Automatic recognition aerosol generating device for inserting cigarette-type aerosol-generating article

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generator capable of automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted, and more specifically, to an aerosol generator capable of accurately recognizing the insertion or removal of a cigarette-type aerosol generating item and controlling the operation accordingly. An aerosol generator for automatically recognizing cigarette insertion according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a heating housing forming a cavity into which a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted; a heater installed inside the cavity to heat the cigarette-type aerosol generating item inserted into the cavity; a battery supplying power to the heater; and a microcontroller controlling the supply of power from the battery to the heater; wherein the heating housing comprises a first heater cover bracket having a hollow formed therein; It includes a second heater cover bracket positioned lower than the first heater cover bracket, having a hollow formed at the bottom, and installed in combination with the first heater cover bracket; a slide member installed on the inner side of the second heater cover bracket to move downward by the cigarette-type aerosol generating article when the cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity; an elastic member fixed on the inner side of the second heater cover bracket to elastically support the slide member from the lower side of the slide member; and an electromagnetic sensing means installed on the outer surface of the second heater cover bracket; and the microcontroller recognizes the insertion or removal of the cigarette-type aerosol generating article according to a signal input from the electromagnetic sensing means.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device capable of automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating device capable of accurately recognizing the insertion or removal of a cigarette-type aerosol generating item and controlling the operation accordingly. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosols are small liquid or solid particles that exist suspended in the atmosphere and typically have a size of 0.001 to 1.0 µm. In particular, people sometimes inhale aerosols originating from various types of cigarettes.

[0003] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the prior art. Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (10) includes a heater (13) that generates heat by resistance when current is applied, a battery (14) capable of supplying high power to the heater (13) instantaneously, and a microcontroller (15) for controlling the heater (13). The heater (13) generates an aerosol by heating a vaporizing material containing a substance (vaporizing material) that vaporizes when heated above a certain temperature, which is contained in a cavity (12). For example, when a cigarette (11) filled with paper impregnated with or covered with an aerosol medium is inserted into the cavity (12), the heater (13) is heated to vaporize the aerosol medium inside the cigarette (11), and the user can inhale the aerosol vaporized from the aerosol medium through the filter part of the cigarette (11).

[0004] Conventional aerosol generators have a problem in that the heater may overheat or the aerosol generator may malfunction if the user operates it carelessly without a cigarette inserted or if the button is pressed unexpectedly.

[0005] In addition, there is a problem that the device may malfunction if the cigarette is ejected due to user negligence or unexpected circumstances while the device is operating with the cigarette inserted.

[0006] In addition, as prior art, Korean Published Patent Application No. 10-2021-0101042 discloses an aerosol generating device comprising a heating chamber into which an aerosol generating article is inserted, a heater for heating the aerosol generating article within the heating chamber, an inductance sensor for measuring the inductance value of a coil, a capacitance sensor for measuring the capacitance value of a capacitor, and a control unit for detecting whether the aerosol generating article is inserted based on the inductance value of the coil and the capacitance value of the capacitor that change due to a marker included in the aerosol generating article. However, in the aforementioned prior art, an inductance sensor and a capacitance sensor must each be provided to detect whether the aerosol generating article is inserted, and the aerosol generating article must include a marker. In addition, the capacitance value detected by the capacitance sensor may be similar to the capacitance value when the aerosol-generating item is removed during initial heating after inserting the aerosol-generating item, and the capacitance value during the user's puff, but a technology capable of accurately distinguishing between the removal of the aerosol-generating item and the user's puff is not disclosed. Prior art literature

[0007] Republic of Korea Published Patent Application 10-2021-0101042 The problem to be solved

[0008] The embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an aerosol generating device capable of improving the accuracy of recognizing the insertion or extraction of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article.

[0009] In addition, the embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an aerosol generating device capable of automatically controlling operation by recognizing the insertion or removal of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article.

