operation S780. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine that the cleaning operation is complete when a predetermined time has elapsed since the cleaning operation started. The aerosol generating device 100 may supply power to the heater 2531 according to a temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function until the cleaning operation is completed.

[0121] 9a and 9b are flowcharts illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed descriptions of the same content as those described in FIGS. 7 and 8 will be omitted.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 9a, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled together in operation S901.

[0123] In operation S902, the aerosol generating device 100 can determine whether the first container 20 and the second container 30 are coupled together.

[0124] In operation S903, the aerosol generating device 100 can determine whether a predetermined input is received within a predetermined time when the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated from each other while the body 10 and the first container 20 are connected.

[0125] In operation S904, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is satisfied when a predetermined input is received within a predetermined time.

[0126] If a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is satisfied, the aerosol generating device 100 may perform the cleaning operation in operation S905. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may supply power to the heater 2531 according to a first temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function.

[0127] In operation S906, the aerosol generating device 100 can determine whether the second container 30 is coupled.

[0128] In operation S907, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the body 10 and the first container 20 are separated from each other in a state in which the second container 30 is separated.

[0129] In operation S908, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the cleaning operation is complete when the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled and the first container 20 and the second container 30 remain separated from each other. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine that the cleaning operation is complete when a predetermined first time has elapsed since the cleaning operation started. The aerosol generating device 100 may supply power to the heater 2531 according to a first temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function until the cleaning operation is completed.

[0130] 9b, if a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is not satisfied in operation S909, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the liquid has been consumed before the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine that the liquid stored in the second chamber C2 has been consumed if the temperature of the heater 2531 is equal to or higher than a limit temperature while heating the heater 2531 to generate aerosol.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 may store a history of when it is determined that the liquid has been consumed in the memory 140. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may store a history of when it is determined that the liquid has been consumed in the memory 140 if the temperature of the heater 2531 is equal to or higher than a threshold temperature while the heater 2531 is being heated to generate the aerosol. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine, based on the history stored in the memory 140, whether the liquid has been consumed immediately before the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated.

[0132] In operation S910, the aerosol generation device 100 may perform an operation of removing residual liquid absorbed in the wick 25 (hereinafter referred to as a residual liquid removal operation) if the liquid is not consumed before the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated. For example, the aerosol generation device 100 may supply power to the heater 2531 according to a second temperature profile different from the first temperature profile. Here, the maximum target temperature for the heater 2531 determined by the second temperature profile (e.g., 220°C) may be less than the maximum target temperature for the heater 2531 determined by the first temperature profile (e.g., 300°C). On the other hand, the maximum target temperature for the heater 2531 determined by the second temperature profile may be different from the maximum target temperature for aerosol generation.

[0133] In operation S911, the aerosol generating device 100 can determine whether the second container 30 is coupled.

[0134] The aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the body 10 and the first container 20 are separated from each other in a state in which the second container 30 is separated in operation S912.

[0135] In operation S913, the aerosol generating apparatus 100 may determine whether the residual liquid removing operation is complete if the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled and the first container 20 and the second container 30 remain separated from each other. For example, the aerosol generating apparatus 100 may determine that the residual liquid removing operation is complete if a predetermined second time has elapsed since the residual liquid removing operation started.

[0136] The aerosol generating device 100 can supply power to the heater 2531 according to the second temperature profile until the residual liquid removal operation is completed.

[0137] According to an embodiment, the first time corresponding to the cleaning operation and the second time corresponding to the residual liquid removal operation may be different from each other. Referring to FIG. 10 , the aerosol generating device 100 may heat the heater 2531 to a first temperature T1 based on a first temperature profile 1010 from the start of the cleaning operation until a time t1 at which a first time has elapsed. Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 100 may heat the heater 2531 to a second temperature T2 based on a second temperature profile 1020 from the start of the residual liquid removal operation until a time t2 at which a second time has elapsed. That is, when the cleaning operation is performed, the heater 2531 may be heated to a relatively higher temperature for a relatively longer time than when the residual liquid removal operation is performed. Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, the cleaning operation is described as being performed for a longer time than the residual liquid removal operation, but is not limited thereto.

