Aerosol generating apparatus

Abstract

Disclosed is an aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating apparatus of the present disclosure comprises a heater for heating an aerosol generating material, at least one sensor for outputting a signal related to the surrounding environment, an input unit for receiving a user input, and a control unit for controlling power supplied to the heater on the basis of a heating profile, wherein the control unit may: obtain surrounding environment information during an inhalation period of a user, on the basis of a signal received from the at least one sensor during the inhalation period; obtain preference information regarding inhalation of the user on the basis of a user input received from the input unit; input the surrounding environment information and the preference information into a learning model for determining a heating profile; and determine a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and the preference information.

Description

Aerosol generator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

[0002] An aerosol generator is designed to extract a specific component from a medium or substance through an aerosol. The medium may contain various components. The components contained in the medium may include various flavoring substances. For example, the components contained in the medium may include nicotine, herbal ingredients, and / or coffee ingredients. Recently, extensive research has been conducted on such aerosol generators.

[0003] Users of aerosol generators may have different preferences for vapor volume and number of puffs. Therefore, if the heating profile of an aerosol generator reflects user preferences, user satisfaction can be improved.

[0004] However, conventional aerosol generators operate based on a single heating profile, regardless of user preference, or only provide functionality that allows the user to select one of multiple preset options. Therefore, they suffer from a lack of accurate reflection of user preferences.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned and other problems.

[0006] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device that reflects a user's inhalation preferences in the heating profile together with information about the surrounding environment in which the user uses the device.

[0007] Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generator that inputs environmental information and preference information into a learning model to determine a heating profile.

[0008] Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device that reflects the user's location and weather information at that location along with user preference information into the heating profile.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described object, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising: a heater for heating an aerosol production material; at least one sensor for outputting a signal related to a surrounding environment; an input unit for receiving a user input; and a control unit for controlling power supplied to the heater based on a heating profile; wherein the control unit obtains surrounding environment information during an inhalation period based on a signal received from the at least one sensor during a user's inhalation period, obtains preference information for inhalation by the user based on a user input received from the input unit, and inputs the surrounding environment information and the preference information into a learning model for determining the heating profile, thereby determining a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and the preference information.

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user's preference and the surrounding environment information can be reflected together in the heating profile to provide an amount of vapor and / or number of puffs suitable for the environment in which the user is located and the user's preference.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user preference can be accurately reflected in the heating profile by determining the heating profile based on a learning model that learns the user preference and the surrounding environment information.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by repeatedly collecting preferences at regular intervals during the user's inhalation period, the user's preferences can be reflected in detail at each inhalation point within a single inhalation period.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the weather of the location or region where the user inhales can be reflected in the heating profile, so that the surrounding environmental information of the user inhaling can be more accurately reflected in the heating profile.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, user convenience can be improved by collecting user preference information through an external device capable of communicating with an aerosol generating device.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by reflecting user preferences for identified users into a heating profile, it is possible to prevent user preferences from being accurately reflected in the heating profile by multiple users.

[0016] Further scope of the applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description below. However, since various modifications and variations within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of example only.

[0017] FIGS. 1 to 9 are drawings illustrating an aerosol generating device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 10 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 11 is a flowchart related to the heating profile determination operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 12 is an exemplary drawing for explaining a learning model of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 13 is a flowchart related to a preference acquisition operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 14 is an exemplary diagram for explaining a preference query output of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an example of a heating profile of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a preference query output point of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a heating profile determined by an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] 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 assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0027] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description may be assigned or used interchangeably solely for the convenience of writing the specification. "Module" and "part" do not, by themselves, have distinct meanings or roles.

[0028] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of 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 understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings. It should be understood that the attached drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included within the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0029] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components. However, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0030] 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, although it should be understood 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.

