Aerosol generating apparatus and its operating method

Abstract

An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a heater for heating a cigarette, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater, a timer for counting the current date, and a control unit for controlling power supplied to the heater through a control signal, wherein the control unit calculates a heating time of the cigarette using the temperature sensor, sets a threshold based on the current date, and supplies power to the heater according to a basic temperature profile if the heating time is less than the threshold, and supplies power to the heater according to a first correction profile if the heating time is greater than or equal to the threshold.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus and a method for operating the same. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative smoking methods to conventional cigarettes. For example, there is growing demand for methods that generate aerosols by heating the aerosol-generating substances within a cigarette, rather than by burning the cigarette to produce aerosols. As a result, research into heated cigarettes or heated aerosol generators is progressing actively.

[0003] On the other hand, water has a higher specific heat than air, and therefore a higher heat capacity at the same temperature. This can lead to a problem where users feel that inhaling aerosols with a high water content is hotter than inhaling air at the same temperature. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] Temperature control of the heater is extremely important in aerosol generation devices.

[0005] On the other hand, the surrounding environment must be taken into consideration when controlling the temperature of the heater in an aerosol generator. Specifically, in controlling the heater temperature, the need to reflect seasonal factors becomes even greater in hot and humid summers and cold and dry winters.

[0006] The present invention aims to distinguish between summer and other seasons by utilizing an internal timer included in the aerosol generator, and to precisely control the heater temperature of the aerosol generator to reflect seasonal characteristics.

[0007] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device and a method for operating the same that can distinguish between ordinary cigarettes and over-moistened cigarettes.

[0008] The present invention provides an aerosol generating apparatus and a method for operating the same, which include temperature profiles corresponding to regular cigarettes and humidified cigarettes, respectively. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above problems includes a heater for heating a cigarette, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater, a timer for counting the current date, and a control unit for controlling the power supplied to the heater via a control signal. The control unit uses the temperature sensor to calculate the heating time of the cigarette, sets a threshold based on the current date, supplies power to the heater using a basic temperature profile if the heating time is less than the threshold, and supplies power to the heater using a first correction profile if the heating time is equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0010] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes the steps of: heating a cigarette with a heater; measuring the temperature of the heater with a temperature sensor; counting the current date with a timer; and controlling the power supplied to the heater through a control signal. The power control step involves using the temperature sensor to calculate the heating time of the cigarette, setting a threshold based on the current date, supplying power to the heater using a basic temperature profile if the heating time is less than the threshold, and supplying power to the heater using a first correction profile if the heating time is equal to or greater than the threshold. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] The aerosol generating apparatus and its operating method according to various embodiments of the present invention can distinguish between ordinary cigarettes and overheated cigarettes based on the heating time of the cigarette.

[0012] Furthermore, various embodiments of the present invention can provide temperature profiles corresponding to both regular cigarettes and over-humidified cigarettes, respectively.

[0013] In addition, various embodiments of the present invention can distinguish between summer and other seasons and precisely control the temperature of the heater of the aerosol generating device in accordance with seasonal characteristics.

[0014] The effects according to the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and the effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] [Figure 1] It is a drawing showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] It is a drawing showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] It is a drawing showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] It is a drawing showing an example of a cigarette. [Figure 5] It is a drawing showing an example of a cigarette. [Figure 6] It is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. [Figure 7A] It is a perspective view showing the appearance of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] In the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A, it is a perspective view showing an operating state in which some components are separated. [Figure 8] It is an illustrative diagram for explaining the basic temperature profile of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 9A] It is an illustrative diagram for explaining the first correction profile of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 9B] It is an illustrative diagram for explaining the second correction profile of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart for explaining the operation method of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, the aerosol generating device includes a heater for heating a cigarette, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the heater, a timer for counting the current date, and a control unit for controlling the power supplied to the heater via a control signal. The control unit uses the temperature sensor to calculate the heating time of the cigarette, sets a threshold based on the current date, supplies power to the heater using a basic temperature profile if the heating time is less than the threshold, and supplies power to the heater using a first correction profile if the heating time is equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0017] According to one aspect of the present invention, the control unit distinguishes between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date, and sets the thresholds to a first threshold corresponding to the first season and a second threshold corresponding to the second season.

[0018] According to one aspect of the present invention, the basic temperature profile includes a first preheating section and a first smoking section, and the first correction profile includes a second preheating section and a second smoking section, wherein the second preheating section is longer than the first preheating section.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first preheating section includes a first preheating rise section, a first preheating hold section, and a first preheating fall section, the second preheating section includes a second preheating rise section, a 2-1 preheating hold section, a second preheating fall section, and a 2-2 preheating hold section, and the first preheating rise section is shorter than the second preheating rise section.

[0020] According to one aspect of the present invention, the 2-1 preheating and holding section is longer than the first preheating and holding section, and the temperature change in the second preheating and descent section is greater than the temperature change in the first preheating and descent section.

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first smoking section includes a first smoking descent section and a first smoking hold section, and the second smoking section includes a second smoking hold section.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present invention, the control unit distinguishes between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date, and supplies power to the heater using the first correction profile when the current date corresponds to the first season, and supplies power to the heater using the second correction profile different from the first correction profile when the current date corresponds to the second season.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first correction profile includes a second preheating section and a second smoking section, the second correction profile includes a third preheating section and a third smoking section, the second preheating section includes a second preheating rise section, a 2-1 preheating hold section, a second preheating fall section, and a 2-2 preheating hold section, the third preheating section includes a third preheating rise section, a 3-1 preheating hold section, a third preheating fall section, and a 3-2 preheating hold section, and the sum of the times of the 2-1 preheating hold section, the second preheating fall section, and the 2-2 preheating hold section is longer than the sum of the times of the 3-1 preheating hold section, the third preheating fall section, and the 3-2 preheating hold section.

[0024] The terminology used in the embodiments is selected as widely used and general terms as possible, taking into account the function of the present invention, although this may vary depending on the intent of the articulators in the field, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In certain cases, the applicant may have arbitrarily selected terms, in which case their meaning will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention are not merely names of terms, but must be defined based on the meaning of the term and the overall content of the present invention.

[0025] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a component, it means, unless otherwise specified, that it does not exclude other components, but rather that it may include other components. Furthermore, terms such as "...part" and "...module" used in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which is embodied by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that they can be easily implemented by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. However, the present invention can also be embodied in various other forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0027] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0028] Figures 1 through 3 show examples of a cigarette being inserted into an aerosol generator.