[0010] In addition, the embodiment of the present invention aims to provide an aerosol generating device capable of distinguishing and detecting the extraction and puff of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article. means of solving the problem

[0011] An aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a heating housing forming a cavity into which a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted; a heater installed inside the cavity to heat the cigarette-type aerosol generating item inserted into the cavity; a battery supplying power to the heater; and a microcontroller controlling the supply of power from the battery to the heater; wherein the heating housing comprises: a first heater cover bracket having a hollow formed therein; and a second heater cover bracket disposed at a position lower than the first heater cover bracket, having a hollow formed at its lower end, and installed in combination with the first heater cover bracket; and a slide member installed inside the second heater cover bracket to move downward by the cigarette-type aerosol generating item when the cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted into the cavity; It includes an elastic member fixed to the inner side of the second heater cover bracket and elastically supporting the slide member from the lower side of the slide member; and includes an electromagnetic sensing means installed on the outer surface of the second heater cover bracket; and the microcontroller recognizes the insertion or removal of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article according to a signal input from the electromagnetic sensing means.

[0012] Additionally, according to an embodiment, the electromagnetic sensing means is provided as a capacitance or inductance sensing sensor.

[0013] Additionally, according to an embodiment, the slide member is formed as a pipe-shaped rubber structure having a hollow interior and a larger diameter on the upper surface, the elastic member is formed as a spring and is installed by being fitted into the pipe-shaped rubber structure, and a conductive member is installed between the pipe-shaped structure and the elastic member.

[0014] In addition, according to an embodiment, the hollow formed at the bottom of the second heater cover bracket is formed by a pipe protruding upward from the bottom of the second heater cover bracket, a stopper is formed on the pipe, and the pipe-shaped rubber structure is installed by being coupled to the pipe with a coupling projection formed thereon.

[0015] In addition, according to an embodiment, the elastic member is made of a spring-shaped metal material.

[0016] In addition, according to an embodiment, the slide member and the conductive member are made of an integral metal.

[0017] In addition, according to an embodiment, the elastic member is made of an elastic plastic or an elastic rubber material.

[0018] Additionally, according to an embodiment, the electromagnetic sensing means is provided as a capacitance sensing electrode or an inductive sensing antenna, and the slide member is formed of a metal plate having a plurality of curved surfaces on its outer circumference, and the elastic member is made of rubber material and includes a hollow pipe shape and a plurality of support pieces made of rubber material with holes formed therein, each connected to the outer circumference of the pipe shape.

[0019] Additionally, according to an embodiment, the hollow formed at the bottom of the second heater cover bracket is formed by a pipe protruding downward from the bottom of the second heater cover bracket and includes a rubber sealing pipe installed by being fitted inside the pipe.

[0020] Additionally, according to an embodiment, the cigarette-type aerosol generating article comprises a filter rod, a cooling tube rod stacked at the bottom of the filter rod, a first aerosol medium section stacked at the bottom of the cooling tube rod that generates aerosol by heating and accommodates an aerosol medium, a second aerosol medium section stacked at the bottom of the first aerosol medium section that generates aerosol by heating and accommodates an aerosol medium, and a wrapping paper that wraps the filter rod, the cooling tube rod, the first aerosol medium section, and the second aerosol medium section, and when the cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity, the second aerosol medium section is arranged to come into contact with the slide member.

[0021] Additionally, according to an embodiment, the cigarette-type aerosol generating article includes an end cap laminated at the bottom of the second aerosol medium part, and the wrapping paper wraps the filter rod, the cooling tube rod, the first aerosol medium part, the second aerosol medium part, and the end cap, and when the cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity, the end cap is positioned to come into contact with the slide member.

[0022] In addition, according to an embodiment, it includes an airflow passage communicating with the cavity and a puff detection means connected to the microcontroller and installed in the airflow passage, and the microcontroller recognizes whether the cigarette-type aerosol generating article is ejected based on a signal input from the electromagnetic sensing means and a signal input from the puff detection means.

[0023] Additionally, according to an embodiment, the puff detection means comprises a metal structure installed in the airflow passage, a first wire and a second wire each connected to the metal structure and made of materials having different thermal conductivity, and an amplifier having an input terminal connected to the first wire and the second wire respectively and an output terminal connected to the microcontroller. Effects of the invention

[0024] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating device capable of automatically recognizing the insertion of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article can be provided.

