Aerosol generating apparatus and its operating method

Abstract

An aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof are provided, the aerosol generating device including a heater for heating an aerosol generating material, a puff sensor for providing an output corresponding to a user's puff, an input device for receiving a user input, and a controller, the controller confirming that the user input corresponds to first data, determining an inhalation pattern associated with the user's inhalation based on the output provided by the puff sensor after confirming that the user input corresponds to the first data, determining a heating profile corresponding to the inhalation pattern based on the determined inhalation pattern, and controlling power supplied to the heater according to the heating profile.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus and a method of operating the same. [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 device and a method of operating the same that can determine the user's inhalation pattern and generate a mist volume corresponding to the user's inhalation pattern when the user inhales an aerosol.

[0005] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generator and a method of operating the aerosol generator that can be easily personalized by a user by determining an inhalation pattern based on a user input signal related to the determination of the inhalation pattern.

[0006] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generator and a method of operating the same that can initialize an inhalation pattern based on a user input signal associated with the initiation of an inhalation pattern to enhance user convenience.

[0007] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generator and a method of operating the same that allows a user to easily confirm the input of their inhalation pattern by notifying the user of the start and end of the determination of the inhalation pattern. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to one aspect of the subject matter described in this application, an aerosol generator includes a heater for heating an aerosol generating substance, a puff sensor that provides an output corresponding to a user's puff, an input device for receiving user input, and a control unit, the control unit confirms that the user input corresponds to first data, and after confirming that the user input corresponds to first data, determines an inhalation pattern related to the user's inhalation based on the output provided by the puff sensor, determines a heating profile corresponding to the inhalation pattern based on the determined inhalation pattern, and controls the power supplied to the heater by the heating profile.

[0009] In other aspects of the subject matter described herein, a method for operating an aerosol generator having an input device is provided. The method may include: confirming that a user input received from the input device corresponds to first data; determining an inhalation pattern associated with the user's inhalation based on an output provided by a puff sensor, after confirming that the user input received from the input device corresponds to first data; and determining a heating profile corresponding to the inhalation pattern based on the determined inhalation pattern. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the user's inhalation pattern can be determined, and a mist volume corresponding to the user's inhalation pattern can be generated when the user inhales an aerosol.

[0011] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, based on a user input signal related to the determination of an inhalation pattern, the inhalation pattern can be determined so that the user can easily personalize the operation of the aerosol generating device.

[0012] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, based on a user input signal related to the initialization of an inhalation pattern, the inhalation pattern can be initialized to enhance the convenience of the user.

[0013] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, by notifying the user of the start and end of the determination of the inhalation pattern, the user can easily confirm the input of their inhalation pattern.

[0014] The applicable additional scope of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be clearly understandable to those skilled in the art, so the detailed description and specific examples such as the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure should be understood as merely illustrative.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] It is a diagram for explaining an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] It is a diagram for explaining an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] It is a diagram for explaining an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 5] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a stick. [Figure 6] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a stick. [Figure 7] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a stick. [Figure 8] It is a flowchart showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9]A diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] A diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] A diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] A diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] A flowchart showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] A flowchart showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] A diagram for explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

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

[0017] The suffixes "module" and "unit" for components used in the following description are used only for the ease of explanation in the specification. "Module" and "unit" do not have different meanings or roles from each other.

[0018] Also, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, when a detailed description of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof is omitted. In addition, the accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included in the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0019] While ordinal terms such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe a variety of components, it should be understood that these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0020] 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.

[0021] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the context.

[0022] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] 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.

[0024] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 10 may consist only of a main body 100. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generator 10 may be located in the main body 100. In another embodiment, the aerosol generator 10 may consist of a cartridge 200 for storing aerosol-generating material and a main body 100. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generator 10 may be located in at least one of the main body 100 and the cartridge 200.

[0025] 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®, or NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0026] The input / output interface 12 may include an input device 121 that receives commands from the user and / or an output device 122 that outputs information to the user. For example, the input device 121 may include a touch panel, physical buttons, a microphone, etc. For example, the output device 122 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, etc.

[0027] The input / output interface 12 can transmit data corresponding to commands input by the user via the input device 121 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 122.

[0028] The aerosol generation module 13 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance. Here, the aerosol-generating substance can mean one or more substances in any of the various states, such as liquid, solid, or gel, that can generate an aerosol, or a combination of two or more substances.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] Furthermore, the aerosol-generating substance may further contain aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0032] The aerosol generation module 13 may include at least one heater 131.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] On the other hand, the aerosol generation module 13 can also generate aerosols from aerosol-generating materials by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

[0038] The aerosol generation module 13 can be described as a cartomizer, atomizer, or vaporizer.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] For example, memory 14 can store the operating time of the aerosol generator 10, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, the number of times the battery 16 has been charged, the number of times the battery 16 has been discharged, at least one temperature profile, data about the user's inhalation pattern, and data about charging and discharging. Here, "puff" can mean the user's inhalation, and "inhalation" can mean the situation in which the user draws something into their oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs through their mouth or nose.

[0042] 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.).

[0043] The sensor module 15 may include at least one sensor.

[0044] For example, the sensor module 15 may include a sensor that detects puffs (hereinafter referred to as the puff sensor). Here, the puff sensor 151 can be embodied by proximity sensors such as IR sensors, pressure sensors, gyroscopes, accelerometers, magnetic field sensors, and the like.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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 152).

[0047] 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.

[0048] Here, the stick sensing sensor 152 and / or cartridge sensing sensor 153 can be implemented by an inductance substrate sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC) using the Hall effect, etc.

[0049] 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.

