Aerosol generation system

Abstract

An aerosol generating system is disclosed, which includes an aerosol generating device and a charger, the aerosol generating device includes a first communication interface, a battery, and a first controller, the first controller controls the battery to be charged when a power signal is wirelessly received from the charger via the first communication interface, determines a state of the aerosol generating device including a locked state or an unlocked state, generates a state signal corresponding to the state of the aerosol generating device, transmits the state signal to the charger via the first communication interface when charging of the battery starts, and changes the aerosol generating device to an unlocked state when an unlock signal is received from the charger via the first communication interface.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] An aerosol generator is used to extract specific components from a medium or substance via an aerosol. The medium can contain substances with a variety of components. The substances contained in the medium can be flavor substances with a variety of components. For example, the substances contained in the medium can contain nicotine, herbal components, and / or coffee components. In recent years, much research has been conducted on such aerosol generators. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0003] This disclosure aims to resolve the aforementioned issues and other problems.

[0004] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generation system that can lock and unlock an aerosol generation device via wireless charging communication.

[0005] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating system that can deactivate the shipping mode via wireless charging communication even when the aerosol generating device is packaged.

[0006] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating system that can restrict use by third parties or minors who do not have the right to use the aerosol generating device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the subject matter described in this application, an aerosol generation system includes an aerosol generator and a charger, the aerosol generator including a first communication interface, a battery, and a first control unit, the first control unit controls the battery to charge when it receives a power signal wirelessly from the charger via the first communication interface, determines the state of the aerosol generator including a locked or unlocked state, generates a state signal corresponding to the state of the aerosol generator, transmits the state signal to the charger via the first communication interface when charging of the battery begins, and changes the aerosol generator to an unlocked state when it receives an unlock signal from the charger via the first communication interface.

[0008] According to other aspects of the subject matter described herein, an aerosol generator includes a first communication interface for communicating with a charger for the aerosol generator, a battery, and a control unit, the control unit controlling the battery to charge when it receives a power signal wirelessly from the charger via the first communication interface, determining the state of the aerosol generator, including a locked or unlocked state, generating a state signal corresponding to the state of the aerosol generator, transmitting the state signal to the charger via the first communication interface when charging of the battery begins, and changing the aerosol generator to an unlocked state when it receives an unlock signal from the charger via the first communication interface. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the aerosol generating device can be locked and unlocked via wireless charging communication.

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the shipping mode can be deactivated via wireless charging communication even when the aerosol generator is packaged.

[0011] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to restrict the use by a third party or a minor who does not have the right to use the aerosol generating device.

[0012] The applicable additional scope of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be clearly understandable to those skilled in the art, so the detailed description and specific examples such as the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure should be understood as being given merely by way of illustration.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] It is a diagram for explaining an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] It is a diagram for explaining an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] It is a diagram for explaining an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 5] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a stick. [Figure 6] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a stick. [Figure 7] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a stick. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] It is a block diagram of a charger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing the operation of an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] It is a flowchart showing the operation of a charger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart showing the operation of a charger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart showing the operation of an aerosol generating system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] The embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components will be given the same reference numerals even if they are shown in different drawings, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0015] The suffixes "module" and "part" used in the following description are used solely for the sake of clarity in the description. "Module" and "part" do not have any distinct meaning or role from each other.

[0016] Furthermore, in subsequent descriptions of the embodiments disclosed herein, detailed explanations of related known technologies will be omitted if they could obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed herein. The accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and the accompanying drawings do not limit the technical ideas disclosed herein. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions included in the ideas and scope of this disclosure.

[0017] While ordinal terms such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe a variety of components, it should be understood that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0018] When we say that one component is "linked" to another, it is understandable that other components may exist in between. On the other hand, when we say that one component is "directly linked" to another, it is understandable that there are no other components in between.

[0019] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the context.

[0020] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1, the aerosol generator 10 may include a communication interface 11, an input / output interface 12, an aerosol generation module 13, a memory 14, a sensor module 15, a battery 16, and / or a control unit 17.

[0022] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 10 may consist only of a main body 100. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generator 10 may be located in the main body 100. In another embodiment, the aerosol generator 10 may consist of a cartridge 200 for storing aerosol-generating material and a main body 100. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generator 10 may be located in at least one of the main body 100 and the cartridge 200.

[0023] The communication interface 11 may include at least one communication module for communication with external devices and / or networks. For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wired communication such as USB (Universal Serial Bus). For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wireless communication such as WiFi (Wireless Fidelity), Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® Low Power (BLE), Zigbee®, or NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0024] The communication interface 11 may include a transmitter 111 and a receiver 112. The transmitter 111 can transmit signals to an external device and / or network. The receiver 112 can receive signals from an external device and / or network. The signals transmitted and received via the transmitter 111 and receiver 112 may be data signals and / or power signals.

[0025] For example, the data signal may include a status signal transmitted by the aerosol generator 10 to the charger 70, a lock signal transmitted by the charger 70 to the aerosol generator 10, an unlock signal, and so on. For example, the power signal may include a power signal transmitted by the charger 70 to the aerosol generator 10.

[0026] The data signals and power signals transmitted and received via the transmitter 111 and receiver 112 can be transmitted and received using the same operating frequency band. For example, the transmitter 111 can transmit data signals using a specific operating frequency band. The receiver 112 can receive data signals and / or power signals using the same operating frequency band as the transmitter 111. For example, the transmitter 111 and receiver 112 can transmit and receive data signals and / or power signals using a magnetic field generated by a coil.

[0027] The data signals and power signals transmitted and received via the transmitter 111 and receiver 112 can be transmitted and received using different operating frequency bands. For example, the transmitter 111 can transmit data signals using a specific operating frequency band. The receiver 112 can receive data signals and / or power signals using a different operating frequency band than the transmitter 111. For example, the receiver 112 can receive power signals using a magnetic field generated by a coil and receive data signals using wireless communication such as NFC, Bluetooth®, and BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), while the transmitter 111 can transmit data signals using wireless communication such as NFC, Bluetooth®, and BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy).

[0028] On the other hand, the transmitting unit 111 and the receiving unit 112 may have a single configuration. The transmitting and receiving unit can send and receive signals to and from external devices and / or networks. In this case, the transmitting and receiving unit can send and receive data signals and power signals using the same operating frequency band or different operating frequency bands.

[0029] The input / output interface 12 may include an input device that receives commands from the user and / or an output device that outputs information to the 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 light-emitting diode (LED), an audio device that outputs auditory information such as a speaker or buzzer, or a motor that outputs tactile information such as a haptic effect.

[0030] The input / output interface 12 can transmit data corresponding to commands input by the user via the input device to other components (etc.) of the aerosol generator 10. The input / output interface 12 can output information corresponding to data received from other components (etc.) of the aerosol generator 10 via the output device.

[0031] The aerosol generation module 13 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance. Here, the aerosol-generating substance can mean one or more substances in any of the various states, such as liquid, solid, or gel, that can generate an aerosol, or a combination of two or more substances.

[0032] In one embodiment, the liquid aerosol-generating substance may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components. In other embodiments, the liquid aerosol-generating substance may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. For example, the liquid aerosol-generating substance may include water, solvent, nicotine, plant extracts, fragrances, flavorings, vitamin mixtures, and the like.

[0033] Solid aerosol-generating substances can include solid materials based on tobacco raw materials such as reconstituted tobacco sheets, shredded tobacco, and tobacco granules. They can also include solid materials containing flavor modifiers, seasonings, etc. For example, flavor modifiers can include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium oxide, etc. Seasonings can include natural substances such as herbal granules, silica containing aromatic compounds, zeolite, dextrin, etc.

[0034] Furthermore, the aerosol-generating substance may further contain aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0035] The aerosol generation module 13 may include at least one heater 131.