[0025] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating device capable of improving the accuracy of recognizing the insertion or extraction of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article can be provided.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating device capable of distinguishing and detecting the extraction and puff of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article can be provided.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the present invention, convenience of use can be enhanced by automatically recognizing and operating the insertion of a cigarette-type aerosol generating item, and malfunction can be prevented when the cigarette-type aerosol generating item is not inserted. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0028] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the prior art, FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an aerosol generator for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the essential parts of a structure for detecting the insertion of a cigarette-type aerosol generating item according to a first embodiment in an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating the essential parts of a cigarette-type aerosol generating material insertion detection structure according to a first embodiment in an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating material is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the essential parts of a structure for detecting the insertion of a cigarette-type aerosol generating item according to a first embodiment in an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment in which a conductive member is installed in a cigarette-type aerosol generating material insertion detection structure according to a first embodiment of an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating material is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating another embodiment in which a conductive member is installed in a cigarette-type aerosol generating material insertion detection structure according to the first embodiment of an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating material is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the essential parts of a structure for detecting the insertion of a cigarette-type aerosol generating item according to a second embodiment in an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a plan view and a cross-sectional view illustrating the foreign matter discharge operation of a cigarette-type aerosol generating material insertion detection structure according to a second embodiment in an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating material is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional perspective view for explaining a first embodiment of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article that can be applied to an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional perspective view for explaining a second embodiment of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article that can be applied to an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a graph showing the capacitance value when inserting and extracting a cigarette-type aerosol generating item in the standby state of an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a graph showing the capacitance value when a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted and removed during heating of an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a graph showing the capacitance value during puffing while heating of an aerosol generator that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a circuit block diagram illustrating an example of a puff detection means of an aerosol generator that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a graph illustrating puff detection in an aerosol generator that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted, according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0029] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0030] In the drawings, the size of components may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are depicted arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, so the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is illustrated.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an aerosol generator that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an aerosol generator that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3, an aerosol generating device (100) to which the present invention can be applied includes a cavity (121) into which a cigarette-type aerosol generating article (110) is inserted, and a heater (130) for heating the cigarette-type aerosol generating article (110) inserted into the cavity (121). Additionally, it includes an airflow passage (140) communicating with the lower part of the cavity (121). For example, the heater (130) may be installed inside the cavity (121).

[0033] Additionally, it includes a battery (150) that supplies power to the heater (130) and a microcontroller (160) that controls the supply of power from the battery (150) to the heater (130).

[0034] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the essential part of a structure for detecting the insertion of a cigarette-type aerosol generating item according to a first embodiment in an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating the essential part of a structure for detecting the insertion of a cigarette-type aerosol generating item according to a first embodiment in an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 (a) shows the state before the cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted into the cavity, and FIG. 5 (b) shows the state after the cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted into the cavity.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, a heating housing (120) forming a cavity (121) into which a cigarette-type aerosol generating article (110) is inserted includes a first heater cover bracket (122) having a hollow formed therein and a second heater cover bracket (123) positioned lower than the first heater cover bracket (122), having a hollow formed at the bottom, and installed in combination with the first heater cover bracket (122).

[0036] The second heater cover bracket (123) includes a slide member (171) installed to move downward by the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) when the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) is inserted into the cavity (121), and an elastic member (172) fixed to the inside of the second heater cover bracket (123) to elastically support the slide member (171) from the lower side of the slide member (171). Additionally, it includes an electromagnetic sensing means (180) installed on the outer surface (122) of the second heater cover bracket. According to an embodiment, the electromagnetic sensing means (180) is provided as a sensor that detects capacitance or inductance. Additionally, according to an embodiment, the electromagnetic sensing means (180) may be provided in the form of an FPCB.

[0037] Additionally, according to an embodiment, it includes a power control means (190) connected between the battery (150) and the heater (130) and controlled by a microcontroller (160).

[0038] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the essential parts of a structure for detecting the insertion of a cigarette-type aerosol generating item according to a first embodiment in an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 6 (a) shows the state before the slide member is moved downward by the cigarette-shaped aerosol generating material inserted into the cavity, and FIG. 6 (b) shows the state after the slide member has been moved downward by the cigarette-shaped aerosol generating material inserted into the cavity.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 6 (a), when the cigarette-type aerosol generating material (110) is inserted into the cavity (121) and the cigarette-type aerosol generating material (110) is moved downward as shown in FIG. 6 (b), the slide member (171), which is elastically supported by the elastic member (172) by the cigarette-type aerosol generating material (110), moves downward, and the position between the slide member (171) and the electromagnetic sensing means (180) changes, and a change in the capacitance value or inductance value detected by the electromagnetic sensing means (180) occurs. The microcontroller (160) described above receives a signal corresponding to a capacitance value or an inductance value detected by an electromagnetic sensing means (180), determines the amount of change in the capacitance value or the inductance value, and can recognize whether the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) has been inserted into the cavity (121) or whether the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) has been removed from the cavity (121).

