Aerosol generation device and operation method therefor

Abstract

An aerosol generation device according to an embodiment includes: a battery detachable from a battery reception unit; a battery monitoring unit for measuring operation data of the battery; and a control unit including an operation mode configuration unit for determining whether to balance the battery on the basis of the operation data.

Description

Aerosol generating device and method of operation therefor

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device and an operating method therefor. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device including a removable battery rechargeable in two charging modes and an operating method therefor.

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternative smoking methods to conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for methods that generate aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating element within the cigarette, rather than by burning the cigarette itself. Accordingly, research into heated cigarettes or heated aerosol-generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] The aerosol generating device can be powered by a battery for overall operation and heating of the heater. Recently, countries around the world have been demanding environmental friendliness and safety throughout the entire life cycle of electronic devices containing batteries, from battery production to recycling, to improve the global environment.

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device capable of balancing between batteries charged by each of two charging modes, and an operating method therefor.

[0005] The problems to be solved through the examples are not limited to the problems described above, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the examples belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0006] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a control unit including a battery that is detachable from a battery receiving portion, a battery monitoring unit that measures operating data of the battery, and an operating mode setting unit that determines whether the battery is balanced based on the operating data.

[0007] A method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a step of measuring operating data of a battery mounted in a battery receiving portion, and a step of determining whether the battery is balanced based on the operating data.

[0008] An aerosol generating device and an operating method therefor according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can prevent battery deterioration and maintain battery performance by balancing between batteries charged by each of two charging modes, thereby increasing battery life.

[0009] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIGS. 2A to 2E are drawings illustrating embodiments of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 implemented in various types.

[0012] Figure 3 is a drawing for explaining the process of charging a removable battery in the first charging mode.

[0013] Figure 4 is a drawing for explaining the process of charging and self-discharging a removable battery in a second charging mode.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the operation of a power management unit according to one embodiment.

[0015] Fig. 6 is a drawing for explaining the operation of an operation mode setting unit according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 is a diagram for explaining a balancing mode according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0018] The terms used in the examples have been selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of the present invention. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant, in which case their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined based on their meaning and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply their names.

[0019] When a part of the specification is said to "include" a component, this does not exclude other components, but rather implies the inclusion of other components, unless otherwise specifically stated. Furthermore, terms such as "part" and "module" used in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0020] Below, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. However, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (100) may include a removable battery (110), a heater (120), a main processor (130), a user interface (140), a main memory (150), a sensor (160), and a power management unit (170). However, the hardware components inside the aerosol generating device (100) are not limited to those illustrated in FIG. 1. Those skilled in the art will understand that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (100), some of the hardware components illustrated in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new components (e.g., a connecting port, another communication module, etc.) may be added.

[0024] Below, the operation of each component included in the aerosol generating device (100) will be described without limiting the space in which the components are located.

[0025] The removable battery (110) supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device (100). For example, the removable battery (110) may supply power to heat the heater (120). In addition, the removable battery (110) may supply power required for the operation of other hardware components provided in the aerosol generating device (100), namely, the heater (120), the main processor (130), the user interface (140), the main memory (150), the sensor (160), or the power management unit (170). The removable battery (110) may be, for example, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery or a lithium ion battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0026] The removable battery (110) is a replaceable type (separate) power source, and can be mounted in or removed from the battery receiving portion provided in the aerosol generating device (100). The removable battery (110) is provided with an electrical contact, and when the removable battery (110) is mounted in the aerosol generating device (100), the electrical contact of the removable battery (110) can be implemented to be electrically connected to the electrical contact portion provided in the aerosol generating device (100) to supply power to the aerosol generating device (100). As another example, instead of a separate electrical contact portion, the removable battery (110) may be provided with a charging coil for supplying power to the aerosol generating device (100) in a wireless charging manner. That is, the power supply method of the removable battery (110) may vary, and the electrical connection method between the removable battery (110) and the aerosol generating device (100) may vary depending on the power supply method supported by the removable battery (110).

[0027] The removable battery (110) may be provided with a charger interface that can be connected to an external charger. Power for charging the removable battery (110) may be provided to the removable battery (110) through the charger interface. The removable battery (110) may be charged by an external charger while being coupled to the aerosol generating device (100) (or in a first charging mode) or while being uninstalled from the aerosol generating device (100) (or in a second charging mode).

[0028] A removable battery (110) according to one embodiment may include at least one battery cell. The battery cell may have different electrodes formed at opposite ends along its length and may be formed in a cylindrical shape. However, the shape of the battery cell is not limited thereto. For example, the battery cell may be formed in a square or pouch shape.

[0029] The heater (120) receives power from a removable battery (110) under the control of the main processor (130). The heater (120) can heat a cigarette inserted into the aerosol generating device (100) or a cartridge mounted on the aerosol generating device (100) using the power supplied from the removable battery (110). That is, the heater (120) can generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating material provided in the cigarette or cartridge.

[0030] The heater (120) may be located in the body of the aerosol generating device (100). Alternatively, if the aerosol generating device (100) is composed of a body and a cartridge, the heater (120) may be located in the cartridge. If the heater (120) is located in the cartridge, the heater (120) may be powered by a removable battery (110) located in the body.

