Aerosol-generating device and operating method therefor

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment comprises: a heater for heating an aerosol-generating article; a detachable battery including at least one detachable battery cell; and a control unit for determining a heating mode of the heater on the basis of the number of battery cells and the coupling between the battery cells.

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 and an aerosol generating method including a removable battery having at least one battery cell.

[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] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating method that can operate in various modes based on the number of battery cells included in a battery pack and the connection method between the battery cells.

[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 heater for heating an aerosol generating article, a removable battery including at least one removable battery cell, and a control unit for determining a heating mode of the heater based on the number of the battery cells and a coupling method between the battery cells.

[0007] A method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a step of detecting the number of battery cells mounted in a removable battery and a coupling method between the battery cells, and a step of determining a heating mode of a heater based on the number of battery cells and the coupling between the battery cells.

[0008] The aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating method according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can quickly generate aerosol or increase the usage time of the device by operating in various modes based on the number of battery cells included in the battery pack and the connection method between the battery cells.

[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 operation of the removable battery and power management unit.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a power management unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the first mode operation of the power management unit according to the embodiment of FIG. 4.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the second mode operation of the power management unit according to the embodiment of FIG. 4.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the third mode operation of the power management unit according to the embodiment of FIG. 4.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a power management unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 9 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] The removable battery (110) supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device (100). For example, the removable battery (110) may supply power so that the heater (120) may be heated. 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 battery 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.

[0027] 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).

[0028] The removable battery (110) may be equipped with a charger interface that can be connected to an external charger. Power for charging the removable battery (110) may be supplied to the removable battery (110) through the charger interface. The removable battery (110) may be charged by an external charger while connected to the aerosol generating device (100) or while being removed (uninstalled) from the aerosol generating device (100).

[0029] The removable battery (110) may include at least one battery cell. The battery cell may have different electrodes formed at opposite ends along the 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The main processor (130) can analyze the results sensed by the sensor (160) and control subsequent processing based on the sensing results. In one embodiment, the main processor (130) can determine a coupling method between battery cells based on the results sensed by the sensor (160). For example, the sensor (160) can be a humidity detection sensor. In this case, the humidity detection sensor can be any one of an electrical resistance type, a capacitance type, and an optical type. The main processor (130) can use the humidity detection sensor to determine whether a cigarette inserted into the aerosol generating device (100) is a regular cigarette having a moisture content below a preset threshold or an over-humidified cigarette having a moisture content above a preset threshold. When the main processor (130) detects that the inserted cigarette is a regular cigarette when there are multiple battery cells mounted on the removable battery (110), it can connect the multiple battery cells in parallel, and when it detects that the inserted cigarette is a humidified cigarette, it can connect the multiple battery cells in series.

[0038] However, the method for determining the combination method of the battery cells mounted on the removable battery (110) is not limited thereto. For example, when the user interface (140) detects that multiple battery cells are mounted on the removable battery (110), it may display a message on the display asking whether to connect the multiple battery cells in series or parallel. The user of the aerosol generating device (100) may determine the combination method of the multiple battery cells mounted on the removable battery (110) by responding to the message.

[0039] 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).

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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).

[0045] 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.

[0046] The power management unit (170) can change the output level and capacity of the removable battery (110) by changing the coupling method between battery cells mounted on the removable battery (110) based on the control of the main processor (130). More detailed information will be described below with reference to FIGS. 3 to 7.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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).

[0051] Referring to FIG. 2a, the aerosol generating device (200a) may include a removable battery (110), a heater (120a), and a main processor (130).

[0052] 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).

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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).

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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).

[0061] 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).

[0062] 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).

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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).

[0065] 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).

[0066] 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).

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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).

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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).

[0073] 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).

[0074] 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).

[0075] 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).

[0076] 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.

[0077] The heater (120d) is an induction heating method, and 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).

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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).

[0083] 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).

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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).

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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).

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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).

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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).