[0050] For example, the sensor module 15 may include at least one sensor (hereinafter referred to as motion sensor 154) that senses the movement of the aerosol generator 10. Here, the motion sensor 154 may be embodied by at least one of a gyro sensor and an accelerometer.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] The aerosol generator 10 may further include a battery protection circuit module (PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery 16. The battery protection module (PCM) may be positioned adjacent to the top surface of the battery 16. For example, the battery protection module (PCM) can interrupt the circuit to the battery 16 in the event of a short circuit in a circuit connected to the battery 16, an overvoltage being applied to the battery 16, or an overcurrent flowing through the battery 16, in order to prevent overcharging and over-discharging of the battery 16.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The aerosol generator 10 can 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 a communication module for wireless communication, and can charge the battery 16 using the wirelessly supplied power.

[0056] 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.

[0057] The control unit 17 may include at least one processor, which can be used to control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 10. Here, the processor may be a general-purpose processor such as a CPU (central processing unit). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or a processor based on other hardware.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] The control unit 17 can determine the occurrence of puffs using the puff sensor 151 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 151, and can determine the occurrence of puffs based on the results of the checks using the sensing values ​​of the puff sensor 151.

[0061] 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 (heating profile) stored in the memory 14.

[0062] 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.

[0063] The control unit 17 can calculate the remaining amount of power stored in the battery 16 (hereinafter referred to as the remaining power). 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.

[0064] 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).

[0065] 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.

[0066] For example, the control unit 17 can determine a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile (heating 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.

[0067] For example, the control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the temperature profile (heating profile). The control unit 17 can control the length of the heating section in which the heater is heated, the amount of power supplied to the heater in the heating section, and so on. The control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the target temperature of the heater.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] Figures 2 to 4 illustrate an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] According to various embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a main body 100 and / or a cartridge 200.

[0072] Referring to Figure 2, the aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 configured so that a stick 20 can be inserted into the space formed by the housing 101.

[0073] The stick 20 may be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the stick 20 can be divided into a first part containing an aerosol-generating substance and a second part containing a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second part of the stick 20 may also contain an aerosol-generating substance. For example, an aerosol-generating substance manufactured in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second part.

[0074] The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generator 10, while the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generator 10, or parts of both the first and second parts may be inserted. The user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. Here, the aerosol is generated when outside air passes through the first part, and the generated aerosol can pass through the second part and be transmitted to the user's mouth.

[0075] The main body 100 may be formed in such a way that external air can flow into the main body 100 when the stick 20 is inserted. Here, the external air that flows into the main body 100 can pass through the stick 20 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0076] The heater may be positioned within the main body 100 at a location corresponding to the position in which the stick 20 is inserted into the main body 100. In this figure, the heater is shown as an electrically conductive heater 110 including needle-shaped electrically conductive tracks, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0077] The heater can heat the inside and / or outside of the stick 20 using power supplied from the battery 16. Here, an aerosol can be generated in the heated stick 20. Here, the user can inhale the tobacco aerosol by inhaling through one end of the stick 20 with their mouth.

[0078] On the other hand, the control unit 17 can be controlled to supply power to the heater even when the stick 20 is not inserted, depending on predetermined conditions. For example, if a cleaning function is selected to clean the space where the stick 20 is inserted, according to a command input by the user via the input / output interface 12, the control unit 17 can be controlled to supply a predetermined amount of power to the heater.

[0079] 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.

[0080] The control unit 17 can initialize the current puff count stored in the memory 14 if the inserted stick 20 is removed.

[0081] Referring to Figure 3, an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 that supports a cartridge 200 and a cartridge 200 that stores aerosol generating material.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] The control unit 17 can determine whether the cartridge 200 is attached or detached using the cartridge sensing sensor included in the sensor module 15. For example, the cartridge sensing sensor can transmit a pulse current through one terminal connected to the cartridge 200. Here, the cartridge sensing sensor can sense whether the cartridge 200 is connected or not based on whether a pulse current is received through the other terminal.

[0085] The cartridge 200 may include a heater 210 for heating an aerosol-generating substance and / or a storage section 220 for storing the aerosol-generating substance. For example, a liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating substance may be located inside the storage section 220. The electrically conductive track of the heater 210 may be formed in a structure that winds around the liquid transfer means. Here, an aerosol can be generated by heating the liquid transfer means with the heater 210. Here, the liquid transfer means may include a wick made of cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic.

[0086] The cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 230 into which a stick 20 can be inserted. For example, the cartridge 200 may include an insertion space formed by an inner wall (not shown) extending circumferentially along the direction in which the stick 20 is inserted. Here, the insertion space may be formed by the inner side of the inner wall being open at the top and bottom. The stick 20 can be inserted into the insertion space 230 formed by the inner wall.

[0087] The insertion space into which the stick 20 is inserted can be formed in a shape corresponding to a part of the shape of the stick 20 inserted into the insertion space. For example, if the stick 20 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the insertion space can be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0088] When the stick 20 is inserted into the insertion space, the outer surface of the stick 20 is surrounded by the inner wall and may come into contact with the inner wall.

[0089] 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.

[0090] The user can inhale the aerosol by holding one end of the stick 20 in their mouth. The aerosol generated by the heater 210 can pass through the stick 20 and be delivered to the user's mouth. As the aerosol passes through the stick 20, substances contained in the stick 20 are added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with the added substances can be inhaled into the user's oral cavity through one end of the stick 20.

[0091] Referring to Figure 4, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 that supports a cartridge 200, and a cartridge 200 that contains an aerosol generating substance. The main body 100 may be configured so that a stick 20 can be inserted into an insertion space 130.

[0092] The aerosol generator 10 may include a first heater for heating the aerosol-generating substance stored in the cartridge 200. For example, when a user inhales through one end of the stick 20, the aerosol generated by the first heater can pass through the stick 20. As the aerosol passes through the stick 20, flavoring may be added to it. The flavored aerosol can then be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick 20.