[0031] The heater (120) may be implemented as an electrically resistive heating type heater formed of an electrically resistive material. For example, the electrically resistive material may be a metal or metal alloy including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. The heater (120) may be implemented as, but not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate having electrically conductive tracks arranged thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0032] The heater (120) may be implemented as an induction heating heater. The heater (120) may correspond to a heater assembly implemented as a set of an electrically conductive coil and a susceptor for heating a cigarette or cartridge by induction heating.

[0033] The heater (120) can heat a cigarette inserted into a receiving space provided within the aerosol generating device (100). As the cigarette is received in the receiving space of the aerosol generating device (100), the heater (120) can be positioned inside and / or outside the cigarette. Accordingly, the heater (120) can heat an aerosol generating substance within the cigarette to generate an aerosol.

[0034] Meanwhile, the heater (120) may be implemented as a coil heater provided only within the cartridge. The cartridge includes a coil heater, a liquid delivery means, and a liquid storage unit, and can transfer an aerosol generating substance contained in the liquid storage unit through the liquid delivery means, and the coil heater can generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating substance absorbed by the liquid delivery means. For example, if the heater (120) is a coil heater, it can be manufactured from a material such as nickel-chromium and wound around the liquid delivery means or placed adjacent to the liquid delivery means.

[0035] The main processor (130) is hardware that controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (100). The main processor (130) may include at least one processing unit, such as an MCU (Micro Controller Unit). The main processor (130) may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed on the microprocessor. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present embodiment pertains that the main processor (130) may be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0036] The main processor (130) can analyze the results sensed by the sensor (160) and control subsequent processing based on the sensing results. For example, the main processor (130) can control the power supplied to the heater (120) so that the operation of the heater (120) can be started or stopped based on the results sensed by the sensor (160). In addition, the main processor (130) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (120) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (120) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results sensed by the sensor (160).

[0037] The main processor (130) can control the operation of the heater (120) based on a pre-stored temperature profile. In addition, the main processor (130) can sense the user's puff using the puff sensor in the sensor (160) and then control the temperature of the heater (120). In addition, the main processor (130) can count the number of puffs using the puff sensor and then stop supplying power to the heater (120) when the number of puffs reaches a preset number.

[0038] The main processor (130) may also control the user interface (140) based on the sensing results. For example, if the number of puffs is counted using a puff sensor and the number of puffs reaches a preset number, the main processor (130) may use a lamp, motor, or speaker to notify the user that the aerosol generating device (100) will soon be shut down.

[0039] Meanwhile, the main processor (130) can determine the heating mode of the heater (120) based on the number of battery cells included in the removable battery (110) and the connection method between the battery cells.

[0040] The user interface (140) can provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device (100). The user interface (140) can include various interfacing means, such as a display or lamp that outputs visual information (UI screen), a motor that outputs tactile information, a speaker that outputs sound information, input / output (I / O) interfacing means (e.g., buttons or touch screens) that receive information input from the user or output information to the user, and terminals for supplying charging power.

[0041] The main memory (150) is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (100), and the main memory (150) can store data processed by the main processor (130) and data to be processed. The main memory (150) can be implemented in various types, such as random access memory (RAM) such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), and electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).

[0042] The main memory (150) can store various types of information, such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device (100), the maximum number of puffs, the temperature profile, the user's smoking information, and information for battery authentication.

[0043] The power management unit (170) can balance the voltage deviation of a removable battery (110) charged by a plurality of charging modes (e.g., a first charging mode or a second charging mode) based on the control of the main processor (130). More details will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 3 to 8.

[0044] Meanwhile, although not shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (100) may also form an aerosol generating system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may be used to store the aerosol generating device (100) while charging the removable battery (110) of the aerosol generating device (100). That is, the cradle may be a dedicated device for the aerosol generating device (100) that receives power from the battery of the cradle and charges the removable battery (110) of the aerosol generating device (100) while the aerosol generating device (100) of the cradle is accommodated in the accommodation space within the cradle.

[0045] FIGS. 2A to 2E are drawings illustrating embodiments of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 implemented in various types. Referring to FIGS. 2A to 2E, the aerosol generating device (100) can be implemented as various types of aerosol generating devices (200a to 200e), such as those using an electric resistance heating method or an induction heating method, those additionally equipped with a vaporizer, and those using a cartridge method. Only some elements for explaining the types of aerosol generating devices (200a to 200e) are illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2E, and other general-purpose elements may be further included in the aerosol generating devices (200a to 200e) in addition to the elements illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2E.

[0046] In FIGS. 2a to 2e, the removable battery (110), heater (120a to 120e), and main processor (130) are components corresponding to the removable battery (110), heater (120), and main processor (130) of FIG. 1, respectively, and can perform the functions of the removable battery (110), heater (120), and main processor (130) described above in FIG. 1.

[0047] FIG. 2a is a drawing for explaining an electrical resistance type aerosol generating device (200a) according to an exemplary embodiment. The aerosol generating device (200a) may be a type of aerosol generating device (100).

[0048] Referring to FIG. 2a, the aerosol generating device (200a) may include a removable battery (110), a heater (120a), and a main processor (130).

[0049] A cigarette (20a) can be inserted into the receiving space inside the aerosol generating device (200a). When the cigarette (20a) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (200a), the aerosol generating device (200a) can generate an aerosol from the cigarette (20a) by heating the cigarette (20a) using a heater (120a). The generated aerosol passes through the cigarette (20a) and is delivered to the user, so the user can smoke the cigarette (20a).

