Aerosol generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol generating device includes a chamber for storing a liquid, a heater for heating the liquid, a resistance detection sensor for outputting a signal corresponding to a resistance value of the heater, and a control unit for calculating a temperature of the heater based on the resistance value of the heater. The control unit determines whether a temperature of the heater exceeds a first temperature in response to a supply of a predetermined sensing power to the heater in a first preheating period, and if the temperature of the heater exceeds the first temperature, determines whether a temperature of the heater exceeds a second temperature higher than the first temperature in response to a supply of the sensing power to the heater in a second preheating period, and if the temperature of the heater exceeds the second temperature, determines that the liquid is exhausted.

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 project] [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 generating apparatus that can determine whether a liquid aerosol generating substance is smoothly supplied to a liquid transfer means based on the heater temperature in the preheating section.

[0005] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can smoothly supply aerosol generating material to a liquid transport means when there is insufficient liquid aerosol generating material to the liquid transport means.

[0006] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generator that can accurately determine whether the liquid aerosol generating material has been exhausted based on the heater temperature during the preheating section. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described objectives may include a chamber for storing a liquid, a heater for heating the liquid, a heater temperature sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the temperature of the heater, and a control unit that monitors the temperature of the heater via the temperature sensor. The control unit may, in a first preheating section, determine whether the temperature of the heater exceeds a first temperature in response to the supply of predetermined sensing power to the heater, and if the temperature of the heater exceeds the first temperature, determine in a second preheating section whether the temperature of the heater exceeds a second temperature higher than the first temperature in response to the supply of sensing power to the heater, and if the temperature of the heater exceeds the second temperature, determine that the liquid has been consumed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to determine whether a liquid aerosol-generating substance is smoothly supplied to the liquid transfer means based on the heater temperature during the preheating section.

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, if there is insufficient liquid aerosol generating material in the liquid transport means, the aerosol generating material can be smoothly supplied to the liquid transport means.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to accurately determine whether the liquid aerosol generating material has been completely consumed based on the heater temperature during the preheating phase.

[0011] Any additional applicable scope of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of this disclosure, should be understood to be given only as examples.

[0012] The above and other objects, features, and other features of the present disclosure will be clearly understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] It is a diagram for explaining an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] It is a diagram for explaining an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] It is a diagram for explaining an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] It is a diagram for explaining a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] It is a diagram for explaining a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] It is a diagram for explaining the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8a] It is a flowchart showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8b] It is a flowchart showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] It is a diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] It is a diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] It is a diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] It is a diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] It is a diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] It is a diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an 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] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe a variety of components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by such terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing 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. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generator 10 may be located in the main body. In another embodiment, the aerosol generator 10 may consist of a cartridge for storing the aerosol-generating substance and a main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generator 10 may be located in at least one of the main body and the cartridge.

[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 (Registered Trademark), Bluetooth Low Power (BLE), Zigbee (Registered Trademark), and NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] The aerosol generation module 13 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance. Here, the aerosol-generating substance may be one or more substances in any of the various states that can generate aerosols, such as liquid, solid, or gel states, or a combination of two or more substances.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] Furthermore, the aerosol-generating substance may further contain aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0030] The aerosol generation module 13 may include at least one heater.

[0031] 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.

[0032] Electrically conductive tracks may contain electrically resistive 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] On the other hand, the aerosol generation module 13 can also generate aerosols from aerosol-generating materials by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

[0036] The aerosol generation module 13 can be described as a cartomizer, atomizer, or vaporizer.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] For example, the 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, a puff can mean the user's inhalation, which may be a situation in which the user draws something into their oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs through their mouth or nose.

[0040] 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.).

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

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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 a pressure sensor, a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a magnetic field sensor, and the like.

[0044] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a temperature sensor) that senses the temperature of the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13, the temperature of the aerosol generating material, etc. Here, the heater included in the aerosol generation module 13 can also serve as the temperature sensor. For example, the electrical resistive material of the heater may be a material that has a temperature coefficient of resistance. The sensor module 15 can sense the temperature of the heater by measuring the resistance of the heater, which changes with temperature.

[0045] 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).

[0046] For example, if the aerosol generator 10 includes a cartridge, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor (hereinafter referred to as a cartridge sensing sensor) that senses the attachment / detachment of the cartridge to / from the main unit, its position, etc.

[0047] Here, the stick sensing sensor and / or cartridge sensing sensor can be implemented by an inductance substrate sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC) using the Hall effect, and the like.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] The aerosol generator 10 may further include a protection circuit module (PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 16. The protection circuit module (PCM) may be positioned adjacent to the top surface of the battery 16. For example, the protection circuit module (PCM) can interrupt the circuit to the battery 16 in cases such as when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery 16, when an overvoltage is applied to the battery 16, or when an overcurrent flows through the battery 16, in order to prevent overcharging and over-discharging of the battery 16.

[0052] 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.