[0036] The aerosol generation module 13 may include an electrical resistance heater. For example, the electrical resistance heater may include at least one electrical conductive track, which can be heated by an electric current flowing through the electrical conductive track. Here, the aerosol-generating material can be heated by the heated electrical resistance heater.

[0037] Electrically conductive tracks may contain electrically resistant materials. For example, an electrically conductive track may be formed from a metallic material. Another example is that an electrically conductive track may be formed from a ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite material of a ceramic material and a metal.

[0038] Electrical resistance heaters can include electrically conductive tracks formed in various shapes. For example, the electrically conductive tracks can be formed in any one of the following shapes: tubular, plate-shaped, needle-shaped, rod-shaped, or coil-shaped.

[0039] The aerosol generation module 13 may include a heater using induction heating. For example, an induction heating heater may include an electrically conductive coil, and by adjusting the current flowing through the electrically conductive coil, an alternating magnetic field with periodically changing direction can be generated. When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy loss may occur in the magnetic material due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss, and the lost energy is released as thermal energy, which can heat the aerosol-generating material adjacent to the magnetic material. Here, the object that generates heat due to the magnetic field can be called a susceptor.

[0040] On the other hand, the aerosol generation module 13 can also generate aerosols from aerosol-generating materials by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

[0041] The aerosol generation module 13 can be described as a cartomizer, atomizer, or vaporizer.

[0042] If the aerosol generating device 10 consists of a cartridge 200 containing an aerosol generating substance and a main body 100, the aerosol generating module 13 may be placed in at least one of the main body 100 and the cartridge 200.

[0043] The memory 14 can store programs for each signal processing and control within the control unit 17, and can also store data processed by the control unit 17 and data to be processed.

[0044] For example, the memory 14 stores application programs designed for the purpose of performing various tasks that can be processed by the control unit 17, and can selectively provide some of the stored application programs when requested by the control unit 17.

[0045] For example, memory 14 can store the operating time of the aerosol generator 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 about the user's inhalation pattern, and data about charging and discharging. Here, "puff" can mean the user's inhalation, and "inhalation" can mean the situation in which the user draws something into their oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs through their mouth or nose.

[0046] For example, memory 14 can store predetermined lock signals (lock keys) and unlock signals (unlock keys) related to locking or unlocking the aerosol generator 10. The lock key and unlock key may be keys having specific values ​​preset by the manufacturer of the aerosol generator 10.

[0047] The memory 14 may include at least one of the following: volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.) or non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0048] Memory 14 may be located in at least one of the main unit 100 and the cartridge 200. Memory 14 may be located in the main unit 100 and the cartridge 200, respectively. For example, the memory in the main unit 100 can store information about the configuration located inside the main unit 100, such as information about the total capacity of the battery 190. For example, the memory in the main unit 100 can store cartridge information received from a cartridge 200 that was previously or currently coupled with the main unit 100, and the memory in the cartridge 200 can store cartridge information including cartridge identification information (ID information), cartridge type information, etc.

[0049] The sensor module 15 may include at least one sensor.

[0050] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor that detects puffs (hereinafter referred to as the puff sensor). Here, the puff sensor can be embodied by proximity sensors such as IR sensors, pressure sensors, gyroscopes, accelerometers, magnetic field sensors, and the like.

[0051] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a temperature sensor) that senses the temperature of the heater 131 included in the aerosol generation module 13, the temperature of the aerosol generating substance, etc.

[0052] Here, the heater 131 included in the aerosol generation module 13 can also function as a temperature sensor. For example, the electrical resistive material of the heater 131 may be a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). The sensor module 15 can sense the temperature of the heater 131 by measuring the resistance of the heater 131, which changes with temperature.

[0053] For example, if a stick can be inserted into the main body of the aerosol generator 10, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor that detects the insertion of the stick (hereinafter referred to as the stick detection sensor).

[0054] For example, if the aerosol generator 10 includes a cartridge 200, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a cartridge sensing sensor) that senses the attachment / detachment of the cartridge 200 to the main unit 100, its position, etc.

[0055] Here, the stick sensing sensor and / or cartridge sensing sensor can be embodied by an inductance substrate sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC) using the Hall effect, and the like. According to some embodiments of the present invention, the cartridge sensing sensor may include a connection terminal. The connection terminal is provided on the main body 100, and the cartridge 200 can be electrically connected to the electrodes provided on the cartridge 200 by coupling the cartridge 200 to the main body 100.

[0056] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a voltage sensor that senses the voltage applied to a component (e.g., a battery 16) provided in the aerosol generator 10 and / or a current sensor that senses the current.

[0057] For example, the sensor module 15 may include at least one sensor (hereinafter referred to as the "motion sensor") that senses the movement of the main body 100 and / or cartridge 200 of the aerosol generator 10. Here, the motion sensor may be embodied by at least one of a gyro sensor and an accelerometer. The motion sensor may be located in at least one of the main body 100 and the cartridge 200.

[0058] The battery 16 can supply power used to operate the aerosol generator 10 under the control of the control unit 17. The battery 16 can also supply power to other components of the aerosol generator 10. For example, the battery 16 can supply power to the communication module included in the communication interface 11, the output device included in the input / output interface 12, the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13, and so on.

[0059] Battery 16 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, battery 16 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium-ion battery or a lithium polymer (Li-Polymer) battery. For example, if battery 16 is rechargeable, its charge rate (C-rate) may be 10C and its discharge rate (C-rate) may be 10C to 20C, but is not limited to these. Furthermore, for stable use, battery 16 may be manufactured to ensure that more than 80% of its total capacity is maintained even after 2000 charge-discharge cycles.

[0060] The aerosol generator 10 may further include a battery protection circuit module (PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 16. The battery protection module (PCM) may be positioned adjacent to the top surface of the battery 16. For example, the battery protection module (PCM) can interrupt the circuit to the battery 16 in the event of a short circuit in a circuit connected to the battery 16, an overvoltage being applied to the battery 16, or an overcurrent flowing through the battery 16, in order to prevent overcharging and over-discharging of the battery 16.

[0061] The aerosol generator 10 may further include a charging terminal into which power supplied from an external source is input. For example, a charging terminal may be formed on one side of the main body of the aerosol generator 10, and the aerosol generator 10 can charge the battery 16 using power supplied through the charging terminal. Here, the charging terminal may consist of a wired terminal for USB communication, a pogo pin, or the like.

[0062] The aerosol generator 10 can wirelessly receive power supplied from an external source via a communication interface 11. The receiving unit 112 of the communication interface 11 can wirelessly receive power signals. The receiving unit 112 can wirelessly receive power signals from an external charging device. The transmitting unit 111 and the receiving unit 112 may include antennas. The transmitting unit 111 and the receiving unit 112 can transmit and receive signals via a single antenna. For example, the antenna may include a coil. The aerosol generator 10 can receive power wirelessly using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication, and can charge the battery 16 using power supplied wirelessly by power signals.

[0063] The control unit 17 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 10. The control unit 17 is connected to each component of the aerosol generator 10 and can transmit and / or receive signals to and from each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0064] The control unit 17 may include at least one processor, which can be used to control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 10. Here, the processor may be a general-purpose 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.

[0065] The control unit 17 can perform any one of several functions of the aerosol generator 10. For example, the control unit 17 can execute any one of several functions of the aerosol generator 10 (e.g., preheating function, heating function, charging function, cleaning function, etc.) depending on the state of each component of the aerosol generator 10, user commands received via the input / output interface 12, etc.

[0066] The control unit 17 can control the operation of each component of the aerosol generator 10 based on data stored in the memory 14. For example, based on data such as temperature profiles and user inhalation patterns stored in the memory 14, the control unit 17 can control the supply of a predetermined amount of power from the battery 16 to the aerosol generation module 13 for a predetermined time.

