Battery coupling structure and aerosol generation device comprising same

Abstract

This battery coupling structure comprises: a battery for supplying power; a housing including a coupling space for accommodating the battery; a plurality of reception terminals inserted into a part of the housing in order to receive power from the battery; a pressing member for pressing the battery such that the battery accommodated in the coupling space comes into contact with the reception terminals; and an elastic member for supporting the pressing member and moving the pressing member in the direction crossing the insertion direction of the battery, wherein the plurality of reception terminals sequentially make contact with the battery during the insertion of the battery into the coupling space.

Description

Battery combination structure and aerosol generating device including the same

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a battery coupling structure and an aerosol generating device including the same, and more particularly, to a battery coupling structure having a structure capable of stably coupling a battery and an aerosol generating device including the same.

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternative methods that overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for systems that generate aerosol by heating cigarettes or aerosol-generating materials using an aerosol generator, rather than by burning cigarettes to produce aerosol. Accordingly, research into heated aerosol generators is actively underway.

[0003] Meanwhile, with growing global concern for environmental issues, there is a growing demand for proof of environmental friendliness and safety throughout the entire battery lifecycle, from production to recycling. Accordingly, the field of aerosol generators is also pursuing the development of related technologies, including battery reuse and recycling, while new research is underway on detachable batteries.

[0004] Embodiments provide a battery coupling structure having a structure capable of stably coupling a battery and an aerosol generating device including the same.

[0005] The problems to be solved through the embodiments 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 embodiments belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0006] A battery coupling structure according to one embodiment may include a battery for supplying power, a housing including a coupling space for accommodating the battery, a plurality of receiving terminals for being inserted into a portion of the housing and for receiving power from the battery, a pressing member for pressing the battery accommodated in the coupling space so that the battery comes into contact with the receiving terminal, and an elastic member for supporting the pressing member and moving the pressing member in a direction transverse to an insertion direction of the battery, wherein the plurality of receiving terminals may sequentially come into contact with the battery during a process in which the battery is inserted into the coupling space.

[0007] According to the battery combination structure and the aerosol generating device including the same according to the embodiments, the battery can be stably combined simply by inserting the battery into the housing.

[0008] According to the battery combination structure and the aerosol generating device including the same according to the embodiments, the battery can be stably combined simply by inserting the battery into the housing.

[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] FIGS. 1A to 1C are drawings showing examples of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery combination structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIGS. 4A to 4G are drawings sequentially showing a process in which a battery applicable to the battery combination structure of FIG. 3 is inserted into a combination space of a housing.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery combination structure according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view showing a first state of a battery combination structure according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Fig. 6b is a cross-sectional view showing a second state of the battery combination structure of Fig. 6a.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are given the same reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0020] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing specifications, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0021] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0022] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0023] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0024] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0025] FIGS. 1A to 1C are drawings showing examples of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figures 1a to 1c are drawings illustrating examples of aerosol generating devices. Figures 1a to 1c illustrate examples in which a cigarette (hereinafter, "aerosol generating article" or "stick" may be used interchangeably with the term "aerosol generating article") is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0027] Referring to FIGS. 1A to 1C, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a battery (11), a control unit (12), a heater (18), and a cartridge (19).

[0028] Referring to Fig. 1a, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a battery (11), a control unit (12), and a heater (18). Referring to Fig. 1b, the aerosol generating device (1) further includes a cartridge (19). An aerosol generating article (S) can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0029] When an aerosol generating article (S) is inserted into an aerosol generating device (1), the aerosol generating device (1) can operate a heater (18) and / or a cartridge (19) to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater (18) and / or the cartridge (19) passes through the aerosol generating article (S) and is delivered to a user. If necessary, the aerosol generating device (1) can heat the heater (18) even when the aerosol generating article (S) is not inserted into the aerosol generating device (1).

[0030] Meanwhile, the heater (18) may be omitted. Referring to Fig. 1c, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a battery (11), a control unit (12), and a cartridge (19). The aerosol generating device (1) of Fig. 1c has no space into which an aerosol generating article (S) can be inserted, and a heater (18) for heating the aerosol generating article (S) is not arranged.

[0031] The aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C illustrates components related to the present embodiment. Accordingly, a person skilled in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that, in addition to the components illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include other general-purpose components.

[0032] The aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C is illustrated with components arranged in a row. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to that illustrated. For example, the cartridge (19) and the heater (18) may be arranged in parallel. In other words, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), the arrangement of the battery (11), the control unit (12), the heater (18), and the cartridge (19) may be changed.

[0033] The battery (11) supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the battery (11) can supply power to heat the heater (18) or cartridge (19), and can supply power required for the control unit (12) to operate. In addition, the battery (11) can supply power required for the operation of the display, sensor, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0034] The battery (11) may be a removable type (detachable, detachable) power source. The battery (11) may be provided with an electrical contact, and when the battery (11) is mounted on the aerosol generating device (1), the electrical contact of the battery (11) may be electrically connected to an electrical contact provided on the aerosol generating device (1) to supply power to the aerosol generating device (1). As another example, the battery (11) may be provided with a charging coil for supplying power to the aerosol generating device (1) in a wireless charging manner instead of a separate electrical contact. That is, the power supply method of the battery (11) may vary, and the electrical connection method of the battery (11) and the aerosol generating device (1) may vary depending on the power supply method supported by the battery (11).

[0035] The removable battery (11) may be provided with a charger interface that can be connected to an external charger. Power for charging the removable battery (11) may be supplied to the battery (11) through the charger interface. The battery (11) may be charged by an external charger while connected to the aerosol generating device (1) or while separated from the aerosol generating device (1).

[0036] The control unit (12) controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). Specifically, the control unit (12) controls the operation of the battery (11), heater (18), and cartridge (19), as well as other components included in the aerosol generating device (1). In addition, the control unit (12) can also check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device (1) to determine whether the aerosol generating device (1) is in an operable state.

[0037] The control unit (12) includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable on the microprocessor. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processor may also be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0038] The heater (18) can be heated by power supplied from the battery (11). For example, when a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), the heater (18) can be located outside the cigarette. Accordingly, the heated heater (18) can increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material within the cigarette.

[0039] The heater (18) may be an electrical resistance heater. For example, the heater (18) may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater (18) may be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track. However, the heater (18) is not limited to the above-described example, and may be any heater that can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device (1), or may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0040] Meanwhile, as another example, the heater (18) may be an induction heater. Specifically, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an induction coil (not shown) surrounding the heater (18). When the induction coil is powered by the battery (11), the induction coil may heat the heater (18). The heater (18) may be a susceptor, and the heater (18) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field may penetrate the heater (18) and generate an eddy current within the heater (18). The current may generate heat in the heater (18).

[0041] Meanwhile, the cigarette may include a susceptor that can be heated by an induction heater. The susceptor may be included within the cigarette, and the susceptor within the cigarette may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil.

[0042] Although the heater (18) is depicted as being positioned on the outside of the aerosol generating article (S) in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the present invention is not limited thereto. The heater (18) may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and may heat the inside or the outside of the aerosol generating article (S) depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0043] In addition, a plurality of heaters (18) may be arranged in the aerosol generating device (1). At this time, the plurality of heaters (18) may be arranged to be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating article (S) or may be arranged on the exterior of the aerosol generating article (S). In addition, some of the plurality of heaters (18) may be arranged to be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating article (S), and the rest may be arranged on the exterior of the aerosol generating article (S). In addition, the shape of the heater (18) is not limited to the shape illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, and may be manufactured in various shapes.

[0044] The cartridge (19) can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user through the aerosol generating article (S).