[0092] Figure 3 is a drawing for explaining the operation of the removable battery and power management unit.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 3, a battery cell (111) according to one embodiment can be attached to a removable battery (110). For this purpose, the removable battery (110) may have a holder in which the battery cell (111) is mounted. The number of holders may be at least one. Accordingly, a user can selectively use a removable battery (110) having a number of holders that matches his or her device usage pattern (e.g., rapid heating, securing a long standby time, etc.). In addition, since each battery cell (111) can be freely attached or detached, the entire lifespan of the removable battery (110) can be efficiently managed by replacing only a malfunctioning battery cell (111) or a battery cell (111) whose lifespan has expired.

[0094] A plurality of battery cells (111) can be electrically connected to each other in series or parallel. For example, a parallel connection can be formed by connecting adjacent battery cells (111) with the same polarity, and a series connection can be formed by connecting adjacent battery cells (111) with opposite polarity.

[0095] When battery cells (111) are connected in series, the output voltage may have a voltage proportional to the number of battery cells (111) connected in series. For example, when the voltage of one battery cell (111) varies in the range of 3.5 V to 4 V depending on the state of charge, when two battery cells (111) are connected in series to a removable battery (110), the output voltage of the removable battery (110) may vary in the range of 7 V to 8 V depending on the state of charge. Meanwhile, when battery cells (111) are connected in series, the total capacity may be substantially the same as the capacity of one battery cell (111). For example, when the capacity of one battery cell (111) is 3000 mA, even if two battery cells (111) are connected in series to a removable battery (110), the total capacity of the removable battery (110) may be 3000 mA.

[0096] Conversely, when battery cells (111) are connected in parallel, the output voltage may be substantially the same as the voltage of one battery cell (111). For example, when the voltage of one battery cell (111) varies in the range of 3.5 V to 4 V depending on the state of charge, even if two battery cells (111) are connected in parallel to the removable battery (110), the output voltage of the removable battery (110) may vary in the range of 3.5 V to 4 V depending on the state of charge. Meanwhile, when battery cells (111) are connected in parallel, the total capacity may have a capacity proportional to the number of battery cells (111) connected in parallel. For example, when the capacity of one battery cell (111) is 3000 mA, when two battery cells (111) are connected in parallel to the removable battery (110), the total capacity of the removable battery (110) may be 6000 mA.

[0097] The power management unit (170) can supply power from the removable battery (110) to the system load. Here, the system load can be understood as a concept that collectively refers to power-consuming elements inside the aerosol generating product (e.g., the heater (120), main processor (130), user interface (140), main memory (150), sensor (160), etc. of FIG. 1). Typically, an integrated circuit such as a PMIC (Power Management IC) is connected to a system node (Nsys) to generate various voltages required inside the system and then provide them to elements inside the system.

[0098] The power management unit (170) can supply power to the system load by connecting a plurality of battery cells (111) in series or parallel and discharging at least one cell among the plurality of battery cells (111). To this end, the power management unit (170) can include a switch network that changes the connection relationship so that the plurality of battery cells (111) are connected in series or in parallel.

[0099] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a power management unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 4, the power management unit (170) may include a switch network (SN) and a buck-boost converter (BBC).

[0101] In addition, the power management unit (170) may include a first node (Nc) connected to one end (or input end) of a buck-boost converter (BBC), a system node (Nsys) connected to a system load, a first cell node (Nb1) connected to a positive terminal of a first battery cell (Cell 1) among a plurality of battery cells (111), a second cell node (Nb2) connected to a negative terminal of a first battery cell (Cell 1) among a plurality of battery cells (111), a third cell node (Nb3) connected to a positive terminal of a second battery cell (Cell 2) among a plurality of battery cells (111), and a fourth cell node (Nb4) connected to a negative terminal of a second battery cell (Cell 2) among a plurality of battery cells (111).

[0102] A switch network (SN) can selectively connect a second cell node (Nb2) to a third cell node (Nb3) or a fourth cell node (Nb4), and can selectively connect a third cell node (Nb3) to a second cell node (Nb2) or a first node (Nc).