[0067] The control unit 17 can determine the occurrence of puffs based on the puff sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the control unit 17 can check temperature changes, flow rate changes, pressure changes, voltage changes, etc., within the aerosol generator 10 based on the sensing values ​​of the puff sensor, and can determine the occurrence of puffs based on the results of the checks based on the sensing values ​​of the puff sensor.

[0068] The control unit 17 can control the operation of each component of the aerosol generator 10 depending on whether or not puffing is performed and / or the number of puffs. For example, the control unit 17 can control whether the temperature of the heater 131 is changed or maintained based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 14.

[0069] The control unit 17 can control the power supply to the heater 131 to shut off under predetermined conditions. For example, the control unit 17 can control the power supply to the heater 131 to shut off when the stick is removed and the cartridge 200 is separated, when the number of puffs reaches a predetermined maximum number of puffs, when no puffs are detected for a predetermined time or longer, or when the remaining battery level of the battery 16 is below a predetermined value.

[0070] The control unit 17 can calculate the remaining amount of power stored in the battery 16. For example, the control unit 17 can calculate the remaining amount of battery 16 based on the sensing values ​​of the voltage sensor and / or current sensor included in the sensor module 15.

[0071] The control unit 17 can control the supply of power to the heater 131 using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID).

[0072] For example, the control unit 17 can use a PWM method to control the supply of current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heater. Here, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses.

[0073] For example, the control unit 17 can determine a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile. Here, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater 131 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the temperature of the heater 131 and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0074] For example, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater 131 based on the temperature profile. The control unit 17 can control the length of the heating section that heats the heater 131, the amount of power supplied to the heater 131 in the heating section, and so on. The control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater 131 based on the target temperature of the heater 131.

[0075] On the other hand, while PWM and PID methods were described as examples of control methods for supplying power to the heater 131, the present invention is not limited to these, and various control methods such as proportional-integral (PI) and proportional-differential (PD) methods can be used.

[0076] The control unit 17 can determine the temperature of the heater 131 and adjust the power supplied to the heater 131 based on its temperature. For example, the control unit 17 can determine the temperature of the heater 131 by checking the resistance of the heater 131, the current flowing through the heater 131, and / or the voltage applied to the heater 131.

[0077] On the other hand, the control unit 17 can control the heater 131 to supply power under pre-set conditions. For example, if a cleaning function is selected to clean the space in which the stick is inserted according to a command input by the user via the input / output interface 12, the control unit 17 can control the heater 131 to supply a predetermined amount of power.

[0078] Figures 2 to 4 illustrate an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a main body 100 and / or a cartridge 200.

[0080] Referring to Figure 2, the aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 configured so that a stick 20 can be inserted into the space formed by the housing 101.

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

[0082] The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generator 10, while the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generator 10, or parts of both the first and second parts may be inserted. The user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. Here, the aerosol is generated when outside air passes through the first part, and the generated aerosol can pass through the second part and be transmitted to the user's mouth.

[0083] The main body 100 may be formed in such a way that external air can flow into the main body 100 when the stick 20 is inserted. Here, the external air that flows into the main body 100 can pass through the stick 20 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0084] The heater may be positioned within the main body 100 at a location corresponding to the position in which the stick 20 is inserted into the main body 100. In this figure, the heater is shown as an electrically conductive heater 110 including needle-shaped electrically conductive tracks, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0085] The heater can heat the inside and / or outside of the stick 20 using power supplied from the battery 16. Here, an aerosol can be generated in the heated stick 20. Here, the user can inhale the tobacco aerosol by inhaling through one end of the stick 20 with their mouth.

[0086] On the other hand, the control unit 17 can be controlled to supply power to the heater even when the stick 20 is not inserted, depending on predetermined conditions. For example, if a cleaning function is selected to clean the space where the stick 20 is inserted, according to a command input by the user via the input / output interface 12, the control unit 17 can be controlled to supply a predetermined amount of power to the heater.

[0087] The control unit 17 can monitor the number of puffs based on the sensing value of the puff sensor from the moment the stick 20 is inserted.

[0088] The control unit 17 can initialize the current puff count stored in the memory 14 if the inserted stick 20 is removed.

[0089] Referring to Figure 3, an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 that supports a cartridge 200 and a cartridge 200 that stores aerosol generating material.

[0090] In one embodiment, the cartridge 200 may be configured to be detachably attached to the main body 100. In 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 the internal space formed by the housing 101 of the main body 100.

[0091] The main unit 100 may be constructed in such a way that external air can flow into the interior of the main unit 100 when the cartridge 200 is inserted. Here, the external air that flows into the main unit 100 can flow through the cartridge 200 to the user's mouth.

[0092] The control unit 17 can determine whether the cartridge 200 is attached or detached using the cartridge sensing sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the cartridge sensing sensor can transmit a pulse current through one terminal connected to the cartridge 200. Here, the cartridge sensing sensor can sense whether the cartridge 200 is connected or not based on whether a pulse current is received through the other terminal.

[0093] The cartridge 200 may include a heater 210 for heating an aerosol-generating substance and / or a storage section 220 for storing the aerosol-generating substance. For example, a liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating substance may be located inside the storage section 220. The electrically conductive track of the heater 210 may be formed in a structure that winds around the liquid transfer means. Here, an aerosol can be generated by heating the liquid transfer means with the heater 210. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick made of cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic.

[0094] The cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 230 into which a stick 20 can be inserted. 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 the inner side of the inner wall being open at the top and bottom. The stick 20 can be inserted into the insertion space 230 formed by the inner wall.

[0095] The insertion space into which the stick 20 is inserted can be formed in a shape corresponding to a part of the shape of the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space. For example, if the stick 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the insertion space can be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0096] When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space, the outer surface of the stick 20 is surrounded by the inner wall and may come into contact with the inner wall.

[0097] A portion of the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 230 of the cartridge 200, while the remaining portion can be exposed to the outside.

[0098] The user can inhale the aerosol by holding one end of the stick 20 in their mouth. The aerosol generated by the heater 210 can pass through the stick 20 and be delivered to the user's mouth. As the aerosol passes through the stick 20, substances contained in the stick 20 are added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with the added substances can be inhaled into the user's oral cavity through one end of the stick 20.

[0099] Referring to Figure 4, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 that supports a cartridge 200, and a cartridge 200 that contains an aerosol generating substance. The main body 100 may be configured so that a stick 20 can be inserted into an insertion space 130.

[0100] The aerosol generator 10 may include a first heater for heating the aerosol-generating substance stored in the cartridge 200. For example, when a user inhales through one end of the stick 20, the aerosol generated by the first heater can pass through the stick 20. As the aerosol passes through the stick 20, flavoring may be added to it. The flavored aerosol can then be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick 20.

[0101] On the other hand, in other embodiments, the aerosol generator 10 may also include a first heater for heating the aerosol-generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and a second heater for heating the stick 20 inserted into the main body 100. For example, the aerosol generator 100 can also generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and the stick 20, respectively, with the first heater and the second heater.

[0102] Figures 5 to 7 illustrate a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed explanations of content that overlaps with Figures 5 to 7 are omitted.

[0103] Referring to Figure 5, the stick 20 according to one embodiment may include a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. Referring to Figure 2, the first part described above may include the tobacco rod 21. Referring to Figure 2, the second part described above may include the filter rod 22.

[0104] Figure 5 shows the filter rod 22 as a single segment, but is not limited to this. In other words, the filter rod 22 may consist of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering out predetermined components contained in the aerosol. Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may optionally include at least one additional segment that performs other functions.

[0105] The diameter of the stick 20 is in the range of 5mm to 9mm, and its length may be, but is not limited to, approximately 48mm. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 may be, but is not limited to, approximately 12mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 may be, approximately 10mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 may be, approximately 14mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 may be, but is not limited to, approximately 12mm.