[0031] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] Throughout this specification, the direction of the aerosol generator and the cartridge may be defined based on an orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction may be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generator and the cartridge. At this time, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +x may mean the right direction, and the direction toward -x may mean the left direction. The y-axis direction may be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generator and the cartridge. At this time, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +y may mean the rear direction, and the direction toward -y may mean the front direction. The z-axis direction may be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generator and the cartridge. With respect to the origin, the direction toward +z may mean the upward direction, and the direction toward -z may mean the downward direction.

[0033]

[0034] Figures 1 to 9 illustrate an aerosol generating device (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an aerosol generating device (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), and a heater (18). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (18) may be disposed inside a body (10) of the aerosol generating device. The body (10) may provide a space opened upwardly so that a stick (S), which is an aerosol generating article, may be inserted. The space opened upwardly may be referred to as an insertion space (43). The insertion space (43) may be formed by being recessed toward the inside of the body (10) by a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick (S) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space (43) may correspond to the length of a region of the stick (S) containing an aerosol generating material and / or medium. The lower end of the stick (S) is inserted into the inside of the body (10), and the upper end of the stick (S) can protrude outside the body (10). The user can inhale air by putting the upper end of the stick (S) exposed to the outside in his / her mouth.

[0036] The heater (18) can heat the stick (S). The heater (18) can extend upwardly in the space where the stick (S) is inserted. For example, the heater (18) can include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element. The heater (18) can be inserted into the lower part of the stick (S). The heater (18) can include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0037] For example, referring to FIG. 1, the heater (18) may be a resistive 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. The heater (18) may be electrically connected to a power source (11). The heater (18) may be directly heated by receiving current from the power source (11).

[0038] For example, the heater (18) may be a multi-heater. The heater (18) may include a first heater (18A) and a second heater (18B). The first and second heaters (18A, 18B) may be arranged side by side along the length direction. The first and second heaters (18A, 18B) may be heated sequentially or simultaneously.

[0039] For example, referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device may include an induction coil (181) surrounding a heater (18). The induction coil (181) 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 (181). 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).

[0040] For example, referring to FIG. 3, a susceptor (SS) may be included inside the stick (S), and the susceptor (SS) inside the stick (S) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through an induction coil (181). The susceptor (SS) may be disposed inside the stick (S) and may not be electrically connected to the aerosol generating device. The susceptor (SS) may be inserted into the insertion space (43) together with the stick (S) and may be removed from the insertion space (43) together with the stick (S). The stick (S) may be heated by the susceptor (SS) inside the stick (S). At this time, the aerosol generating device may not be equipped with a heater (18).

[0041] The power source (11) can supply power to operate components of the aerosol generator. The power source (11) can be referred to as a battery. The power source (11) can supply power to at least one of the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (18). The power source (11) can supply power to the induction coil (181).

[0042] The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator. The control unit can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit (12) can control the operation of at least one of the power supply (11), the sensor (13), and the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the operation of the induction coil (181). The control unit (12) can control the operation of the display, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generator. The control unit (12) can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator to determine whether the aerosol generator is in an operable state.

[0043] The control unit (12) can analyze the results detected by the sensor (13) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) so that the operation of the heater (18) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensor (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (18) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (18) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the sensor (13).

[0044] The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion detection sensor. For example, the sensor (13) may sense at least one of the temperature of the heater (18), the temperature of the power source (11), and the temperature inside and outside the body (10). For example, the sensor (13) may sense the user's puff. For example, the sensor (13) may sense whether the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space (43). For example, the sensor (13) may sense the movement of the aerosol generating device.

[0045]

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, an aerosol generator (1) according to one embodiment may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), a heater (18), and a cartridge (19). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (18) may be disposed inside the body (10) of the aerosol generator. A detailed description of the same configuration as the aerosol generator (1) of FIGS. 1 and 2 will be omitted.

[0047] The heater (18) can heat the stick (S). The heater (18) can extend upwardly around the space where the stick (S) is inserted. For example, the heater (18) can be in the form of a tube having a hollow space therein. The heater (18) can be arranged around the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can heat the insertion space (43) or the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0048] The cartridge (19) may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any one of a liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel state. The aerosol-generating substance may comprise a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid comprising a tobacco-containing substance including volatile tobacco flavoring components, or may be a liquid comprising a non-tobacco substance.