[0041] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment in which a conductive member is installed in a cigarette-type aerosol generating material insertion detection structure according to a first embodiment of an aerosol generating device for automatically recognizing whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating material is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, according to an embodiment, the slide member (171) is formed as a pipe-shaped rubber structure (171b) having a hollow (171a) and a larger diameter on the upper surface, and the elastic member (172) is formed as a spring and installed by being fitted into the pipe-shaped rubber structure (171b), and a conductive member (173) is installed between the pipe-shaped rubber structure (171b) and the elastic member (172). According to an embodiment, the elastic member (172) is made of metal or a conductive material. According to an embodiment, the electromagnetic sensing means (180) is positioned facing the conductive member (173) when the cigarette-shaped aerosol generating article (110) is not inserted into the cavity (121), and is positioned not to face the conductive member (173) when the cigarette-shaped aerosol generating article (110) is inserted into the cavity (121).

[0043] As shown in FIG. 7 (a), when the cigarette-type aerosol generating material is not inserted, the electromagnetic sensing means (180) is positioned facing the conductive member (173), so that (A) and (B) overlap. When the cigarette-type aerosol generating material (110) is inserted into the cavity (121), as shown in FIG. 7 (b), the slide member (171), which is elastically supported by the elastic member (172) by the cigarette-type aerosol generating material (110), moves downward, changing the position between the conductive member (173) and the electromagnetic sensing means (180), so that the electromagnetic sensing means (180) is positioned not to face the conductive member (173), so that (A) and (B) do not overlap, and a change in the capacitance value or inductance value detected by the electromagnetic sensing means (180) occurs. The microcontroller (160) described above receives a signal corresponding to a capacitance value or an inductance value detected by an electromagnetic sensing means (180), determines the amount of change in the capacitance value or the inductance value, and can recognize whether the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) has been inserted into the cavity (121) or whether the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) has been removed from the cavity (121).

[0044] Additionally, according to the embodiment, the hollow (123a) formed at the bottom of the second heater cover bracket (123) is formed by a pipe (123b) protruding upward from the bottom of the second heater cover bracket (123), a stopper is formed on the pipe (123b), and a pipe-shaped rubber structure (171b) is installed by being coupled to the pipe (123b) with a coupling projection formed thereon.

[0045] Additionally, depending on the embodiment, a separate frame may be installed on the outside of the electromagnetic sensing means (180).

[0046] The slide member (171) is installed at a predetermined distance (e.g., at least 0.1 mm) from the cavity (121), and, for example, the elastic member (172) is formed in a spring shape or has a structure through which foreign matter can pass, so that foreign matter and liquid droplets in the cavity (121) can be discharged through the path (C) shown in (a) of Fig. (7).

[0047] According to the embodiment, the elastic member (172) is made of a spring-shaped metal material.

[0048] According to an embodiment, the slide member (171) and the conductive member (173) are made of a single piece of metal. According to an embodiment, the slide member (171) and the conductive member (173) may be formed by insert molding.

[0049] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating another embodiment in which a conductive member is installed in a cigarette-type aerosol generating material insertion detection structure according to the first embodiment of an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating material is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] According to an embodiment, the elastic member (172) is made of a non-metallic or non-conductive material. According to an embodiment, the electromagnetic sensing means (180) is positioned so as not to face the conductive member (173) when the cigarette-type aerosol generating article (110) is not inserted into the cavity (121), and is positioned to face the conductive member (173) when the cigarette-type aerosol generating article (110) is inserted into the cavity (121).

[0051] As shown in FIG. 8 (a), when the cigarette-type aerosol generating material is not inserted, the electromagnetic sensing means (180) is positioned so as not to face the conductive member (173), and (A) and (B) do not overlap. When the cigarette-type aerosol generating material (110) is inserted into the cavity (121), as shown in FIG. 8 (b), the slide member (171), which is elastically supported by the elastic member (172) by the cigarette-type aerosol generating material (110), moves downward, changing the position between the conductive member (173) and the electromagnetic sensing means (180), so that the electromagnetic sensing means (180) is positioned to face the conductive member (173), causing (A) and (B) to overlap, and a change in the capacitance value or inductance value detected by the electromagnetic sensing means (180) occurs. The microcontroller (160) described above receives a signal corresponding to a capacitance value or an inductance value detected by an electromagnetic sensing means (180), determines the amount of change in the capacitance value or the inductance value, and can recognize whether the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) has been inserted into the cavity (121) or whether the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) has been removed from the cavity (121).