[0106] The stick 20 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may have at least one hole formed therein, through which external air enters or internal gases exit. As an example, the stick 20 may be wrapped by one wrapper 24. As another example, the stick 20 may be wrapped in layers by two or more wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped by a first wrapper 241. For example, the filter rod 22 may be wrapped by wrappers 242, 243, and 244. The tobacco rod 21 and filter rod 22 wrapped by individual wrappers may be joined together, and the entire stick 20 may be further wrapped by a third wrapper. If each of the filter rods 22 consists of multiple segments, each segment may be wrapped by individual wrappers 242, 243, and 244. The entire stick 20, with the segments wrapped by individual wrappers joined together, may be further wrapped by other wrappers.

[0107] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made from general filter packaging paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be porous packaging paper or non-porous packaging paper. Alternatively, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made from oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum laminate packaging material.

[0108] The third wrapper 243 can be made from 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. Also, 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.

[0109] The fourth wrapper 244 can be made from oil-resistant hard packaging 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. Also, 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.

[0110] The fifth wrapper 245 can be made from sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) may refer to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to ordinary 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 This is possible. Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 can fall within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 could be 67 μm.

[0111] The fifth wrapper 245 may contain a predetermined substance. Here, an example of the predetermined substance may be silicon, but is not limited to silicon. For example, silicon may have properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, any substance having the above-mentioned properties can be applied or coated to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation, even if it is not silicon.

[0112] 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 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 cases, the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-combustible material, so it can prevent the stick 20 from burning.

[0113] Furthermore, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the main body 100 from being contaminated by substances generated in the stick 20. Liquid substances may be generated in the stick 20 by the user's puffing. For example, liquid substances (e.g., water) may be generated when the aerosol generated in the stick 20 is cooled by the outside air. By wrapping the stick 20 with the fifth wrapper 245, liquid substances generated in the stick 20 can be prevented from leaking out of the stick 20.

[0114] The tobacco rod 21 may contain an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating 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. Furthermore, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying it.

[0115] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be made from a sheet. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be made from a strand. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be made from finely cut pieces of tobacco sheet. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be surrounded by a heat conductive material. For example, the heat conductive material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited to this. As an example, the heat conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21, improving the heat conductivity to the tobacco rod. Thus, the tobacco flavor can be improved. The heat conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. Here, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may further include additional susceptors in addition to the heat conductive material surrounding the outside.

[0116] The filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, there are no restrictions on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical (type) rod. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a tubular (type) rod with a hollow interior. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a recessed (type) rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

[0117] The first segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. The first segment can prevent the internal material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed backward when the heater 110 is inserted, and can also provide a cooling effect for the aerosol. The diameter of the hollow interior of the first segment can be within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0118] The length of the first segment can be set to an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited to this. For example, the length of the first segment could be 10 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0119] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated when the heater 110 heats the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to a suitable temperature.

[0120] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways depending on the form of the stick 20. For example, the length of the second segment can be appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment may be about 14 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0121] The second segment can be manufactured by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a flavoring liquid can be applied to the polymer fibers. Alternatively, the second segment can be manufactured by weaving together a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid and a polymer fiber. Alternatively, the second segment can be formed from a crimped polymer sheet.

[0122] For example, polymers can be made from materials 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.

[0123] Since the second segment is formed from woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment may include one or more longitudinally extending channels, where channels may mean passages through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0124] For example, the second segment, which consists of a crimped polymer sheet, may be formed from a material having a thickness between approximately 5 μm and approximately 300 μm, for example, between approximately 10 μm and approximately 250 μm. The total surface area of ​​the second segment is approximately 300 mm². 2 / mm and approximately 1000mm 2 It can be between / mm. Also, the aerosol cooling element has a specific surface area of ​​approximately 10 mm². 2 / mg and approximately 100mm 2 It can be formed from materials between / mg.

[0125] On the other hand, the second segment may include a thread containing a volatile flavor component. Here, the volatile flavor component may be, but is not limited to, menthol. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0126] The third segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment can be appropriately adopted within the 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.

[0127] The filter rod 22 may be manufactured to generate 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.

[0128] Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may perform the function of generating flavor. The capsule 23 may also perform the function of generating aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavor is enclosed in a film. The capsule 23 may be spherical or cylindrical, but is not limited to these.

[0129] Referring to Figure 6, the stick 30 according to one embodiment may further include a front plug 33. The front plug 33 is located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite the filter rod 32. The front plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching to the outside. The front plug 33 can prevent liquefied aerosol from the tobacco rod 31 from flowing into the aerosol generator 100 during smoking.

[0130] The filter rod 32 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. The first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in Figure 5. The second segment 322 may correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in Figure 5.

[0131] The diameter and overall length of stick 30 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of stick 20 in Figure 4. For example, the length of the front plug 33 may be approximately 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be approximately 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be approximately 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be approximately 14 mm, but are not limited to these.

[0132] The stick 30 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole through which external air enters or internal gases exit. For example, the front plug 33 may be wrapped by a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 by a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 by a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 by a fourth wrapper 354. The entire stick 30 may then be rewrapped by a fifth wrapper 355.

[0133] Furthermore, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in the region surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited to this. For example, the perforation 36 may serve to transfer heat generated by the heater 210 shown in Figure 3 into the interior of the tobacco rod 31.

[0134] Also, the second segment 322 can include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 can also perform a function of generating a fragrance. The capsule 34 can also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 can have a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped with a film. The capsule 34 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0135] The first wrapper 351 can be formed by bonding a metal foil such as an aluminum foil to a general filter wrapper paper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 can be included in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 can be 50.3 μm. Also, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 can be included in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm. For example, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 can be 6.3 μm. Also, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 50 g / m 2 ~55 g / m 2 and can be included in the range. For example, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 can be 53 g / m 2 and can be.

[0136] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be made from a general filter wrapper paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be a porous wrapper paper or a non-porous wrapper paper.

[0137] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 can be 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 can be included in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. For example, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 can be 78 μm. Also, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and can be included in the range. For example, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 can be 23.5 g / m 2 and can be.

[0138] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be, but is not limited to, 24,000 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 is possible.

[0139] The fourth wrapper 354 can be made from PLA laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper may mean triple-layered paper containing 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. The basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is 80 g / m². 2 ~100g / m 2 It may fall within that range. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is 88 g / m². 2 It is possible.

[0140] The fifth wrapper 355 can be made from sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) may refer to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is 57 g / m². 2 ~63g / m 2 It may fall within that range. For example, the basis weight of the 5th wrapper 355 is 60 g / m². 2 This is possible. Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 can be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 could be 67 μm.

[0141] The fifth wrapper 355 may contain a predetermined substance. Here, an example of the predetermined substance may be silicon, but is not limited to it. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that prevents oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, any substance having the above-mentioned properties can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation, even if it is not silicon.

[0142] The front plug 33 can be made from cellulose acetate. For example, the front plug 33 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate toe. The mono denier of the filament constituting the cellulose acetate toe can be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filament constituting the cellulose acetate toe can be in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. For example, the mono denier of the filament of the front plug 33 may be 5.0. Also, the cross-section of the filament constituting the front plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the front plug 33 can be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the front plug 33 may be in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the front plug 33 may be 28,000.

[0143] Furthermore, the front plug 33 may include at least one channel, if necessary. The cross-section of the channel can be manufactured in a variety of shapes.

[0144] The tobacco rod 31 can correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described above, as shown in Figure 5. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0145] The first segment 321 may be made from cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. The first segment 321 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate. For example, the monodenier and total denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the monodenier and total denier of the front plug 33.