[0049] The cartridge (19) may be formed integrally with the body (10) or may be detachably coupled to the body (10).

[0050] For example, referring to FIG. 4, the cartridge (19) is formed integrally with the body (10) and can be communicated with the insertion space through an airflow channel (CN).

[0051] For example, referring to FIG. 5, a space is formed on one side of the body (10), and at least a portion of the cartridge (19) is inserted into the space formed on one side of the body (10) so that the cartridge (19) can be mounted on the body (10). The airflow channel (CN) can be defined by a portion of the cartridge and / or a portion of the body (10), and the cartridge (19) can be communicated with the insertion space (43) through the airflow channel (CN).

[0052] The body (10) can be formed in a structure in which outside air can flow into the interior of the body (10) while the cartridge (19) is inserted. At this time, the outside air flowing into the body (10) can pass through the cartridge (19) and flow into the user's oral cavity.

[0053] The cartridge (19) may include a storage portion (C0) containing an aerosol generating material and / or a heater (24) for heating the aerosol generating material in the storage portion (C0). A liquid delivery means impregnating (containing) the aerosol generating material may be disposed inside the storage portion (C0). Here, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, porous ceramic, etc. The electrically conductive track of the heater (24) may be formed in a coil-shaped structure that winds the liquid delivery means or a structure that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means. The heater (24) may be referred to as a cartridge heater (24).

[0054] The cartridge (19) can generate an aerosol. The aerosol can be generated as the liquid delivery means is heated by the cartridge heater (24). The aerosol can be generated by heating the stick (S) by the heater (18). Tobacco material can be added to the aerosol while the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater (24) and the heater (18) passes through the stick (S), and the aerosol added with the tobacco material can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick (S).

[0055] The aerosol generator (1) may be equipped with only a cartridge heater (24) and the body (10) may not be equipped with a heater (18). In this case, the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater (24) may pass through the stick (S) and be mixed with tobacco material and inhaled into the user's mouth.

[0056] The aerosol generator (1) may include an upper case (not shown). The upper case may be detachably coupled to the body (10) so as to cover at least a portion of a cartridge (19) coupled to the body (10). A stick (S) may be inserted into the body (10) by penetrating the upper case.

[0057] The power source (11) can supply power to at least one of the control unit (12), the sensor (13), the cartridge heater (24), and the heater (18).

[0058] The control unit (12) can control the operation of at least one of the power supply (11), the sensor (13), the heater (18), and the cartridge (19). The control unit (12) can analyze the result detected by the sensor (13) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) so that the operation of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) is started or ended based on the result detected by the sensor (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the result detected by the sensor (13).

[0059] The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and an upper case detection sensor. For example, the sensor (13) may sense whether a cartridge is mounted. For example, the sensor (13) may sense whether an upper case is mounted.

[0060]

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the aerosol generator (1) may include a body (10) and a cartridge (19). A detailed description of the same configuration as the aerosol generator (1) of FIGS. 1 to 5 will be omitted.

[0062] The aerosol generating device (10) may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), and a sensor (13). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), and the sensor (13) may be disposed inside the body (10). The body (10) may be equipped with a cartridge (19), which is an aerosol generating article. A user may inhale the aerosol by placing a mouthpiece provided at one end of the cartridge (19) in his / her mouth.

[0063] The cartridge (19) can be detachably coupled to the body (10). The cartridge (19) can be mounted on the body (10) by being inserted into the body (10).

[0064] The body (10) can be formed in a structure in which outside air can be introduced into the interior of the body (10) while the cartridge (19) is inserted. At this time, the outside air introduced into the body (10) can pass through the cartridge (19) and flow into the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel (CN).

[0065] The cartridge (19) can generate an aerosol. As the liquid delivery means (25) is heated by the cartridge heater (24), an aerosol can be generated. The generated aerosol can be inhaled into the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel (CN).