[0029] Referring to Figure 1, the aerosol generator 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the aerosol generator 1 further includes a vaporizer 14. A cigarette 2 can also be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generator 1.

[0030] The aerosol generator 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3 contains the components related to this embodiment. Therefore, a person with ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment can understand that other general-purpose components may be further included in the aerosol generator 1 in addition to the components shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0031] Furthermore, although Figures 2 and 3 show that the aerosol generator 1 includes a heater 13, the heater 13 can be omitted if necessary.

[0032] Figure 1 shows the battery 11, control unit 12, and heater 13 arranged in a row. Figure 2 shows the battery 11, control unit 12, vaporizer 14, and heater 13 arranged in a row. Figure 3 shows the vaporizer 14 and heater 13 arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to what is shown in Figures 1 to 3. In other words, the arrangement of the battery 11, control unit 12, heater 13, and vaporizer 14 can be changed depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1.

[0033] When a cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generator 1, the aerosol generator 1 activates the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 passes through the cigarette 2 and is transmitted to the user.

[0034] If necessary, the aerosol generator 1 can heat the heater 13 even if the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generator 1.

[0035] The battery 11 supplies the power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. For example, the battery 11 can supply power to heat the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14, and can also supply the power necessary for the operation of the control unit 12. In addition, the battery 11 can supply the power necessary for the operation of the display, sensors, motors, etc., provided in the aerosol generator 1.

[0036] The control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the operation of not only the battery 11, heater 13, and vaporizer 14, but also other components included in the aerosol generator 1. The control unit 12 can also check the status of each component of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether the aerosol generator 1 is in an operational state.

[0037] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be embodied as an array of numerous logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. It will be understood by those ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0038] The heater 13 can be heated by power supplied from the battery 11. For example, if a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generator 1, the heater 13 may be located outside the cigarette. Therefore, the heated heater 13 can raise the temperature of the aerosol-generating material inside the cigarette.

[0039] The heater 13 is also an electrical resistance heater. For example, the heater 13 includes a conductive track, and if current flows through the conductive track, the heater 13 can be heated. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above example, and can be any heater that heats up to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be pre-set in the aerosol generator 1, or it may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0040] On the other hand, as another example, heater 13 is also an induction heater. Specifically, heater 13 includes a conductive coil for heating a cigarette by induction heating, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that is heated by the induction heater.

[0041] For example, the heater 13 includes a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and can heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0042] Furthermore, the aerosol generator 1 may have multiple heaters 13. In this case, the multiple heaters 13 may be arranged so as to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, or they may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Alternatively, some of the multiple heaters 13 may be arranged so as to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, and the rest may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Also, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes shown in Figures 1 to 3, and can be manufactured in a variety of shapes.

[0043] The vaporizer 14 heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, which is then transmitted to the user through the cigarette 2. That is, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 moves along the airflow passage of the aerosol generator 1, and the airflow passage may be configured so that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 is transmitted to the user through the cigarette.

[0044] For example, the vaporizer 14 includes, but is not limited to, a liquid storage unit, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element. For instance, the liquid storage unit, liquid transfer means, and heating element may be included in the aerosol generator 1 as independent modules.

[0045] The liquid storage section can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage section may be manufactured to detach from / adhere to the vaporizer 14, or it may be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0046] For example, the liquid composition may contain water, solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrances, flavoring agents, or vitamin mixtures. Fragrances may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit fragrance components. Flavoring agents may include components capable of providing users with a variety of flavors or aromas. Vitamin mixtures may be mixtures of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E, but are not limited to these. The liquid composition may also contain aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0047] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition of the liquid storage section to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means may be, but is not limited to, a wick made of cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic.

[0048] A heating element is an element for heating a liquid composition that is transmitted by a liquid transfer means. For example, a heating element may be a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, or a ceramic heater, but is not limited to these. Alternatively, a heating element may be composed of a conductive filament, such as a nichrome wire, and arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transfer means. The heating element is heated by an electric current supply, and heat is transferred to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol is generated.

[0049] For example, the steam generator 14 is also called a cartomizer or atomizer, but is not limited to these terms.

[0050] On the other hand, the aerosol generator 1 may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 11, control unit 12, heater 13, and vaporizer 14. For example, the aerosol generator 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. The aerosol generator 1 may also include at least one sensor (such as a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, or a cigarette insertion detection sensor). Furthermore, the aerosol generator 1 may be constructed in such a way that external air is allowed to flow in or internal gas is allowed to flow out even when a cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0051] Although not shown in Figures 1 to 3, the aerosol generator 1 can also be configured with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle can be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generator 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 may be heated while the cradle and the aerosol generator 1 are coupled together.

[0052] Cigarette 2 is similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, Cigarette 2 is divided into a first part containing an aerosol-generating substance and a second part containing a filter, etc. Alternatively, the second part of Cigarette 2 may also contain an aerosol-generating substance. For example, an aerosol-generating substance made in granular or encapsulated form may be inserted into the second part.

[0053] The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generator 1, while the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generator 1, or both the entire first part and a portion of the second part may be inserted. The user inhales the aerosol with the second part in their mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated as outside air passes through the first part, and the generated aerosol is transmitted to the user's mouth by passing through the second part.

[0054] As an example, outside air may flow in through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generator 1. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generator 1 and / or the size of the air passage may be adjusted by the user. This allows the amount of atomization, the smoking sensation, etc., to be adjusted by the user. As another example, outside air may flow into the interior of the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0055] The following example of cigarette 2 will be explained with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

[0056] Figures 4 and 5 are diagrams showing examples of cigarettes.

[0057] Referring to Figure 4, the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. Although the filter rod 22 is shown as a single segment in Figure 4, it is not limited to this. That is, the filter rod 22 may consist of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering out certain components contained in the aerosol. Additionally, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment that performs other functions, as needed.

[0058] The diameter of cigarette 2 is in the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length is approximately 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 is approximately 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 is approximately 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 is approximately 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 is approximately 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0059] A cigarette 2 may be packaged by at least one flap 24. The flap 24 may have at least one hole through which external air enters or internal gases exit. As an example, a cigarette 2 may be packaged by one flap 24. As another example, a cigarette 2 may be packaged in layers by two or more flaps 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be packaged by a first flap 241, and the filter rod 22 may be packaged by flap 242, 243, and 244. The entire cigarette 2 may then be repackaged by a single flap, a fifth flap 245. If the filter rod 22 consists of multiple segments, each segment may be packaged by flap 242, 243, and 244.

[0060] The first and second flaps 241 and 242 can be made from general filter paper. For example, the first and second flaps 241 and 242 can be porous or non-porous paper. Alternatively, the first and second flaps 241 and 242 can be made from oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum laminated packaging materials.