[0146] The second segment 322 can be made from cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filament constituting the second segment 322 can be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filament of the second segment 322 can be in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filament of the second segment 322 may be 9.0. Also, the cross-section of the filament of the second segment 322 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 can be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the second segment 322 may be 25,000.

[0147] Referring to Figure 7, the stick 40 may include a medium section 410. The stick 40 may include a cooling section 420. The stick 40 may include a filter section 430. The cooling section 420 may be positioned between the medium section 410 and the filter section 430. The stick 40 may include a wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 may enclose the medium section 410. The wrapper 440 may enclose the cooling section 420. The wrapper 440 may enclose the filter section 430. The stick 40 may have a cylindrical shape.

[0148] The medium section 410 may include a medium 411. The medium section 410 may include a first medium cover 413. The medium section 410 may include a second medium cover 415. The medium 411 may be positioned between the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415. The first medium cover 413 may be positioned at one end of the stick 40. The length of the medium section 410 may be 24 mm.

[0149] The medium 411 can contain substances with diverse components. The substances contained in the medium may be flavor substances with diverse components. The medium 411 may consist of a plurality of granules. Each of the plurality of granules may have a size of 0.4 mm to 1.12 mm. The inside of the medium 411 may be filled to about 70% with granules. The length L2 of the medium 411 may be 10 mm. The first medium cover 413 may be made of acetate material. The second medium cover 415 may be made of acetate material. The first medium cover 413 may be made of paper material. The second medium cover 415 may be made of paper material. At least one of the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415 may be made of paper material and have a wrinkled shape, and a plurality of gaps may be formed between them for air to flow. The gaps may be smaller than the size of each granule of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L3 of the second medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be 7 mm. The length L2 of the second medium cover 413 may be 7 mm.

[0150] Therefore, each granule of the medium 411 cannot detach from the medium portion 410 and the stick 40.

[0151] The cooling section 420 may have a cylindrical shape. The cooling section 420 may have a hollow shape. The cooling section 420 may be positioned between the medium section 410 and the filter section 430. The cooling section 420 may be positioned between the second medium section 415 and the filter section 430. The cooling section 420 may be formed in a tubular shape surrounding the internal cooling passage 424. The cooling section 420 may be thicker than the wrapper 440. The cooling section 420 may be made of a paper material thicker than the wrapper 440. The length L4 of the cooling section 420 may be the same as or approximately the same as the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L4 of the cooling section 420 and the cooling passage 424 may be 10 mm. When the stick 40 is inserted into the aerosol generator 10, at least a portion of the cooling section 420 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator 10.

[0152] Therefore, the cooling unit 420 supports the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, ensuring the rigidity of the stick 40. Furthermore, the cooling unit 420 supports the wrapper 440 between the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, securing the area where the wrapper 440 is bonded. Additionally, heated air and aerosols can be cooled as they pass through the cooling passage 424 inside the cooling unit 420.

[0153] The filter section 430 may be composed of an acetate filter. The filter section 430 may be located at the other end of the stick 40. When the stick 40 is inserted into the aerosol generator 10, the filter section 430 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator 10. The user can inhale air by holding the filter section 430 in their mouth. The length L5 of the filter section 430 may be 14 mm.

[0154] The wrapper 440 can wrap around or surround the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430. The wrapper 440 can form the outer shape of the stick 40. The wrapper 440 may be made of paper material. An adhesive portion 441 may be formed on one end of the wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 wraps around the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430, and the adhesive portion 441 formed on one side edge may be bonded to the other side edge. The wrapper 440 that wraps around the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430 does not have to cover one end and the other end of the stick 40.

[0155] Therefore, the wrapper 440 can fix the medium section 410, the cooling section 420, and the filter section 430, preventing them from detaching from the stick 40.

[0156] The first thin film 443 may be positioned in a location corresponding to the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be positioned between the wrapper 440 and the first medium cover 413, or outside the wrapper 440. The first thin film 443 may surround the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be made of a metallic material. The first thin film 443 may be made of an aluminum material. The first thin film 443 may be in contact with or coated on the wrapper 440.

[0157] The second thin film 445 may be positioned in a location corresponding to the second medium cover 415. The second thin film 445 may be positioned between the wrapper 440 and the second medium cover 415, or outside the wrapper 440. The second thin film 445 may be made of a metallic material. The second thin film 445 may be made of an aluminum material. The second thin film 445 may be in close contact with or coated on the wrapper 440.

[0158] Figure 8 shows an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0159] Referring to Figure 8, the aerosol generation system 1 can include an aerosol generating device 10 and a charger 70.

[0160] The aerosol generator 10 may include a communication interface 11, an input / output interface 12, a heater 131, a battery 16, and / or a control unit 17. Since the descriptions of each component of the aerosol generator 10 overlap with those described earlier in Figure 1, detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0161] The charger 70 can be communicated with the aerosol generator 10. For example, the charger 70 can be communicated with the aerosol generator 10 using wireless communication. The charger 70 can be connected to the aerosol generator 10 via wireless communication and can transmit power signals to the aerosol generator 10 and send and receive data signals to and from the aerosol generator 10.

[0162] The charger 70 can supply power to the aerosol generator 10 using known technologies such as magnetic induction, magnetic resonance, and electromagnetic wave methods. For example, the charger 70 is in the form of a pad, and wireless charging can be started by placing the aerosol generator 10 on the pad. The charger 70 has a primary coil built into its pad, and the aerosol generator 10 has a secondary coil and a wireless charging circuit built into it, so power can be supplied from the charger 70 to the aerosol generator 10 via mutual induction electromotive force. The supplied power can charge the battery 16 of the aerosol generator 10.

[0163] Although not shown in the drawings, the aerosol generation system 1 may further include an external device 80.

[0164] The external device 80 can communicate with the charger 70. For example, the external device 80 can communicate with the charger 70 via wireless communication.

[0165] The external device 80 can transmit user age authentication completion information to the charger 70.

[0166] The external device 80 is not particularly limited, as long as it can transmit user age authentication completion information to the charger 70, such as a desktop computer, laptop computer, smartphone, tablet PC, or server computer.

[0167] The external device 80 may include at least one of an external server, a sales office's computing device, and a user terminal.

[0168] Figure 9 is a block diagram of a charger according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0169] Referring to Figure 9, the charger 70 may be a device capable of supplying power to an external source.

[0170] The charger 70 may include a communication interface 710, a memory 720, an input / output interface 730, and a control unit 740.

[0171] The communication interface 710 may include at least one communication module for communication with the aerosol generator 10 and / or the network. For example, the communication interface 11 may include a communication module for wireless communication such as WiFi (Wireless Fidelity), Bluetooth®, BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy), Zigbee®, or NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0172] The communication interface 710 may include a transmitter 711 and a receiver 712. The transmitter 711 can transmit signals to the aerosol generator 10 and / or the network. The receiver 712 can receive signals from the aerosol generator 10 and / or the network. The signals transmitted and received via the transmitter 711 and the receiver 712 may be data signals and / or power signals.

[0173] The charger 70 can supply power to the aerosol generator 10 by transmitting a power signal to the aerosol generator 10 via the transmitter 711.

[0174] Memory 720 may include at least one non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid state drive (SSD)).

[0175] The memory 720 can store programs for each signal processing and control within the control unit 740, and can also store processed data and data to be processed. In this disclosure, programs and applications may be used in combination as needed.

[0176] The memory 720 can store predetermined lock signals (lock keys) and unlock signals (unlock keys) related to locking or unlocking the aerosol generator 10. For example, the lock signals and unlock signals may be keys having specific values ​​preset by the manufacturer of the aerosol generator 10.