[0053] The aerosol generator 10 can also wirelessly receive power supplied from an external source via the communication interface 11. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can receive power wirelessly using an antenna included in the communication module for wireless communication, and can charge the battery 16 using the wirelessly supplied power.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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 on another hardware base.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] The control unit 17 can determine the occurrence of puffs via 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 using the sensing values ​​of the puff sensor.

[0059] 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 heater temperature is changed or maintained based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 14.

[0060] The control unit 17 can control the power supply to the heater to shut off under predetermined conditions. For example, the control unit 17 can control the power supply to the heater to shut off when the stick is removed and the cartridge is separated, when the number of puffs reaches a predetermined maximum number of puffs, when no puffs are detected for a predetermined period of time or when the remaining charge of the battery 16 falls below a predetermined value.

[0061] The control unit 17 can calculate the remaining amount of power stored in the battery 16 (hereinafter referred to as "remaining amount"). 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.

[0062] The control unit 17 can control the supply of power to the heater using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID).

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the heater temperature and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0065] On the other hand, while PWM and PID methods were described as examples of control methods for supplying power to the heater, 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.

[0066] On the other hand, the control unit 17 can control the heater 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 to supply a predetermined amount of power.

[0067] Figures 2 to 4 illustrate an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a main body 100 and / or a cartridge 200.

[0069] Referring to Figure 2, 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 stores aerosol generating material.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] The control unit 17 can determine whether the cartridge 200 is attached or detached using the cartridge sensing sensor included in the sensor module 150. For example, the cartridge sensing sensor can transmit a pulse current through one terminal connected to the cartridge 200 and detect whether the cartridge 200 is connected based on whether the pulse current is received through the other terminal.

[0073] The cartridge 200 may include a storage section 220 for storing an aerosol-generating substance and / or a heater 210 for heating the aerosol-generating substance in the storage section 220. For example, a liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) with the aerosol-generating substance may be placed inside the storage section 220, and 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.

[0074] The cartridge 200 may include a mouthpiece 225, which is the part inserted into the user's oral cavity and may include an outlet through which aerosols in the puff are expelled to the outside.

[0075] Referring to Figure 3, the cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 230 into which the stick 20 can be inserted. For example, the cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 230 formed by an inner wall (not shown) extending circumferentially along the direction in which the stick 20 is inserted. Here, the insertion space 230 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.

[0076] The insertion space 230 into which the stick 20 is inserted may be formed in a shape that corresponds to a part of the shape of the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 230. For example, if the stick 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the insertion space 230 may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0077] When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 230, the outer surface of the stick 20 is surrounded by the inner wall and may come into contact with the inner wall.

[0078] 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.

[0079] The user can inhale the aerosol by holding one end of the stick 20 in their mouth. The aerosol generated by the first heater 210 can pass through the stick 20 and be transmitted 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] The control unit 17 can initialize the current puff count stored in the memory 14 when the inserted stick 20 is removed.

[0082] The cartridge 200 may include a second heater 215 for heating the stick 20. The second heater 215 may be positioned in the cartridge 200 at a location corresponding to the position of the stick 20 when the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 230. The second heater 215 may consist of an electrically conductive heater and / or an induction heater. The second heater 215 can heat the inside and / or outside of the stick 20 using power supplied from the battery 16.

[0083] Referring to Figure 4, 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 an aerosol generating substance. The main body 100 may be configured so that a stick 20 can be inserted into an insertion space 130.

[0084] The aerosol generator 100 may include a first heater 210 for heating the aerosol-generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and / or a second heater 115 for heating the stick 20 inserted into the main body 100. For example, the aerosol generator 100 can generate an aerosol by using the first heater 210 and the second heater 115 to heat the aerosol-generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and the stick 20, respectively.

[0085] The stick 20 may be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the stick 20 may 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 formed in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second part.

[0086] The following description is based on an embodiment in which the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130 formed in the housing 101 of the main body 100.

[0087] Figures 5 and 6 illustrate a stick according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] Referring to Figure 5, the cigarette 20 according to one embodiment may include a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. Referring to Figure 4, the first part described above may include the tobacco rod 21. Referring to Figure 4, the second part described above may include the filter rod 22.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] The third wrapper 243 can be made from hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is 88 g / m². 2 ~96g / m 2It can be included in the range of. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2 It can be included in the range of. Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 can be included in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 can be 125 μm.

[0094] The fourth wrapper 244 can be made of oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 is 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 It can be included in the range of. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 is 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2 It can be included in the range of. Also, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 can be included in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 can be 125 μm.

[0095] The fifth wrapper 245 can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) can be paper specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are improved compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 is 57 g / m 2 ​​​​​​​​​​​​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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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 may be 10 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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 the channels may be passages through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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 10 during smoking.

[0115] 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.