[0061] The third flap 243 can be made from hard-wound paper. For example, the basis weight of the third flap 243 is 88 g / m². 2 ~96g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 90 g / m² 2 ~94g / m 2 It falls within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm.

[0062] The fourth flap 244 can be made from oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth flap 244 is 88 g / m². 2 ~96g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 90 g / m² 2 ~94g / m 2 It falls within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm.

[0063] The fifth wrapper 245 can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) means paper that is specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are enhanced compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 is included within the range of 57 g / m 2 ~63 g / m 2 and preferably is 60 g / m 2 . Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 is included within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm and preferably is 67 μm.

[0064] A predetermined substance can be added to the fifth wrapper 245. Here, silicon is an example of the predetermined substance, but it is not limited thereto. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that is not oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, as long as it is a substance having the above-described properties, it can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

[0065] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the phenomenon of the cigarette 2 being burned. For example, if the tobacco rod 210 is heated by the heater 13, the cigarette 2 may be burned. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 310, the cigarette 2 can be burned. Even in that case, since the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-combustible substance, the phenomenon of the cigarette 2 being burned is prevented.

[0066] Also, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the aerosol generation device 1 from being contaminated by the substances generated by the cigarette 2. Depending on the puff of the user, a liquid substance can be generated inside the cigarette 2. For example, when the aerosol generated by the cigarette 2 is cooled by the external air, a liquid substance (for example, moisture, etc.) is generated. By the fifth wrapper 245 packaging the cigarette 2, leakage of the liquid substance generated inside the cigarette 2 to the outside of the cigarette 2 is prevented.

[0067] The tobacco rod 21 contains an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance includes, 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. In addition, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying it.

[0068] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured in sheet form or in strand form. Alternatively, the tobacco rod 21 may be made from shredded tobacco obtained by finely cutting a tobacco sheet. Furthermore, the tobacco rod 21 may be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited to that. As an example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can uniformly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21, improving the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod and thereby improving the tobacco flavor. The heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can also function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. Although not shown in the figures, the tobacco rod 21 may also contain further susceptors in addition to the heat-conducting material surrounding its exterior.

[0069] The filter rod 22 is also 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 rod, or a tubular rod containing a hollow interior. The filter rod 22 may also be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments may be made in a different shape.

[0070] The first segment of the filter rod 22 is also a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment is a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. The first segment prevents the internal material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed backward when the heater 13 is inserted, and also generates an aerosol cooling effect. The diameter of the hollow interior of the first segment is within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited to this range.

[0071] The length of the first segment is taken at an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the first segment is 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0072] The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by controlling the plasticizer content during its manufacture. Alternatively, the first segment may be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or tube of the same or different material into its interior (e.g., hollow).

[0073] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated when the heater 13 heats the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to a suitable temperature.

[0074] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways depending on the form of the cigarette 2. 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 is about 14 mm, but is not limited to that.

[0075] The second segment may be made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a fragrance solution can be applied to the polymer fibers. Alternatively, the second segment can be made by weaving together a separate fiber coated with a fragrance solution and a polymer fiber. Alternatively, the second segment may also be formed from a crimped polymer sheet.

[0076] 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.

[0077] The second segment is formed from woven polymer fibers or crimped polymer sheets, and the second segment includes one or more longitudinally extending channels, where channels mean passages through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0078] For example, the second segment, which consists of a crimped polymer sheet, is formed from a material having a thickness of approximately 5 μm to approximately 300 μm, for example, approximately 10 μm to approximately 250 μm. The total surface area of ​​the second segment is approximately 300 mm². 2 / mm ~ approx. 1000mm 2 It becomes / mm. Also, the aerosol cooling element has a specific surface area of ​​approximately 10mm². 2 / mg ~ approx. 100mm 2 Formed from / mg of material

[0079] On the other hand, the second segment contains a thread containing a volatile flavor component. Here, the volatile flavor component is menthol, but is not limited to it. 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.

[0080] The third segment of the filter rod 22 is also 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 is approximately 12 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0081] In the process of manufacturing the third segment, it may be manufactured so that flavor is generated by spraying a flavoring liquid into the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid can be inserted into the interior of the third segment. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 is cooled as it passes through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is transmitted to the user through the third segment. Therefore, if a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the persistence of the flavor transmitted to the user may be enhanced.

[0082] The filter rod 22 also includes at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may perform a function of generating flavor or a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 is also a structure that surrounds a liquid containing a flavor with a coating. The capsule 23 may be spherical or cylindrical, but is not limited to these.

[0083] Referring to Figure 5, the cigarette 3 may further include a front plug 33. The front plug 33 may be 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 and can prevent liquefied aerosol from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generator 1 (Figures 1 to 3).

[0084] The filter rod 32 includes a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 corresponds to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in Figure 4, and the second segment 322 corresponds to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in Figure 4.

[0085] The diameter and overall length of cigarette 3 correspond to the diameter and overall length of cigarette 2 in Figure 4. For example, the length of the front plug 33 is approximately 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 is approximately 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is approximately 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is approximately 14 mm, but is not limited to these.

[0086] A cigarette 3 may be packaged by at least one flap 35. The flap 35 may have at least one hole through which external air enters or internal gases exit. For example, the front plug 33 may be packaged by a first flap 351, the tobacco rod 31 by a second flap 352, the first segment 321 by a third flap 353, and the second segment 322 by a fourth flap 354. The entire cigarette 3 may then be repackaged by a fifth flap 355.

[0087] Furthermore, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth trumpet 355. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in the region surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 can serve to transfer the heat generated by the heater 13 shown in Figures 2 and 3 into the interior of the tobacco rod 31.

[0088] Furthermore, the second segment 322 includes at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may perform a function of generating flavor or a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 is also a structure that surrounds a liquid containing a flavor with a coating. The capsule 34 may, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0089] The first wrapper 351 is also a general filter paper to which a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, is bonded. For example, the overall thickness of the first wrapper 351 is in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, preferably 50.3 μm. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 is in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, preferably 6.3 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 50 g / m². 2 ~55g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 53 g / m² 2 That is the case.

[0090] The second and third flaps 352 and 353 can be made from common filter paper. For example, the second and third flaps 352 and 353 can be porous or non-porous paper.

[0091] For example, the porosity of the second flank 352 is 35,000 CU, but is not limited to that. The thickness of the second flank 352 is within the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, preferably 78 μm. The basis weight of the second flank 352 is 20 g / m². 2 ~25g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 23.5 g / m². 2 That is the case.