[0103] For this purpose, by way of example, the switch network (SN) may include a first switch (Q11) arranged between a second cell node (Nb2) and a fourth cell node (Nb4), a second switch (Q12) arranged between the second cell node (Nb2) and a third cell node (Nb3), and a third switch (Q13) arranged between the third cell node (Nb3) and the first node (Nc). The fourth cell node (Nb4) may be connected to a reference potential (GND).

[0104] The switches (Q11 to Q13) included in the switch network (SN) can each be implemented with semiconductor switching elements such as MOSFETs, IGBTs, MCTs, and BJTs.

[0105] A buck-boost converter (BBC) is positioned between a first node (Nc) and a system node (Nsys) to step down or boost the voltage of the first node (Nc) and provide it to the system node (Nsys). A step-down converter, such as a buck converter, and a step-up converter, such as a boost converter, can be used for the buck-boost converter (BBC).

[0106] The main processor (130) can obtain at least one piece of information among the voltage (Vc1) of the first battery cell (Cell1), the current (Ic1) of the first battery cell (Cell1), the voltage (Vc2) of the second battery cell (Cell2), and the current (Ic2) of the second battery cell (Cell2), and control the operation of the switch network (SN).

[0107] In this way, the power management unit (170) can provide power by connecting a plurality of battery cells (111) to the system load while switching them in series or in parallel. The main processor (130) can determine the heating mode of the heater (120 in FIG. 1) based on the number of battery cells (111) and the coupling method between the battery cells (111). For example, the heating mode can include a first mode (or standard mode) corresponding to a case where there is one battery cell (111), a second mode (or boost mode) corresponding to a case where there are two or more battery cells (111) and the battery cells (111) are connected in series, and a third mode (or long-life mode) corresponding to a case where there are two or more battery cells (111) and the battery cells (111) are connected in parallel.

[0108] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the first mode operation of the power management unit according to the embodiment of FIG. 4.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 5, the first mode may be understood as a mode in which, when a single battery cell (111) (or the first battery cell (Cell 1)) mounted on a removable battery (110) is discharged to provide power to the system load. For example, the first mode may be a standard mode in which the heater (120) is operated with a temperature profile corresponding to a regular cigarette having a moisture content below a preset threshold value.

[0110] The power management unit (170) can cause the first battery cell (Cell 1) to discharge while being connected alone to provide power to the system load. Specifically, when the main processor (130) obtains only the voltage (Vc1) and current (Ic1) information of the first battery cell (Cell 1), the main processor (130) can control the operation of the switch network (SN) so that only the first switch (Q11) is turned on, and the second switch (Q12) and the third switch (Q13) are turned off. The first switch (Q11) can be turned on to connect the second cell node (Nb2) and the fourth cell node (Nb4).

[0111] By this switch operation, the voltage of the first battery cell (Cell 1) can be provided as an input voltage to the input terminal (or, the first node (Nc)) of the buck-boost converter (BBC). If the input voltage matches a preset output level, the buck-boost converter (BBC) can provide the system node (Nsys) with the output voltage as it is. Conversely, if the input voltage does not match the preset output level, the buck-boost converter (BBC) can change the input voltage to a preset output level by stepping down or up, and then provide the output voltage to the system node (Nsys). At this time, the buck-boost converter (BBC) can adjust the output range through a program such as I2C communication.

[0112] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the second mode operation of the power management unit according to the embodiment of FIG. 4.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 6, the second mode may be understood as a mode in which the charged power is discharged to provide power to the system load when two battery cells (111) are mounted on a removable battery (110) and the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the second battery cell (Cell 2) are connected in series. For example, the second mode may be a boost mode in which the heater (120) is operated with a temperature profile corresponding to an over-moistened cigarette whose moisture content is higher than a preset threshold value.

[0114] The power management unit (170) can provide power to the system load by discharging the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the second battery cell (Cell 2) in a serial connection state. Specifically, the main processor (130) can obtain information on the voltage (Vc1) of the first battery cell (Cell 1), the current (Ic1) of the first battery cell (Cell 1), the voltage (Vc2) of the second battery cell (Cell 2), and the current (Ic2) of the second battery cell (Cell 2), and when it is determined that the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the second battery cell (Cell 2) are serially connected, control the operation of the switch network (SN) so that only the second switch (Q12) is turned on, and the first switch (Q11) and the third switch (Q13) are turned off. The second switch (Q12) is turned on so that the second cell node (Nb2) and the third cell node (Nb3) can be connected.