[0045] In other words, the aerosol generated by the cartridge (19) can travel along the airflow passage of the aerosol generating device (1). In FIGS. 1A and 1B, the aerosol that travels along the airflow passage can pass through the aerosol generating article (S) and be delivered to the user. In FIG. 1C, the aerosol that travels along the airflow passage can be delivered to the user through the mouthpiece (20).

[0046] The cartridge (19) may include, but is not limited to, a liquid storage unit, a liquid delivery means, and a cartridge heater. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid delivery means, and the cartridge heater may be included in the aerosol generating device (1) as independent modules.

[0047] The liquid storage unit 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 storage unit can be manufactured to be detachable from / attached to the cartridge (19), or can be manufactured as an integral part of the cartridge (19).

[0048] For example, the liquid composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a flavoring agent, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The flavoring agent may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, various fruit-flavored ingredients, and the like. The flavoring agent may include ingredients that can provide a variety of flavors or tastes to the user. The vitamin mixture may include, but is not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. The liquid composition may also include an aerosol-forming agent, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0049] 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.

[0050] A cartridge heater is an element for heating a liquid composition delivered by a liquid delivery means. Cartridge heaters may be, but are not limited to, metal heating wires, metal heating plates, ceramic heaters, etc., and may include various methods for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance.

[0051] As an example, a cartridge heater may be composed of a conductive filament, such as a nichrome wire, and may be arranged in a structure wound around a liquid delivery means. The cartridge heater may be heated by a current supply and transfer heat to a liquid composition in contact with the cartridge heater, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated.

[0052] As another example, a cartridge heater may be composed of a susceptor material that is heated by an induced magnetic field, which may be heated by an induced magnetic field generated by an induction coil that is positioned separately from the heating element.

[0053] As another example, the cartridge heater may be an ultrasonic vibrator that generates an aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance by utilizing ultrasonic vibration. The ultrasonic vibration method may refer to a method of generating an aerosol by atomizing the aerosol-generating substance with ultrasonic vibrations generated by the vibrator.

[0054] The cartridge heater may be disposed on the liquid transfer means not only by being combined according to structural features such as being wound around the liquid transfer means, but also by being permanently or reversibly attached to the liquid transfer means by applying, spraying, depositing, plating, immersing, painting, printing, 3D printing, using a device, etc. In addition, the cartridge heater may be disposed on the liquid transfer means by a method such as sintering the cartridge heater together during the process of manufacturing the liquid transfer means. However, the arrangement of the cartridge heater is not limited to the examples described above, and may include various methods in which the cartridge heater can be disposed on the liquid transfer means while maintaining the function of the cartridge heater.

[0055] A cartridge heater may be referred to as, but is not limited to, a cartomizer or an atomizer.

[0056] The cartridge (19) can be inserted and removed from the main body of the aerosol generating device (1) or the aerosol generating device (1). When the aerosol generating substance stored in the cartridge (19) is completely consumed, the aerosol generating substance may be newly replenished in the cartridge (19) or replaced with another cartridge (19) in which the aerosol generating substance is stored.

[0057] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery (11), the control unit (12), the heater (18), and the cartridge (19). For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. In addition, the aerosol generating device (1) may include at least one sensor (a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, a cigarette insertion detection sensor, etc.). In addition, the aerosol generating device (1) may be manufactured in a structure in which external air may be introduced or internal gas may be discharged even when the aerosol generating article (S) is inserted.

[0058] Although not illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C, the aerosol generating device (1) may also be configured as a system with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may be used to charge the battery (11) of the aerosol generating device (1). Alternatively, the heater (18) may be heated while the cradle and the aerosol generating device (1) are combined.

[0059] The aerosol-generating article (S) may be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the aerosol-generating article (S) may be divided into a first portion (S1) containing an aerosol-generating substance and a second portion (S2) containing a filter or the like. The first portion (S1) may be referred to as a "medium portion" hereinafter.

[0060] The second portion (S2) of the aerosol-generating article (S) may also contain an aerosol-generating substance. For example, an aerosol-generating substance in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion (S2).

[0061] The entire first part (S1) may be inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), and the second part (S2) may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first part (S1) may be inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), or the entire first part (S1) and a part of the second part (S2) may be inserted. The user may inhale the aerosol while holding the second part (S2) in his / her mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part (S1), and the generated aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth by passing through the second part (S2).

[0062] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 2, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a body (1100), a heater (1200), and a battery (1300).

[0064] The body (1100) forms the overall appearance of the aerosol generating device (1) and may include an internal space in which components of the aerosol generating device (1) can be arranged. In the drawing, only an embodiment in which the body (1100) is formed in a cross-section of a square pillar shape is shown, but the shape of the body (1100) is not limited thereto, and the body (1100) may be formed in a cylindrical shape overall or a polygonal pillar shape.

[0065] The body (1100) may include an opening (1100h) through which an aerosol generating article (S) may be inserted into the interior of the body (1100). At least a portion of the aerosol generating article (S) may be inserted or accommodated into the interior of the body (1100) through the opening (1100h).

[0066] The body (1100) may include a receiving space (1100i) for receiving an aerosol generating article (S) therein. The receiving space (1100i) may be formed at an upper portion of the body (1100). The receiving space (1100i) may be opened upward and connected to an opening (1100h).

[0067] The receiving space (1100i) may have a cylindrical shape that extends vertically. At least a portion of the aerosol generating article (S) may be received inside the body (1100) through an opening (1100h) on the upper side of the receiving space (1100i). At this time, the depth of the receiving space (1100i) of the aerosol generating article (S) may correspond to the length of the region in the aerosol generating article (S) that contains the aerosol generating material or medium.

[0068] A heater (1200) (e.g., heater (18) of FIGS. 1A and 1B) can generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating article (S) accommodated in a receiving space (1100i). The heater (1200) can extend vertically along the receiving space (1100i).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the heater (1200) can surround at least a portion of the receiving space (1100i). As an example, the heater (1200) can be a cylindrical electrical resistance heater surrounding at least a portion of the receiving space (1100i). As another example, the heater (1200) can include a cylindrical susceptor surrounding at least a portion of the receiving space (1100i) and an induction coil surrounding the susceptor. The heater (1200) can heat the exterior of an aerosol generating article (S) accommodated in the receiving space (1100i). However, the embodiment is not limited to the shape and arrangement of the heater (1200). In another embodiment, the heater can be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating article (S).

[0070] At least one area of ​​an aerosol generating article (S) accommodated in a receiving space (1100i) can be heated by a heater (1200), and vaporized particles generated by heating the aerosol generating article (S) and air introduced into the internal space of the body (1100) through an air inlet (e.g., an opening (1100h)) formed in one area of ​​the body (1100) can be mixed to generate an aerosol.

[0071] Meanwhile, the heater (1200) may be a cartridge heater of FIGS. 1b and 1c. In this case, the aerosol generating article (S) may be a cartridge (19) of FIGS. 1b and 1c, rather than a cigarette or a stick.

[0072] An aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a battery (1300) that supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device (1). In this case, the battery (1300) may be the battery (11) of FIGS. 1A to 1C.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 2, the battery (1300) can be detachably coupled to the body (1100). For example, the battery (1300) can be moved from a position spaced apart from the body (1100) in the -z direction in the +z direction and inserted into an area of ​​the body (1100). However, the embodiment is not limited to the direction in which the battery (1300) is inserted.

[0074] Below, the 'battery coupling structure', which is a structure in which a battery (1300) is coupled to a body (1100), will be described in detail. At this time, in order to explain the battery coupling structure, a part of the body (1100) into which the battery (1300) is inserted is referred to as a 'housing'.

[0075] Although the battery combination structure including the housing and the battery is one component of the aerosol generating device (1), a person skilled in the art can easily understand that the battery combination structure described below is not limited to the aerosol generating device and can be applied to various devices to which a detachable portable battery can be applied.