[0093] On the other hand, in other embodiments, the aerosol generator 10 may also include a first heater for heating the aerosol-generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and a second heater for heating the stick 20 inserted into the main body 100. For example, the aerosol generator 100 can also generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material stored in the cartridge 200 and the stick 20, respectively, with the first heater and the second heater.

[0094] Figures 5 to 7 illustrate a stick according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed explanations of content that overlaps with Figures 5 to 7 are omitted.

[0095] Referring to Figure 5, the stick 20 according to one embodiment may include a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. Referring to Figure 2, the first part described above may include the tobacco rod 21. Referring to Figure 2, the second part described above may include the filter rod 22.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] The third wrapper 243 can be made from hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 88 g / m² to 96 g / m². For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 90 g / m² to 94 g / m². Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be 125 μm.

[0101] The fourth wrapper 244 can be made from oil-resistant hard packaging paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 88 g / m² to 96 g / m². For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 90 g / m² to 94 g / m². Also, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be 125 μm.

[0102] The fifth wrapper 245 can be made from sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) may refer to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 57 g / m2 to 63 g / m2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be 60 g / m2. 2 This is possible. Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 can fall within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 could be 67 μm.

[0103] The fifth wrapper 245 may contain a predetermined substance. Here, an example of the predetermined substance may be silicon, but is not limited to silicon. For example, silicon may have properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, any substance having the above-mentioned properties can be applied or coated to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation, even if it is not silicon.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] The length of the first segment can be set to an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited to this. For example, the length of the first segment could be 10 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] Since the second segment is formed from woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment may include one or more longitudinally extending channels, where channels may mean passages through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] Referring to Figure 6, the stick 30 according to one embodiment may further include a front plug 33. The front plug 33 is located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite the filter rod 32. The front plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching to the outside. The front plug 33 can prevent liquefied aerosol from the tobacco rod 31 from flowing into the aerosol generator 100 during smoking.

[0122] 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.

[0123] The diameter and overall length of stick 30 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of stick 20 in Figure 4. For example, the length of the front plug 33 may be approximately 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be approximately 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be approximately 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be approximately 14 mm, but are not limited to these.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] Further, the second segment 322 can include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 can also function to generate a fragrance. The capsule 34 can also function to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 can have a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped with a film. The capsule 34 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0127] The first wrapper 351 can be formed by bonding a metal foil such as an aluminum foil to a general filter wrapping paper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 can be included in the range of 45 μm to 55 μm. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 can be 50.3 μm. Also, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 can be included in the range of 6 μm to 7 μm. For example, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 can be 6.3 μm. Also, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 50 g / m 2 ~55 g / m 2 and can be included in the range. For example, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 can be 53 g / m 2 and can be.

[0128] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be made from a general filter wrapping paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be porous wrapping paper or non-porous wrapping paper.

[0129] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 can be 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 can be included in the range of 70 μm to 80 μm. For example, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 can be 78 μm. Also, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and can be included in the range. For example, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 can be 23.5 g / m 2 and can be. >

[0130] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be, but is not limited to, 24,000 CU. The thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of 60 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be 68 μm. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of 20 g / m² to 25 g / m². For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be 21 g / m². 2 It is possible.

[0131] The fourth wrapper 354 can be made from PLA laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper may mean triple-layered paper containing a paper layer, a PLA layer, and another paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 100 μm to 120 μm. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be 110 μm. The basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is 80 g / m². 2 ~100g / m 2 It may fall within that range. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is 88 g / m². 2 It is possible.

[0132] The fifth wrapper 355 can be made from sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterile paper (MFW) may refer to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is 57 g / m². 2 ~63g / m 2 It may fall within that range. For example, the basis weight of the 5th wrapper 355 is 60 g / m². 2 This is possible. Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 can be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 could be 67 μm.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] Referring to Figure 7, the stick 40 may include a medium section 410. The stick 40 may include a cooling section 420. The stick 40 may include a filter section 430. The cooling section 420 may be positioned between the medium section 410 and the filter section 430. The stick 40 may include a wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 may enclose the medium section 410. The wrapper 440 may enclose the cooling section 420. The wrapper 440 may enclose the filter section 430. The stick 40 may have a cylindrical shape.

[0140] The medium section 410 may include a medium 411. The medium section 410 may include a first medium cover 413. The medium section 410 may include a second medium cover 415. The medium 411 may be positioned between the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415. The first medium cover 413 may be positioned at one end of the stick 40. The length of the medium section 410 may be 24 mm.

[0141] The medium 411 can contain substances with diverse components. The substances contained in the medium may be flavor substances with diverse components. The medium 411 may consist of a plurality of granules. Each of the plurality of granules may have a size of 0.4 mm to 1.12 mm. The inside of the medium 411 may be filled to about 70% with granules. The length L2 of the medium 411 may be 10 mm. The first medium cover 413 may be made of acetate material. The second medium cover 415 may be made of acetate material. The first medium cover 413 may be made of paper material. The second medium cover 415 may be made of paper material. At least one of the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415 may be made of paper material and have a wrinkled shape, and a plurality of gaps may be formed between them for air to flow. The gaps may be smaller than the size of each granule of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L3 of the second medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be 7 mm. The length L2 of the second medium cover 413 may be 7 mm.

[0142] Therefore, each granule of the medium 411 cannot detach from the medium portion 410 and the stick 40.

[0143] The cooling section 420 may have a cylindrical shape. The cooling section 420 may have a hollow shape. The cooling section 420 may be positioned between the medium section 410 and the filter section 430. The cooling section 420 may be positioned between the second medium section 415 and the filter section 430. The cooling section 420 may be formed in a tubular shape surrounding the internal cooling passage 424. The cooling section 420 may be thicker than the wrapper 440. The cooling section 420 may be made of a paper material thicker than the wrapper 440. The length L4 of the cooling section 420 may be the same as or approximately the same as the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L4 of the cooling section 420 and the cooling passage 424 may be 10 mm. When the stick 40 is inserted into the aerosol generator 10, at least a portion of the cooling section 420 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator 10.