[0050] The heater (120a) can be heated by power supplied from a removable battery (110). The heater (120a) may be an electrical resistive heater. For example, the heater (120a) includes an electrically conductive track, and the heater (120a) can be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track.

[0051] The electrically conductive track of the heater (120a) is made of an electrically resistive material, so that the heating temperature can be determined according to the power consumption of the resistor, and the resistance value of the electrically conductive track can be set based on the power consumption of the resistor of the electrically conductive track. The resistance value of the electrically conductive track can be set in various ways depending on the constituent material, length, width, thickness, or pattern of the electrically resistive material.

[0052] The internal resistance of an electrically conductive track may increase as the temperature increases, depending on its temperature coefficient of resistance characteristics. For example, the temperature and resistance of the electrically conductive track may be proportional within a given temperature range. Using this principle, a heater (120a) made of an electrically conductive track can heat a cigarette (20a) using electrical resistance.

[0053] The electrically conductive tracks can be made of tungsten, gold, platinum, silver, copper, nickel, palladium, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the electrically conductive tracks can be doped with a suitable doping agent and include an alloy.

[0054] The shape of the heater (120a) can be manufactured in various ways, such as a tube shape, a plate shape, a needle shape, or a rod shape. In addition, a plurality of heaters (120a) can be arranged. The heater (120a) can be inserted into the interior of the cigarette (20a) and used as an internal heating method to heat the interior of the cigarette (20a).

[0055] The removable battery (110) can be separated from or mounted on the aerosol generating device (200a), and when the removable battery (110) is mounted on the aerosol generating device (200a), power can be supplied from the removable battery (110) to the heater (120a) for heating operation of the heater (120d), thereby controlling the temperature of the electrically conductive track.

[0056] The main processor (130) can control the heating operation of the heater (120a) by controlling the power supplied to the heater (120a). For example, the main processor (130) can control the temperature at which the cigarette (20a) is heated by the heater (120a) according to a temperature profile.

[0057] Figures 2b and 2c are drawings illustrating aerosol generating devices (200b, 200c) additionally equipped with vaporizers (125b, 125c) according to exemplary embodiments. Each of the aerosol generating devices (200b, 200c) may be a type of aerosol generating device (100).

[0058] Referring to FIGS. 2b and 2c, the aerosol generating devices (200b, 200c) further include a vaporizer (125b, 125c). A cigarette (20b, 20c) can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating devices (200b, 200c).

[0059] In Fig. 2b, the vaporizer (125b) and the heater (120b) are depicted as being arranged in a row. However, in Fig. 2c, the vaporizer (125c) and the heater (120c) are depicted as being arranged in parallel. That is, the aerosol generating devices (200b, 200c) can be distinguished depending on the arrangement of the vaporizer (125b).

[0060] The heater (120b, 120c) can be heated by power supplied from a removable battery (110). The heater (120b, 120c) is an electrical resistive heater and may include, for example, an electrically conductive track.

[0061] Unlike the heater (120a) described in FIG. 2a, the heaters (120b, 120c) of FIGS. 2b and 2c can be implemented in an external heating manner by being placed around the outer periphery of the cigarette (20b, 20c) to heat the outer surface of the cigarette (20b, 20c).

[0062] The vaporizer (125b, 125c) can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user through the cigarette (20b, 20c). That is, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer (125b, 125c) can be transported along the airflow path of the aerosol generating devices (200b, 200c), and the airflow path can be configured so that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer (125b, 125c) can be delivered to the user through the cigarette (20b, 20c).

[0063] The vaporizer (125b, 125c) may include a liquid storage unit, a liquid delivery means, and a heating element (or vaporization element). However, the liquid storage unit, the liquid delivery means, and the heating element may each be positioned as independent modules in a different location within the aerosol generating device (100) rather than within the vaporizer (125b, 125c).

[0064] The liquid reservoir can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavoring component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid reservoir can be designed to be detachable from / attached to the vaporizer (125b, 125c), or can be designed as an integral part of the vaporizer (125b, 125c). For example, the liquid composition can include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a flavoring agent, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. Additionally, the liquid composition can include an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0065] The liquid delivery means can deliver the liquid composition from the liquid storage to the heating element. For example, the liquid delivery means can be, but is not limited to, a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0066] The heating element provided in the vaporizer (125b, 125c) is an element for heating (vaporizing) the liquid composition delivered by the liquid delivery means. For example, the heating element may be, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc. In addition, the heating element may be composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire and may be arranged in a structure that is wound around the liquid delivery means. The heating element may be heated by a current supply and may transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated. Accordingly, the vaporizer (125b, 125c) may also be referred to by other terms such as a cartomizer or an atomizer.

[0067] The removable battery (110) can be separated from or mounted on the aerosol generating devices (200b, 200c), and when the removable battery (110) is mounted on the aerosol generating devices (200b, 200c), power can be supplied from the removable battery (110) to the heater (120b, 120c) and the vaporizer (125b, 125c) for heating operation of the heater (120b, 120c) and the vaporizer (125b, 125c).

[0068] The main processor (130) can control the heating operation of the heaters (120b, 120c) and the vaporizers (125b, 125c) by controlling the power supplied to the heaters (120b, 120c) and the vaporizers (125b, 125c). For example, the main processor (130) can control the temperature at which the cigarettes (20b, 20c) are heated by the heaters (120b, 120c) and the vaporizers (125b, 125c) according to a temperature profile.