[0177] The memory 720 can store a unique identifier for the aerosol generator 10 and / or a unique identifier for the external device 80. For example, the unique identifier for the aerosol generator 10 and / or the unique identifier for the external device 80 may consist of a MAC address (media access control address), a serial number, an IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), and the like.

[0178] Memory 720 can store authentication information for changing the mode of charger 70. For example, memory 720 can store password information for changing the mode of charger 70.

[0179] The input / output interface 730 may include an input device 731 that receives commands from the user and / or an output device 732 that outputs information to the user. For example, the input device 731 may include a touch panel, physical buttons, etc. For example, the output device 732 may include a display device that outputs visual information such as LEDs or a display, or an audio device that outputs auditory information such as a speaker, etc.

[0180] The control unit 740 can control the overall operation of the charger 70. The control unit 740 is connected to each component of the charger 70 and can transmit and / or receive signals to each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0181] The control unit 740 may include at least one processor, which can be used to control the overall operation of the charger 70. Here, the processor may be a general-purpose 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. On the other hand, the control unit 740 may be embodied in the form of a single chip including the memory 720.

[0182] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0183] Referring to Figure 10, the aerosol generator 10 can communicate with the charger 70 in operation S1001. For example, the aerosol generator 10 and the charger 70 can communicate with each other via wireless communication. For example, if the aerosol generator 10 is placed adjacent to the charger 70 or on a pad on the charger 70, the aerosol generator 10 and the charger 70 can communicate with each other via wireless communication.

[0184] The charger 70 can transmit a power signal to the aerosol generator 10 in S1002 operation. The second communication interface 710 of the charger 70 can wirelessly transmit a power signal to the first communication interface 11 of the aerosol generator 10. For example, the second communication interface 710 of the charger 70 includes a primary coil, and the first communication interface 11 of the aerosol generator 10 includes a secondary coil, and a power signal can be wirelessly transmitted from the primary coil of the charger 70 to the secondary coil of the aerosol generator 10.

[0185] The aerosol generator 10 can charge the battery 16 in S1003 operation. The aerosol generator 10 can charge the battery 16 with a power signal received wirelessly from the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can convert the power signal transmitted via the first communication interface 11 into rechargeable power via a rectifier. The aerosol generator 10 can charge the battery 16 with the converted power.

[0186] Meanwhile, the aerosol generator 10 can sense many events occurring during the charging process in connection with operations S1002 and S1003, check the charging status of the battery 16, and generate a feedback signal. The aerosol generator 10 can transmit the feedback signal to the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11. The control unit 740 of the charger 70 can recognize the charging status of the aerosol generator 10 based on the received feedback signal and can control the power signal transmitted via the second communication interface 710.

[0187] The aerosol generator 10 can generate a status signal in operation S1004. The status signal may include information indicating whether the aerosol generator 10 is in a locked state or an unlocked state. The aerosol generator 10 can determine whether its current operating state is locked or unlocked and generate a status signal based on the current operating state.

[0188] Here, the locked state of the aerosol generator 10 may be a state in which the use of at least one of the following functions is restricted: the preheating or heating function that supplies power to the heater 131, the input / output function that controls the operation of the output device or the operation of the input device, and the cleaning function that cleans the stick insertion space. The unlocked state of the aerosol generator 10 may be a state in which the restriction on the use of at least one of the following functions is released: the preheating or heating function, the input / output function, and the cleaning function.

[0189] The aerosol generator 10 can transmit a status signal to the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11 in S1005 operation. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can transmit a status signal wirelessly to the charger 70 via the secondary coil of the first communication interface 11.

[0190] The charger 70 can transmit a lock signal or an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in operation S1006. The operation by which the charger 70 transmits the lock signal or unlock signal will be described in detail later with reference to Figures 11 and 12.

[0191] The aerosol generator 10 can be locked or unlocked based on the received signal in operation S1007.

[0192] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can be unlocked when it receives an unlock signal from the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11. The aerosol generator 10 compares the signal received from the charger 70 with the lock key and unlock key stored in the memory 14, and can determine that an unlock signal has been received if the received signal corresponds to an unlock key.

[0193] If the aerosol generator 10 determines that it has received an unlock signal, it can release the restriction on the use of at least one of the following functions: preheating or heating function, input / output function, and cleaning function.

[0194] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can be locked when it receives a lock signal from the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11. The aerosol generator 10 compares the signal received from the charger 70 with the lock key and unlock key stored in the memory 14, and can determine that a lock signal has been received if the received signal corresponds to the lock key.

[0195] If the aerosol generator 10 determines that a lock signal has been received, it may restrict the use of at least one of the following functions: preheating or heating function, input / output function, and cleaning function.

[0196] On the other hand, the status signal may include information indicating whether the aerosol generator 10 is in the shipping mode state. The aerosol generator 10 can determine whether its current operating state is the shipping mode state, and if it determines that it is in the shipping mode state, it can generate a status signal indicating the shipping mode state. The aerosol generator 10 can transmit the status information to the charger 70.

[0197] Here, the shipping mode may be a mode that minimizes the power consumption of the aerosol generator 10 by deactivating all internal hardware components of the aerosol generator 10 except for the control unit during the assembly and shipping process. The shipping mode can be distinguished from the lock mode, which restricts the use of at least one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generator 10, in that it deactivates most of the internal hardware components.

[0198] The control unit 17 of the aerosol generator 10 can be programmed to be set to shipping mode by an external input before the aerosol generator 10 is shipped. Deactivating shipping mode may be by the aerosol generator 10 entering unlock mode.

[0199] In this case, the charger 70 can transmit an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in operation S1006. If the charger 70 determines that the aerosol generator 10 is in shipping mode based on the status information received from the aerosol generator 10, it can transmit an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10.

[0200] The aerosol generator 10 can receive a lock release signal in operation S1007 and deactivate the shipping mode.

[0201] Figures 11 and 12 are flowcharts showing the operation of a charger according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed explanations of content that overlaps with what was described in Figure 10 are omitted.

[0202] Referring to Figure 11, the charger 70 can communicate with the aerosol generator 10 in operation S1110. For example, the aerosol generator 10 and the charger 70 can communicate with each other via wireless communication.

[0203] The charger 70 can transmit a power signal to the aerosol generator 10 in S1120 operation. The second communication interface 710 of the charger 70 can wirelessly transmit a power signal to the first communication interface 11 of the aerosol generator 10.

[0204] The charger 70 can receive status signals from the aerosol generator 10 in S1130 operation.

[0205] The charger 70 can determine the status of the aerosol generator 10 based on the received status signal in S1140 operation. Based on the status signal, the charger 70 can determine whether the aerosol generator 10 is currently locked or unlocked.

[0206] If the charger 70 determines that the aerosol generator 10 is locked, it can transmit an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in operation S1150.

[0207] If the charger 70 determines that the aerosol generator 10 is in an unlocked state, it can transmit a lock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in operation S1160.

[0208] On the other hand, prior to the communication connection operation (S1110 operation) of the charger 70, user age authentication can be performed. User age authentication refers to the process of determining whether the user is above a certain age.

[0209] For example, user age verification can be performed by a representative of the aerosol generator 10's sales outlet verifying the user's identification. Here, the charger 70 may be a charger provided at the sales outlet. After the sales outlet representative verifies the user's age, the aerosol generator 10 and the charger 70 can be connected via communication. By connecting the aerosol generator 10 and the charger 70 via communication, operations S1120 to S1160 can be performed.

[0210] For example, user age verification can be performed via the charger 70 and external device 80. Age verification and / or age verification using the charger 70 and external device 80 will be described in detail later based on Figure 13.

[0211] On the other hand, in operation S1140, if the charger 70 determines that the aerosol generator 10 is in the shipping mode state, it can transmit an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in operation S1150.