[0144] Therefore, the cooling unit 420 supports the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, ensuring the rigidity of the stick 40. Furthermore, the cooling unit 420 supports the wrapper 440 between the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, securing the area where the wrapper 440 is bonded. Additionally, heated air and aerosols can be cooled as they pass through the cooling passage 424 inside the cooling unit 420.

[0145] The filter section 430 may be composed of an acetate filter. The filter section 430 may be located at the other end of the stick 40. When the stick 40 is inserted into the aerosol generator 10, the filter section 430 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator 10. The user can inhale air by holding the filter section 430 in their mouth. The length L5 of the filter section 430 may be 14 mm.

[0146] The wrapper 440 can wrap around or surround the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430. The wrapper 440 can form the outer shape of the stick 40. The wrapper 440 may be made of paper material. An adhesive portion 441 may be formed on one end of the wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 wraps around the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430, and the adhesive portion 441 formed on one side edge may be bonded to the other side edge. The wrapper 440 that wraps around the medium portion 410, the cooling portion 420, and the filter portion 430 does not have to cover one end and the other end of the stick 40.

[0147] Therefore, the wrapper 440 can fix the medium section 410, the cooling section 420, and the filter section 430, preventing them from detaching from the stick 40.

[0148] The first thin film 443 may be positioned in a location corresponding to the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be positioned between the wrapper 440 and the first medium cover 413, or outside the wrapper 440. The first thin film 443 may surround the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be made of a metallic material. The first thin film 443 may be made of an aluminum material. The first thin film 443 may be in contact with or coated on the wrapper 440.

[0149] The second thin film 445 may be positioned in a location corresponding to the second medium cover 415. The second thin film 445 may be positioned between the wrapper 440 and the second medium cover 415, or outside the wrapper 440. The second thin film 445 may be made of a metallic material. The second thin film 445 may be made of an aluminum material. The second thin film 445 may be in close contact with or coated on the wrapper 440.

[0150] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0151] Referring to Figure 8, the aerosol generator 10 can receive the user input signal in S810 operation.

[0152] User input signals can be generated by user input via the input device 121. For example, user input signals may include at least one of button input via a physical button and touch input via a touch panel.

[0153] In S820 operation, the control unit 17 of the aerosol generator 10 can compare the received user input signal with the first data. The control unit 170 can determine whether the user input signal corresponds to the first data. The first data is stored in memory 14 in advance, and when the control unit 17 receives a user input signal, it can determine whether the user input signal corresponds to the first data.

[0154] The first data may include information such as whether a specific button is pressed, a predetermined number of button presses occurring within a predetermined time, whether a specific pattern of touch input occurs, and a predetermined number of touch inputs occurring within a predetermined time. The first data can be called a first condition or a first setting value.

[0155] The aerosol generator 10 can determine that a user input signal corresponds to the first data if a specific button is pressed, the number of button presses that occur within a predetermined time period is the same as a predetermined number, a specific pattern of touch input occurs, or the number of touch inputs that occur within a predetermined time period is the same as a predetermined number.

[0156] On the other hand, the aerosol generator 10 can determine whether the event signal corresponds to the first data. The motion sensor 154 of the aerosol generator 10 can generate an event signal in response to the movement of the aerosol generator 10. The aerosol generator 10 can compare the event signal generated by the motion sensor 154 with the first data and determine whether the event signal corresponds to the first data.

[0157] The event signal may include a tap input signal, a shake input signal, etc. The first data may include information such as the number of tap signals that occur within a predetermined time period, or the number of shake signals that occur within a predetermined time period.

[0158] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine whether to receive a tap input that taps the aerosol generator 10 based on signals from an acceleration sensor and / or a gyroscope sensor. When a tap input is received, the aerosol generator 10 can count the number of tap inputs received within a predetermined time period, starting from the time the first tap input was received. If the number of tap inputs received within the predetermined time period is the same as the predetermined number of tap inputs for the first data, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that the event signal is the same as the first data.

[0159] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine whether it has received a shaking input based on signals from an acceleration sensor and / or a gyroscope sensor. Upon receiving a shaking input, the aerosol generator 10 can count the number of shaking inputs received within a predetermined time period, starting from the time the first shaking input was received. If the number of shaking inputs received within the predetermined time period is the same as the predetermined number of shaking inputs for the first data, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that the event signal is the same as the first data.

[0160] In S830 operation, if the aerosol generator 10 determines that the user input signal corresponds to the first data, it can receive a puff signal generated by the user's inhalation from the puff sensor 151.

[0161] On the other hand, if the aerosol generator 10 determines in S830 operation that the event signal corresponds to the first data, it can receive a puff signal generated by the user's inhalation from the puff sensor 151.

[0162] The aerosol generator 10 can determine the user's inhalation pattern based on the puff signal.

[0163] The aerosol generator 10 can calculate the user's inhalation intensity, total inhalation volume, inhalation volume per unit time, time interval between puffs (hereinafter referred to as the inhalation interval), and / or inhalation time based on the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor stored in the memory 14.

[0164] Referring to Figure 9, the aerosol generator 10 can calculate the sample pressure value 600 using at least a portion of the pressure values ​​sensed via the pressure sensor 151. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can calculate the sample pressure value 600 as a representative value (e.g., average value, median value, etc.) of consecutive pressure values ​​over a predetermined period of time. On the other hand, the time interval between the sample pressure values ​​600 may be constant.

[0165] The aerosol generator 10 can calculate the gradient between sample pressure values ​​of 600. The aerosol generator 10 can determine that a puff has occurred if the gradient between sample pressure values ​​of 600 is less than a first criterion. Here, the first criterion may be the minimum level of pressure change (e.g., -4 hPa / ms) at which it can be determined that the pressure has dropped due to the user's inhalation.