[0138] 11a and 11b are flowcharts showing a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description of content that overlaps with the content described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10 will be omitted.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 11a, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled together in operation S1101.

[0140] In operation S1102, the aerosol generating device 100 can determine whether the first container 20 and the second container 30 are coupled together.

[0141] In operation S1103, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether a predetermined first input is received within a predetermined time when the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated from each other while the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled together. Here, the first input may correspond to a user input set to perform a cleaning function.

[0142] In operation S1104, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is satisfied if the first input is received within a predetermined time.

[0143] If a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is satisfied, the aerosol generating device 100 may perform the cleaning operation in operation S1105. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may supply power to the heater 2531 according to a first temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function.

[0144] In operation S1106, the aerosol generating device 100 can determine whether the second container 30 is coupled.

[0145] In operation S1107, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the body 10 and the first container 20 are separated from each other in a state in which the second container 30 is separated.

[0146] In operation S1108, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the cleaning operation is complete when the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled and the first container 20 and the second container 30 remain separated from each other. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine that the cleaning operation is complete when a predetermined first time has elapsed since the cleaning operation started. The aerosol generating device 100 may supply power to the heater 2531 according to a temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function until the cleaning operation is completed.

[0147] 11b, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine in operation S1109 whether a second input different from the first input is received within a predetermined time period. Here, the second input may correspond to a predetermined user input corresponding to a residual liquid removal operation. For example, the first input may correspond to pressing a physical button, and the second input may correspond to tapping the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the first input may correspond to pressing a physical button a first number of times, and the second input may correspond to pressing the physical button a second number of times.

[0148] If the aerosol generating device 100 receives a second input within a predetermined time in operation S1110, it can determine whether the liquid has been consumed before the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated.

[0149] In operation S1111, the aerosol generating device 100 can perform a residual liquid removal operation if the liquid is not consumed before the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated.

[0150] In operation S1112, the aerosol generating device 100 can determine whether the second container 30 is coupled.

[0151] In operation S1113, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the body 10 and the first container 20 are separated from each other in a state in which the second container 30 is separated.

[0152] In operation S1114, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine whether the residual liquid removal operation is complete if the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled and the first container 20 and the second container 30 remain separated from each other. The aerosol generating device 100 may supply power to the heater 2531 according to the second temperature profile until the residual liquid removal operation is complete.

[0153] As noted above, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the liquid storage structure and the wick 25-containing structure can be interchanged independently of one another.

[0154] Additionally, at least one embodiment of the present disclosure can remove impurities adhering to the wick 25, thereby extending the shelf life of the composition including the wick 25.

[0155] Additionally, at least one embodiment of the present disclosure allows for removal of liquid absorbed by the wick 25, such as when changing the liquid storage configuration.

[0156] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent the heater 2531 from being heated unintentionally by the user.

[0157] 1 to 11b, an aerosol generating device 100 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a body 10, a first container 20 including a wick 25 and a heater 2531, a second container 30 for storing a liquid, an interface 120 for receiving a user input, and a control unit 170. The body 10 and the first container 20 may be detachably coupled to each other. The first container 20 and the second container 30 may be detachably coupled to each other. When the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated while the body 10 and the first container 20 are coupled, the control unit 170 may determine whether a predetermined input is received within a predetermined time corresponding to a cleaning function, and, if the predetermined input is received within the predetermined time, may control the heater 2531 to supply power according to a temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function.

[0158] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the control unit 170 receives the specified input within the specified time, if a specified condition related to the cleaning function is met, it can control the heater 2531 to supply power according to a temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function, and if the specified condition is not met, it can control the heater 2531 to cut off the supply of power.

[0159] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the predetermined condition may be met when the cumulative number of puffs associated with the cleaning function is equal to or greater than a predetermined number.

[0160] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the first container 20 and the second container 30 are combined, the control unit 170 may control the heater 2531 to cut off the power supply according to the temperature profile.

[0161] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the body 10 and the first container 20 are separated, the control unit 170 may stop the supply of power to the heater 2531 according to the temperature profile.