[0115] By this switch operation, a voltage having a magnitude of the sum of the voltage of the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the voltage of the second battery cell (Cell 2) can be provided as an input voltage to the input terminal (or the first node (Nc)) of the buck-boost converter (BBC). The buck-boost converter (BBC) can operate as a buck converter in the second mode. In other words, the buck-boost converter (BBC) can generate an output voltage by stepping down the input voltage in the second mode. For example, when the voltage of the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the voltage of the second battery cell (Cell 2) each have a range of about 3.5 V to 4 V, when two battery cells (111) are connected in series to the removable battery (110), the input voltage of the removable battery (110) can have a range of about 7 V to 8 V. The magnitude of the voltage in the boost mode can correspond to 120% of the magnitude of the voltage in the standard mode. Therefore, the buck-boost converter (BBC) can step down the input voltage, which is twice the size of the voltage of one battery cell (111), to 1.2 times the size of the voltage of one battery cell (111). That is, the buck-boost converter (BBC) can step down the input voltage, generate an output voltage, and then provide it to the system node (Nsys).

[0116] Meanwhile, when the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the second battery cell (Cell 2) are connected in series, the total capacity may be substantially the same as the capacity of one battery cell (111). For example, when the capacity of the first battery cell (Cell 1) is 3000 mA, even if two battery cells (111) are connected in series to the removable battery (110), the total capacity of the removable battery (110) may be 3000 mA.

[0117] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the third mode operation of the power management unit according to the embodiment of FIG. 4.

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 7, the third mode can be understood as a mode in which two battery cells (111) are mounted on a removable battery (110), and the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the second battery cell (Cell 2) are connected in parallel to discharge the charged power to provide power to the system load. For example, the third mode can be a long-life mode in which the heater (120) is operated in the standard mode when a long standby time is required, such as when long-term charging is not possible, such as during travel, but the battery capacity is secured to a large capacity.

[0119] The power management unit (170) can provide power to the system load by discharging the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the second battery cell (Cell 2) in a state of being connected in parallel. Specifically, the main processor (130) can obtain information on all of the voltage (Vc1) of the first battery cell (Cell 1), the current (Ic1) of the first battery cell (Cell 1), the voltage (Vc2) of the second battery cell (Cell 2), and the current (Ic2) of the second battery cell (Cell 2), and when it is determined that the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the second battery cell (Cell 2) are connected in parallel, control the operation of the switch network (SN) so that the first switch (Q11) and the third switch (Q13) are turned on and the second switch (Q12) is turned off. The first switch (Q11) can be turned on to connect the second cell node (Nb2) and the fourth cell node (Nb4), and the third switch (Q13) can be turned on to connect the first node (Nc) and the third cell node (Nb3).

[0120] By this switch operation, a voltage corresponding to the magnitude of the voltage of the first battery cell (Cell 1) (or the voltage of the second battery cell (Cell 2)) can be provided as an input voltage to the input terminal (or the first node (Nc)) of the buck-boost converter (BBC). If the input voltage matches a preset output level, the buck-boost converter (BBC) can provide the system node (Nsys) with the output voltage as it is. Conversely, if the input voltage does not match the preset output level, the buck-boost converter (BBC) can change the input voltage to a preset output level by stepping down or up, and then provide the output voltage to the system node (Nsys).

[0121] Meanwhile, when the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the second battery cell (Cell 2) are connected in parallel, the total capacity may have a capacity proportional to the number of battery cells (111) connected in parallel. For example, when the capacity of the first battery cell (Cell 1) is 3000 mA, when two battery cells (111) are connected in parallel to the removable battery (110), the total capacity of the removable battery (110) may be 6000 mA.