[0212] Referring to Figure 12, the charger 70 can receive user input in operation S1210. The charger 70 can receive one of the following inputs via the input device 731: lock input, unlock input, and off input. For example, the input device 731 may include a lock input button, an unlock input button, and an off input button. For example, the input device 731 may include a single button, and the lock input, unlock input, and off input can be distinguished by the number of times and / or the duration of pressing the button. For example, the input device 731 may include a touch panel, and the lock input, unlock input, and off input can be distinguished based on the input from the touch panel.

[0213] The charger 70 can communicate with the aerosol generator 10 in operation S1220. For example, the aerosol generator 10 and the charger 70 can communicate with each other via wireless communication.

[0214] The charger 70 can transmit a power signal to the aerosol generator 10 in S1230 operation. The second communication interface 710 of the charger 70 can wirelessly transmit a power signal to the first communication interface 11 of the aerosol generator 10.

[0215] The charger 70 can receive status signals from the aerosol generator 10 in S1240 operation.

[0216] The charger 70 can determine the type of input received via the input device 731 in S1250 operation. The charger 70 can determine whether the input corresponds to a lock input, an unlock input, or an off input.

[0217] Based on the received input, the charger 70 can change its operating mode to one of the following modes: lock-lock mode, unlock mode, and off mode. Here, the lock mode is a mode in which the charger 70 transmits a lock signal to the aerosol generator 10, the unlock mode is a mode in which the charger 70 transmits an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10, and the off mode may be a mode in which the charger 70 does not transmit a lock signal and / or an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10.

[0218] The charger 70 can be controlled to operate in lock mode when it receives a lock input. The charger 70 can be controlled to operate in unlock mode when it receives an unlock input. The charger 70 can be controlled to operate in off mode when it receives an off input.

[0219] The charger 70 can perform the operation of locking the aerosol generator 10 and wireless charging in lock operation mode, the operation of unlocking the aerosol generator 10 and wireless charging in unlock operation mode, and the operation of wireless charging the aerosol generator 10 in off operation mode.

[0220] When the charger 70 determines that it has received a lock input via the input device 731, it can transmit the lock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in operation S1260. The charger 70 can transmit the lock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in lock operation mode.

[0221] When the charger 70 determines that it has received an unlock input via the input device 731, it can transmit an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in operation S1270. The charger 70 can transmit an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in unlock operation mode.

[0222] If the charger 70 determines that it has received an off input via the input device 731, it may not transmit a lock signal and / or an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in off operation mode. When an off input is received via the input device 731, the charger 70 can only perform the function of wirelessly charging the aerosol generator 10.

[0223] On the other hand, in operation S1210, if the charger 70 receives a lock input or unlock input via the input device 731, it can perform further authentication operations. For example, if the charger 70 receives a lock input or unlock input, it can output information prompting for password input via the output device 732. If a password is entered via the input device 731, the charger 70 can compare the entered password with information stored in the memory 720. If the charger 70 determines that the entered password corresponds to the stored information, it can change the operating mode of the charger 70.

[0224] On the other hand, prior to the communication connection operation (S1220 operation) of the charger 70, the user's age can be authenticated.

[0225] For example, user age verification can be performed by a representative of the aerosol generator 10's sales outlet verifying the user's identification. Alternatively, user age verification can be performed via the charger 70 and external device 80.

[0226] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the operation of an aerosol generation system according to another embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed explanations of content that overlaps with what was described in Figure 10 are omitted.

[0227] Referring to Figure 13, the aerosol generation system 1 may include an aerosol generating device 10, a charger 70, and an external device 80.

[0228] The aerosol generator 10 can be communicated and connected to the charger 70 in operation S1301.

[0229] The charger 70 can communicate with the external device 80 in operation S1302. For example, the charger 70 and the external device 80 can communicate with each other via wireless communication.

[0230] The charger 70 can transmit a power signal to the aerosol generator 10 in operation S1303.

[0231] The aerosol generator 10 can charge the battery 16 in operation S1304. The aerosol generator 10 can charge the battery 16 with a power signal received wirelessly from the charger 70.

[0232] The aerosol generator 10 can generate a status signal in operation S1305. The status signal may include information indicating whether the aerosol generator 10 is in a locked state or an unlocked state.

[0233] The aerosol generator 10 can transmit a status signal to the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11 in operation S1306.

[0234] The charger 70 can request authentication confirmation from the external device 80 in operation S1307. For example, the charger 10 can transmit an authentication confirmation request signal to the external device 80 requesting confirmation of whether user age authentication has been completed. The authentication confirmation request signal may include information of at least one of the identifiers of the aerosol generator 10 and the charger 70.

[0235] The external device 80 can verify whether user age authentication has been completed in operation S1308. The external device 80 may include at least one of the following: an external server, a computing device provided at a retail store, and a user terminal.

[0236] For example, the external device 80 may be a computing device installed at a retail store. The user can perform user authentication through the computing device installed at the retail store that sells the aerosol generator 10. The computing device can output an input window via an application or program and acquire data corresponding to the user through the input window. The computing device can acquire at least one of the following: date of birth, age of the user, and unique identification number of the user, by acquiring an image of the user's identification document (such as a resident registration card, driver's license, or passport) via a camera or scanner installed in the computing device.

[0237] The computing device can determine whether the user is above a certain age based on the user information it has acquired.

[0238] For example, the external device 80 may be a user terminal. The user can perform user authentication via the user terminal. The user terminal can output an input window via an application or program and acquire data corresponding to the user via the input window. The user terminal can acquire at least one of the following: date of birth, age of the user, unique identification number of the user, etc., by acquiring an image of the user's identification document via a camera or scanner provided in the user terminal.

[0239] The user terminal can determine whether the user is above a certain age based on the user information it has acquired.

[0240] For example, the external device 80 may be an external server. The external server can receive data corresponding to the user from the user terminal or a computing device installed at the sales office. Based on the acquired user information, the external server can determine whether the user is above a certain age.

[0241] In operation S1309, if the user's age is authenticated, the external device 80 can generate user age authentication completion information and transmit it to the charger 70. The charger 70 can receive the user age authentication completion information (adult authentication completion information) from the external device 80.

[0242] The charger 70 can transmit a lock signal or an unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10 in S1310 operation.

[0243] The aerosol generator 10 can be locked or unlocked based on the received signal in operation S1311.

[0244] On the other hand, the S1302 operation can be performed regardless of the S1303 to S1306 operations. The charger 70 can communicate with the external device 80 after it has communicated with the aerosol generator 10 (after the S1301 operation) and before or after it receives a status signal from the aerosol generator 10.

[0245] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the aerosol generating device can be locked and unlocked via wireless charging communication.

[0246] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the shipping mode can be deactivated via wireless charging communication even when the aerosol generator is packaged.

[0247] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to restrict the use of an aerosol generator by a third party or minor who does not have the right to use it.

[0248] Referring to Figures 1 to 13, an aerosol generation system 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include an aerosol generator 10 and a charger 70. The aerosol generator 10 may include a first communication interface 11, a battery 16, and a first control unit 17. When the first control unit 17 receives a power signal wirelessly from the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11, it controls the battery 16 to charge, determines the state of the aerosol generator 10, including a locked or unlocked state, generates a state signal corresponding to the state of the aerosol generator 10, transmits the state signal to the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11 when charging of the battery 16 begins, and changes the aerosol generator 10 to an unlocked state when it receives an unlock signal from the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11.

[0249] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the first control unit 17 can change the aerosol generator 10 to a locked state when it receives a lock signal from the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11.

[0250] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the charger 70 may include a second communication interface 710 and a second control unit 740. The second control unit 740 may control the aerosol generator 10 to wirelessly transmit a power signal via the second communication interface 710, receive the status signal from the aerosol generator 10 via the second communication interface 710, determine the state of the aerosol generator 10 based on the status signal, transmit the unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10 via the second communication interface 710 if the state is locked, and transmit the lock signal to the aerosol generator 10 via the second communication interface 710 if the state is unlocked.