[0076] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery combination structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 2 taken along the line III-III.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 3, a battery combination structure (2000) according to one embodiment may include a battery (2100), a housing (2200), a receiving terminal (2300), a pressure member (2400), and an elastic member (2500).

[0078] The battery (2100) may be identical to or similar to the battery (11) of FIGS. 1A to 1C or the battery (1300) of FIG. 2. The battery (2100) may include a polygonal columnar shape as illustrated in FIG. 3, but is not limited thereto and may include various shapes such as a cylindrical shape. In addition, although the battery is illustrated in FIG. 3 as being relatively short in the x-axis direction and relatively long in the z-axis direction, the specifications of the battery are not limited to what is illustrated.

[0079] The housing (2200) forms the overall appearance of the battery combination structure (2000) and may include a combination space (2200i) for accommodating the battery (2100) and other components. For example, the combination space (2200i) of the housing (2200) may accommodate not only the battery (2100), but also a receiving terminal (2300), a pressure member (2400), and an elastic member (2500).

[0080] The coupling space (2200i) of the housing (2200) can be opened in the -z direction so that the detachable battery (2100) can be inserted into the coupling space (2200i). The coupling space (2200i) can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the battery (2100). For example, the coupling space (2200i) can be formed to be relatively thin in the x-axis direction and relatively long in the z-axis direction.

[0081] The receiving terminal (2300) is configured to be inserted into a portion of the housing (2200) and to receive power from the battery (2100). The receiving terminal (2300) can receive power by coming into contact with a portion of the battery (2100). Specifically, the battery (2100) may include a supply terminal (2110) that comes into contact with the receiving terminal (2300). By bringing the supply terminal (2110) and the receiving terminal (2300) into contact with each other, power can be supplied from the battery (2100) to components arranged inside the housing (2200).

[0082] A plurality of receiving terminals (2300) may be arranged. As illustrated, two receiving terminals (2300) are arranged, but the embodiment is not limited to the number of receiving terminals (2300). The number of supply terminals (2110) may be arranged equal to the number of receiving terminals (2300).

[0083] The receiving terminal (2300) may include a contact portion (2310) that protrudes convexly at least a portion thereof into the coupling space (2200i) and an elastic portion (2320) that supports the contact portion (2310). In a state where no separate external force is applied to the elastic portion (2320), the elastic portion (2320) may support the contact portion (2310) such that a portion of the contact portion (2310) protrudes into the coupling space (2200i).

[0084] At this time, in order for the battery (2100) and the housing (2200) to be firmly coupled, it is necessary for the battery (2100) to be in close contact with one surface of the housing (2200) where the receiving terminal (2300) is arranged. To this end, the battery (2100) may include a concave portion (2100c) corresponding to the convex shape of the contact portion (2310) protruding into the coupling space (2200i).

[0085] The concave portion (2100c) of the battery (2100) may include a concave shape in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery (2100) (e.g., x-axis direction) on one side of the battery (2100) facing the receiving terminal (2300). The supply terminal (2110) is disposed in the concave portion (2100c), and when the battery (2100) is coupled to the coupling space (2200i), the receiving terminal (2300) inserted into the housing (2200), the concave portion (2100c) of the battery (2100), and the supply terminal (2110) may be aligned in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery (2100) (e.g., x-axis direction).

[0086] The pressurizing member (2400) is configured to pressurize a battery (2100) inserted into the joining space (2200i) by being placed inside the joining space (2200i). The pressurizing member (2400) can pressurize the battery (2100) accommodated in the joining space (2200i) toward the receiving terminal (2300) or in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery (2100) (e.g., +x direction) so that the battery (2100) is brought into contact with the receiving terminal (2300).

[0087] In order to allow the pressure member (2400) to move within the coupling space (2200i) without being separated from the outside of the coupling space (2200i), the battery coupling structure (2000) according to one embodiment may include an elastic member (2500) that supports the pressure member (2400).

[0088] The elastic member (2500) supports the pressure member (2400) and can move the pressure member (2400) in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery. By the elastic force that the elastic member (2500) applies to the pressure member (2400), the pressure member (2400) can press the battery (2100) toward the receiving terminal (2300).

[0089] A plurality of elastic members (2500) may be arranged, but the embodiment is not limited to the number of elastic members (2500). In this case, the plurality of elastic members (2500) may be aligned in a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) that crosses each of the plurality of receiving terminals (2300) and the insertion direction of the battery (2100). Accordingly, the plurality of elastic members (2500) may more strongly press the pressing member (2400) and the battery (2100) toward the plurality of receiving terminals (2300).

[0090] In order to secure a space for arranging the elastic member (2500) within the coupling space (2200i), the housing (2200) may include a receiving groove (2210) for accommodating the elastic member (2500). Specifically, if the surface of the housing (2200) where the receiving terminal (2300) is arranged is referred to as a first surface (2201), and the surface facing the first surface (2201) is referred to as a second surface (2202), the receiving groove (2210) may be arranged on the second surface (2202). Accordingly, even if the pressing member (2400) is pressed toward the second surface (2202) by the battery (2100) while the battery (2100) is inserted into the joining space (2200i), the elastic member (2500) positioned and compressed in the receiving groove (2210) can smoothly press the pressing member (2400) toward the first surface (2201) through elastic force.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 3, one side of the pressure member (2400) can be in contact with the battery (2100) inserted into the coupling space (2200i), and the other side of the pressure member (2400) facing the opposite direction to the one side of the pressure member (2400) can be in contact with the elastic member (2500). Accordingly, the receiving terminal (2300), the battery (2100), the pressure member (2400), and the elastic member (2500) can be aligned in a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) transverse to the insertion direction of the battery (2100) within the coupling space (2200i).

[0092] Meanwhile, in order for the pressing member (2400) to pressurize the battery (2100) only in the direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery (2100), the pressing member (2400) also needs to move only in the direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery (2100). To this end, the pressing member (2400) may include a guide portion (2410) protruding in the direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery. Referring to FIG. 3, the guide portion (2410) may protrude in the opposite direction (e.g., -x direction) toward the receiving terminal.

[0093] In response to the guide portion (2410), the housing (2200) may include a guide groove (2220) that accommodates the guide portion (2410) and guides the movement of the pressure member (2400). At least a portion of the guide portion (2410) may be accommodated in the guide groove (2220) so that the guide groove (2220) may move along an open direction (e.g., an x-axis direction). At this time, in order to prevent the pressure member (2400) from being separated from the coupling space (2200i), at least a portion of the guide portion (2410) may always be accommodated in the guide groove (2220).

[0094] Referring to FIG. 3, the guide portion (2410) protrudes in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery (2100) from both ends of the pressure member (2400), and two guide grooves (2220) are arranged at positions corresponding to the positions of the guide portions (2410), but the embodiment is not limited to the positions and number of the guide portions (2410) and the guide grooves (2220).

[0095] When no separate external force is applied to the elastic member (2500), the distance between the pressure member (2400) supported by the elastic member (2500) and the first surface (2201) of the housing (2200) may be smaller than the thickness of the battery in the x-axis direction. Since the battery (2100) is inserted between the pressure member (2400) and the first surface (2201) of the housing (2200), how the battery (2100) can be inserted into the joining space (2200i) may be a problem.

[0096] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 4a to 4g, the process of inserting the battery (2100) into the coupling space (2200i) will be described in detail.

[0097] FIGS. 4A to 4G are drawings sequentially showing a process in which a battery applicable to the battery combination structure of FIG. 3 is inserted into a combination space of a housing.