[0069] FIG. 2d is a drawing for explaining an aerosol generating device (200d) of an induction heating type according to an exemplary embodiment. The aerosol generating device (200d) may be a type of aerosol generating device (100).

[0070] Referring to FIG. 2d, the aerosol generating device (200d) may include a heater (120d) including a coil (121d) and a susceptor (122d), a removable battery (110), and a main processor (130).

[0071] The aerosol generating device (200d) can generate an aerosol by heating a cigarette (20d) accommodated in the aerosol generating device (200d) using an induction heating method. The induction heating method may refer to a method of heating a magnetic body that generates heat by applying an alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically to the magnetic body that generates heat due to an external magnetic field. Accordingly, the aerosol generating device (200d) can release heat energy from the magnetic body by applying an alternating magnetic field to the magnetic body, and can heat the cigarette (20d) by transferring the heat energy released from the magnetic body to the cigarette. Here, the magnetic body that generates heat due to the external magnetic field may be a susceptor (122d). The susceptor (122d) may be provided in the aerosol generating device (200d). Alternatively, the susceptor (122d) may be provided inside the cigarette (20d) in the shape of a piece, flake, strip, etc. instead of being provided in the aerosol generating device (200d).

[0072] The susceptor (122d) may be formed of a ferromagnetic substance. For example, the material of the susceptor (122d) may include a metal or carbon. The material of the susceptor (122d) may include at least one of ferrite, a ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al). In addition, the material of the susceptor (122d) may include at least one of a ceramic such as graphite or zirconia, a transition metal such as nickel (Ni) or cobalt (Co), and a metalloid such as boron (B) or phosphorus (P).

[0073] The aerosol generating device (200d) can accommodate a cigarette (20d). A space for accommodating the cigarette (20d) can be formed in the aerosol generating device (200d). A susceptor (122d) can be arranged around the periphery of the space for accommodating the cigarette (20d). For example, the susceptor (122d) can have a cylindrical shape that surrounds the exterior of the cigarette (20d). Accordingly, when the cigarette (20d) is accommodated in the aerosol generating device (200d), the cigarette (20d) can be accommodated in the accommodation space of the susceptor (122d), and the susceptor (122d) can be arranged at a position that surrounds at least a portion of the outer surface of the cigarette (20d). However, the shape of the susceptor (122d) is not limited thereto and can vary.

[0074] The heater (120d) is an induction heating method, and the heater (120d) can heat a cigarette (20d) accommodated in an aerosol generating device (200d) by using a susceptor (122d) that generates heat by an external magnetic field generated by a coil (121d).

[0075] The coil (121d) is arranged to be wound along the outer surface of the susceptor (122d), so that an alternating magnetic field can be applied to the susceptor (122d). When power is supplied to the coil (121d) from the aerosol generating device (200d), a magnetic field can be formed in an internal region of the coil (121d). When an alternating current is applied to the coil (121d), the direction of the magnetic field formed inside the coil (121d) can be continuously changed. When the susceptor (122d) is positioned inside the coil (121d) and exposed to an alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically, the susceptor (122d) can generate heat, and a cigarette accommodated in the susceptor (122d) can be heated. The shape of the coil (121d) may be a cylindrical shape wound along the length direction of the cigarette (20d), but is not limited thereto, and the coil (121d) may be implemented in various types such as a flat coil.

[0076] The removable battery (110) can be separated from or mounted on the aerosol generating device (200d), and when the aerosol generating device (200d) is equipped with the removable battery (110), it can supply power to the coil (121d) for heating operation of the heater (120d), for example.

[0077] The main processor (130) can control the heating operation of the heater (120d) by controlling the power supplied to the coil (121d). For example, the main processor (130) can control the temperature at which the cigarette (20d) is heated by induction heating of the susceptor (122d) by adjusting the strength of the magnetic field induced by the coil (121d) according to the temperature profile.

[0078] FIG. 2e is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device (200e) having a replaceable cartridge (210e) containing an aerosol generating substance (20e) according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0079] The aerosol generating device (200e) of FIG. 2e includes a cartridge (210e) containing an aerosol generating substance (20e) and a main body (220e) supporting the cartridge (210e). The aerosol generating device (200e) may correspond to a type of the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 1. At this time, the hardware components included in the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 1 may be divided and positioned in the main body (220e) and the cartridge (210e).

[0080] The cartridge (210e) can be coupled to the main body (220e) while containing an aerosol generating substance (20e) therein. The cartridge (210e) can be mounted on the main body (210) by inserting a portion of the cartridge (210e) into a receptacle of the main body (210).

[0081] The cartridge (210e) may contain an aerosol generating substance (20e) of a liquid composition, but is not limited thereto, and may also contain an aerosol generating substance (20e) in any one of a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco material.

[0082] The heater (120e) provided within the cartridge (210e) performs a heating operation by an electric signal or a wireless signal transmitted from the main body (220e). Accordingly, an aerosol can be generated by vaporizing the aerosol generating material (20e) within the cartridge (210e) due to heating by the heater (120e).

[0083] The heater (120e) may be implemented with a conductive filament made of a metal material such as copper, nickel, or tungsten, or a ceramic heating element, etc., to heat an aerosol generating substance delivered to a liquid delivery means by generating heat by electrical resistance, and may be wound around the liquid delivery means or placed adjacent to the liquid delivery means.