[0166] Furthermore, the aerosol generator 10 can determine a first sample pressure value 601 as the reference pressure value when the gradient between sample pressure values ​​600 is less than the first reference, and can determine the time point corresponding to the first sample pressure value 601 as the puff generation time.

[0167] On the other hand, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that the puff has ended if the gradient within the sample pressure value of 600 after the puff generation point is greater than or equal to the second criterion. Here, the second criterion may be a pressure change at a level where it is determined that the pressure will not drop any further due to the user's inhalation (for example, -0.2 hPa / ms).

[0168] Furthermore, the aerosol generator 10 can calculate a second sample pressure value 603 as the minimum pressure value when the gradient between sample pressure values ​​600 is equal to or greater than the second standard, and can determine the time point corresponding to the second sample pressure value 603 as the end of the puff.

[0169] The aerosol generator 10 can calculate the time 610 from the start of puff generation to the end of puff generation as the user's inhalation time.

[0170] The aerosol generator 10 can calculate the inhalation strength based on the time 610 from the start of puff generation to the end of puff generation, the maximum gradient 620 among the gradients calculated from the start of puff generation, the second sample pressure value 603 calculated as the minimum pressure value, and / or the difference 630 between the reference pressure value and the minimum pressure value.

[0171] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can calculate the inhalation strength by considering the magnitude of the maximum gradient of 620 within the gradient calculated from the time of puff generation to the time of puff completion.

[0172] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can calculate the inhalation strength by the ratio of the difference 630 between the reference pressure value and the minimum pressure value to the time 610 from the time of puff generation to the time of puff end.

[0173] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can calculate the inhalation strength using the second sample pressure value 603, which is calculated as the minimum pressure value.

[0174] Furthermore, the aerosol generator 10 can calculate the total inhalation volume during puffing and / or the inhalation volume per unit time.

[0175] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can calculate the total inhalation volume based on the result of integrating the graph of the pressure sensor's sensing value in the time domain, and the calculated total inhalation volume can be divided by the inhalation time to obtain the inhalation volume per unit time.

[0176] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can calculate the total inhalation volume using a predetermined calculation formula in which inhalation intensity and inhalation time are independent variables, and the calculated total inhalation volume can be divided by the inhalation time to obtain the inhalation volume per unit time.

[0177] On the other hand, the aerosol generator 10 can calculate the inhalation intensity, total inhalation volume, inhalation volume per unit time, and / or inhalation time for each of the multiple puff sections that constitute the heating section, and can determine the user's inhalation pattern based on the inhalation intensity, total inhalation volume, inhalation volume per unit time, and / or inhalation time calculated for each of the multiple puff sections.

[0178] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the user's inhalation strength as a representative value (e.g., average value, median value, etc.) of the inhalation strength calculated for each of the multiple puff intervals.

[0179] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the total inhalation volume calculated for each of the multiple puff intervals as the user's total inhalation volume.

[0180] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the user's inhalation volume per unit time as a representative value of the inhalation volume per unit time calculated for each of the multiple puff intervals.

[0181] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the user's inhalation time as a representative value of the inhalation time calculated for each of the multiple puff intervals.

[0182] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the user's puff interval as a representative value of the puff interval calculated for each of the multiple puff intervals.

[0183] The aerosol generator 10 can determine the inhalation pattern based on at least one of the calculated inhalation intensity, inhalation volume, inhalation interval, and inhalation time.

[0184] For example, the aerosol generator 10 can classify inhalation patterns into multiple types based on the magnitude of the inhalation intensity and the length of the inhalation time. For example, the control unit 17 can classify inhalation patterns with high inhalation intensity and long inhalation time as a first type, inhalation patterns with high inhalation intensity and short inhalation time as a second type, inhalation patterns with low inhalation intensity and long inhalation time as a third type, and inhalation patterns with low inhalation intensity and short inhalation time as a fourth type. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the user's inhalation pattern can also be classified considering the user's total inhalation volume, inhalation volume per unit time, puff interval, etc.

[0185] Referring also to Figure 8, in operation S840, the aerosol generator 10 can determine a heating profile corresponding to the inhalation pattern based on the user's inhalation pattern.

[0186] There may be multiple heating profiles. Multiple heating profiles may be pre-stored in memory 14. Each heating profile may correspond to one inhalation pattern type. For example, the first heating profile may correspond to the first type of inhalation pattern, the second heating profile to the second type of inhalation pattern, the third heating profile to the third type of inhalation pattern, and the fourth heating profile to the fourth type of inhalation pattern.

[0187] The control unit 17 can determine from among the multiple heating profiles stored in the memory 14 that the heating profile corresponding to the user's inhalation pattern is the heating profile for the operation of the aerosol generator 10.

[0188] The heating profile may include at least one of the following: the length of the heating section, the amount of power supplied to the heater in the heating section, and the target temperature of the heater in the heating section.

[0189] The control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the heating profile. The control unit 17 can control the length of the heating section in which the heater is heated, the amount of power supplied to the heater in the heating section, and so on. The control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the target temperature of the heater.

[0190] Figures 10 to 12 illustrate the operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 10 and 11 show the signal of the puff sensor 151 over time, and Figure 12 shows the signal of the stick sensing sensor 152 when the stick is removed from the stick insertion space.

[0191] Referring to Figure 10, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the inhalation pattern of the user within a predetermined time if the user input signal corresponds to the first data. For example, if the user input signal received from the input device 121 corresponds to the first data, the aerosol generator 10 can receive the puff signal 710 generated by the user's inhalation from the puff sensor 151, and determine the inhalation pattern of the user based on the number of puffs that correspond to a predetermined number of puffs that occur after the user input signal is received.