[0098] At least one of the components of the battery combination structure (2000) illustrated in FIGS. 4a to 4g may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the battery combination structure (2000) illustrated in FIG. 3, and any redundant description thereof will be omitted below.

[0099] FIG. 4a shows a state in which the battery (2100) begins to be inserted into the coupling space (2200i) in the battery coupling structure (2000) of FIG. 3.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 4A, it is assumed that the direction in which the battery (2100) is inserted into the joining space (2200i) is the z-axis direction of the coordinate axis. At this time, the distance between the pressing member (2400) and the first surface (2201) of the housing (2200) is smaller than the thickness of the battery (2100) in the x-axis direction, so that one end of the battery (2100) presses one end of the pressing member (2400) so that at least a part of the pressing member (2400) moves in the -x direction so that the battery (2100) can be inserted into the joining space (2200i). In this case, the elastic member (2500) arranged close to the entrance of the joining space (2200i) can be compressed.

[0101] The pressurizing member (2400) pressed in the -x direction by the battery (2100) can move until the guide portion (2410) contacts the bottom surface or side surface of the guide groove (2220) or the pressurizing member (2400) contacts the second surface (2202) of the housing (2200). The movement of the pressurizing member (2400) due to the pressurization of the battery (2100) can secure a space sufficient for a part of the battery (2100) to be inserted into the coupling space (2200i).

[0102] FIG. 4b shows a state in which the battery (2100) is further inserted toward the inside of the coupling space (2200i) from the position of FIG. 4a, so that one end of the battery (2100) is in contact with the first receiving terminal (2300-1).

[0103] Referring to FIG. 4B, as the battery (2100) is further inserted into the coupling space (2200i), not only a portion of the pressure member (2400) but also another portion thereof may be pressed in the -x direction by the battery (2100) and move in the -x direction. In this case, the elastic member (2500) positioned far from the entrance of the coupling space (2200i) may also be compressed. That is, in the process of inserting the battery (2100) into the coupling space (2200i), a plurality of elastic members (2500) may be sequentially compressed from the side closer to the entrance of the coupling space (2200i).

[0104] Likewise, in the process of inserting the battery (2100) into the coupling space (2200i), a plurality of receiving terminals (2300) can sequentially come into contact with the battery (2100) starting from the receiving terminals (2300) positioned closer to the entrance of the coupling space (2200i). As illustrated, the battery (2100) moving in a direction (e.g., +z direction) toward the inside of the coupling space (2200i) can come into contact with the first receiving terminal (2300-1).

[0105] At this time, in order for the battery (2100) to move further in the +z direction past the first receiving terminal (2300-1), the first receiving terminal (2300-1) must be pressed in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery (2100) (e.g., in the x-axis direction).

[0106] To this end, the battery (2100) may include an inclined surface (2120) that contacts the receiving terminal (2300) while being inserted into the coupling space (2200i). Since the contact portion (2310) of the receiving terminal (2300) includes a convex shape toward the coupling space (2200i), when the inclined surface (2120) of the battery (2100) and the contact portion (2310) come into contact, the contact portion (2310) may move in the x-axis direction as the battery (2100) advances in the z-axis direction.

[0107] Since a part of the contact portion (2310) is in contact with the inclined surface (2120) of the battery (2100) and the other part of the contact portion (2310) is supported by the elastic portion (2320), when the contact portion (2310) is pressed in the +x direction, the elastic portion (2320) can also be compressed in the +x direction.

[0108] FIG. 4c shows that the battery (2100) is further inserted toward the inside of the coupling space (2200i) from the position of FIG. 4b, so that the battery (2100) pushes the first receiving terminal (2300-1) toward the first surface (2201) and passes by.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 4c, the elastic member (2320) compressed in the +x direction can pressurize the contact member (2310) in the -x direction. However, the degree to which the elastic member (2320) presses the contact member (2310) may be such that there is no problem for the user to insert the battery (2100) into the interior of the coupling space (2200i).

[0110] FIG. 4d shows that the battery (2100) is further inserted toward the inside of the coupling space (2200i) at the position of FIG. 4c, so that the inclined surface (2120) of the battery (2100) comes into contact with the second receiving terminal (2300-2).

[0111] Referring to FIG. 4d, during the process of inserting the battery (2100) into the coupling space (2200i), the battery (2100) that has come into contact with the first receiving terminal (2300-1) may move further in a direction (e.g., +z direction) toward the inside of the coupling space (2200i) to come into contact with the second receiving terminal (2300-2).

[0112] When the inclined surface (2120) of the battery (2100) comes into contact with the second receiving terminal (2300-2) and presses in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery (2100) (e.g., x-axis direction), the battery (2100) can move further in the forward direction (e.g., +z direction).

[0113] Meanwhile, as the battery (2100) moves from the position of FIG. 4c to the position of FIG. 4d, the concave portion (2100c) of the battery (2100) can pass the contact portion (2310) of the first receiving terminal (2300-1). The concave portion (2100c) of the battery (2100) has a shape corresponding to the convex contact portion (2310), so that when the concave portion (2100c) passes the contact portion (2310), the contact portion (2310) can move in the -x direction and settle on the concave portion (2100c) according to the pressure of the elastic portion (2320). However, even if the contact portion (2310) settles on the concave portion (2100c), the user can push the battery (2100) into the coupling space (2200i) without any particular problem.

[0114] FIG. 4e shows that the battery (2100) is further inserted toward the inside of the coupling space (2200i) at the position of FIG. 4d, so that the battery (2100) pushes the second receiving terminal (2300-2) past the first surface (2201).

[0115] Referring to FIG. 4e, since the first receiving terminal (2300-1) and the second receiving terminal (2300-2) are compressed in the x-axis direction, the user can pressurize the battery (2100) in the -x direction. However, the degree to which each elastic part (2320) presses the contact part (2310) may be such that the user can insert the battery (2100) into the interior of the coupling space (2200i) without any problem.

[0116] The user can pressurize the battery (2100) to move it in the +z direction until the battery (2100) reaches the bottom surface (2203) of the bonding space (2200i) facing the direction in which the battery (2100) is inserted (e.g., the z-axis direction).

[0117] FIG. 4f shows a state in which the battery (2100) is further inserted toward the inside of the bonding space (2200i) from the position of FIG. 4e and reaches the bottom surface (2203).

[0118] Referring to FIG. 4F, when one end of the battery (2100) reaches the bottom surface (2203), the battery (2100) may no longer move in the forward direction. At this time, the contact portion (2310) of the receiving terminal (2300) may move in the x-axis direction by the elastic portion (2320) and be seated in the concave portion of the battery (2100).

[0119] The supply terminal (2110) of the battery (2100) placed in the concave portion (2100c) and the receiving terminal (2300) inserted into the housing (2200) come into contact with each other, so that power can be supplied from the battery (2100) to the internal components of the housing (2200) through the receiving terminal (2300).

[0120] FIG. 4g shows a state in which the battery (2100) is completely connected by the pressurizing member (2400) pressing the battery (2100) at the position of FIG. 4f toward the receiving terminal (2300).

[0121] Referring to FIG. 4g, when a user presses the battery (2100) in the -x direction and inserts it in the z-axis direction, the elastic member (2500) that was compressed in the x-axis direction can be stretched to return to its original state when the user's pressure on the battery (2100) is released.

[0122] As the elastic member (2500) is stretched, the pressure member (2400) can be pressed in the +x direction. The pressure member (2400) can press the battery (2100) in the +x direction or in the direction facing the receiving terminal (2300).

[0123] However, as mentioned in FIG. 3, since the distance between the pressure member (2400) and the first surface (2201) before the battery (2100) is inserted is smaller than the thickness of the battery (2100) in the x-axis direction, the elastic member (2500) may not be restored to its original shape or length.