[0116] The diameter and overall length of stick 30 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of stick 20 in Figure 5. 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] Furthermore, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may also function to generate flavor. The capsule 34 may also function to generate aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavor is enclosed in a film. The capsule 34 may, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0120] The first wrapper 351 can be made by bonding a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, to a general filter packaging paper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be 50.3 μm. Also, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm. For example, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be 6.3 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 50 g / m². 2 ~55g / m 2 It may fall within that range. For example, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 53 g / m². 2 It is possible.

[0121] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be made from general filter packaging paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be porous packaging paper or non-porous packaging paper.

[0122] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be, but is not limited to, 35,000 CU. The thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. For example, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be 78 μm. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 20 g / m². 2 ~25g / m 2 It may fall within that range. For example, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 23.5 g / m². 2 It is possible.

[0123] 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 is 20 g / m². 2 ~25g / m 2 It may fall within that range. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 is 21 g / m². 2 It is possible.

[0124] The fourth wrapper 354 can be made from PLA laminated paper. Here, the PLA laminated paper may be a triple-layered paper consisting of 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.

[0125] The fifth wrapper 355 can be made from sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) may be a specially manufactured paper that has 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] Referring to Figure 7, the aerosol generator 10 may include a resistance detection sensor 150, a temperature sensor 153, a puff sensor 155, a battery 16, a power supply circuit 160, and / or a heater 210.

[0133] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the main unit 100 may be equipped with a resistance detection sensor 150, a temperature sensor 153, a puff sensor 155, a battery 16 and / or a power supply circuit 160. The cartridge 200 may be equipped with a first heater 210.

[0134] When the main unit 100 and the cartridge 200 are coupled, the resistance detection sensor 150 of the main unit 100 may be electrically connected to the first heater 210 of the cartridge 200. For example, the resistance detection sensor 150 may be a current sensor that detects current.

[0135] The power supply circuit 160 located inside the main unit 100 can supply power to the first heater 210 using the power stored in the battery 16. Here, the amount of power supplied from the power supply circuit 160 to the first heater 210 can be adjusted by the control unit 17.

[0136] The power supply circuit 160 may include a converter that converts the voltage output from the battery 16. For example, the converter may include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the battery 16. In this disclosure, a buck converter is described as an example of a voltage conversion configuration, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the power supply circuit 160 may also include a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, and the like.

[0137] The power supply circuit 160 may include at least one switching element that operates under the control of the control unit 17. Here, the operation of the switching element can supply power to the first heater 210. For example, the switching element may be a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or a field-effect transistor (FET).

[0138] When the first heater 210 and the resistance detection sensor 150 are electrically connected, the same level of current can flow through both the first heater 210 and the resistance detection sensor 150. Here, the resistance value Rs of the shunt resistor provided in the resistance detection sensor 150 may be a value that does not change with temperature.

[0139] The control unit 17 can determine the voltage V1 applied to the first heater 210 and the resistance detection sensor 150 based on the power supplied to the first heater 210 from the power supply circuit 160, the current flowing through the first heater 210 and the resistance detection sensor 150, etc. The control unit 17 can calculate the voltage V2 applied to the shunt resistor based on the current flowing through the shunt resistor of the resistance detection sensor 150 and the resistance value Rs of the shunt resistor. Here, the control unit 17 can calculate the difference (V1-V2) between the voltage V1 applied to the first heater 210 and the resistance detection sensor 150 and the voltage V2 applied to the shunt resistor as the voltage applied to the first heater 210. Furthermore, the control unit 17 can calculate the resistance value Rh of the first heater 210 based on the voltage applied to the first heater 210 and the current flowing through the first heater 210.

[0140] Therefore, even while the core is being heated by the first heater 210, the control unit 17 can determine the temperature of the first heater 210 in real time using the current flowing through the first heater 210, which is calculated via the resistance detection sensor 150.

[0141] On the other hand, the resistance of the first heater 210 is that of a material with a temperature coefficient of resistance, and the resistance value Rh of the first heater 210 can change with temperature. The control unit 17 can calculate the temperature of the first heater 210 based on the temperature coefficient of resistance of the first heater 210, the resistance value Rh of the first heater 210, and the resistance value of the first heater 210 at a reference temperature, using a calculation formula for the temperature of the first heater 210. Here, the calculation formula for the temperature of the first heater 210 can be expressed by the following mathematical formula 1.

[0142]

number

[0143] In the above mathematical formula 1, TCR is the temperature coefficient of resistance of the first heater 210, T1 is the temperature of the first heater 210, R1 is the resistance value of the first heater 210, T0 is the reference temperature, and R0 may be the resistance value of the first heater 210 at the reference temperature. Here, T0 is 25°C, and R0 may be the resistance value of the first heater 210 at 25°C.

[0144] On the other hand, although the current sensor is described in this figure as being connected in series with the first heater 210, the present invention is not limited to this, and a temperature sensor that is positioned adjacent to the first heater 210 to sense the temperature of the first heater 210, a voltage sensor that senses the voltage applied to the first heater 210, etc. can be provided as resistance detection sensors 150.