[0092] For example, the porosity of the third flank 353 is 24,000 CU, but is not limited to that. The thickness of the third flank 353 is within the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, preferably 68 μm. The basis weight of the third flank 353 is 20 g / m². 2 ~25g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 21 g / m² 2 That is the case.

[0093] The fourth flaps 354 can be made from PLA laminate. Here, PLA laminate refers to a three-layer paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and another paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth flaps 354 is within the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, preferably 110 μm. The basis weight of the fourth flaps 354 is 80 g / m². 2 ~100g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 88 g / m² 2 That is the case.

[0094] The fifth trumpet 355 can be made from sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth trumpet 355 is 57 g / m². 2 ~63g / m 2 It falls within the range, preferably 60 g / m² 2Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth trumpet 355 is within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably 67 μm.

[0095] The fifth trumpet 355 may have a predetermined substance added to it. Here, an example of a predetermined substance is silicon, but it is not limited to silicon. 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, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above-mentioned properties can be applied (or coated) to the fifth trumpet 355 without limitation.

[0096] 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 tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow is in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the front plug 33 is 5.0. The cross-section of the filaments constituting the front plug 33 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the front plug 33 is in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the front plug 33 is 28,000.

[0097] Furthermore, if necessary, the front plug 33 includes at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel can be manufactured in a variety of ways.

[0098] The tobacco rod 31 corresponds to the tobacco rod 21 described above, as shown in Figure 4. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0099] The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may also be a tubular structure containing a hollow interior. The first segment 321 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the monodenier and total denier of the first segment 321 are the same as the monodenier and total denier of the front plug 33.

[0100] The second segment 322 may be made of cellulose acetate. The monodenier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 is in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the monodenier of the filaments of the second segment 322 is 9.0. The cross-section of the filaments of the second segment 322 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 is in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably 25,000.

[0101] Figure 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0102] The aerosol generator 600 includes a control unit 610, a sensing unit 620, an output unit 630, a battery 640, a heater 650, a user input unit 660, a memory 670, a communication unit 680, and a timer 690. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 600 is not limited to what is shown in Figure 6. That is, a person with ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment will understand that depending on the design of the aerosol generator 600, some of the components shown in Figure 6 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0103] The sensing unit 620 can sense the state of the aerosol generator 600 or the state of the surroundings of the aerosol generator 600 and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 610. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 610 can control the aerosol generator 600 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the heater 650, restricting smoking, determining whether or not an aerosol product (e.g., cigarettes, cartridges, etc.) has been inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0104] The sensing unit 620 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a temperature sensor 622, an insertion sensing sensor 624, a puff sensor 626, and a humidity sensing sensor 628.

[0105] The temperature sensor 622 can sense the temperature at which the heater 650 (or the aerosol-generating material) is heated. The aerosol generator 600 may include a separate temperature sensor to sense the temperature of the heater 650, or the heater 650 itself may act as the temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 622 may be positioned around the battery 640 to monitor its temperature.

[0106] The temperature sensor 622 can measure the temperature at which the heater 650 (or aerosol-generating substance) is heated and provide the measured temperature to the control unit 610. The control unit 610 can use the temperature sensor 622 to calculate the time (or heating time) it takes for the measured temperature to reach the temperature at which the aerosol-generating substance volatilizes, compare the calculated heating time with a pre-set threshold, and determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2 (Figure 2). The control unit 610 can control the power supplied to the heater 650 in accordance with the determined humidity state of the cigarette.

[0107] The insertion sensing sensor 624 can detect the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 624 includes at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can detect signal changes due to the insertion and / or removal of aerosol products.

[0108] The puff sensor 626 can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 626 can detect a user's puff based on any one of the following: temperature changes, flow rate changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0109] In one embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can directly measure the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2 (Figure 2) and provide the measured humidity information to the control unit 610. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be placed in the containment passage 1004h (Figure 7A) of the aerosol generator 600. In another embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can measure the amount of moisture condensed around the cigarette after heating the cigarette 2 (Figure 2). Over-humidified cigarettes evaporate more moisture when heated than ordinary cigarettes. As a result, when heating an over-humidified cigarette, more condensation may occur than with an ordinary cigarette. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be placed around the outer hole 1002p (Figure 7A) that overlaps the containment passage 1004h (Figure 7A) of the aerosol generator 600 in the thickness direction, or around the door 1003 (Figure 7A).

[0110] The humidity sensor 628 is one of the following: an electrical resistance sensor, a capacitive sensor, or an optical sensor. However, this is illustrative, and the humidity sensor 628 is not limited to these.

[0111] In addition to the aforementioned temperature sensor 622, insertion sensor 624, puff sensor 626, and humidity sensor 628, the sensing unit 620 may further include at least one of the following: a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (illuminance) sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an average engineer from its name, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0112] The output unit 630 can output and provide to the user information about the status of the aerosol generator 600. The output unit 630 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the display unit 632, the haptic unit 634, and the acoustic output unit 636. When the display unit 632 and the touchpad form a layered structure and constitute a touchscreen, the display unit 632 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0113] The display unit 632 can visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generator 600. For example, information about the aerosol generator 600 can include various types of information such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 640 of the aerosol generator 600, the preheating status of the heater 650, the insertion / removal status of aerosol products, or conditions under which the use of the aerosol generator 600 is restricted (e.g., detection of abnormal items), and the display unit 632 can output this information to the outside. The display unit 632 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or an LED light-emitting element.

[0114] The haptic unit 634 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli, providing the user with tactile information about the aerosol generator 600. For example, the haptic unit 634 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0115] The acoustic output unit 636 can provide the user with auditory information about the aerosol generator 600. For example, the acoustic output unit 636 can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0116] The battery 640 can supply power used to operate the aerosol generator 600. The battery 640 can supply power to heat the heater 650. The battery 640 can also supply power necessary for the operation of other components within the aerosol generator 600 (e.g., the sensing unit 620, the output unit 630, the user input unit 660, the memory 670, and the communication unit 680). The battery 640 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 640 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to that.

[0117] The heater 650 is powered by the battery 640 and can heat the aerosol-generating material. Although not shown in Figure 6, the aerosol generator 600 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the battery 640 and supplies it to the heater 650. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 600 generates aerosols by induction heating, the aerosol generator 600 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the battery 640 into AC power supply.

[0118] The control unit 610, sensing unit 620, output unit 630, user input unit 660, memory 670, and communication unit 680 can function by being powered by the battery 640. Although not shown in Figure 6, the system may further include power conversion circuits, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that convert the power from the battery 640 and supply it to each component.