[0124] That is, since the elastic member (2500) is in a compressed state compared to before the battery (2100) is inserted, when the battery (2100) is coupled to the coupling space (2200i), the compressed elastic member (2500) can apply elastic force to the pressing member (2400) to press toward the receiving terminal (2300) so that the battery (2100) does not come off from the coupling space (2200i).

[0125] Despite the pressurization of the elastic member (2500) and the pressure member (2400), a separate configuration may be required to stably couple the battery (2100) to or separate it from the coupling space (2200i). Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 5, a configuration capable of stably coupling and separating the battery (2100) will be described.

[0126] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a battery combination structure according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 5, a battery combination structure (2000) according to another embodiment may include a battery (2100), a housing (2200), a receiving terminal (2300), a pressure member (2400), an elastic member (2500), and a magnetic member (2600).

[0128] At least one of the components of the battery combination structure (2000) illustrated in FIG. 5 may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the battery combination structure (2000) illustrated in FIG. 3, and any redundant description thereof will be omitted below.

[0129] Unlike the battery (2100) of FIG. 3, the battery (2100) of the battery combination structure (2000) according to another embodiment may include a protrusion (2130) at one end of the battery (2100) exposed to the outside. When the battery (2100) is separated while the battery (2100) is combined in the combination space (2200i), it may be difficult for a user to manually separate the battery inserted into the combination space (2200i).

[0130] At this time, a protrusion (2130) may be arranged at one end of the battery (2100) to help the user to easily separate the battery (2100). The housing (2200) may include a separation groove (2230) to accommodate the protrusion (2130). The user may separate the battery (2100) from the coupling space (2200i) by lifting the protrusion (2130) accommodated in the separation groove (2230) and pulling the protrusion (2130) out from the separation groove (2230).

[0131] The magnetic member (2600) is a configuration in which two components are arranged to be magnetically coupled to each other, and two of them form a pair and can be arranged in multiple pairs. Basically, the arrangement of the magnetic member (2600) can prevent the battery (2100) from sliding in the -z direction with respect to the coupling space (2200i), thereby preventing the battery (2100) from being separated from the coupling space (2200i).

[0132] The first magnetic member (2610) may be arranged on the first surface (2201) of the battery (2100) and the housing (2200). The first magnetic member (2610) may be arranged around the receiving terminal (2300) so that the battery (2100) is coupled to the housing (2200) in a direction in which the pressing member (2400) presses the battery (2100) or a direction crossing the insertion direction of the battery (2100).

[0133] Since the receiving terminal (2300) includes an elastic member (2320), when the battery (2100) is coupled to the coupling space (2200i) and the receiving terminal (2300) is compressed, the elastic member (2320) can apply an elastic force toward the battery (2100). At this time, a pair of first magnetic members (2610) arranged around the receiving terminal (2300) can offset the force that the receiving terminal (2300) exerts on the battery (2100), so that the battery (2100) can be stably coupled to the coupling space (2200i).

[0134] Additionally, a pair of first magnetic elements (2610) can prevent the battery (2100) from sliding in the -z direction relative to the first surface (2201) of the housing (2200), thereby preventing the battery (2100) from being detached from the coupling space (2200i).

[0135] The second magnetic member (2620) may be arranged on the battery (2100) and the pressure member (2400). The second magnetic member (2620) may be arranged so that the battery (2100) is coupled to the pressure member (2400) in a direction in which the pressure member (2400) presses the battery (2100) or in a direction crossing the insertion direction of the battery (2100).

[0136] For example, a pair of second magnetic members (2620) may be arranged to be aligned in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the pair of first magnetic members and the battery (2100) (e.g., the x-axis direction), but the arrangement of the second magnetic members is not limited to the examples described above.

[0137] A pair of second magnetic elements (2620) can prevent the battery (2100) from sliding in the -z direction relative to the pressure element (2400), thereby preventing the battery (2100) from being separated from the coupling space (2200i).

[0138] The third magnetic member (2630) may be placed in the protrusion (2130) of the battery (2100) and the separation groove (2230) of the housing (2200). The third magnetic member (2630) may be placed so that the protrusion (2130) is coupled to the separation groove (2230) in the 'insertion direction of the battery (2100)'.

[0139] The fourth magnetic member (2640) may be arranged on the bottom surface (2203) of the battery (2100) and the housing (2200). The fourth magnetic member (2640) may be arranged so that the battery (2100) is coupled to the bottom surface (2203) of the housing (2200) in a direction in which the pressing member (2400) presses the battery (2100) or in a direction crossing the insertion direction of the battery (2100).

[0140] Fig. 6a is a cross-sectional view showing a first state of a battery combination structure according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 6b is a cross-sectional view showing a second state of the battery combination structure of Fig. 6a.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, a battery combination structure (2000) according to another embodiment may include a battery (2100), a housing (2200), a receiving terminal (2300), a pressure member (2400), an elastic member (2500), and a door (2700).

[0142] At least one of the components of the battery combination structure (2000) illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the battery combination structure (2000) illustrated in FIG. 3, and any redundant description thereof will be omitted below.

[0143] The door (2700) is configured to slide to open and close the coupling space (2200i). The door (2700) may be positioned at the entrance of the coupling space (2200i) and exposed to the outside. In this case, the housing (2200) may include a sliding groove (2240) to accommodate at least a portion of the door (2700).

[0144] The sliding groove (2240) may include a first sliding groove (2241) arranged on the first surface (2201) and a second sliding groove (2242) arranged on the second surface (2202). Referring to the drawing, the second sliding groove (2242) is formed to be longer in the x-axis direction than the first sliding groove (2241), but the embodiment is not limited to what is shown.

[0145] FIG. 6A illustrates a first state of the battery coupling structure (2000) in which the door (2700) is positioned at a first position to open the coupling space (2200i). At this time, at least a portion of the door (2700) may be accommodated only in the second sliding groove (2242). The door (2700) may have an appropriate length so as not to impede the insertion of the battery (2100) between the pressure member (2400) and the first surface (2201).

[0146] FIG. 6b illustrates a second state of the battery coupling structure (2000) in which the door (2700) is positioned at a second position to close the coupling space (2200i). At this time, one end of the door (2700) is accommodated in the first sliding groove (2241), and the other end of the door (2700) is accommodated in the second sliding groove (2242), thereby closing the coupling space (2200i).

[0147] Although not shown in the drawing, a fastening structure such as a hook may be arranged at one end of the door (2700) accommodated in the first sliding groove (2241). Correspondingly, a hole into which a hook is inserted may be arranged in the first sliding groove (2241). Accordingly, the door (2700) is fixed by the hook so as not to be detached from the first sliding groove (2241), and the battery (2100) may not be detached from the coupling space (2200i) by the door.

[0148] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, the function of the aerosol generating device (1) that occurs when the battery (2100) is normally coupled to the coupling space (2200i) will be described.

[0149] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0150] An aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment may include a body (1100), a heater (1200), a storage unit (1400), a control unit (1500), an insertion detection sensor (1600), an output unit (1700), and a battery combination structure (2000).

[0151] The aerosol generating device (1) and the battery combination structure (2000) illustrated in FIG. 7 may be identical or similar to the aerosol generating device of FIG. 2 and the battery combination structure (2000) of FIG. 3, respectively, and any overlapping details will be omitted below.

[0152] The storage unit (1400) can store the power supplied by the battery (1300) as electrical energy. That is, the storage unit (1400) is configured to supply reserve power to the internal components of the aerosol generating device (1) even if the battery (1300) is disconnected.