[0162] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the control unit 170 receives the predetermined input while a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is satisfied, it controls the heater 2531 to supply power according to a first temperature profile, and when the control unit 170 receives the predetermined input while the predetermined condition is not satisfied, it controls the heater 2531 to supply power according to a second temperature profile different from the first temperature profile, and the maximum value of the target temperature corresponding to the first temperature profile may exceed the maximum value of the target temperature corresponding to the second temperature profile.

[0163] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 170 may control the heater 2531 to cut off power supply if the liquid is consumed before the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated when the predetermined condition is not met, and may control the heater 2531 to supply power according to the second temperature profile based on receipt of the predetermined input if the liquid is not consumed before the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated.

[0164] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the control unit 170 receives a first input, it controls the heater 2531 to supply power according to a first temperature profile, and when the control unit 170 receives a second input different from the first input, it controls the heater 2531 to supply power according to a second temperature profile different from the first temperature profile, and the maximum value of the target temperature corresponding to the first temperature profile can exceed the maximum value of the target temperature corresponding to the second temperature profile.

[0165] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the control unit 170 receives the second input, it can control the heater 2531 to cut off the supply of power if the liquid is consumed before the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated, and can control the heater 2531 to supply power according to the second temperature profile if the liquid is not consumed before the first container 20 and the second container 30 are separated.

[0166] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the wick 25 may include a first wick part 251 disposed inside the first container 20 and a second wick part 252 disposed to be exposed to the outside of the first container 20 through a liquid inlet formed in the first container 20. The heater 2531 may be disposed in contact with the first wick part 251.

[0167] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second container 30 may include a chamber C2 that stores the liquid and an absorption unit 316 that absorbs the liquid. The absorption unit 316 is disposed to be exposed to the outside of the second container 30, and when the first container 20 and the second container 30 are combined, the liquid absorbed in the absorption unit 316 can be supplied to the first container 20.

[0168] 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.

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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. Body and a first container detachably coupled to the body and containing a wick and a heater; a second container detachably coupled to the first container for storing a liquid; an interface for receiving user input; a control unit; The control unit determining whether a predetermined input corresponding to a cleaning function is received through the interface within a predetermined time after the first container and the second container are separated while the body and the first container are coupled together; If it is determined that the predetermined input is received at least within the predetermined time, power is supplied to the heater according to a temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function. An aerosol generating device characterized by:

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is further configured to supply power to the heater when a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is satisfied.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , wherein the predetermined condition is satisfied when the cumulative number of puffs associated with the cleaning function is equal to or greater than a predetermined number.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit cuts off the supply of power to the heater when the first container and the second container are connected to each other.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit cuts off the supply of power to the heater when the body and the first container are separated.

6. the temperature profile is a first temperature profile when the predetermined input is received while a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is satisfied; the temperature profile is a second temperature profile different from the first temperature profile when the predetermined input is received in a state where the predetermined condition is not satisfied; A first maximum value of the target temperature corresponding to the first temperature profile exceeds a second maximum value of the target temperature corresponding to the second temperature profile. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

7. If it is determined that the predetermined conditions are not met, power is supplied to the heater if it is determined that the liquid has not been consumed when the first container and the second container are separated; If the liquid is determined to be exhausted when the first container and the second container are separated, power is not supplied to the heater. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6 .

8. powering the heater with a first temperature profile when a predetermined first input is received; powering the heater with a second temperature profile different from the first temperature profile when a second predetermined input different from the first predetermined input is received; A first maximum value of the target temperature corresponding to the first temperature profile exceeds a second maximum value of the target temperature corresponding to the second temperature profile. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

9. When the predetermined second input is received, and supplying power to the heater if it is determined that the liquid has not been consumed when the first container and the second container are separated; If the liquid is determined to be exhausted when the first container and the second container are separated, power is not supplied to the heater. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8 .

10. The core is a first core part disposed inside the first container; a second wick part disposed so as to be exposed to the outside of the first container through a liquid inlet of the first container; The heater is disposed in contact with the first core part. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

11. The second container is a chamber for storing the liquid; an absorbent portion that absorbs the liquid, the absorption section is disposed so as to be exposed to the outside of the second container, When the first container and the second container are connected, the liquid absorbed in the absorption section is supplied to the first container. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the wick comprises a ceramic.

Images