[0052] The slide member (171) is installed at a predetermined distance (e.g., at least 0.1 mm) from the cavity (121), and, for example, the elastic member (172) is formed in a spring shape or has a structure through which foreign matter can pass, so that foreign matter or liquid droplets in the cavity (121) can be discharged.

[0053] According to the embodiment, the elastic member (172) is made of an elastic plastic or an elastic rubber material.

[0054] In addition, according to the embodiment, when the microcontroller (160) recognizes the insertion of the cigarette-type aerosol generating article (110), it controls the heater (130) described above to heat.

[0055] For example, when the microcontroller (160) recognizes the insertion of the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110), it inputs a control signal to the power control means (190) described above according to the temperature profile. For example, the power control means (190) includes an FET, and the microcontroller (160) inputs a PWM signal as a control signal to the power control means. As the FET included in the power control means (190) is turned on and off according to the duty cycle of the PWM signal input from the microcontroller (160), the power supplied from the battery (150) described above is controlled by the power control means (190) and supplied to the heater (130), and the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) inserted into the cavity (121) is heated by the heater (130).

[0056] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the main part of a cigarette-type aerosol generating material insertion detection structure according to a second embodiment in an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating material is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a plan view and a cross-sectional view illustrating the foreign matter discharge operation of a cigarette-type aerosol generating material insertion detection structure according to a second embodiment in an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating material is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, according to an embodiment, the electromagnetic sensing means (180) is provided as a capacitance sensing electrode or an inductive sensing antenna, the slide member (171) described above is made of a metal plate (171c), the elastic member (172) is made of a rubber material, and includes a pipe (172b) having a hollow (172a) formed therein and a plurality of support pieces (172c) made of a rubber material that are respectively connected to the outer circumference of the pipe (172b).

[0058] In the state shown in FIG. 9 (a), as shown in FIG. 9 (b), when a cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) is inserted into the cavity (121) and the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) is moved downward, the metal plate (171c) is moved downward by the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110), the position between the metal plate (171c) and the electromagnetic sensing means (180) is changed, and a change in the capacitance value or inductance value detected by the electromagnetic sensing means (180) occurs. The microcontroller (160) described above receives a signal corresponding to a capacitance value or an inductance value detected by an electromagnetic sensing means (180), determines the amount of change in the capacitance value or the inductance value, and can recognize whether the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) has been inserted into the cavity (121) or whether the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) has been removed from the cavity (121).

[0059] Referring to FIG. 10 (a) according to an embodiment, the metal plate (171c) has a plurality of curved surfaces (171d), and referring to FIG. 10 (b), the elastic member (172) is connected to the outer circumference of the pipe (172b), and a plurality of support pieces (172c) made of rubber material each have a hole (172d) formed therein. Accordingly, referring to FIG. 10 (c), foreign matter or droplets inside the cavity (121) can be smoothly discharged downward from the cavity (121) in the direction of the arrow through the space between the cavity (121) and the curved surface (171d) and the hole (172d). According to an embodiment, the hollow (123a) formed at the bottom of the second heater cover bracket (123) is formed by a pipe (123c) protruding downward from the bottom of the second heater cover bracket (123), and includes a rubber sealing pipe (123d) installed by being fitted inside the pipe (123c).

[0060] FIG. 11 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional perspective view for explaining a first embodiment of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article that can be applied to an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 11, a cigarette-shaped aerosol generating article (110) that can be applied to an aerosol generating device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a first aerosol medium part (111) and a second aerosol medium part (112), and a wrapping paper (113) that wraps the first aerosol medium part (111) and the second aerosol medium part (112). A cigarette-type aerosol generating article (100) is, for example, provided with a filter rod (114) which is a mouth filter on the upper side, and a cooling tube rod (115) having a hollow formed in the upper and lower directions is stacked at the bottom of the filter rod (114), and a first aerosol medium part (111) which generates aerosol by heating and accommodates an aerosol medium is stacked at the bottom of the cooling tube rod (115), and a second aerosol medium part (112) which generates aerosol by heating and accommodates an aerosol medium is stacked at the bottom of the first aerosol medium part (111), and the filter rod (114), cooling tube rod (115), first aerosol medium part (111), and second aerosol medium part (112) are wrapped by wrapping paper (113). For example, the aerosol medium contained in the first aerosol medium section (111) includes a material containing moisture or a liquid. For example, the aerosol medium contained in the first aerosol medium section (111) may be an aerogel containing gelled glycerin. Additionally, for example, the aerosol medium contained in the second aerosol medium section (112) may be a tobacco leaf. Also, for example, the wrapping paper (113) may be in the form of paper or a thin metal material wrapped by paper. When the cigarette-type aerosol generating article (110) is inserted into the cavity (121), the second aerosol medium section (112) is positioned to come into contact with the slide member (171) described above.