[0153] At this time, since the battery (1300) supplies power not only to the storage unit (1400) but also to other components, the electric energy that the storage unit (1400) can store may be small compared to the capacity of the battery (1300). Therefore, the components that the storage unit (1400) can supply reserve power to may be limited to the control unit (1500), but the embodiment is not limited thereto. Meanwhile, the storage unit (1400), like the battery (1300), may be configured to be detachably coupled to the body (1100).

[0154] The control unit (1500) is configured to be electrically connected to the components of the storage unit (1400) and the aerosol generating device (1) and to control the components. The control unit (1500) may be identical to or similar to the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1A to 1C.

[0155] The insertion detection sensor (1600) is configured to detect the insertion of the battery (1300) into the coupling space (2200i). The insertion detection sensor (1600) is positioned adjacent to the bottom surface (2203) of the coupling space (2200i) and can be used to determine whether the battery (1300) is completely inserted into the coupling space (2200i). Even when the battery (1300) is separated, the insertion detection sensor (1600) can operate under the control of the control unit (1500) based on the reserve power supplied from the storage unit (1400).

[0156] As an example, the insertion detection sensor (1600) may be an inductive sensor. An 'LDC sensor (inductance-to-digital converter sensor)' may refer to an inductive sensor. The control unit (1500) may use the inductive sensor to read the inductance value that changes when the battery (1300) is accommodated in the coupling space (2200i).

[0157] The inductance value may vary depending on whether the battery (1300) is accommodated in the coupling space (2200i). For example, the inductance value may vary depending on the type of metal material placed on the inside or outside of the battery (1300). In this case, the inductance value may vary depending on the type of metal material. The control unit (1500) may continuously read the inductance value by using an inductive sensor in response to changes in the inductance value over time.

[0158] The inductive sensor can generate a signal corresponding to a change in the inductance value of the coupling space (2200i). For example, if the inductance value satisfies a preset condition, the inductive sensor can generate a specific signal. A control unit electrically connected to the inductive sensor can determine that the battery (1300) is accommodated up to the bottom surface (2203) of the coupling space (2200i) based on the specific signal of the inductive sensor.

[0159] If the control unit (1500) determines that the battery (1300) is accommodated up to the bottom surface (2203) of the coupling space (2200i), the control unit (1500) can control the heater to heat the aerosol generating article for smoking. This allows the heater (1200) to begin preheating simply by the user inserting the battery into the coupling space (2200i) of the body (1100) or housing (2200), without the user having to operate the heater.

[0160] Meanwhile, the insertion detection sensor (1600) is not limited to an inductive sensor. The insertion detection sensor (1600) may include various sensors that can identify whether the battery (1300) is fully accommodated in the coupling space (2200i), such as a capacitance sensor or an RGB sensor.

[0161] The output unit (1700) is configured to inform the user whether the battery (1300) has been inserted into the coupling space (2200i). For example, the output unit (1700) may be arranged in the form of an LCD or LED display on the outer surface of the body (1100). The output unit (1700) may be linked to the above-described insertion detection sensor (1600) and / or the control unit (1500) to inform the user that the battery (1300) has been completely inserted into the coupling space (2200i).

[0162] According to the battery combination structure and the aerosol generating device including the same according to the embodiments, the battery can be stably combined simply by inserting the battery into the housing.

[0163] Additionally, according to the battery combination structure and the aerosol generating device including the same according to the embodiments, the heater can be operated simply by inserting a battery into the housing.

[0164] Additionally, according to the battery combination structure and the aerosol generating device including the same according to the embodiments, a user can determine through an output unit whether the battery is fully inserted.

[0165] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0166] The aerosol generating device (1) may include a battery (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), a memory (17), and at least one heater (18, 24). However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to that illustrated in Fig. 8. That is, a person skilled in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that some of the components illustrated in Fig. 8 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0167] The sensor (13) can detect the status of the aerosol generating device (1) or the status around the aerosol generating device (1) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (12). Based on the detected information, the control unit (12) can control the aerosol generating device (1) so that various functions such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), restricting smoking, determining whether a stick (S) and / or cartridge (19) is inserted, and displaying a notification are performed.

[0168] The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor (131), a puff sensor (132), an insertion detection sensor (133), a reuse detection sensor (134), a cartridge detection sensor (135), a cap detection sensor (136), and a movement detection sensor (137).

[0169] The temperature sensor (131) can detect the temperature at which the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) is heated. The aerosol generating device (1) may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18), or the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) itself may serve as the temperature sensor.

[0170] The temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the temperature sensor (131) can include a resistance element whose resistance value changes in response to a change in the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). It can be implemented by a thermistor, which is an element that utilizes the property of changing resistance depending on temperature. At this time, the temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistance element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the temperature sensor (131) can be configured as a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). At this time, the temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0171] A temperature sensor (131) may be placed around the battery (11) to monitor the temperature of the battery (11). The temperature sensor (131) may be placed adjacent to the battery (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be attached to one side of the power source, which is the battery (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0172] A temperature sensor (131) is placed inside the body (10) and can detect the internal temperature of the body (10).

[0173] The puff sensor (132) can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor (132) can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor (132) can be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor (132) can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1) can correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor (132) can be arranged in correspondence to the airflow path through which the gas flows in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0174] The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect insertion and / or removal of the stick (S). The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect a signal change according to the insertion and / or removal of the stick (S). The insertion detection sensor (133) can be installed around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick (S) according to a change in the permittivity inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor (133) can be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0175] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be positioned adjacent to an insertion space. For example, when a magnetic field changes around a current-flowing coil, the characteristics of the current flowing in the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing in the coil may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0176] An inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil. For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0177] A capacitance sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitance sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitance sensor may output a signal corresponding to the electromagnetic properties of the surroundings, for example, the electrostatic capacitance around the conductor. For example, when a stick (S) including a wrapper made of a metallic material is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic properties around the conductor may be changed by the wrapper of the stick (S).

[0178] A reuse detection sensor (134) can detect whether the stick (S) has been reused. The reuse detection sensor (134) may be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the color of the stick (S). The color sensor can detect the color of a portion of a wrapper that wraps the outside of the stick (S). The color sensor can detect a value for an optical characteristic corresponding to the color of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical characteristic may be a wavelength of light. The color sensor may be implemented as a single component with the proximity sensor, or may be implemented as a separate component distinct from the proximity sensor.

[0179] At least some of the wrappers constituting the stick (S) may change color due to the aerosol. The reuse detection sensor (134) may be positioned corresponding to a position where at least some of the wrappers whose color changes due to the aerosol are disposed when the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick (S) is used by a user, the color of at least some of the wrappers may be a first color. At this time, as at least some of the wrappers are wetted by the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device (1) while passing through the stick (S), the color of at least some of the wrappers may change to a second color. Meanwhile, the color of at least some of the wrappers may be maintained at the second color after changing from the first color to the second color.

[0180] The cartridge detection sensor (135) can detect the mounting and / or removal of the cartridge (19). The cartridge detection sensor (135) can be implemented by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC) using the Hall effect, etc.