[0145] The temperature sensor 153 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the gas flowing into the aerosol generator 10. For example, the temperature sensor 153 may be placed in a flow path through which the gas flowing into the aerosol generator 10 flows. In this embodiment, the temperature sensor 153 is described as being embodied by a sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the temperature of the gas flowing into the aerosol generator 10, but is not limited to this. For example, the temperature sensor 153 may be a sensor placed adjacent to the battery 16 to detect the temperature of the battery 16.

[0146] The puff sensor 155 can output a signal corresponding to a puff. For example, the puff sensor 155 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 10. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 10 may correspond to the pressure of the airflow passage through which the gas flows. In this embodiment, the puff sensor 155 is described as being embodied by a pressure sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 10, but it is not limited to this.

[0147] On the other hand, according to one embodiment, the temperature sensor 153 and the puff sensor 155 can also be realized by a single configuration.

[0148] The control unit 17 can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the signal received from the puff sensor 155. For example, the control unit 17 can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor 150. For example, the control unit 17 can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor 150. For example, the control unit 17 can determine the time at which a puff occurred (hereinafter referred to as the puff time) based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor 150.

[0149] The control unit 17 can control the aerosol generation module 13 based on the generation of puffs. For example, the control unit 17 can control the aerosol generation module 13 to supply power to the first heater 210 included in the aerosol generation module 13 based on the generation of puffs.

[0150] The control unit 17 can update the data stored in the memory 14 based on the occurrence of a puff. For example, the control unit 17 can update the current puff count stored in the memory 14 in response to the occurrence of a puff. For example, the control unit 17 can update the data about the puff intensity stored in the memory 14 in response to the occurrence of a puff.

[0151] Figures 8a and 8b are flowcharts showing the operation method of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0152] Referring to Figure 8a, the aerosol generator 10 can supply a predetermined power to the first heater 210 in the first preheating section during operation S801. Here, the predetermined power may be the power supplied to the first heater 210 to detect its temperature (hereinafter referred to as sensing power).

[0153] In this embodiment, the section in which aerosol is generated by heating the first heater 210 in response to the detection of a puff by the puff sensor 155 can be called the heating section. On the other hand, the section in which no puff is detected, for example, the section from when the puff is finished until when the puff is detected again, can be called the preheating section.

[0154] The aerosol generator 10 can supply a predetermined minimum power (hereinafter referred to as preheating power) to the first heater 210 based on the start of the preheating section. Here, the preheating power may be lower than the sensing power. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can supply preheating power to the first heater 210 from the time the preheating section starts.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator 10 can supply sensing power higher than the preheating power to the first heater 210 after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the preheating section. Here, the predetermined time may correspond to the time during which liquid is supplied to the liquid transfer means (e.g., the wick) above a certain level. On the other hand, the time during which sensing power is supplied to the first heater 210 may be shorter than the predetermined time. For example, the predetermined time may be set to 3 seconds, and the time during which sensing power is supplied may be set to 0.1 seconds.

[0156] The aerosol generator 10 can determine, in operation S802, whether the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power exceeds a predetermined first temperature. Here, the first temperature may be the temperature corresponding to when the liquid is supplied to the liquid transfer means (e.g., the core) below a certain level (e.g., 210°C). For example, if the amount of aerosol-generating material flowing to the liquid transfer means temporarily decreases due to bubbles formed in the chamber, etc., while the liquid aerosol-generating material has not been exhausted, the temperature of the first heater 210 may temporarily rise above the first temperature due to the supply of sensing power.

[0157] In operation S803, the aerosol generator 10 can interrupt preheating of the first heater 210 when its temperature exceeds a first temperature. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can interrupt the supply of preheating power to the first heater 210. This allows for a smoother supply of liquid to the liquid transfer means (e.g., the wick) until the heating section begins, while the liquid aerosol generating material is not completely consumed.

[0158] The aerosol generator 10 can determine whether a puff has been detected via the puff sensor 155 in operation S804. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that a puff has occurred if the internal pressure value of the aerosol generator 10 is less than the reference pressure value. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that a puff has occurred if the change in the internal pressure value of the aerosol generator 10 is greater than or equal to the minimum change.

[0159] The aerosol generator 10 can perform heating of the first heater 210 based on puff detection in operation S805. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can supply power to the first heater 210 based on a predetermined temperature profile stored in memory 14 to raise the temperature of the first heater 210 to a temperature suitable for aerosol generation. Here, the power supplied to the first heater 210 during the heating section (hereinafter referred to as heating power) may be higher than the sensing power.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the predetermined power supplied to the first heater 210 in the heating section may vary depending on the number of puffs, the time elapsed in the heating section, and so on. For example, the power supplied to the first heater 210 while a puff is detected may decrease in accordance with the elapsed time while the puff is detected.