[0062] According to the embodiment, at least one through hole (113a) may be formed in the wrapping paper (113) that wraps the filter rod (114).

[0063] According to an embodiment, at least one through hole (115a) may be formed in the cooling tube rod (115) that communicates with a through hole (113a) formed in the wrapping paper (113).

[0064] FIG. 12 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional perspective view for explaining a second embodiment of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article that can be applied to an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 12, a cigarette-shaped aerosol generating article (110) that can be applied to an aerosol generating device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a first aerosol medium part (111) and a second aerosol medium part (112), and a wrapping paper (113) that wraps the first aerosol medium part (111) and the second aerosol medium part (112). A cigarette-type aerosol generating article (100) is provided, for example, with a filter rod (114) which is a mouth filter on the upper side, and a cooling tube rod (115) having a hollow formed in the vertical direction is stacked at the bottom of the filter rod (114), and a first aerosol medium part (111) which generates aerosol by heating and accommodates an aerosol medium is stacked at the bottom of the cooling tube rod (115), and a second aerosol medium part (112) which generates aerosol by heating and accommodates an aerosol medium is stacked at the bottom of the first aerosol medium part (111), and an end cap (116) is stacked at the bottom of the second aerosol medium part (112), and the filter rod (114), cooling tube rod (115), first aerosol medium part (111), second aerosol medium part (112), and end cap (116) are wrapped. It is formed by wrapping with paper (113). For example, the aerosol medium contained in the first aerosol medium section (111) includes a material containing moisture or liquid. For example, the aerosol medium contained in the first aerosol medium section (111) may be made of an aerogel containing gelled glycerin. Also, for example, the aerosol medium contained in the second aerosol medium section (112) may be made of tobacco leaves. Also, for example, the wrapping paper (113) may be made of paper or a form in which paper wraps a thin metal material. When the cigarette-type aerosol generating article (110) is inserted into the cavity (121), the end cap (116) is positioned to come into contact with the slide member (171) described above. For example, an end cap (116) may be provided to prevent leakage that may occur through the second aerosol medium (112) when heated by applying a filter.

[0066] According to the embodiment, at least one through hole (113a) may be formed in the wrapping paper (113) that wraps the filter rod (114).

[0067] According to an embodiment, at least one through hole (115a) may be formed in the cooling tube rod (115) that communicates with a through hole (113a) formed in the wrapping paper (113).

[0068] FIG. 13 is a graph showing the capacitance value when a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted and removed in the standby state of an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 3 and FIG. 13, the capacitance value in FIG. 13 is a value in which a microcontroller (160) converts a signal input from an electromagnetic sensing means (180), provided as a capacitance detection sensor, into an ADC value, and, for example, has a lower value as the capacitance of the electromagnetic sensing means (180) increases. In an ambient state where the cigarette-type aerosol generating material (110) is not inserted into the cavity (121), it has a capacitance value (approx. 154,000) corresponding to the permittivity of air. When the cigarette-type aerosol generating material (110) is inserted into the cavity (121), the capacitance increases and the capacitance value decreases, and when the cigarette-type aerosol generating material (110) is removed from the cavity (121), the capacitance decreases and the capacitance value increases.

[0070] FIG. 14 is a graph showing the capacitance value when a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted and removed during heating of an aerosol generating device that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 3 and FIG. 14, FIG. 14 shows the capacitance value detected by the electromagnetic sensing means (180) when the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) is inserted into the cavity (121) and heating of the aerosol generating device (100) is started, and the extraction and insertion of the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) is repeated at 10-second intervals. When the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) is extracted from the cavity (121), the capacitance decreases and the capacitance value increases, and when the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) is inserted into the cavity (121), the capacitance increases and the capacitance value decreases.