[0181] The cap detection sensor (136) can detect the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the body (10), the cartridge (19) and a portion of the body (10) covered by the cap may be exposed to the outside. The cap detection sensor (136) can be implemented by a contact sensor, a hall sensor (hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0182] A motion detection sensor (137) can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device. The motion detection sensor (137) can be implemented with at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0183] In addition to the sensors (131 to 137) described above, the sensor (13) may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor. Since the functions of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0184] The output unit (14) can output information on the status of the aerosol generating device (1) and provide it to the user. The output unit (14) may include at least one of a display (141), a haptic unit (142), and an audio output unit (143), but is not limited thereto. When the display (141) and the touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display (141) can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0185] The display (141) can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device (1) may refer to various information such as the charging / discharging status of the battery (11) of the aerosol generating device (1), the preheating status of the heater (18), the insertion / removal status of the stick (S) and / or cartridge (19), the mounting / removal status of the cap, or the status in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the display (141) can output the above information to the outside. For example, the display (141) may be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display (141) may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0186] The haptic unit (142) can provide tactile information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user by converting an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus. For example, the haptic unit (142) can generate a vibration corresponding to the completion of the initial preheating when initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18) for a set period of time. The haptic unit (142) can include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0187] The acoustic output unit (143) can provide information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit (143) can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0188] The battery (11) can supply power used to operate the aerosol generating device (1). The battery (11) can supply power so that the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) can be heated. In addition, the battery (11) can supply power required for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generating device (1), such as a sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), and a memory (17). The battery (11) can be a rechargeable power source or a disposable power source. For example, the battery (11) can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) power source, but is not limited thereto.

[0189] The battery (11) may be a removable type (detachable, detachable) power source. The battery (11) may be provided with an electrical contact, and when the battery (11) is mounted on the aerosol generating device (1), the electrical contact of the battery (11) may be electrically connected to an electrical contact provided on the aerosol generating device (1) to supply power to the aerosol generating device (1). As another example, the battery (11) may be provided with a charging coil for supplying power to the aerosol generating device (1) in a wireless charging manner instead of a separate electrical contact. That is, the power supply method of the battery (11) may vary, and the electrical connection method of the battery (11) and the aerosol generating device (1) may vary depending on the power supply method supported by the battery (11).

[0190] The removable battery (11) may have a charger interface that can be connected to an external charger. Power for charging the removable battery (11) may be provided to the battery (11) through the charger interface. The battery (11) may be charged by an external charger while coupled to the aerosol generating device (1) or while separated from the aerosol generating device (1).

[0191] Although not shown in FIG. 8, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the battery (11) and include a switching element.

[0192] The power protection circuit can block the power path to the battery (11) according to certain conditions. For example, the power protection circuit can block the power path to the battery (11) when the voltage level of the battery (11) is higher than a first voltage corresponding to overcharge. For example, the power protection circuit can block the power path to the battery (11) when the voltage level of the battery (11) is lower than a second voltage corresponding to overdischarge.

[0193] The heater (18) can receive power from the battery (11) to heat the medium or aerosol generating material within the stick (S). Although not shown in FIG. 8, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery (11) and supplies it to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). In addition, when the aerosol generating device (1) generates the aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the direct current power of the battery (11) into alternating current power.

[0194] The control unit (12), sensor (13), output unit (14), input unit (15), communication unit (16), and memory (17) can receive power from the battery (11) and perform their functions. Although not shown in FIG. 8, a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power of the battery (11) and supplies it to each component may be further included. In addition, although not shown in FIG. 8, a noise filter may be provided between the battery (11) and the heater (18). The noise filter may be a low pass filter. The low pass filter may include at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high frequency switching current applied from the battery (11) to the heater (18). By the low pass filter, high frequency noise components can be prevented from being applied to a sensor (13), such as an insertion detection sensor (133).

[0195] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18) may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, and the like. Additionally, the heater (18) 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, and the like.

[0196] In another embodiment, the heater (18) may be an induction heater. For example, the heater (18) may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil.

[0197] The input unit (15) can receive information input from a user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit (15) can be a touch panel. The touch panel can include at least one touch sensor that detects touch. For example, the touch sensor can include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc.

[0198] The display (141) and the touch panel may be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel may be inserted into the display (141) (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added on the display panel (add-on type).

[0199] Meanwhile, the input unit (15) may include, but is not limited to, buttons, key pads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0200] The memory (17) is hardware that stores various data processed in the aerosol generating device (1), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (12). The memory (17) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The memory (17) may store data on the operation time of the aerosol generating device (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and a user's smoking pattern.

[0201] The communication unit (16) may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit (16) may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0202] The short-range wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0203] The wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0204] Although not shown in FIG. 8, the aerosol generating device (1) further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can transmit and receive information or charge a battery (11) by connecting to another external device through a connection interface such as a USB interface.

[0205] The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). In one embodiment, the control unit (12) may include at least one processor. The processor 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 executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present embodiment may be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0206] The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18) by controlling the supply of power from the battery (11) to the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) sensed by the temperature sensor (131). The control unit (12) can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on a temperature profile stored in the memory (17).

[0207] The aerosol generating device (1) may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the battery (11) between the battery (11) and the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater (24), the heater (18), or the induction coil (not shown). The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit (12) may control the power supply circuit.

[0208] The control unit (12) can control power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts direct current power output from the battery (11) into alternating current power. For example, the inverter may be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements.

[0209] The control unit (12) can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the battery (11) to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). The control unit (12) can turn off the switching element so that power is cut off to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the current supplied from the battery (11) by controlling the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0210] The control unit (12) can control the voltage output from the battery (11) by controlling the switching of the switching element of the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the battery (11). For example, the power conversion circuit can include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the battery (11). For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented using a buck-boost converter, a zener diode, etc.

[0211] The control unit (12) can control the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit to adjust the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit. When the on state of the switching element continues, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may correspond to the level of the voltage output from the battery (11). The duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the battery (11). As the duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may decrease. The heater (18) can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0212] The control unit (12) can control power to be supplied to the heater (18) using at least one of the pulse width modulation (PWM) method and the proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0213] For example, the control unit (12) can control a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the heater (18) using the PWM method. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0214] For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature that is the target of control based on a temperature profile. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) by using the PID method, which is a feedback control method using a difference value between the temperature of the heater (18) and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference value over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference value over time.

[0215] The control unit (12) can prevent the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) from overheating. For example, the control unit (12) can control the operation of the power conversion circuit so that the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) is cut off based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit (12) can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) by a certain percentage based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating substance contained in the cartridge (19) is exhausted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeding the limit temperature, and can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24).

[0216] The control unit (12) can control the charging and discharging of the battery (11). The control unit (12) can check the temperature of the battery (11) based on the output signal of the temperature sensor (131).

[0217] When a power line is connected to the power terminal of the aerosol generating device (1), the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the battery (11) is higher than or equal to the first limit temperature, which is a standard for blocking charging of the battery (11). If the temperature of the battery (11) is lower than the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can control the battery (11) to be charged based on a preset charging current. If the temperature of the battery (11) is higher than or equal to the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can block charging of the battery (11).

[0218] When the power of the aerosol generating device (1) is turned on, the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the battery (11) is higher than or equal to the second limit temperature, which is a standard for blocking discharge of the battery (11). If the temperature of the battery (11) is lower than the second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can control to use the power stored in the battery (11). If the temperature of the battery (11) is higher than or equal to the second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can stop using the power stored in the battery (11).

[0219] The control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the battery (11). For example, the control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the battery (11) based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the battery (11).

[0220] The control unit (12) can determine whether a stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor (133). The control unit (12) can determine that the stick (S) is inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor (133). If it is determined that the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space, the control unit (12) can control to supply power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the control unit (12) can supply power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on the temperature profile stored in the memory (17).

[0221] The control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor (133). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater (18) is higher than a limited temperature or when the temperature change slope of the heater (18) is higher than a set slope. When it is determined that the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space, the control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0222] The control unit (12) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater (18) according to the state of the stick (S) detected by the sensor (13). The control unit (12) can check the level range that includes the level of the signal of the capacitance sensor based on a lookup table. The control unit (12) can determine the moisture content of the stick (S) according to the checked level range.

[0223] When the stick (S) is in an over-humidified state, the control unit (12) can control the power supply time to the heater (18) to increase the preheating time of the stick (S) compared to the normal state.