[0192] The memory 14 of the aerosol generator 10 can store information about a predetermined number of puffs in relation to the determination of the inhalation pattern. For example, as shown in Figure 10, the memory 14 can store information that the predetermined number of puffs is 3 in relation to the determination of the inhalation pattern.

[0193] The aerosol generator 10 can determine the inhalation pattern of the user based on puffs p1, p2, and p3 corresponding to a predetermined number of times, with reference to the time T1 when the same user input signal as the first data is input. The aerosol generator 10 may not use puffs p4, ... generated after the predetermined number of puffs to determine the inhalation pattern.

[0194] On the other hand, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the user's inhalation pattern based on puffs generated during a predetermined time period, with reference to the time T1 when the same user input signal as the first data is received. For example, as shown in Figure 10, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the user's inhalation pattern based on puffs generated from T1 to T2, after a predetermined time has elapsed. In this case, the number of puffs used to determine the user's inhalation pattern may vary depending on the user and the situation.

[0195] Referring to Figure 11, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the inhalation pattern of the user within a predetermined time period if the user input signal corresponds to the first data. For example, the aerosol generator 10 can receive a puff signal 720 generated by the user's inhalation from the puff sensor 151, determine the end of the puff series, and determine the inhalation pattern of the user's inhalation based on the puffs generated from the time the user input signal was received until the end of the puff series. The end of the puff series may be the point at which a series of consecutive puffs (puff series) generated by the user's inhalation ends.

[0196] For example, as shown in Figure 11, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that the puff has ended (T3) if no puffs are generated within the first time period set after the generation of puff p5.

[0197] On the other hand, the aerosol generator 10 can monitor the number of puffs from the moment a puff is first detected, and can determine that the puffing has ended when the number of puffs reaches the maximum number of puffs. On the other hand, the aerosol generator 10 can determine that the puffing has ended when a set second time (for example, 4 minutes and 30 seconds) has elapsed from the moment a puff is first detected.

[0198] Information regarding the first hour, second hour, and / or maximum number of puffs used to determine when the puffing process is complete may be stored in memory 14.

[0199] The aerosol generator 10 can determine the user's inhalation pattern based on the puffs generated from the time it receives the user input signal until the end of the puff cycle.

[0200] The aerosol generator 10 can determine the inhalation pattern of the user based on the puffs p1, ... p5 generated from the time T1 when the user input signal corresponding to the first data is input until the end of the puffing period T3.

[0201] Referring to Figure 12, the aerosol generator 10 can determine the user's inhalation pattern based on the puffs taken until the stick 400 is removed from the aerosol generator 10, provided that the user input signal corresponds to the first data.

[0202] The aerosol generator 10 may include an insertion section 214 in which a long space is formed. The stick 400 can be inserted into the insertion section 214 of the aerosol generator 10 and heated by a heater to generate an aerosol.

[0203] The aerosol generator 10 may include a stick sensing sensor 152. The stick sensing sensor 152 may be mounted on the main body 100 so as to be located on one side of the space of the insertion section 214. The stick sensing sensor 152 can output a signal corresponding to a stick inserted into the insertion section.

[0204] The signal output from the stick detection sensor 152 may change when the stick 400 is removed. The aerosol generator 10 can detect the change in the signal output from the stick detection sensor 152 and determine that the stick 400 has been removed from the insertion section 214. The aerosol generator 10 can determine the user's inhalation pattern based on the puffs generated from the time T1 when the user input signal is received until the time T5 when the stick 400 is removed from the insertion section 214.

[0205] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the operation method of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0206] Referring to Figure 13, the aerosol generator 10 can initialize the heating profile based on the user input signal. The aerosol generator 10 can initialize the heating profile by changing the heating profile to the basic heating profile.

[0207] The aerosol generator 10 can operate based on a basic heating profile. The basic heating profile may be the heating profile that is basically applied when the aerosol generator 10 is produced and shipped. The basic heating profile may be a heating profile that corresponds to an average smoking pattern that represents the user's smoking pattern.

[0208] Memory 14 can store multiple heating profiles. These multiple heating profiles may include heating profiles corresponding to each type of smoking pattern and a basic heating profile.

[0209] The operations of S910, S920, S930, and S940 in Figure 13 are the same as the operations of S810 to S840 in Figure 8, so a detailed explanation of the operations that are the same as those in the embodiment of Figure 8 will be omitted.

[0210] In S920 operation, if the user input signal does not correspond to the first data, the aerosol generator 10 may stop determining the user's inhalation pattern until another user input signal is received.

[0211] In S950 operation, the aerosol generator 10 can determine whether the received user input signal corresponds to the second data. The control unit 17 can determine whether the user input signal corresponds to the second data.

[0212] The second data is stored in memory 14 beforehand, and when the control unit 17 receives a user input signal, it can determine whether the user input signal corresponds to the second data.

[0213] The second data may include information on whether a specific button is pressed, a predetermined number of button presses occurring within a predetermined time period, whether a specific pattern of touch input occurs, and a predetermined number of touch inputs occurring within a predetermined time period. The second data can be referred to as a second condition or a second setting value.

[0214] In S960 operation, the aerosol generator 10 can initialize the heating profile if it determines that the user input signal corresponds to the second data. The aerosol generator 10 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the basic heating profile.

[0215] On the other hand, in S960 operation, the aerosol generator 10 can initialize the determined heating profile when it determines that the event signal corresponds to the second data. Based on the basic heating profile, the aerosol generator 10 can control the power supplied to the heater.

[0216] In S970 operation, the aerosol generator 10 may stop changing the heating profile if it determines that the user input signal does not correspond to the second data. The aerosol generator 10 may maintain the existing heating profile if it determines that the user input signal does not correspond to the second data. The existing heating profile may be the heating profile used to heat the heater in a previous user inhalation.