[0119] In one embodiment, the heater 650 may be formed from any suitable electrical resistant material. For example, suitable electrical resistant materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys, including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The heater 650 may also be embodied by, but are not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which conductive tracks are arranged, or a ceramic heating element.

[0120] In other embodiments, the heater 650 is also an induction heating heater. For example, the heater 650 may include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating substance.

[0121] In one embodiment, the heater 650 includes a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater 650 may include a first heater for heating a cigarette and a second heater for heating a liquid.

[0122] The user input unit 660 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 660 may include, but is not limited to, a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (contact-type capacitive type, pressure-type resistive type, infrared sensing type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Also, although not shown in Figure 6, the aerosol generator 600 may further include a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can connect to other external devices via a connection interface such as a USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 640.

[0123] Memory 670 is hardware that stores various data (e.g., temperature profiles) processed within the aerosol generator 600, and can store data processed by the control unit 610 and data being processed. Memory 670 includes at least one type of recording medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 670 can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 600, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data related to the user's smoking pattern.

[0124] The communication unit 680 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 680 may include a short-range communication unit 682 and a wireless communication unit 684.

[0125] The short-range wireless communication unit 682 includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA: infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0126] The wireless communication unit 684 includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit. The wireless communication unit 684 can also verify and authenticate the aerosol generator 600 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0127] Timer 690 can output time information measured from a reference time. Timer 690 can generate and output time data based on the current time by multiplying a clock signal of a predetermined frequency. Timer 690 can count the current date. For example, if the reference time is January 1, 1970, at 0:00, Timer 690 can measure the passage of time from January 1, 1970, at 0:00. Assuming that the reference time for Timer 690 is January 1, 1970, at 0:00, and that one year has passed since Timer 690 began measuring time information, Timer 690 can output time information for January 1, 1971, at 0:00.

[0128] During the manufacturing process of the aerosol generator 600, the reference time of the timer 690 may be synchronized to the time when the aerosol generator 600 is manufactured. In this case, during the manufacturing process of the aerosol generator 600, the initial synchronization time may be determined by the supplier, and the reference time of the timer 690 may be synchronized to the initial synchronization time.

[0129] Memory 670 can store time information output from timer 690. After the aerosol generator 600 is initialized at the time of manufacture or shipment, memory 670 can receive and store time information output from timer 690 once timer 690 begins measuring time information.

[0130] Memory 670 periodically stores time information output from timer 690 at any arbitrary interval, but is not limited to this. Memory 670 can also store time information when a pre-configured operation is performed. A pre-configured operation includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: resetting or booting the control unit 610, canceling shipping mode, ending a smoking operation (e.g., heating the heater), starting a charging operation, or receiving user input (e.g., touch or button input). If the control unit 610 determines that a pre-configured operation has been performed, it can store the time information output from timer 690 in memory 670.

[0131] The control unit 610 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 600. In one embodiment, the control unit 610 includes at least one processor. The processor may be embodied as an array of numerous logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. It will be understood by those ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0132] The control unit 610 can control the temperature of the heater 650 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 640 to the heater 650. For example, the control unit 610 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 640 and the heater 650. As another example, the direct heating circuit can also control the power supply to the heater 650 by a control command from the control unit 610.

[0133] The control unit 610 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 620 and control subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 620, the control unit 610 can control the power supplied to the heater 650 so that the heater 650 starts or stops operating. As another example, based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 620, the control unit 610 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 650 and the power supply time so that the heater 650 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature.

[0134] The control unit 610 can control the output unit 630 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 620. For example, if the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 626 reaches a pre-set number, the control unit 610 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 600 will immediately shut down through at least one of the display unit 632, the haptic unit 634, and the acoustic output unit 636.

[0135] The control unit 610 can determine the humidity state of the cigarette using the temperature sensor 622. The control unit 610 can operate the heater 650 according to the temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette.

[0136] The control unit 610 can distinguish between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date counted by the timer 690. The first season is any season other than summer, and the second season is summer. For example, the control unit 610 distinguishes the current date as the second season if it is in June or August, and distinguishes all other dates as the first season. However, this is illustrative, and if the aerosol generator is expected to be sold and used in a region of the Southern Hemisphere (e.g., Australia), it may also distinguish between December and February as the second season, and all other dates as the first season.

[0137] The following describes in detail, with reference to Figures 7A to 11, an aerosol generator and its operating method that classify cigarettes into general cigarettes and over-humidified cigarettes based on the heating time of cigarette 2 (Figure 2), and apply a compensation profile when the cigarette is over-humidified.

[0138] Figure 7A is a perspective view showing the external appearance of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7B is a perspective view showing the operating state of the aerosol generating apparatus according to the embodiment shown in Figure 7A, with some components separated.

[0139] Referring to Figure 7A, the aerosol generator 1000 includes a case 1100 and a cover 1002. The cover 1002 is coupled to one end of the case 1100, so that the case 1100 and the cover 1002 together form the appearance of the aerosol generator 1000.

[0140] The case 1100 forms part of the exterior of the aerosol generator 1000 and serves to house and protect various components inside.

[0141] The cover 1002 and case 1100 can be made from plastic materials that do not conduct heat well, or from metal materials coated with a heat-insulating substance on the surface. The cover 1002 and case 1100 can be manufactured, for example, by injection molding, 3D printing, or by assembling small accessories made by injection molding.

[0142] A retaining device (not shown) may be provided between the cover 1002 and the case 1100 to maintain the coupled state of the cover 1002 and the case 1100. The retaining device may include, for example, a projection and a groove. The coupled state of the cover 1002 and the case 1100 is maintained by holding the projection in a state inserted into the groove, and a structure may be used in which the projection is moved and separated from the groove by an operating button that can be pressed by the user.

[0143] The holding device also includes, for example, a magnet and a metal member that is attracted to the magnet. When using a magnet in the holding device, the magnet may be installed on either the case 1100 or the cover 1002, and the metal member that is attracted to the magnet may be installed on the other, or the magnet may be installed on both the case 1100 and the cover 1002.

[0144] An external hole 1002p into which a cigarette 2000 is inserted is formed on the upper surface of the cover 1002, which is coupled to the case 1100. A rail 1003r is also formed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 at a position adjacent to the external hole 1002p. A door 1003 is installed on the rail 1003r, which is slidable along the upper surface of the cover 1002. The door 1003 is slidable linearly along the rail 1003r.