[0224] The control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space has been reused through the reuse detection sensor (134). For example, the control unit (12) can compare the sensing value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor with a first reference range that includes a first color, and if the sensing value is included in the first reference range, it can determine that the stick (S) has not been used. For example, the control unit (12) can compare the sensing value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor with a second reference range that includes a second color, and if the sensing value is included in the second reference range, it can determine that the stick (S) has been used. If it is determined that the stick (S) has been used, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0225] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is coupled and / or removed through the cartridge detection sensor (135). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is coupled and / or removed based on the sensing value of the signal of the cartridge detection sensor.

[0226] The control unit (12) can determine whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted. For example, the control unit (12) can preheat the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) by applying power, and determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeds a limited temperature during the preheating period. If the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeds the limited temperature, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted. If the control unit (12) determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0227] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is usable. For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the cartridge (19) is unusable if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge (19) based on data stored in the memory (17). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the cartridge (19) is unusable if the total time that the cartridge heater (24) has been heated is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time or the total amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) is greater than or equal to the preset maximum amount of power.

[0228] The control unit (12) can make a judgment regarding the user's inhalation through the puff sensor (132). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether a puff has been generated based on the sensing value of the signal of the puff sensor. For example, the control unit (12) can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal of the puff sensor (132). If the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs or if no puffs are detected for a preset time or longer, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18).

[0229] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed through the cap detection sensor (136). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed based on the sensing value of the signal of the cap detection sensor.

[0230] The control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) based on the result detected by the sensor (13). For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor (132) reaches a preset number, the control unit (12) can notify the user that the aerosol generating device (1) will soon be terminated through at least one of the display (141), the haptic unit (142), and the sound output unit (143). For example, the control unit (12) can notify the user through the output unit (14) based on the determination that the stick (S) does not exist in the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can notify the user through the output unit (14) based on the determination that the cartridge (19) and / or the cap is not mounted. For example, the control unit (12) can transmit information about the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) to the user through the output unit (14).

[0231] The control unit (12) can store and update the history of events that have occurred in the memory (17) based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. The event may include operations such as detection of insertion of a stick (S), initiation of heating of the stick (S), detection of puff, termination of puff, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), detection of overvoltage application to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), termination of heating of the stick (S), power on / off of the aerosol generating device (1), initiation of charging of the battery (11), detection of overcharge of the battery (11), termination of charging of the battery (11), etc. performed in the aerosol generating device (1). The history of the event may include the date and time when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, when the predetermined event is detection of insertion of the stick (S), the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor (133), etc. For example, if a given event is overheating detection of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), the voltage applied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), the current flowing through the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), etc.

[0232] The control unit (12) can control to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. When data regarding authentication is received from the external device through the communication link, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device (1). Here, the data regarding authentication can include data indicating completion of user authentication for a user corresponding to the external device. The user can perform user authentication through the external device. The external device can determine whether user data is valid based on the user's birthday, a unique number representing the user, etc., and can receive data regarding the use authority of the aerosol generating device (1) from an external server. The external device can transmit data indicating completion of user authentication to the aerosol generating device (1) based on the data regarding the use authority. When the user authentication is completed, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the heater (18) when user authentication is completed.

[0233] The control unit (12) can transmit data on the status of the aerosol generating device (1) to the external device through a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the battery (11) of the aerosol generating device (1), the operation mode, etc. through the display of the external device.

[0234] An external device may transmit a location search request to the aerosol generating device (1) based on an input that initiates location search of the aerosol generating device (1). When receiving a location search request from the external device, the control unit (12) may control at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, in response to the location search request, the haptic unit (142) may generate vibration. For example, in response to the location search request, the display (141) may output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0235] The control unit (12) can control to perform a firmware update when receiving firmware data from an external device. The external device can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generating device (1) and determine whether a new version of the firmware exists. When an input requesting firmware download is received, the external device can receive a new version of the firmware data and transmit the new version of the firmware data to the aerosol generating device (1). The control unit (12) can control to perform a firmware update of the aerosol generating device (1) upon receiving a new version of the firmware data.

[0236] The control unit (12) can transmit data on the sensing value of at least one sensor (13) to an external server (not shown) through the communication unit (16), and receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensing value through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The control unit (12) can perform an operation of determining a user's inhalation pattern, an operation of generating a temperature profile, etc. using the learning model received from the server. The control unit (12) can store, in the memory (17), the sensing value data of at least one sensor (13) and data for learning an artificial neural network (ANN). For example, the memory (17) can store a database for each component provided in the aerosol generating device (1) for learning the artificial neural network (ANN), and weights and biases forming the artificial neural network (ANN) structure. The control unit (12) can learn data on the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor (13), the user's suction pattern, the temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory (17), and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's suction pattern, generating the temperature profile, etc.

[0237] Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

[0238] For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

[0239] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. Battery to supply power; A housing comprising a coupling space for accommodating the battery; A plurality of receiving terminals inserted into a portion of the housing to receive power from the battery; A pressing member that pressurizes the battery accommodated in the above-mentioned bonding space so that the battery comes into contact with the receiving terminal; and An elastic member that supports the pressure member and moves the pressure member in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery; A battery combination structure in which the plurality of receiving terminals sequentially contact the battery during the process in which the battery is inserted into the combination space.

2. In paragraph 1, A battery coupling structure, wherein the receiving terminal includes a contact portion having at least one portion convexly protruding into the coupling space and an elastic portion supporting the contact portion.

3. In paragraph 1, The above battery includes a supply terminal in contact with the receiving terminal, A battery combination structure in which the supply terminal is arranged in a concave portion on one side of the battery in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery.

4. In paragraph 1, The housing further includes a first surface on which the plurality of receiving terminals are arranged and a second surface arranged facing the first surface, A battery combination structure, wherein the second surface includes a receiving groove for receiving the elastic member.

5. In paragraph 1, The above pressing member includes a guide portion protruding in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery, A battery combination structure, wherein the housing further includes a guide groove that accommodates a guide portion and guides movement of the pressure member.

6. In paragraph 1, A battery combination structure, wherein the battery includes an inclined surface that contacts the receiving terminal while being inserted into the combination space.

7. In paragraph 1, A battery coupling structure further comprising a first magnetic member disposed around the receiving terminal so that the battery is coupled to the housing in a direction in which the pressing member presses the battery.

8. In paragraph 7, Further comprising a second magnetic member disposed on the pressing member to prevent the battery from being detached from the bonding space; A battery combination structure wherein the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member are aligned in a direction transverse to the insertion direction of the battery.

9. In paragraph 1, The above battery includes a protrusion for separation of the battery at one end of the battery, A battery combination structure, wherein the housing further includes a separation groove for accommodating the protrusion.

10. In paragraph 9, A battery combination structure further comprising a third magnetic member disposed in the separation groove so as to engage the protrusion with the separation groove.

11. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a door that slides to open and close the above-mentioned combined space, A battery combination structure, wherein the housing further includes a sliding groove for accommodating at least a portion of the door.

12. The battery combination structure according to paragraph 1; a body comprising a receiving space for receiving an aerosol generating article; and A heater for generating an aerosol generating article accommodated in the above-mentioned accommodation space; An aerosol generating device, wherein the housing of the battery combination structure is a part of the body.

13. In paragraph 12, A storage device that stores the power supplied by the battery as electrical energy; and An aerosol generating device further comprising a control unit electrically connected to the components of the storage and the aerosol generating device to control the components.

14. In paragraph 13, Further comprising an insertion detection sensor for detecting insertion of the battery into the above-mentioned bonding space, An aerosol generating device, wherein the control unit controls the heater based on a signal generated from the insertion detection sensor.

15. In paragraph 12, An aerosol generating device further comprising an output unit for informing a user whether the battery has been inserted into the above-described combination space.

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