[0122] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a power management unit according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 8, the removable battery (110) is different from the embodiment of FIG. 4 in that it includes three battery cells (Cell 1, Cell 2, Cell 3) and the switch network (SN) of the power management unit (170) is configured to correspond to the three battery cells (Cell 1, Cell 2, Cell 3).

[0124] For example, the switch network (SN) of the power management unit (170) includes a first switch (Q11) and a second switch (Q12) that selectively connect the negative terminal of the first battery cell (Cell 1) to the positive terminal (or the third cell node (Nb3)) of the second battery cell (Cell 2) or the reference potential (GND), a third switch (Q13) that selectively connects the positive terminal (or the third cell node (Nb3)) of the second battery cell (Cell 2) to the system node (Nsys), a fourth switch (Q14) and a fifth switch (Q15) that selectively connect the negative terminal (or the fourth cell node (Nb4)) of the second battery cell (Cell 2) to the positive terminal (or the fifth cell node (Nb5)) of the third battery cell (Cell 3) or the reference potential (GND), and a positive terminal (or the fifth cell node (Nb5)) of the third cell (Cell 3) to the reference potential (GND). It may include a sixth switch (Q16) that selectively connects the node (Nb5) to the system node (Nsys).

[0125] Due to this configuration of the switch network (SN), the power management unit (170) can discharge three battery cells (Cell 1, Cell 2, Cell 3) by connecting them in series or parallel in the first to third modes.

[0126] 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.

[0127] Figure 9 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 9, an operating method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a step (S10) of detecting the number of battery cells (111) mounted on a removable battery (110) and a coupling method between the battery cells (111), and a step (S20) of determining a heating mode of a heater (120) based on the number of battery cells (111) and the coupling between the battery cells (111).

[0129] Specifically, at step S10, the main processor (130) obtains voltage and current information of the battery cells (111), and based on the obtained information, can detect the number of battery cells (111) mounted in the removable battery (110) and the coupling method between the battery cells (111).

[0130] The aerosol generating device (100) may include a power management unit (170) including a switch network (SN) that changes the coupling method between battery cells (111) and a buck-boost converter (BBC) that can increase or decrease the output level.

[0131] The main processor (130) can obtain at least one piece of information among the voltage (Vc1) of the first battery cell (Cell1), the current (Ic1) of the first battery cell (Cell1), the voltage (Vc2) of the second battery cell (Cell2), and the current (Ic2) of the second battery cell (Cell2), and control the operation of the switch network (SN).

[0132] The power management unit (170) can provide power by connecting a plurality of battery cells (111) to a system load while switching them in series or in parallel. The main processor (130) can determine the heating mode of the heater (120 in FIG. 1) based on the number of battery cells (111) and the coupling method between the battery cells (111). For example, the heating mode can include a first mode (or standard mode) corresponding to a case where there is one battery cell (111), a second mode (or boost mode) corresponding to a case where there are two or more battery cells (111) and the battery cells (111) are connected in series, and a third mode (or long-life mode) corresponding to a case where there are two or more battery cells (111) and the battery cells (111) are connected in parallel.

[0133] At step S20, the main processor (130) can determine the heating mode of the heater (120) based on the number of battery cells (111) and the coupling between the battery cells (111).

[0134] The first mode may be understood as a mode in which the charged power is discharged to provide power to the system load when there is one battery cell (111) (or, the first battery cell (Cell 1)) mounted on the removable battery (110). For example, the first mode may be a standard mode in which the heater (120) is operated with a temperature profile corresponding to a regular cigarette having a moisture content below a preset threshold.

[0135] The second mode can be understood as a mode in which the charged power is discharged to provide power to the system load when two battery cells (111) are mounted on a removable battery (110) and the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the second battery cell (Cell 2) are connected in series. For example, the second mode can be a boost mode in which the heater (120) is operated with a temperature profile corresponding to an over-moistened cigarette whose moisture content exceeds a preset threshold value.