[0251] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the second control unit 740 receives user age authentication completion information from an external device, and if the state is locked and the user age authentication completion information is received, the unlock signal is transmitted to the aerosol generator 10 via the second communication interface 710.

[0252] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the charger 70 may include a second communication interface 710, a second control unit 740, and a second input / output interface 730. The second control unit 740 can receive one of the inputs selected from a lock input, an unlock input, and an off input via the second input / output interface 730, receive the status signal from the aerosol generator 10 via the second communication interface 710, and transmit the lock signal to the aerosol generator 10 if it receives the lock input when it receives the status signal, and transmit the unlock signal to the aerosol generator 10 when it receives the unlock input when it receives the status signal.

[0253] According to other aspects of this disclosure, when the status signal is received, the off input is received, and the lock signal or the unlock signal is not transmitted.

[0254] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the first control unit 17 determines that the aerosol generator 10 is in shipping mode, where the status signal transmitted to the charger 70 corresponds to the shipping mode, and if it receives the unlock signal from the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11, it can release the shipping mode.

[0255] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generator 10 may further include a heater 131 for heating an aerosol-generating substance and a first input / output interface 12. The locked state of the aerosol generator 10 is a state in which at least one of the heating function that supplies power to the heater 131 or the input / output function that controls the first input / output interface 12 is restricted, and the unlocked state of the aerosol generator 10 may be a state in which at least one of the heating function and the input / output function is not restricted.

[0256] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the first communication interface 11 can receive the power signal using a first operating frequency band and transmit the status signal using the same operating frequency band as the first frequency band.

[0257] An aerosol generator 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first communication interface 11 that communicates with a charger 70 of the aerosol generator 10, a battery 16, and a control unit 17, wherein the control unit 17, upon receiving a wireless power signal from the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11, controls the battery 16 to charge, determines the state of the aerosol generator 10, including a locked or unlocked state, generates a state signal corresponding to the state of the aerosol generator 10, transmits the state signal to the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11 when charging of the battery 16 begins, and changes the aerosol generator 10 to an unlocked state upon receiving an unlock signal from the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11.

[0258] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the control unit 17 can change the aerosol generator 10 to the unlocked state when it receives a lock signal from the charger 70 via the first communication interface 11.

[0259] According to other aspects of this disclosure, if the charger 70 receives a lock input via the input interface 730 of the charger 70, the lock signal is received from the charger 70; if the charger 70 receives an unlock input via the input interface 730 of the charger 70, the unlock signal is received from the charger 70; and if the charger 70 receives an off input via the input interface 730 of the charger 70, neither the lock signal nor the unlock signal is received.

[0260] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generator 10 may further include a heater 131 for heating an aerosol-generating substance and a first input / output interface 12. The locked state of the aerosol generator 10 is a state in which at least one of the heating function that supplies power to the heater 131 or the input / output function that controls the first input / output interface 12 is restricted, and the unlocked state of the aerosol generator 10 may be a state in which at least one of the heating function or the input / output function is restricted.

[0261] The specific or other embodiments of the above-mentioned embodiments of the present disclosure are not mutually exclusive or distinguishable. The specific or all elements of the above-mentioned embodiments of the present disclosure can be combined with or combined with other elements in terms of configuration or function.

[0262] For example, configuration A described in one embodiment of this disclosure and drawings and configuration B described in another embodiment of this disclosure and drawings can be combined with each other. That is, even if combinations between configurations are not directly described, such combinations are possible unless otherwise stated as impossible.

[0263] While the embodiments have been described above with reference to numerous exemplary examples, those skilled in the art in the field relating to the principles of this disclosure should understand that many other modifications and embodiments are possible. More specifically, a variety of modifications and variations are possible in the components and / or arrangements of the subject combinations within the scope of this disclosure, drawings, and appended claims. In addition to the modifications and variations of the components and / or arrangements, other applications will also become apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. Aerosol generating device, Includes charger, The aerosol generating apparatus is First communication interface and Battery and Includes a first control unit, The first control unit is, When a power signal is received wirelessly from the charger via the first communication interface, the system is controlled to charge the battery. Determine the state of the aerosol generator, including whether it is locked or unlocked, and generate a state signal corresponding to the state of the aerosol generator. When charging of the battery begins, the status signal is transmitted to the charger via the first communication interface. An aerosol generating system that, upon receiving an unlock signal from the charger via the first communication interface, changes the aerosol generating device to an unlocked state.

2. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the first control unit changes the aerosol generating device to the locked state when it receives a lock signal from the charger via the first communication interface.

3. The aforementioned charger, The second communication interface, Includes a second control unit, The second control unit is, A power signal is transmitted wirelessly to the aerosol generator via the second communication interface. The system receives the status signal from the aerosol generator via the second communication interface, and determines the state of the aerosol generator based on the status signal. If the state is locked, the unlock signal is transmitted to the aerosol generator via the second communication interface. The aerosol generation system according to claim 2, wherein when the state is unlocked, the lock signal is transmitted to the aerosol generation device via the second communication interface.

4. The second control unit further receives user age authentication completion information from an external device. The aerosol generation system according to claim 3, wherein when the state is locked and the user age authentication completion information is received, the unlock signal is transmitted to the aerosol generation device via the second communication interface.

5. The charger includes a second communication interface, a second control unit, and a second input / output interface. The second control unit is, The second input / output interface receives one of the following inputs: lock input, unlock input, and off input. The status signal is received from the aerosol generator via the second communication interface. When the status signal is received and the lock input is received, the lock signal is transmitted to the aerosol generator. The aerosol generating system according to claim 2, wherein when the status signal is received and the unlock input is received, the unlock signal is transmitted to the aerosol generating device.

6. The aerosol generation system according to claim 5, wherein when the status signal is received or the off input is received, the lock signal or the unlock signal is not transmitted.

7. The first control unit further, The aerosol generator is determined to be in the shipping mode state, and the status signal transmitted to the charger corresponds to the shipping mode state. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein when an unlock signal is received from the charger via the first communication interface, the shipping mode state is released.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus is A heater for heating aerosol-generating material, Further including a first input / output interface, The locked state of the aerosol generator is a state in which at least one of the following functions is restricted: the heating function that supplies power to the heater, or the input / output function that controls the first input / output interface. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the unlocked state of the aerosol generating device is a state in which the heating function and the input / output function are not restricted.

9. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1, wherein the first communication interface receives the power signal using a first operating frequency band and transmits the status signal using the same operating frequency band as the first operating frequency band.

10. Aerosol generating device, A first communication interface for communicating with the charger, Battery and Includes a control unit, The control unit, When a power signal is received wirelessly from the charger via the first communication interface, the system is controlled to charge the battery. Determine the state of the aerosol generator, including whether it is locked or unlocked, and generate a state signal corresponding to the state of the aerosol generator. When charging of the battery begins, the status signal is transmitted to the charger via the first communication interface. An aerosol generator that, upon receiving an unlock signal from the charger via the first communication interface, changes the aerosol generator to an unlocked state.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the control unit changes the aerosol generating apparatus to the locked state when it receives a lock signal from the charger via the first communication interface.

12. When the charger receives a lock input via the input interface of the charger, the lock signal transmitted from the charger is received via the first communication interface. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein when the charger receives an unlock input via the input interface of the charger, the unlock signal transmitted from the charger is received via the first communication interface.

13. A heater for heating aerosol-generating material, Further including a first input / output interface, The locked state of the aerosol generator is a state in which at least one of the following functions is restricted: the heating function that supplies power to the heater or the input / output function that controls the first input / output interface. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the unlocked state of the aerosol generating apparatus is a state in which the heating function and the input / output function are not restricted.

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