[0145] As the door 1003 moves along the rail 1003r in the direction of the arrow in Figure 7A, it functions to expose the external opening 1002p and the insertion opening 1004p to the outside, allowing the cigarette 2000 to pass through the cover 1002 and be inserted into the case 1100. The external opening 1002p of the cover 1002 functions to expose the insertion opening 1004p of the storage passage 1004h that houses the cigarette 2000 to the outside.

[0146] Once the door 1003 exposes the external opening 1002p to the outside, the user can insert the end 2000b of the cigarette 2000 into the external opening 1002p and the insertion hole 1004p, thereby mounting the cigarette 2000 into the storage passage 1004h formed inside the cover 1002.

[0147] The rail 1003r has a concave groove shape, but the embodiment is not limited by the shape of the rail 1003r. For example, the rail 1003r may also have a convex shape and may extend in a curved shape as well as a straight shape.

[0148] A button 1009 is installed in case 1100. By operating button 1009, the operation of the aerosol generator 1000 can be controlled.

[0149] When the cover 1002 is joined to the case 1100, an external air inlet gap 1002g is formed at the joint between the cover 1002 and the case 1100, allowing air to flow into the interior of the cover 1002.

[0150] Referring to Figure 7B, with the cigarette 2000 inserted into the aerosol generator 1000, the user can put the cigarette 2000 in their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0151] The case 1100 may consist of an upper case 1100a into which the cigarette 2000 is inserted and which is heated, and a lower case 1100b that supports and protects various components installed inside. Hereinafter, "case 1100" means both the upper case 1100a and the lower case 1100b.

[0152] The cover 1002 can be attached to the case 1100 so as to cover the cigarette support portion 4 which is coupled to the case 1100. Furthermore, the cover 1002 can be separated from the case 1100 if necessary.

[0153] Figure 8 is an illustrative diagram illustrating the basic temperature profile of an aerosol generator.

[0154] Referring to Figures 6 and 8, the control unit 610 of the aerosol generator 600 can use the temperature sensor 622 to calculate the heating time t1 of the cigarette 2000 (Figure 7A), compare the calculated heating time t1 of the cigarette 2000 with a previously set threshold, and determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000. If the heating time t1 is less than the threshold, the control unit 610 can supply power to the heater 650 using the basic temperature profile TP.

[0155] In this case, the pre-set threshold is the time it takes for the over-humidified cigarette to reach the first target temperature T1, and is determined experimentally and statistically. If the heater 650 is operated by the basic temperature profile TP even though the time to reach the first target temperature T1 is greater than or equal to the threshold, the user may feel the cigarette 2000 is hot due to the moisture contained inside.

[0156] In one embodiment, the control unit 610 can set thresholds based on the current date. Specifically, the control unit 610 can distinguish between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date counted by the timer 690. The first season is a season other than summer, and the second season is summer. The control unit 610 can set thresholds to a first threshold corresponding to the first season and a second threshold corresponding to the second season. The second season is a season that is relatively hotter and more humid than the first season, and to reflect such seasonal elements, the control unit can set the second threshold to a value smaller than the first threshold. For example, the first threshold can be set to 22 seconds, and the second threshold can be set to 20 seconds, which is smaller than the first threshold.

[0157] As shown in Figure 8, the basic temperature profile TP includes a first preheating section P1 and a first smoking section P2, and the first preheating section P1 and the first smoking section P2 can be further subdivided into smaller sections.

[0158] The first preheating section P1 includes a first preheating rise section P11 (or heating time t1) that raises the temperature to a first target temperature T1, a first preheating hold section P12 that maintains the first target temperature T1, and a first preheating fall section P13 that lowers the temperature to a second target temperature t2. The first smoking section P2 includes a first-first smoking fall section P21a that lowers the temperature to a third target temperature T3, a first-second smoking fall section P21b that lowers the temperature to a fourth target temperature T4, a first-third smoking fall section P21c that lowers the temperature to a fifth target temperature T5, and a first smoking hold section P22 that maintains the fifth target temperature T5. Here, we have explained, as an example, that the first preheating section P1 includes the first preheating rise section P11, the first preheating hold section P12, and the first preheating fall section P13, and the first smoking section P2 includes the first-1 smoking fall section P21a, the first-2 smoking fall section P21b, the first-3 smoking fall section P21c, and the first smoking hold section P22. However, it goes without saying that we are not limited to this, and various modifications are possible depending on the form and type of cigarette or heater.

[0159] Figure 9A is an illustrative diagram illustrating the first correction profile of the aerosol generator.

[0160] Referring to Figures 6, 8, and 9A, the aerosol generator 600 can operate the heater 650 by applying the first correction profile CP1, which will be described later, when it determines that the inserted cigarette 2000 (Figure 7A) is a humid cigarette.

[0161] In one embodiment, the control unit 610 can use the temperature sensor 622 to calculate the heating time t2 of the cigarette lighter 2000, compare the calculated heating time t2 of the cigarette lighter 2000 with a previously set threshold, and determine the humidity state of the cigarette lighter 2000. If the heating time t2 is greater than or equal to the threshold, the control unit 610 can supply power to the heater 650 using the first correction profile CP1.

[0162] However, the method for determining the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 is not limited to that. In other embodiments, the control unit 610 can determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 using the humidity sensing sensor 628.

[0163] In one embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can directly measure the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000 and provide the measured humidity information to the control unit 610. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be placed in the containment passage 1004h (Figure 7A) of the aerosol generator 600. In another embodiment, the humidity sensor 628 can measure the amount of moisture condensed around the cigarette after the cigarette 2 (Figure 2) has been heated. A humid cigarette evaporates more moisture when heated than a normal cigarette. As a result, when a humid cigarette is heated, more condensation may occur than with a normal cigarette. For example, the humidity sensor 628 can be placed around the outer hole 1002p (Figure 7A) that overlaps the containment passage 1004h (Figure 7A) of the aerosol generator 600 in the thickness direction, or around the door 1003 (Figure 7A).

[0164] The humidity sensor 628 is one of the following: an electrical resistance sensor, a capacitive sensor, or an optical sensor. However, this is illustrative, and the humidity sensor 628 is not limited to these.

[0165] As shown in Figure 9A, the first correction profile CP1 includes a second preheating section P3 and a second smoking section P4, and the second preheating section P3 and the second smoking section P4 can be further subdivided into smaller sections.