[0084] The removable battery (110) can be separated from or mounted on the aerosol generating device (200e), and when the removable battery (110) is mounted on the aerosol generating device (200e), power can be supplied to the heater (120e) from the removable battery (110) for the heating operation of the heater (120e).

[0085] The main processor (130) can control the heating operation of the heater (120e) by controlling the power supplied to the heater (120e). For example, the main processor (130) can control the temperature at which the aerosol generating material (20e) is heated by the heater (120e) according to a temperature profile.

[0086] Meanwhile, although not illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2E, the aerosol generating devices (200a to 200e) may also be configured as a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may store the aerosol generating devices (200a to 200e) or charge the removable battery (110) of the aerosol generating devices (200a to 200e).

[0087] According to various embodiments, the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 1 may be implemented as at least one of the types of aerosol generating devices (200a to 200e) of FIGS. 2a to 2e, but is not necessarily limited thereto and may be implemented as other types as well.

[0088] The aerosol generating devices (200a to 200e) of FIGS. 2a to 2e can commonly use a removable battery (110) as a power source. The removable battery (110) is a battery that can be replaced by being mounted or detached from the aerosol generating devices (200a to 200e).

[0089] Figure 3 is a drawing for explaining the process of charging a removable battery in the first charging mode.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the removable battery (110) can be charged by a plurality of charging modes. The charging modes of the removable battery (110) can include a first charging mode in which the removable battery (110) is charged while being coupled to the battery receiving portion of the aerosol generating device (100), and a second charging mode in which the removable battery (110) is separated (or removed) from the battery receiving portion and charged by an external charger.

[0091] Looking at the charging process in the first charging mode illustrated in FIG. 3, in the first section (P1), when charging of the removable battery (110) begins, the current of the removable battery (110) operates in a constant current mode to maintain a constant current value (e.g., 1 A), and the voltage of the removable battery (110) may gradually increase as charging progresses. At this time, since it operates in a constant current mode, the main processor (130) of the aerosol generating device (100) may control the charging process using the current as a reference in order to maintain a constant current value (e.g., 1 A).

[0092] In the second section (P2), the voltage of the removable battery (110) increases to a preset first threshold voltage value (V th1 ) is reached, the main processor (130) of the aerosol generating device (100) is changed to constant voltage mode, so that the voltage of the removable battery (110) reaches the first threshold voltage value (V th1 )(e.g. 4.2 V), and the current of the removable battery (110) can be controlled to gradually decrease as charging progresses. At this time, the main processor (130) of the aerosol generating device (100) controls the voltage of the removable battery (110) to a preset first threshold voltage value (V) through PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control. th1 ) can be controlled so as not to exceed it.

[0093] In the third section (P3), the main processor (130) of the aerosol generating device (100) determines that the voltage value of the removable battery (110) is a first threshold voltage value (V th1 ), a micro-maintenance current (Im) can be controlled to be supplied to the removable battery (110) to maintain a preset maintenance voltage (Vm) (e.g., 4.15 V) until the aerosol generating device (100) is disconnected from the external power source for charging.

[0094] Figure 4 is a drawing for explaining the process of charging and self-discharging a removable battery in a second charging mode.

[0095] At this time, the fourth section (P4) and the fifth section (P5) of the second charging mode are each in which the full charge voltage of the removable battery (110) is equal to the first threshold voltage value (V th1 ) higher than the second threshold voltage value (V th2 ) and the remaining configurations are substantially the same as the first section (P1) and the second section (P2) of the first charging mode. Meanwhile, the sixth section (P6) assumes that the removable battery (110) is fully charged and then disconnected from the external charger.

[0096] Referring to FIGS. 1, 3, and 4, the charging process and self-discharge process in the second charging mode will be examined. In the fourth section (P4), when charging of the removable battery (110) is initiated, the current of the removable battery (110) operates in a constant current mode to maintain a constant current value, and the voltage of the removable battery (110) may gradually increase as charging progresses. At this time, since it operates in a constant current mode, the main processor (130) of the aerosol generating device (100) may control the charging process using the current as a reference in order to maintain a constant current value.

[0097] In the fifth section (P5), the voltage of the removable battery (110) increases to a preset second threshold voltage value (V th2 ) is reached, the main processor (130) of the aerosol generating device (100) is changed to constant voltage mode, so that the voltage of the removable battery (110) reaches the second threshold voltage value (V th1 )(e.g. 4.25 V), and the current of the removable battery (110) can be controlled to gradually decrease as charging progresses. At this time, the main processor (130) of the aerosol generating device (100) controls the voltage of the removable battery (110) to a preset second threshold voltage value (V) through PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control. th2 ) can be controlled so as not to exceed it.

[0098] When the removable battery (110) is removed from the aerosol generating device (100) and charged through a separate external charger (or, when charging in the second charging mode), the charging voltage is set to the first threshold voltage value (V) in preparation for the self-discharge phenomenon of the sixth section (P6) described later. th1 )(e.g. 4.2 V) higher than the second threshold voltage value (V th2 ) (e.g. 4.25V) can be set.

[0099] In the sixth section (P6), the removable battery (110) may self-discharge. Self-discharge of a battery refers to a phenomenon in which the voltage gradually discharges even when left unloaded after charging. Self-discharge may be caused by electrical factors, such as internal short circuits, and / or chemical factors, such as the generation of impurities in the electrolyte. Generally, self-discharge tends to increase as the electrical temperature increases and as the battery ages.