[0161] The aerosol generator 10 can decide whether to terminate heating to the first heater 210 in operation S806. The aerosol generator 10 can terminate heating to the first heater 210 when puffing is complete. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that puffing is complete if the internal pressure value of the aerosol generator 10 is less than the reference pressure value. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that puffing is complete if the slope corresponding to the change in the internal pressure value of the aerosol generator 10 is greater than 0.

[0162] The aerosol generator 10 can supply sensing power to the first heater 210 during the second preheating section in operation S807. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can supply sensing power to the first heater 210 after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the second preheating section.

[0163] The aerosol generator 10 can determine, in S808 operation, whether the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power exceeds a predetermined second temperature. Here, the second temperature may be a temperature higher than the first temperature. The second temperature may be the temperature corresponding to the case where the liquid contained in the liquid transfer means (e.g., the wick) is below a minimum level due to liquid depletion (e.g., 240°C).

[0164] In operation S809, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that the liquid aerosol generating material has been exhausted if the temperature of the first heater 210 exceeds the second temperature. In response to the exhaustion of the aerosol generating material, the aerosol generator 10 can cut off the power supply to the first heater 210. On the other hand, the aerosol generator 10 can maintain the state in which the power supply to the first heater 210 is cut off until the cartridge 200 is replaced. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can cut off the power supply to the first heater 210 despite the detection of a puff by the puff sensor 155.

[0165] Referring to Figure 8b, the aerosol generator 10, in operation S810, can determine whether a puff is detected via the puff sensor 155 if the temperature of the first heater 210 is below the first temperature in the first preheating section, or below the second temperature in the second preheating section. Here, the aerosol generator 10 can supply preheating power to the first heater 210 until a puff is detected.

[0166] The aerosol generator 10 can perform heating of the first heater 210 based on puff detection in operation S811.

[0167] According to one embodiment, if the temperature of the first heater 210 detected in the first preheating section is below the first temperature, the first heating power can be supplied to the first heater 210 in the subsequent heating section. On the other hand, if the temperature of the first heater 210 detected in the first preheating section exceeds the first temperature, the second heating power, which is lower than the first heating power, can be supplied to the first heater 210 in the subsequent heating section. In other words, if the aerosol generator 10 determines that the level of liquid supplied to the liquid transfer means (e.g., the core) is below a certain level, it can supply relatively low power to the first heater 210 in the heating section. This allows for a smoother supply of liquid to the liquid transfer means (e.g., the core) until sensing power is supplied to the first heater 210 in the second preheating section, while the liquid aerosol generating material is not exhausted.

[0168] According to one embodiment, if the temperature of the first heater 210 detected in the first preheating section is below the first temperature, power can be supplied to the first heater 210 during the first heating time in the subsequent heating section. On the other hand, if the temperature of the first heater 210 detected in the first preheating section exceeds the first temperature, power can be supplied to the first heater 210 during a second heating time that is shorter than the first heating time in the subsequent heating section. In other words, if the aerosol generator 10 determines that the level of liquid supplied to the liquid transfer means (e.g., the core) is below a certain level, power can be supplied to the first heater 210 during a relatively short time in the heating section. This allows for a smoother supply of liquid to the liquid transfer means (e.g., the core) until sensing power is supplied to the first heater 210 in the second preheating section, while the liquid aerosol generating material is not exhausted.

[0169] In operation S812, the aerosol generator 10 can decide whether to terminate heating to the first heater 210. The aerosol generator 10 can terminate heating to the first heater 210 when puffing is complete. Here, based on the completion of puffing, the aerosol generator 10 can supply preheating power to the first heater 210 in the first preheating section. The aerosol generator 10 can also determine whether the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power in the first preheating section exceeds a predetermined first temperature.

[0170] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, preheating power P0 can be supplied to the first heater 210 until time t1, which is the first preheating section. While preheating power P0 is supplied to the first heater 210, the temperature of the first heater 210 can be maintained at the target temperature T0 for the preheating section.

[0171] On the other hand, sensing power P1 can be supplied to the first heater 210 from time t1 to time t2, after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the first preheating section. Here, if the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power P1 is lower than the first temperature T1, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that the liquid transfer means (e.g., the wick) contains liquid at or above a certain level. Furthermore, preheating power P0 can be continuously supplied to the first heater 210 even after time t2.

[0172] When a puff is detected at time t3, heating power P2 can be supplied to the first heater 210. Here, an aerosol can be generated by supplying heating power P2 to the first heater 210.

[0173] On the other hand, preheating power P0 can be supplied to the first heater 210 from time t4 when the puffing process ends. Here, if the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power P1 in the previous preheating section is below the first temperature T1, the first preheating section can be started again from time t4.

[0174] Sensing power P1 can be supplied to the first heater 210 from time t5 to time t6, after a predetermined time has elapsed from time t4. Here, if the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power P1 exceeds the first temperature T1, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that the liquid in the liquid transfer means (e.g., the wick) is contained below a certain level. In addition, if the temperature of the first heater 210 exceeds the first temperature T1, the aerosol generator 10 can interrupt the supply of preheating power P0 to the first heater 210.