[0166] The second preheating section P3 includes a second preheating rise section P31 (or heating time t2) that raises the temperature to a first target temperature T1, a second-first preheating hold section P32 that maintains the first target temperature T1, a second preheating fall section P33 that lowers the temperature to a fifth target temperature T5, and a second-second preheating hold section P34 that maintains the fifth target temperature T5. The second smoking section P4 includes a second smoking hold section P41 that maintains the fifth target temperature T5. Here, the second preheating section P3 includes the second preheating rise section P31, the second-first preheating hold section P32, the second preheating fall section P33, and the second-second preheating hold section P34, and the second smoking section P4 includes the second smoking hold section P41 as an example, but it goes without saying that it is not limited to this and various modifications are possible depending on the form and type of cigarette or heater.

[0167] Referring to Figures 8 and 9A, the second preheating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first preheating section P1 of the base temperature profile TP.

[0168] Specifically, the second preheating rise section P31 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first preheating rise section P11 of the base temperature profile TP. For example, there may be a difference of about 3 to 4 seconds between the time t2 when the first target temperature T1 of the first correction profile CP1 is reached and the time t1 when the first target temperature T1 of the base temperature profile TP is reached. In other words, because a humid cigarette contains more moisture than a normal cigarette, the rate at which the cigarette heats up may be slower.

[0169] The 2-1 preheating and holding section P32 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the 1st preheating and holding section P12 of the base temperature profile TP. This allows more moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 to evaporate, mitigating the initial feeling of heat.

[0170] Furthermore, the temperature change within the second preheating decline section P33 of the first correction profile CP1 is greater than the temperature change within the first preheating decline section P13 of the basic temperature profile TP. For example, the first preheating decline section P13 changes from the first target temperature T1 to the second target temperature T2, while the second preheating decline section P33 changes from the first target temperature T1 to the fifth target temperature T5. Since a regular cigarette contains even less moisture than a humidified cigarette, the likelihood of the user feeling hot due to the moisture is relatively lower compared to a humidified cigarette. Therefore, smoking is possible from the second target temperature T2, which is higher than the fifth target temperature T5. However, since a humidified cigarette contains even more moisture than a regular cigarette, the initial feeling of heat can be mitigated by setting an even larger temperature change within the second preheating decline section P33.

[0171] Furthermore, the second preheating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1 may further include a second-second preheating holding section P34 that maintains a fifth target temperature T5 in order to mitigate the initial feeling of heat.

[0172] Figure 9B is an illustrative diagram illustrating the second correction profile of the aerosol generator.

[0173] Referring to Figures 6, 8, 9A, and 9B, the control unit 610 of the aerosol generator 600 can distinguish between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date counted by the timer. The first season is any season other than summer, and the second season is summer. In the case of the first season, the control unit can supply power to the heater using the first correction profile CP1, and in the case of the second season, it can supply power to the heater using the second correction profile CP2.

[0174] As shown in Figure 9B, the second correction profile CP2 includes a third preheating section P5 and a third smoking section P6, which can be further subdivided into smaller sections.

[0175] The third preheating section P5 of the second correction profile CP2 includes a third preheating rise section P51 (or heating time t3) that raises to a first target temperature T1, a third-first preheating hold section P52 that maintains the first target temperature T1, a third preheating fall section P53 that lowers to a fifth target temperature T5, and a third-second preheating hold section P54 that maintains the fifth target temperature T5. The third smoking section P6 includes a third smoking hold section P61 that maintains the fifth target temperature T5. Here, the third preheating section P3 is explained as including the third preheating rise section P51, the third-first preheating hold section P52, the third preheating fall section P53, and the third-second preheating hold section P54, and the third smoking section P6 includes the third smoking hold section P61 as an example, but it goes without saying that it is not limited to this and various modifications are possible depending on the form and type of cigarette or heater.

[0176] The third preheating section P5 of the second correction profile CP2 is longer than the first preheating section P1 of the base temperature profile TP, and shorter than the second preheating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1.

[0177] Specifically, the 3-1 preheating and holding section P52 of the second correction profile CP2 is longer than the 1st preheating and holding section P12 of the base temperature profile TP. This allows more moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 to evaporate, mitigating the initial feeling of heat.

[0178] Furthermore, the temperature change within the third preheating decline section P53 of the second correction profile CP2 is greater than the temperature change within the first preheating decline section P13 of the basic temperature profile TP. For example, the first preheating decline section P13 changes from the first target temperature T1 to the second target temperature T2, while the third preheating decline section P53 changes from the first target temperature T1 to the fifth target temperature T5. With a regular cigarette, the user is less likely to feel the heat due to the moisture contained inside, so smoking is possible from the second target temperature T2, which is higher than the fifth target temperature T5. However, with a humidified cigarette, the moisture contained inside is even greater than with a regular cigarette, so the initial feeling of heat can be mitigated by setting an even larger temperature change within the second preheating decline section P33.

[0179] Furthermore, the third preheating section P5 of the second correction profile CP2 may further include a third-second preheating holding section P54 that maintains a fifth target temperature T5 in order to mitigate the initial feeling of heat.

[0180] Since the second correction profile CP2 is used in the second season, its starting temperature is higher than that of the first correction profile CP1. Therefore, the heating time t3 to reach the first target temperature T1 in the second correction profile CP2 is faster than the heating time t2 of the first correction profile CP1. In this case, the aerosol generator 600 maintains a high temperature initially, which may cause the user to feel hot.

[0181] The second correction profile CP2 can mitigate the initial feeling of heat by making the preheating time after reaching the first target temperature T1 longer than that of the first correction profile CP1.

[0182] Referring to Figures 9A and 9B, the preheating time after reaching the first target temperature T1 in the second correction profile CP2 corresponds to the sum of the 3-1 preheating holding section P52, the 3 preheating descent section P53, and the 3-2 preheating holding section P54. The preheating time after reaching the first target temperature T1 in the first correction profile CP1 corresponds to the sum of the 2-1 preheating holding section P32, the 2 preheating descent section P33, and the 2-2 preheating holding section P34. Here, the sum of the 3-1 preheating holding section P52, the 3 preheating descent section P53, and the 3-2 preheating holding section P54 is longer than the sum of the 2-1 preheating holding section P32, the 2 preheating descent section P33, and the 2-2 preheating holding section P34. In other words, the third smoking interval P6 of the second corrected profile CP2 is substantially the same as the second smoking interval P4 of the first corrected profile CP1.

[0183] Furthermore, the time for maintaining the first target temperature T1 in the second correction profile CP2 (i.e., the third-first preheating period P52) can be made shorter than the time for maintaining the first target temperature T1 in the first correction profile CP1 (i.e., the second-first preheating period P32).