[0100] Meanwhile, the self-discharge rate of the removable battery (110) is highest immediately after charging and may become more and more gentle thereafter. For example, the end point of the 61st section (P61) is the point in time when about 24 hours have passed since being disconnected from the external charger, and the second threshold voltage value (V th2 )(e.g. 4.25 V) at the first threshold voltage value (V th1 ) (e.g., 4.2 V). In addition, the end point of the 62nd section (P62) is the point in time when about 30 days have passed since being disconnected from the external charger, and the first threshold voltage value (V th1 )(e.g. 4.2 V) to a voltage corresponding to the discharge end voltage (Vd) (e.g. 3.4 V). However, the interval length and voltage values ​​(e.g. V th1 , V th2 , Vd) is only an example for convenience of explanation, and may increase or decrease depending on the type of removable battery (110) and the usage environment (e.g., temperature, aging of the battery, etc.).

[0101] In this way, a voltage difference may occur between the voltage of the battery charged in the first charging mode and the voltage of the battery charged in the second charging mode, and in particular, when the aerosol generating device (100) is operated using the voltage in an overcharged state, such as in the 61st section (P61) of the second charging mode, this may cause battery deterioration and shortened battery life, and when the aerosol generating device (100) is operated using the voltage in an undercharged state, such as in the 62nd section (P62) of the second charging mode, this may cause inconveniences such as insufficient usage time. To prevent this, the operation of the power management unit (170) included in the aerosol generating device (100) will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7.

[0102] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a power management unit according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation of an operation mode setting unit according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a balancing mode according to one embodiment.

[0103] Referring to FIGS. 1, 3, 4, and 5, the power management unit (170) may include a battery monitoring unit (172) and a discharge circuit (174).

[0104] The battery monitoring unit (172) can measure battery operation data under the control of the main processor (130) and transmit the data to the main processor (130).

[0105] The battery monitoring unit (172) may include a transmitter unit (170a) and an analog-to-digital converter (172b). At this time, the operating data of the removable battery (110) is measured as actual values ​​that can be used to check the battery status for battery management / operation, and may include voltage, current, temperature, etc. of the removable battery (110).

[0106] The transmitter (172a) is a configuration that connects communication for data transmission and reception with the main processor (130). The transmitter (172a) can be operated at a predetermined communication speed according to the control of the main processor (130).

[0107] The analog-to-digital converter (172b) is configured to measure the operating data of the removable battery (110) at a predetermined measurement cycle set according to the control of the main processor (130). For example, the analog-to-digital converter (172b) can convert the voltage value of the battery charged in the first charging mode into a first digital value, convert the voltage value of the battery charged in the second charging mode into a second digital value, and generate the same as operating data.

[0108] The main processor (130) can acquire battery operation data measured from the battery monitoring unit (172) and set the battery operation mode based on the acquired operation data.

[0109] The main processor (130) may include a receiving unit (132), a charging mode identification unit (134), and an operating mode setting unit (136).

[0110] The receiving unit (132) is a configuration that connects communication for data transmission and reception with the battery monitoring unit (172). The receiving unit (132) can receive battery operation data transmitted from the battery monitoring unit (172) at a predetermined communication speed.

[0111] The charging mode identification unit (134) can identify whether the removable battery (110) mounted in the battery receiving portion of the aerosol generating device (100) is charged by the first charging mode or the second charging mode based on the first digital value and the second digital value among the received battery operation data.

[0112] For example, the charging mode identification unit (134) may determine that the removable battery (110) mounted in the battery receiving portion of the aerosol generating device (100) is charged by the first charging mode when the received battery operation data (e.g., the first digital value) is within the preset reference voltage range, and the charging mode identification unit (134) may determine that the removable battery (110) mounted in the battery receiving portion of the aerosol generating device (100) is charged by the second charging mode when the received battery operation data (e.g., the second digital value) is outside the preset reference voltage range. At this time, the preset reference voltage range may be a first threshold voltage value (V th1 ) (e.g. 4.2 V) can have a lower limit value (e.g. 4.19 V) and an upper limit value (e.g. 4.21 V).

[0113] The operation mode setting unit (136) can determine whether balancing of the battery (110) is necessary based on the battery operation data acquired from the receiving unit (132), and set the battery operation mode according to the determination result.

[0114] At this time, the battery operation mode may include a normal mode and a balancing mode. The normal mode is a mode that is operated when a removable battery (110) charged in the first charging mode is installed in the battery receiving compartment of the aerosol generating device (100). That is, the normal mode may be activated when a battery balancing situation is not required.

[0115] The balancing mode is a mode that operates when the voltage difference obtained by subtracting the voltage value of the battery charged in the first charging mode from the voltage value of the battery charged in the second charging mode is greater than a preset reference voltage difference. When the balancing mode is activated, battery balancing can be performed by suggesting individual charging operations through notifications to batteries (110) with low charging voltages and discharging the amount of charge held by batteries (110) with high charging voltages so that the overall balance can be maintained.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 6, the operation mode setting unit (136) may include a voltage difference calculation unit (136a), a reference voltage comparison unit (136b), and a balancing judgment unit (136c).