[0072] FIG. 15 is a graph showing the capacitance value during puffing while heating of an aerosol generator that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 3 and FIG. 15, FIG. 15 shows the capacitance value detected by the electromagnetic sensing means (180) when a cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) is inserted into the cavity (121), heating of the aerosol generating device (100) is started, and after preheating is completed, puffing is repeated at 20-second intervals. From the completion of preheating until about 1 minute, the change in the capacitance value during puffing is detected as about 2000 or more, so the microcontroller (160) may misidentify that the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) has been removed from the cavity (121).

[0074] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the microcontroller (160) can distinguish between the extraction of the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) and the puff by not recognizing the puff according to the signal input from the puff detection means (181), even if the amount of change in the capacitance value according to the signal input from the electromagnetic sensing means (180) corresponds to the extraction of the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110), and a specific embodiment is described below.

[0075] FIG. 16 is a circuit block diagram illustrating an example of a puff detection means of an aerosol generator that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a graph illustrating puff detection in an aerosol generator that automatically recognizes whether a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 2, FIGS. 3, FIGS. 16, and FIGS. 17, the puff detection means (181) includes a metal structure (181a) installed in an airflow passage (140), a first wire (181b) and a second wire (181c) each connected to the metal structure (181a) and made of materials having different thermal conductivity, and an amplifier (181d) having an input terminal connected to the first wire (181b) and the second wire (181c) respectively and an output terminal connected to a microcontroller (160), and the microcontroller (160) recognizes the puff according to a signal input from the amplifier (181d).

[0077] When the user puffs, external air flows into the airflow passage (140). Additionally, the external air flowing into the airflow passage (140) passes through a metal structure (181a) installed in the airflow passage (140). A first wire (181b) and a second wire (181c), each connected to the metal structure (181a) and made of materials with different thermal conductivity, generate a potential difference between the first wire (181b) and the second wire (181c) depending on the temperature environment of the metal structure (181a).

[0078] When external air flowing into the airflow passage (140) passes through the metal structure (181) installed in the airflow passage (140), the temperature environment of the metal structure (181a) changes instantaneously, and the potential difference between the first wire (181b) and the second wire (181c) changes instantaneously, so that a signal is input to an amplifier (181d) to which the input terminals are connected to the first wire (181b) and the second wire (181c), respectively, and the amplifier (181d) amplifies the signal and outputs it to a microcontroller (160). For example, an AD converter may be built into the microcontroller (160), and the AD converter converts the analog signal input from the amplifier (181d) into a digital signal (ADC value). For example, a preset reference signal may be stored in the microcontroller (160), and the microcontroller (160) recognizes a puff by comparing the amount of change of a signal that is input from the amplifier (181d) and converted digitally with the reference signal. For example, the microcontroller (160) has a first puff recognition reference value and a second puff recognition reference value shown in FIG. 17 stored as reference signals, and the amount of change of the digital signal (ADC value, first wire - second wire potential difference in FIG. 17) converted by the AD converter from the analog signal input from the amplifier (181d) (amount of change of potential difference in FIG. 17) is compared with the first puff recognition reference value and the second puff recognition reference value, and if the amount of change of the digital signal is greater than or equal to the first puff recognition reference value and then becomes less than or equal to the second puff recognition reference value, it recognizes that one puff has occurred. According to the embodiment, the metal structure (181a) may be formed as part of the airflow passage (140). The microcontroller (160) does not recognize the extraction of the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110) even if the amount of change in the capacitance value according to the signal input from the electromagnetic sensing means (180) corresponds to the extraction of the cigarette-type aerosol generating item (110), if it recognizes the puff according to the signal input from the puff detection means (181).

[0079] The present invention is not limited to the specific preferred embodiments described above, and anyone with ordinary knowledge in the art to which the invention pertains can make various modifications without departing from the essence of the invention as claimed in the claims, and such modifications will be within the scope of the claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0080] Aerosol generator (100) Cigarette-type aerosol generating product (110) First aerosol medium part (111) Second aerosol medium part (112) Wrapping paper (113) (113a) Filter load (114) Cooling tube rod (115) (115a) end cap (116) Heating housing (120) Joint (121) First heater cover bracket (122) Second heater cover bracket (123) China (123a) pipe (123b) Heater (130) airflow passage (140) Battery (150) Microcontroller (160) slide member (171) China (171a) Pipe-shaped rubber structure (171b) metal plate (171c) Curved surface (171d) elastic member (172) China (172a) pipe (172b) Support section (172c) Hall (172d) Electromagnetic sensing means (180) Puff detection means (181) metal structure (181a) 1st wire (181b) 2nd wire (181c) Amplifier (181d) Power control means (190)