[0136] The third mode can be understood as a mode in which the charged power is discharged and power is provided to the system load when two battery cells (111) are mounted on the removable battery (110) and the first battery cell (Cell 1) and the second battery cell (Cell 2) are connected in parallel. For example, the third mode can be a long-life mode in which the heater (120) is operated in the standard mode when a long standby time is required, such as when long-term charging is not possible, such as during travel, but the battery capacity is secured to a large capacity.

[0137] At this time, the output level of the removable battery (110) in the first mode may be substantially the same as the output level of the removable battery (110) in the third mode, and the output level of the removable battery (110) in the second mode may be higher than the output level of the removable battery (110) in the first mode. In addition, the capacity of the removable battery (110) in the first mode may be substantially the same as the capacity of the removable battery (110) in the second mode, and the capacity of the removable battery (110) in the third mode may be greater than the capacity of the removable battery (110) in the first mode.

[0138] 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. A heater for heating an aerosol generating product; A removable battery comprising at least one removable battery cell; and An aerosol generating device comprising a control unit that determines the heating mode of the heater based on the number of battery cells and the coupling method between the battery cells.

2. In paragraph 1, A switch unit that changes the coupling method between the battery cells; and An aerosol generating device further comprising a power management unit including a buck-boost converter capable of increasing or decreasing the output level.

3. In paragraph 2, The above heating mode is, A first mode corresponding to the case where the above battery cell is one; A second mode corresponding to a case where the above battery cells are two or more and the battery cells are connected in series; and An aerosol generating device, comprising a third mode corresponding to a case where the battery cells are two or more and the battery cells are connected in parallel.

4. In paragraph 3, The output level in the first mode is substantially the same as the output level in the third mode, An aerosol generating device wherein the output level in the second mode is higher than the output level in the first mode.

5. In paragraph 3, The capacity of the removable battery in the first mode is substantially the same as the capacity of the removable battery in the second mode, An aerosol generating device in which the capacity of the removable battery in the third mode is greater than the capacity of the removable battery in the first mode.

6. In paragraph 3, The above removable battery is, comprising a first battery cell and a second battery cell, The above switch part, A first switch connected between the negative terminal of the first battery cell and the negative terminal of the second battery cell; a second switch connected between the negative terminal of the first battery cell and the positive terminal of the second battery cell; and An aerosol generating device comprising a third switch connected between the first terminal of the buck-boost converter and the positive terminal of the second battery cell.

7. In paragraph 6, The second terminal of the above buck-boost converter is connected to the system node, An aerosol generating device in which the negative terminal of the second battery cell is connected to a reference potential.

8. In paragraph 6, An aerosol generating device in which the control unit, in the first mode, turns on the first switch, turns off the second switch, and turns off the third switch.

9. In paragraph 6, An aerosol generating device in which the control unit, in the second mode, turns off the first switch, turns on the second switch, and turns off the third switch.

10. In paragraph 9, The above buck-boost converter is an aerosol generating device that operates as a buck converter in the second mode.

11. In paragraph 6, An aerosol generating device in which the control unit, in the third mode, turns on the first switch, turns off the second switch, and turns on the third switch.

12. A step of detecting the number of battery cells mounted in a removable battery and the method of coupling between the battery cells; and A method of operating an aerosol generating device, comprising: a step of determining a heating mode of a heater based on the number of battery cells and the coupling between the battery cells.

13. In paragraph 12, The method of coupling between the above battery cells is changed using a switch unit, A method of operating an aerosol generating device in which the output level of the above-mentioned removable battery is increased or decreased by a buck-boost converter.

14. In paragraph 13, The above heating mode is, A first mode corresponding to the case where the above battery cell is one; A second mode corresponding to a case where the above battery cells are two or more and the battery cells are connected in series; and A method of operating an aerosol generating device, comprising a third mode corresponding to a case where the battery cells are two or more and the battery cells are connected in parallel.

15. In paragraph 14, The output level in the first mode is substantially the same as the output level in the third mode, The output level in the second mode is higher than the output level in the first mode, The capacity of the removable battery in the first mode is substantially the same as the capacity of the removable battery in the second mode, A method of operating an aerosol generating device, wherein the capacity of the removable battery in the third mode is greater than the capacity of the removable battery in the first mode.

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