[0175] If a puff is detected at time t7, heating power P2 can be supplied to the first heater 210. Also, preheating power P0 can be supplied to the first heater 210 from time t8 when the puff ends. Here, if the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power P1 in the previous preheating section exceeds the first temperature T1, the second preheating section can be started from time t8.

[0176] Sensing power P1 can be supplied to the first heater 210 from time t9 to time t10, after a predetermined time has elapsed from time t8. Here, if the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power P1 is lower than the second temperature T2, it can be determined that the liquid aerosol generating substance has not been completely depleted. Furthermore, preheating power P0 can be continuously supplied to the first heater 210 even after time t10.

[0177] On the other hand, referring to Figures 11 and 12, preheating power P0 can be supplied to the first heater 210 until time t1, which is the first preheating section. While preheating power P0 is supplied to the first heater 210, the temperature of the first heater 210 can be maintained at the target temperature T0 in the preheating section.

[0178] On the other hand, sensing power P1 can be supplied to the first heater 210 from time t1 to time t2, after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the first preheating section. Here, if the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power P1 exceeds the first temperature T1, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that the liquid in the liquid transfer means (e.g., the wick) is contained below a certain level. Furthermore, if the temperature of the first heater 210 exceeds the first temperature T1, the aerosol generator 10 can interrupt the supply of preheating power P0 to the first heater 210.

[0179] If a puff is detected at time t3, heating power P2 can be supplied to the first heater 210. Also, preheating power P0 can be supplied to the first heater 210 from time t4 when the puff ends. Here, if the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power P1 in the previous preheating section exceeds the first temperature T1, the second preheating section can be started from time t4.

[0180] Sensing power P1 can be supplied to the first heater 210 from time t5 to time t6, after a predetermined time has elapsed from time t4. Here, if the temperature of the first heater 210 corresponding to the supply of sensing power P1 is lower than the second temperature T2, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that the liquid aerosol generating substance has been exhausted.

[0181] The aerosol generator 10 can cut off the power supply to the first heater 210 from time t6 in response to the exhaustion of the liquid aerosol generating material.

[0182] According to one embodiment, a message regarding the depletion of the liquid aerosol generating substance can be output to the user in response to the depletion of the aerosol generating substance. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can output a screen corresponding to the depletion of the aerosol generating substance via a display. For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can emit light corresponding to the depletion of the aerosol generating substance using a light-emitting diode (LED). For example, the aerosol generating device 10 can generate vibrations corresponding to the depletion of the aerosol generating substance using a motor.

[0183] Referring to Figure 13, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an insertion space for a cigarette 20 may be formed at the upper end of the housing 201 of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0184] The insertion space may be formed by recessing the housing 201 inward to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the cigarette 20 can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the region of the cigarette 20 containing the aerosol-generating material. For example, in the case of an aerosol generator 10 that can use the cigarette 20 shown in Figure 5, the depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the tobacco rod 21 of the cigarette 20.

[0185] A battery 16, a printed circuit board 1310, and a heater may be placed inside the housing 201 of the aerosol generator 10.

[0186] Each component of the aerosol generator 10 may be mounted on one and / or the other side of the printed circuit board 1310. The components mounted on the printed circuit board 1310 can transmit or receive signals from each other via the wiring layers of the printed circuit board 910. For example, the printed circuit board 1310 may be mounted with at least one communication module included in the communication interface 11, at least one sensor included in the sensor module 15, and the control unit 17.

[0187] The printed circuit board 1310 may be positioned adjacent to the battery 16. For example, the printed circuit board 1310 may be positioned so that one side faces the battery 16.

[0188] A display 1320 may be located on one side of the housing 201. The display 1320 can display a screen in response to signals transmitted from the control unit 17.

[0189] A power terminal 1330 may be located on one side of the housing 201 of the aerosol generator 10. The power terminal 1330 may be a wired terminal for wired communication such as USB.

[0190] A power supply circuit may be placed between the battery 16 and the power terminal 1330. The power supply circuit can transmit power supplied from an external source via the power terminal 1330 to the battery 16. A power line 1335 that supplies power may be connected to the power terminal 1330. For example, the power terminal 1330 may be coupled to a connector for the power line 1335. The control unit 17 can determine whether the power line 1335 is connected to the power terminal 1330. For example, the control unit 17 can determine whether the power line 1335 is connected to the power terminal 1330 by the signal generated when the power terminal 1330 and the power line 1335 are connected.

[0191] A motor 1340 that generates vibrations may be located inside the housing 101. The motor 1340 can adjust the period and / or intensity of the vibrations based on signals transmitted from the control unit 17.