[0117] When the voltage difference calculation unit (136a) determines that the battery (110) mounted in the battery receiving portion of the aerosol generating device (100) is charged in the second charging mode by the charging mode identification unit (134), the voltage difference calculation unit (136a) can calculate a voltage difference value obtained by subtracting the voltage value of the removable battery (110) charged in the first charging mode from the voltage value of the removable battery (110) charged in the second charging mode.

[0118] The reference voltage comparison unit (136b) can compare whether the voltage difference calculated by the voltage difference calculation unit (136a) exceeds a preset reference voltage difference value (e.g., ±0.02 V).

[0119] The balancing judgment unit (136c) can determine whether to perform balancing based on the comparison result of the reference voltage comparison unit (136b), and determine the battery operation mode based on the judgment result.

[0120] The balancing judgment unit (136c) sets the battery operation mode to the balancing mode and outputs a balancing mode setting signal when the calculated voltage difference exceeds the reference voltage difference value as a result of the comparison by the reference voltage comparison unit (136b), and sets the battery operation mode to the normal mode and outputs a normal mode setting signal when the calculated voltage difference is less than or equal to the reference voltage difference value as a result of the comparison.

[0121] When the cell balancing mode setting signal is received from the balancing judgment unit (136c), and the reference voltage difference value corresponds to a positive value (e.g., +0.02 V) (i.e., section 61 (P61) of FIG. 4), the discharge circuit (174) can discharge the voltage value of the removable battery (110) to a preset reference voltage value with a resistor. At this time, the reference voltage value is a first threshold voltage value (V th1 )(e.g. 4.2V) can be corresponded to.

[0122] Conversely, referring to FIG. 7, when the cell balancing mode setting signal is received from the balancing judgment unit (136c), and the reference voltage difference value corresponds to a negative value (e.g., -0.02 V) (i.e., section 62 (P62) of FIG. 4), the main processor (130) may provide a message to the user through the display (DSP) of the user interface (140) to confirm whether to additionally charge the shortfall.

[0123] Below, other embodiments are described. In the following embodiments, descriptions of the same configurations as those in the previously described embodiments are omitted or simplified, and the differences are primarily described.

[0124] Figure 8 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0125] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 8, an operating method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a step (S10) of measuring operating data of a removable battery (110) mounted in a battery receiving portion of an aerosol generating device (100), and a step (S20 to S40) of determining whether the removable battery (110) is balanced based on the operating data.

[0126] Specifically, at step S10, the battery monitoring unit (172) can measure battery operation data under the control of the main processor (130) and transmit the data to the main processor (130).

[0127] The battery monitoring unit (172) may include a transmitter (170a) and an analog-to-digital converter (172b). At this time, the operating data of the removable battery (110) is an actual value measured to check the battery status for battery management / operation, and may include voltage, current, temperature, etc. of the removable battery (110). The analog-to-digital converter (172b) may convert the voltage value of the battery charged in the first charging mode into a first digital value, convert the voltage value of the battery charged in the second charging mode into a second digital value, and generate the same as operating data.

[0128] At step S20, the main processor (130) can acquire battery operation data measured from the battery monitoring unit (172) and set a battery operation mode based on the acquired operation data.

[0129] The main processor (130) may include a receiving unit (132), a charging mode identification unit (134), and an operating mode setting unit (136). The charging mode identification unit (134) may identify, based on a first digital value and a second digital value among the received battery operating data, whether the removable battery (110) mounted in the battery receiving unit of the aerosol generating device (100) is charged by the first charging mode or the second charging mode.

[0130] For example, the charging mode identification unit (134) may determine that the removable battery (110) mounted in the battery receiving portion of the aerosol generating device (100) is charged by the first charging mode when the received battery operation data (e.g., the first digital value) is within the preset reference voltage range, and the charging mode identification unit (134) may determine that the removable battery (110) mounted in the battery receiving portion of the aerosol generating device (100) is charged by the second charging mode when the received battery operation data (e.g., the second digital value) is outside the preset reference voltage range. At this time, the preset reference voltage range may be a first threshold voltage value (V th1 ) (e.g. 4.2 V) can have a lower limit value (e.g. 4.19 V) and an upper limit value (e.g. 4.21 V).

[0131] At step S30, when the voltage difference calculation unit (136a) determines that the battery (110) mounted in the battery receiving portion of the aerosol generating device (100) is charged in the second charging mode by the charging mode identification unit (134), the voltage difference calculation unit (136a) can calculate a voltage difference value obtained by subtracting the voltage value of the removable battery (110) charged in the first charging mode from the voltage value of the removable battery (110) charged in the second charging mode.

[0132] At step S40, the reference voltage comparison unit (136b) can compare whether the voltage difference calculated by the voltage difference calculation unit (136a) exceeds a preset reference voltage difference value.

[0133] In step S51, the balancing judgment unit (136c) can set the battery operation mode to balancing mode and output a balancing mode setting signal if the calculated voltage difference exceeds the reference voltage difference value as a result of the comparison by the reference voltage comparison unit (136b).

[0134] When the cell balancing mode setting signal is received from the balancing judgment unit (136c), and the reference voltage difference value corresponds to a positive value (e.g., +0.02 V) (i.e., section 61 (P61) of FIG. 4), the discharge circuit (174) can discharge the voltage value of the removable battery (110) to a preset reference voltage value with a resistor. At this time, the reference voltage value is a first threshold voltage value (V th1 )(e.g. 4.2V) can be corresponded to.