[0217] The control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the heating profile. The control unit 17 can control the length of the heating section in which the heater is heated, the amount of power supplied to the heater in the heating section, and so on. The control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the target temperature of the heater.

[0218] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the operation method of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0219] Referring to Figure 14, the aerosol generator 10 can initialize the heating profile based on the separation and / or installation of the cartridge. The aerosol generator 10 can initialize the heating profile by changing the heating profile to the basic heating profile.

[0220] The aerosol generator 10 can operate based on a basic heating profile. The basic heating profile may be the heating profile that is basically applied when the aerosol generator 10 is produced and shipped. The basic heating profile may be a heating profile that corresponds to an average smoking pattern that represents the user's smoking pattern.

[0221] Memory 14 can store multiple heating profiles. These multiple heating profiles may include heating profiles corresponding to each type of smoking pattern and a basic heating profile.

[0222] The aerosol generator 10 may include a cartridge 200. The cartridge 200 can be attached to or detached from the main body 100 of the aerosol generator 10. The cartridge 200 may contain an aerosol-generating substance. The aerosol generator 10 may include a cartridge sensing sensor 153 that senses the attachment and detachment of the cartridge. For example, the cartridge sensing sensor 153 may include a connection terminal. The connection terminal is provided on the main body 100, and when the cartridge 200 is coupled to the main body 100, it can be electrically connected to the electrodes provided on the cartridge 200.

[0223] In operation S1010, the aerosol generator 10 can sense a change in the signal output from the cartridge sensing sensor 153 and detect whether the cartridge 200 is being attached to or detached from the main unit 100.

[0224] In operation S1020, the aerosol generator 10 can initialize the determined heating profile when the cartridge 200 is separated from the main body 100 or when it is reattached after such separation.

[0225] The aerosol generator 10 can control the power supplied to the heater based on a basic heating profile.

[0226] In operation S1010, if the aerosol generator 10 determines that the cartridge 200 has not been separated from the main unit 100, it can monitor whether it receives a user input signal. If it then receives a user input signal, the aerosol generator 10 can compare the user input signal with the first data.

[0227] The operations of S1030, S1040, S1050, and S1060 in Figure 14 are the same as the operations of S810 to S840 in Figure 8, so a detailed explanation of the operations that are the same as those in the embodiment of Figure 8 will be omitted.

[0228] In operation S1040, if the user input signal does not correspond to the first data, the aerosol generator 10 may stop determining the user's inhalation pattern until the user input signal is received again.

[0229] In operation S1070, the aerosol generator 10 may stop changing the heating profile if it determines that the user input signal does not correspond to the first data. If the aerosol generator 10 determines that the user input signal does not correspond to the first data, it may maintain the existing heating profile that was used to heat the heater during a previous user inhalation.

[0230] The control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the heating profile. The control unit 17 can control the length of the heating section in which the heater is heated, the amount of power supplied to the heater in the heating section, and so on. The control unit 17 can control the power supplied to the heater based on the target temperature of the heater.

[0231] Figure 15 illustrates the operation of an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0232] Referring to Figure 15, the aerosol generator 10 can output information corresponding to the user's inhalation pattern when it determines this pattern.

[0233] The aerosol generator 10 can output information via the output device 122 that corresponds to the start of inhalation pattern determination when the user input signal received from the input device 121 corresponds to the first data, and after completing the determination of the inhalation pattern in response to the user's inhalation, it can output information via the output device 122 that corresponds to the end of the inhalation pattern determination. For example, the output information may include vibration signals, audio signals, etc.

[0234] The information corresponding to the start of inhalation pattern determination and the information corresponding to the end of inhalation pattern determination may differ from each other. For example, the aerosol generator 10 may output two vibration signals when inhalation pattern determination begins and three vibration signals when inhalation pattern determination ends. However, the information output is not limited to this.

[0235] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, when the user inhales an aerosol, a mist volume corresponding to the user's inhalation pattern can be generated.

[0236] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the inhalation pattern is determined based on a user input signal related to the determination of the inhalation pattern, allowing the user to easily personalize the operation of the aerosol generator.

[0237] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the inhalation pattern can be initialized based on the initialization of the inhalation pattern and the user input signal to enhance user convenience.

[0238] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the user can easily confirm the input of their inhalation pattern by notifying the user of the start and end of the determination of the inhalation pattern.

[0239] Referring to Figures 1 to 15, an aerosol generating device 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a heater 131 for heating an aerosol generating substance, a puff sensor 151 for outputting a signal corresponding to a user's puff, an input device 121 for receiving user input, and a control unit 17 for controlling the power supplied to the heater 131. The control unit 17 can determine the inhalation pattern for the user's inhalation based on the signal received from the puff sensor 151, determine a heating profile corresponding to the inhalation pattern based on the determined inhalation pattern, and determine the inhalation pattern for the user's inhalation if the user input signal received from the input device 121 corresponds to first data.

[0240] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit 17 can determine the inhalation pattern of the user based on a predetermined number of puffs that occur after the user input signal is received, if the user input signal received from the input device 121 corresponds to the first data.

[0241] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the control unit 17 can determine the end of a puff series and determine the inhalation pattern for the user's inhalation based on the puffs that occurred from the time the user input signal was received until the end of the puff series.

[0242] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the aerosol generator 10 may further include an insertion section 214 having a long space formed therein, and a stick sensing sensor 152 that outputs a signal corresponding to a stick 400 inserted into the insertion section 214. The control unit 17 can sense via the stick sensing sensor 152 that the stick 400 has been removed from the insertion section 214 and can determine the inhalation pattern of the user based on the puffs generated from the time the user input signal is received until the stick 400 is removed from the insertion section 214.

[0243] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the control unit 17 can calculate at least one of the following based on the signal received from the puff sensor 151: inhalation intensity, inhalation volume, inhalation interval, and inhalation time, and can determine the inhalation pattern based on at least one of the calculated inhalation intensity, inhalation volume, inhalation interval, and inhalation time.