[0192] The structure of the aerosol generator 10 is not limited to that shown in Figure 13, and the arrangement of components such as the battery 16, printed circuit board 1310, display 1320, power terminal 1330, and motor 1340 may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0193] According to one embodiment, if a second heater 115 for heating the stick 20 is provided, the aerosol generator 10 can start operation for aerosol generation based on the insertion of the stick 20. The second heater 115 can be called a stick heater 115. For example, when the insertion of the stick 20 into the insertion space 130 is detected, the aerosol generator 10 can preheat the second heater 115. For example, once the preheating of the second heater 115 is completed, the aerosol generator 10 can supply preheating power to the first heater 210.

[0194] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator 10 can detect the resistance value of the first heater 210 based on the start of operation for aerosol generation. Here, the detected resistance value of the first heater 210 can be determined as the resistance value of the first heater 210 at a reference temperature used in a calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the first heater 210. On the other hand, the reference temperature used in the calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the first heater 210 may correspond to the temperature of the gas detected via the temperature sensor 153 based on the start of operation for aerosol generation. That is, the resistance value of the first heater 210 and the temperature of the gas detected after the start of operation for aerosol generation but before power supply to the first heater 210 is started can be used in the calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the first heater 210.

[0195] On the other hand, if a user uses multiple sticks 20 in succession, they can insert another stick 20 into the insertion space 130 before the first heater 210 has cooled sufficiently. Also, if the aerosol generator 10 is stored in a low-temperature environment, even if a user uses the aerosol generator 10 in a normal temperature environment, the temperature of the first heater 210 may be relatively low when the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space 130. In such cases, accurate detection of the reference temperature used in the calculation formula for determining the temperature of the first heater 210 and / or the resistance value of the first heater 210 at the reference temperature may be required.

[0196] According to one embodiment, if the aerosol generator 10 includes a second heater 115 for heating the stick 20, it is possible to detect a reference temperature and / or the resistance value of the first heater 210 at the reference temperature, which are used in a calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the first heater 210 based on the power supply to the second heater 115.

[0197] Referring to Figure 14, the aerosol generator 10 can perform a preheating operation of the second heater 115 from time t0, when the insertion of the stick 20 into the insertion space 130 is detected, until time t1, which corresponds to the target temperature Tpre for the temperature of the second heater 115. Here, as time elapses from time t0 to time t1, the temperature of the second heater 210 may change to a temperature corresponding to the temperature of the environment in which the user uses the aerosol generator 10. Taking this into consideration, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the temperature of the gas detected via the temperature sensor 153 at time t2, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the preheating operation of the second heater 115, as the reference temperature used in the calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the first heater 210. In addition, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the resistance value of the second heater 115 detected at time t2, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the preheating operation of the second heater 115, as the resistance value of the first heater 210 at the reference temperature. Here, the predetermined time can be set to correspond to time t1, when the preheating operation of the second heater 115 is completed. For example, time t2 may be 2 seconds earlier than time t1.

[0198] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to determine whether the liquid aerosol generating substance is smoothly supplied to the liquid transfer means based on the temperature of the heater 210 in the preheating section.

[0199] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, if there is insufficient liquid aerosol generating material in the liquid transport means, the aerosol generating material can be smoothly supplied to the liquid transport means.

[0200] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to accurately determine whether the liquid aerosol generating material has been completely consumed based on the temperature of the heater 210 during the preheating section.

[0201] Referring to Figures 1 to 14, an aerosol generating apparatus 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a chamber 220 for storing liquid, a heater 210 for heating the liquid, a resistance detection sensor 150 that outputs a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater 210, and a control unit 17 that calculates the temperature of the heater 210 based on the resistance value of the heater 210. The control unit 17 determines in a first preheating section whether the temperature of the heater 210 exceeds a first temperature in response to the supply of predetermined sensing power to the heater 210, and if the temperature of the heater 210 exceeds the first temperature, the control unit 17 determines in a second preheating section whether the temperature of the heater 210 exceeds a second temperature higher than the first temperature in response to the supply of the sensing power to the heater 210, and if the temperature of the heater 210 exceeds the second temperature, it can determine that the liquid has been consumed.

[0202] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, a heating section in which an aerosol is generated by heating the liquid may begin in conjunction with the end of the first preheating section, and a second preheating section may begin in conjunction with the end of the heating section.

[0203] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 17 can control the heater 210 to supply preheating power lower than the sensing power based on the start of the first preheating section, and to supply the sensing power to the heater 210 after a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the first preheating section.

[0204] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the time for which the sensing power is supplied to the heater 210 may be shorter than the predetermined time.

[0205] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 17 may cut off the power supply to the heater 210 until the first preheating section ends if the temperature of the heater 210 exceeds the first temperature.

[0206] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure,

[0207] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the sensing power may be lower than the heating power supplied to the heater 210 in response to the generation of aerosols by heating the liquid.