Claims

Claim 1 A heating housing forming a cavity into which a cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted; a heater installed inside the cavity to heat the cigarette-type aerosol generating item inserted into the cavity; a battery supplying power to the heater; and a microcontroller controlling the supply of power from the battery to the heater; wherein the heating housing includes a first heater cover bracket having a hollow formed therein; and a second heater cover bracket positioned at a lower position than the first heater cover bracket, having a hollow formed at its lower end, and installed in combination with the first heater cover bracket; and a slide member installed inside the second heater cover bracket to move downward by the cigarette-type aerosol generating item when the cigarette-type aerosol generating item is inserted into the cavity; An aerosol generating device comprising: an elastic member fixed to the inner side of the second heater cover bracket and elastically supporting the slide member from the lower side of the slide member; and an electromagnetic sensing means installed on the outer surface of the second heater cover bracket, wherein the microcontroller recognizes the insertion or removal of a cigarette-type aerosol generating article according to a signal input from the electromagnetic sensing means. Claim 2 An aerosol generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the electromagnetic sensing means is provided as a capacitance or inductance sensing sensor. Claim 3 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the slide member is formed as a pipe-shaped rubber structure having a hollow and a larger diameter on the upper surface, the elastic member is formed as a spring and is installed by being fitted into the pipe-shaped rubber structure, and a conductive member is installed between the pipe-shaped structure and the elastic member. Claim 4 An aerosol generating device according to paragraph 3, wherein the hollow formed at the bottom of the second heater cover bracket is formed by a pipe protruding upward from the bottom of the second heater cover bracket, the pipe has a stopper formed thereon, and the pipe-shaped rubber structure has a coupling projection formed thereon and is installed by coupling to the pipe. Claim 5 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the elastic member is made of a spring-shaped metal material. Claim 6 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the slide member and the conductive member are made of a single piece of metal. Claim 7 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the elastic member is made of an elastic plastic or an elastic rubber-type rubber material. Claim 8 An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic sensing means is provided as a capacitance sensing electrode or an inductive sensing antenna, the slide member is made of a metal plate having a plurality of curved surfaces on its outer circumference, the elastic member is made of rubber material and comprises a hollow pipe shape and a plurality of rubber support pieces having holes formed therein, each connected to the outer circumference of the pipe shape. Claim 9 An aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein the hollow formed at the bottom of the second heater cover bracket is formed by a pipe protruding downward from the bottom of the second heater cover bracket, and includes a rubber sealing pipe installed by being fitted inside the pipe. Claim 10 An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the cigarette-type aerosol generating article comprises a filter rod, a cooling tube rod stacked at the bottom of the filter rod, a first aerosol medium section stacked at the bottom of the cooling tube rod that generates aerosol by heating and accommodates an aerosol medium, a second aerosol medium section stacked at the bottom of the first aerosol medium section that generates aerosol by heating and accommodates an aerosol medium, and a wrapping paper that wraps the filter rod, the cooling tube rod, the first aerosol medium section, and the second aerosol medium section, and wherein when the cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity, the second aerosol medium section is arranged to come into contact with the slide member. Claim 11 An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the cigarette-type aerosol generating article comprises an end cap laminated at the bottom of the second aerosol medium part, the wrapping paper wraps the filter rod, the cooling tube rod, the first aerosol medium part, the second aerosol medium part, and the end cap, and the end cap is positioned to come into contact with the slide member when the cigarette-type aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity. Claim 12 An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising an airflow passage communicating with the cavity and a puff detection means connected to the microcontroller and installed in the airflow passage, wherein the microcontroller recognizes whether the cigarette-type aerosol generating article is ejected according to a signal input from the electromagnetic sensing means and a signal input from the puff detection means. Claim 13 An aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein the puff detection means comprises a metal structure installed in the airflow passage, a first wire and a second wire each connected to the metal structure and made of materials having different thermal conductivity, and an amplifier having an input terminal connected to the first wire and the second wire respectively and an output terminal connected to the microcontroller. Claim 14 An aerosol generating device according to claim 13, characterized in that the metal structure is formed as part of the airflow passage.

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