[0135] Conversely, when the cell balancing mode setting signal is received from the balancing judgment unit (136c), but the reference voltage difference value is a negative value (e.g., -0.02 V) (i.e., section 62 (P62) of FIG. 4), the main processor (130) may provide a message to the user through the display (DSP) of the user interface (140) to confirm whether to additionally charge the shortfall.

[0136] In step S52, the balancing judgment unit (136c) can set the battery operation mode to normal mode and output a normal mode setting signal if the calculated voltage difference is less than or equal to the reference voltage difference value as a result of the comparison by the reference voltage comparison unit (136b).

[0137] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in modified forms without departing from the essential characteristics of the above-described description. Therefore, the disclosed methods should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. The scope of the present invention is set forth in the claims, not the foregoing description, and all differences within the scope equivalent thereto should be construed as being encompassed by the present invention.

Claims

1. Removable battery in the battery compartment; A battery monitoring unit that measures the operating data of the above battery; and An aerosol generating device comprising a control unit including an operation mode setting unit that determines whether to balance the battery based on the above operation data.

2. In paragraph 1, The above operating data is an aerosol generating device including voltage, current, temperature, etc. of a battery mounted in the battery receiving portion.

3. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device, wherein the charging mode of the battery includes a first charging mode in which the battery is charged while coupled to the battery receiving portion, and a second charging mode in which the battery is separated from the battery receiving portion and charged by an external charger.

4. In paragraph 3, An aerosol generating device in which the battery is charged to a first threshold voltage value in the first charging mode and to a second threshold voltage value higher than the first threshold voltage value in the second charging mode.

5. In paragraph 4, An aerosol generating device including an analog-to-digital converter that converts the voltage value of a battery charged in the first charging mode into a first digital value and converts the voltage value of a battery charged in the second charging mode into a second digital value, wherein the battery monitoring unit comprises:

6. In paragraph 5, The above control unit, A charging mode identification unit is included to distinguish whether the battery mounted in the battery receiving unit is charged by the first charging mode or the second charging mode based on the first digital value and the second digital value. The above operation mode setting section is, A voltage difference calculation unit that calculates a voltage difference value by subtracting the voltage value of the battery charged in the first charging mode from the voltage value of the battery charged in the second charging mode when the battery mounted in the battery receiving unit is determined to be charged in the second charging mode by the charging mode identification unit; A reference voltage comparison unit that compares whether the voltage difference calculated by the voltage difference calculation unit exceeds a preset reference voltage difference value; and An aerosol generating device including a balancing judgment unit that determines whether balancing is performed based on a comparison result of the reference voltage comparison unit and determines a battery operation mode based on the judgment result.

7. In paragraph 6, The above balancing judgment unit is, As a result of the above comparison, if the calculated voltage difference exceeds the reference voltage difference value, the battery operation mode is set to balancing mode and a balancing mode setting signal is output. An aerosol generating device that sets the battery operation mode to normal mode and outputs a normal mode setting signal when the calculated voltage difference is less than or equal to the reference voltage difference value as a result of the above comparison.

8. In paragraph 7, An aerosol generating device including a discharge circuit that discharges the voltage value of the battery to a preset reference voltage value through a resistor when receiving the cell balancing mode setting signal from the balancing judgment unit.

9. In paragraph 8, An aerosol generating device wherein the above reference voltage value corresponds to the above first threshold voltage value.

10. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device further comprising a heater that receives power from the battery and heats an aerosol generating article.

11. A method of operating an aerosol generating device that is powered by a removable battery and includes a heater that heats an aerosol generating article, A step of measuring the operating data of a battery mounted in a battery receiving unit; and A method of operating an aerosol generating device, comprising: a step of determining whether the battery is balanced based on the above operating data; 12. In paragraph 11, An operating method of an aerosol generating device, wherein the charging mode of the battery comprises a first charging mode in which the battery is charged to a first threshold voltage value while being coupled to the battery receiving portion, and a second charging mode in which the battery is separated from the battery receiving portion and charged to a second threshold voltage value higher than the first threshold voltage value by an external charger.

13. In paragraph 12, A method of operating an aerosol generating device, wherein the step of measuring the above operating data further includes the step of converting the voltage value of the battery charged in the first charging mode into a first digital value, and converting the voltage value of the battery charged in the second charging mode into a second digital value.

14. In paragraph 13, The step to determine whether the above battery is balanced is: A step of distinguishing whether a battery mounted in a battery receiving portion is charged by the first charging mode or the second charging mode based on the first digital value and the second digital value; When it is determined that the battery mounted in the battery receiving portion is charged by the second charging mode, a step of calculating a voltage difference value by subtracting the voltage value of the battery charged by the first charging mode from the voltage value of the battery charged by the second charging mode; A step of comparing whether the voltage difference calculated by the voltage difference calculation unit exceeds a preset reference voltage difference value; and An operating method of an aerosol generating device, comprising: a step of determining whether balancing is performed based on a comparison result of the reference voltage comparison unit, and determining a battery operation mode based on the determination result.

15. In paragraph 14, The steps for setting the above battery operation mode are: As a result of the above comparison, if the calculated voltage difference exceeds the reference voltage difference value, the battery operation mode is set to balancing mode and a balancing mode setting signal is output. An operating method of an aerosol generating device that sets the battery operation mode to normal mode and outputs a normal mode setting signal when the calculated voltage difference is less than or equal to the reference voltage difference value as a result of the above comparison.

Images