[0184] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0185] Referring to Figures 6 to 10, the operation method of the aerosol generator includes the steps of: heating the cigarette 2000 with the heater 650 in step S100; measuring the temperature of the heater 650 with the temperature sensor 622 and calculating the heating time of the cigarette 2000 in step S200; comparing the calculated heating time of the cigarette 2000 with a previously set threshold and determining the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 in step S300; selecting a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000 in steps S410 and S420; and operating the heater 650 according to the selected temperature profile in step S500.

[0186] Specifically, in step S100, when the cigarette 2000 is heated by the heater 650, since a humidified cigarette contains more moisture than a normal cigarette, a phenomenon may occur where the rate at which the cigarette heats up slows down as the evaporation of the moisture to be heated slows down.

[0187] In step S200, where the temperature of the heater 650 is measured by the temperature sensor 622 and the heating time of the cigarette 2000 is calculated, the control unit 610 can determine the time it takes for the heater 650 to reach a pre-set first target temperature T1 as the heating time of the cigarette 2000.

[0188] In step S300, where the calculated heating time of the cigarette 2000 is compared with a previously set threshold to determine the humidity state of the cigarette 2000, the control unit 610 can determine that the cigarette 2000 is a normal cigarette if the heating time is less than the threshold, and that the cigarette 2000 is an over-humidified cigarette if the heating time is equal to or greater than the threshold.

[0189] In this case, the pre-set threshold is the time it takes for the over-humidified cigarette to reach the first target temperature T1, and is determined experimentally and statistically. If the heater 650 is operated by the basic temperature profile TP even though the time to reach the first target temperature T1 is greater than or equal to the threshold, the user may feel the cigarette 2000 is hot due to the moisture contained inside.

[0190] In steps S410 and S420, where a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000 is selected, the control unit 610 can select the basic temperature profile TP if the heating time is less than the threshold (S410), and select the first correction profile CP1 if the heating time is greater than or equal to the threshold (S420).

[0191] In step S500, in which the heater 650 is operated according to the selected temperature profile, the control unit 610 can supply power to the heater 650 using the basic temperature profile TP if the heating time is less than the threshold, and can supply power to the heater 650 using the first correction profile CP1 if the heating time is greater than or equal to the threshold.

[0192] The basic temperature profile TP includes a first preheating section P1 and a first smoking section P2, which can be further subdivided into smaller sections. The first correction profile CP1 includes a second preheating section P3 and a second smoking section P4, which can be further subdivided into smaller sections.

[0193] The second preheating section P3 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first preheating section P1 of the base temperature profile TP.

[0194] Specifically, the second preheating rise section P31 of the first correction profile CP1 is longer than the first preheating rise section P11 of the base temperature profile TP.

[0195] The second-first preheating section P32 is longer than the first preheating section P12. This allows more moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 to evaporate, mitigating the initial feeling of heat.

[0196] Furthermore, the temperature change within the second preheating descent section P33 is greater than the temperature change within the first preheating descent section P13. Since regular cigarettes are less likely to feel hot to the user due to the moisture they contain, smoking is possible from the second target temperature T2, which is higher than the fifth target temperature T5. However, because over-humidified cigarettes contain even more moisture than regular cigarettes, the initial feeling of heat can be mitigated by setting an even larger temperature change within the second preheating descent section P33.

[0197] Furthermore, the second preheating section P3 may further include a second-second preheating holding section P34 that maintains a fifth target temperature T5 in order to mitigate the initial feeling of heat.

[0198] A person with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment will understand that it can also be embodied in modified forms that do not deviate from the essential characteristics described above. Therefore, the disclosed method should be considered in an explanatory rather than restrictive manner. The scope of the present invention is shown in the claims, not in the foregoing description, and all differences within an equivalent scope should be construed as being included in the present invention.

Claims

1. A heater for heating cigarettes, A temperature sensor that measures the heater temperature, A timer that counts down the current date, Includes a control unit, The control unit, Using the temperature sensor, the heating time, which indicates the time it takes for the cigarette to reach a predetermined temperature, is calculated. A threshold is set to be compared with the heating time based on the current date counted by the timer, If the heating time is less than the set threshold, power is supplied to the heater according to the basic temperature profile. An aerosol generator that supplies power to the heater by a first correction profile when the heating time is equal to or greater than the set threshold.

2. The control unit, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, based on the current date, a first season and a second season different from the first season are distinguished, and the threshold is set to a first threshold corresponding to the first season or a second threshold corresponding to the second season.

3. The basic temperature profile includes a first preheating section and a first smoking section. The first correction profile includes a second preheating section and a second smoking section, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second preheating section is longer than the first preheating section.

4. The first preheating section includes a first preheating rise section, a first preheating hold section, and a first preheating fall section. The second preheating section includes a second preheating rise section, a second-first preheating hold section, a second preheating fall section, and a second-second preheating hold section. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first preheating rise section is shorter than the second preheating rise section.

5. The 2-1 preheating and holding section is longer than the 1 preheating and holding section. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the temperature change within the second preheating descent section is greater than the temperature change within the first preheating descent section.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first smoking section includes a first smoking descent section and a first smoking holding section, and the second smoking section includes a second smoking holding section.

7. In the operation method of an aerosol generating device, The process involves heating the cigarette with a heater, A step of measuring the temperature of the heater using a temperature sensor, The timer counts down the current date, The step includes controlling the power supplied to the heater via a control signal, The step of controlling the power is: Using the temperature sensor, the heating time, which indicates the time it takes for the cigarette to reach a predetermined temperature, is calculated. A threshold is set to be compared with the heating time based on the current date counted by the timer, If the heating time is less than the set threshold, power is supplied to the heater according to the basic temperature profile. A method for operating an aerosol generator, wherein if the heating time is greater than or equal to the set threshold, power is supplied to the heater by the first correction profile.

8. The step of controlling the power is: A method for operating an aerosol generator according to claim 7, comprising: distinguishing between a first season and a second season different from the first season based on the current date; and setting the threshold to a first threshold corresponding to the first season or a second threshold corresponding to the second season.

9. The basic temperature profile includes a first preheating section and a first smoking section. The first correction profile includes a second preheating section and a second smoking section, The method of operating the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the second preheating section is longer than the first preheating section.

10. The first preheating section includes a first preheating rise section, a first preheating hold section, and a first preheating fall section. The second preheating section includes a second preheating rise section, a second-first preheating hold section, a second preheating fall section, and a second-second preheating hold section. The method of operating the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the first preheating rise section is shorter than the second preheating rise section.

11. The 2-1 preheating and holding section is longer than the 1 preheating and holding section. The method of operating an aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the temperature change in the second preheating descent section is greater than the temperature change in the first preheating descent section.

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