[0244] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generator may further include a memory 14 for storing a plurality of heating profiles. The control unit 17 can determine from the plurality of heating profiles a heating profile corresponding to the inhalation pattern.

[0245] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the heating profile may include at least one of the length of the heating section, the amount of power supplied to the heater 131 in the heating section, and the target temperature of the heater 131 in the heating section.

[0246] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the control unit 17 may initialize the heating profile and control the power supplied to the heater 131 based on the basic heating profile if the user input signal received from the input device 121 corresponds to the second data.

[0247] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the aerosol generator may further include a cartridge 200 containing the aerosol generating substance and a cartridge sensing sensor 153 for sensing the insertion and removal of the cartridge 200. The control unit 17 may sense, via the cartridge sensing sensor 153, that the cartridge 200 has been inserted or removed, and if the cartridge 200 is removed from the aerosol generator 10 or is inserted again after the removal, it may initialize the heating profile and control the power supplied to the heater 131 based on the basic heating profile.

[0248] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the user input signal may include at least one of a button input and a touch input.

[0249] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol generator may further include a motion sensor 154. The control unit 17 can determine the inhalation pattern for the user's inhalation if an event signal received from the motion sensor 154 in response to the movement of the aerosol generator 10 corresponds to a first data.

[0250] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, the aerosol generator may further include an output device 122. The control unit 17 may output information via the output device 122 corresponding to the start of inhalation pattern determination when a user input signal received from the input device 121 corresponds to first data, and after completing the determination of the inhalation pattern for the user's inhalation, output information via the output device 122 corresponding to the end of the inhalation pattern determination.

[0251] On the other hand, an operating method of an aerosol generator according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include: receiving a user input signal from an input device 121 and determining whether the received user input signal corresponds to first data; determining an inhalation pattern for the user's inhalation based on a signal received from a puff sensor 151 if the user input signal corresponds to the first data; and determining a heating profile corresponding to the inhalation pattern based on the determined inhalation pattern.

[0252] 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.

[0253] 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.

[0254] 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 heater for heating aerosol-generating material, A puff sensor that provides output corresponding to the user's puff, An input device that receives user input signals, An insertion part that forms a long space, A stick sensing sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the stick inserted into the insertion part, Includes a control unit, The control unit, The input device confirms that the user input signal received corresponds to the first data. After confirming that the user input signal corresponds to the first data, the determination of the inhalation pattern related to the user's inhalation is initiated. Based on the instructions from the stick sensing sensor, it is confirmed that the stick has been removed from the insertion section. After confirming that the stick has been removed from the insertion part, the determination of the inhalation pattern related to the user's inhalation is completed. Based on the multiple puffs generated from the time the user input signal is received until it is confirmed that the stick has been removed from the insertion part, the inhalation pattern associated with the user's inhalation is determined. Based on the determined intake pattern, a heating profile corresponding to the intake pattern is determined from among a plurality of heating profiles. The power supplied to the heater is controlled by the determined heating profile. The control unit further, If the user input signal does not correspond to the first data, the existing heating profile is maintained, and the power supplied to the heater is controlled based on the existing heating profile. Aerosol generator.

2. The control unit further, Based on the output received from the puff sensor, at least one of the following is calculated: inhalation strength, inhalation volume, inhalation interval, and inhalation time. Based on at least one of the calculated intake strength, intake volume, intake interval, and intake time, the intake pattern is determined. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a memory for storing the plurality of heating profiles.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the heating profile includes at least one of the length of time of the heating section, the amount of power supplied to the heater during the heating section, and the target temperature of the heater during the heating section.

5. The control unit further, Confirm that the user input signal corresponds to the second data, If the user input signal corresponds to the second data, the heating profile is initialized using the basic heating profile. Based on the basic heating profile, the power supplied to the heater is controlled. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

6. A cartridge containing the aerosol-generating material, The aerosol generating device further includes a cartridge sensing sensor that senses the attachment and detachment of the cartridge, The control unit further, The cartridge sensing sensor detects whether the cartridge is installed or removed. When it is detected that the cartridge is separated from the aerosol generator or that the cartridge is installed in the aerosol generator after the separation, the heating profile is initialized using the basic heating profile. The power supplied to the heater is controlled by the basic heating profile. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the user input signal includes at least one of button input or touch input.

8. The system further includes an operating sensor that provides an output in response to the movement of the aerosol generating device, The control unit further determines the inhalation pattern associated with the user's inhalation when the output provided by the motion sensor corresponds to the first data. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

9. Further including an output device, The control unit further, When the user input signal corresponds to the first data, the output device is controlled to output information corresponding to the start of the determination of the intake pattern. After determining the intake pattern, the output device is controlled to output information corresponding to the end of the intake pattern determination. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1.

10. A method for operating an aerosol generating apparatus having an input device, An operation to confirm that the user input signal received from the input device corresponds to the first data, After confirming that the user input signal received from the input device corresponds to the first data, the operation begins to determine the inhalation pattern related to the user's inhalation, Based on the stick detection sensor's instructions, the system performs an action to confirm that the stick has been removed from the insertion area, After confirming that the stick has been removed from the insertion part, the operation ends in determining the inhalation pattern related to the user's inhalation, An operation to determine the inhalation pattern associated with the user's inhalation based on a plurality of puffs that occurred from the time the user input signal was received until it was confirmed that the stick had been removed from the insertion part, Based on the determined intake pattern, the operation of determining a heating profile from among a plurality of heating profiles that corresponds to the intake pattern, The determined heating profile controls the power supplied to the heater, Includes, A method for operating an aerosol generator, further comprising the operation of maintaining the existing heating profile and controlling the power supplied to the heater according to the existing heating profile if the user input signal does not correspond to the first data.

Images