[0208] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generator 10 may further include a housing 101 having an insertion space 130 formed therein, and a stick heater 115 for heating a stick 20 inserted into the insertion space 130. The control unit 17 can control the start of power supply to the stick heater 115 based on the insertion of the stick 20 into the insertion space 130, and can calculate the temperature of the heater 210 based on the resistance value of the heater 210 detected at a specific point in time after a predetermined time has elapsed since the power supply to the stick heater 115 was disclosed.

[0209] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generator 10 may further include a temperature sensor 153 for sensing the temperature of the gas flowing into the housing 101. The control unit 17 may calculate the temperature of the heater 210 based on the temperature of the gas detected at a particular time and the resistance value of the heater 210.

[0210] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the control unit 17 can control the supply of a first heating power to the heater 210 in the heating section where an aerosol is generated by heating the liquid when the temperature of the heater 210 is below the first temperature, and can control the supply of a second heating power lower than the first heating power to the heater 210 when the temperature of the heater 210 exceeds the first temperature.

[0211] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generating device 10 may further include an output device comprising a motor 1340 for generating vibrations. When the control unit 17 determines that the liquid has been exhausted, it may generate vibrations corresponding to the exhaustion of the liquid via the motor 1340.

[0212] 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.

[0213] 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.

[0214] 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. A chamber formed to store liquid, A heater for heating the aforementioned liquid, A resistance detection sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater, Includes a control unit, The control unit, The temperature of the heater is calculated based on the resistance value of the heater. In the first preheating section, based on the supply of sensing power to the heater, it is determined whether the heater temperature exceeds a first temperature, and if the heater temperature exceeds the first temperature, preheating of the heater is interrupted. If the sensing power is supplied to the heater in a heating section that occurs after the first preheating section, and which occurs after the heating section in which aerosols are generated, and if it is determined that the heater temperature exceeds the first temperature, then it is determined whether the heater temperature exceeds the second temperature which is higher than the first temperature. An aerosol generating apparatus characterized in that it determines that the liquid has been consumed when the temperature of the heater exceeds the second temperature.

2. The heating section begins in response to the end of the first preheating section. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the second preheating section begins in response to the end of the heating section.

3. The control unit, Based on the start of the first preheating section, a preheating power lower than the sensing power is supplied to the heater. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the first preheating section, the sensing power is supplied to the heater.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the time for which the sensing power is supplied to the heater is shorter than the predetermined time.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that when the temperature of the heater exceeds the first temperature, the control unit cuts off the supply of additional sensing power to the heater until the first preheating section ends.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensing power is lower than the heating power supplied to the heater to generate an aerosol by heating the liquid.

7. A housing with an insertion space formed therein, The invention further includes a stick heater for heating a stick located in the insertion space, The control unit further, When the stick is positioned in the insertion space, power supply to the stick heater is started. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the temperature of the heater is calculated based on the resistance value of the heater detected at a specific point in time after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of power supply to the stick heater.

8. The housing further includes a temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the gas flowing into the housing, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, further characterized in that the control unit calculates the temperature of the heater based on the temperature of the gas detected at the specific time and the resistance value of the heater.

9. The control unit further, When the temperature of the heater is below the first temperature, the first heating power is supplied to the heater in the heating section where an aerosol is generated by heating the liquid. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the temperature of the heater exceeds the first temperature, a second heating power lower than the first heating power is supplied to the heater.

10. It further includes a motor that generates vibrations, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized in that, when the control unit determines that the liquid has been exhausted, it controls the motor to generate vibrations corresponding to the exhaustion of the liquid.

11. A chamber formed to store liquid aerosol-generating material, A heater for heating the liquid aerosol generating material, A resistance detection sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater, Includes a control unit, The control unit, The temperature of the heater is calculated based on the resistance value of the heater. In the first preheating section, based on the supply of sensing power to the heater, it is determined whether the heater temperature exceeds a first temperature, and if the heater temperature exceeds the first temperature, preheating of the heater is interrupted. After it is determined that the heater temperature has exceeded the first temperature, in a heating section that occurs after the first preheating section, and which occurs after the heating section in which aerosols are generated, it is determined that the heater temperature has exceeded a second temperature that is higher than the first temperature, based on the supply of sensing power to the heater. An aerosol generating apparatus characterized in that it determines that the liquid aerosol generating substance has been exhausted when the temperature of the heater exceeds the second temperature.

12. A housing with an insertion space formed therein, The invention further includes a stick heater for heating a stick located in the insertion space, The control unit further, After the stick is positioned in the insertion space, power supply to the stick heater is started. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the temperature of the heater is calculated based on the resistance value of the heater detected a predetermined time after the start of power supply to the stick heater.

13. The housing further includes a temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the gas flowing through it. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, further characterized in that the control unit calculates the temperature of the heater based on the temperature of the gas and the resistance value of the heater.

14. The control unit further, When the heater temperature is below the first temperature, the first heating power is supplied to the heater in the heating section where an aerosol is generated by heating the liquid aerosol generating substance. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, when the temperature of the heater exceeds the first temperature, a second heating power lower than the first heating power is supplied to the heater.

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