[0066] An airflow channel (CN) may be provided in the cartridge (19). The airflow channel (CN) may be in communication with the chamber (C0) in which the cartridge heater (24) is arranged and the outside of the cartridge. One end of the airflow channel (CN) may be opened to the chamber (C0) in which the cartridge heater (24) is arranged, and the other end may be in communication with the mouthpiece. For example, referring to FIG. 3, the airflow channel (CN) may extend in a longitudinal direction of the cartridge (19) from one side of the chamber (C0) of the cartridge (19). For example, referring to FIG. 4, the airflow channel (CN) may extend in a longitudinal direction of the cartridge (19) by penetrating the chamber (C0) of the cartridge (19).

[0067]

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), and a heater (18). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (18) may be disposed inside the body (10) of the aerosol generating device. A detailed description of the same configuration as the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 7 will be omitted.

[0069] The heater (18) can heat the stick (S). The heater (18) can extend upwardly around the space where the stick (S) is inserted. For example, the heater (18) can be in the form of a tube having a hollow space therein. The heater (18) can be arranged around the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can heat the insertion space (43) or the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0070] For example, referring to FIG. 8, the heater (18) may be a resistive 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. The heater (18) may be electrically connected to a power source (11). The heater (18) may be directly heated by receiving current from the power source (11).

[0071] For example, referring to FIG. 9, the aerosol generating device may include an induction coil (181) surrounding a heater (18). The induction coil (181) 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 (181). 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).

[0072] Meanwhile, a susceptor may be included inside the stick (S), and the susceptor inside the stick (S) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil (181).

[0073] The power source (11) can supply power to at least one of the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (18). When the aerosol generator (1) includes an induction coil (181), the power source (11) can supply power to the induction coil (181).

[0074] The control unit (12) can control the operation of at least one of the power source (11) and the sensor (13). The control unit (12) can analyze the results detected by the sensor (13) and control the processes to be performed thereafter.

[0075] The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion detection sensor.

[0076]

[0077] Fig. 10 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] The aerosol generator (1) may include a power source (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 generator (1) is not limited to that illustrated in Fig. 10. That is, a person having ordinary skill in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that, depending on the design of the aerosol generator (1), some of the components illustrated in Fig. 10 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0079] The sensor (13) can detect the status of the aerosol generator (1) or the status around the aerosol generator (1) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (12). Based on the detected information, the control unit (12) can control the aerosol generator (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.

[0080] 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), an upper case detection sensor (136), and a movement detection sensor (137).

[0081] The temperature sensor (131) can detect the temperature at which the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) is heated. The aerosol generator (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 a temperature sensor.

[0082] 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).

[0083] A temperature sensor (131) may be placed around the power source (11) to monitor the temperature of the power source (11). The temperature sensor (131) may be placed adjacent to the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be attached to one side of a battery, which is the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0084] The temperature sensor (131) can be placed inside the body (10) to detect the internal temperature of the body (10). The temperature sensor (131) can be placed outside the body (10) or in a space communicating with the outside of the body (10) to detect the external temperature of the body (10) or the surrounding temperature.

[0085] 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).

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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).

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] The upper case detection sensor (136) can detect the attachment and / or removal of the upper case. When the upper case (200) is separated from the body (10), the cartridge (19) and a portion of the body (10) covered by the upper case (200) may be exposed to the outside. The upper case detection sensor (136) can be implemented by a contact sensor, a hall sensor (hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0094] 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.

[0095] The humidity sensor (138) can detect the humidity inside and outside the aerosol generator. The humidity sensor (138) can detect the humidity around the aerosol generator (1) and / or the humidity inside the device. The humidity sensor (138) can be implemented by a capacitive sensor, etc. The humidity sensor (138) can be placed on the outside of the body (10) or located on a path through which outside air is introduced, and can measure the humidity around the aerosol generator (1).

[0096] The position sensor (139) can detect the position of the aerosol generating device. The position sensor (139) can be implemented using GPS, etc.

[0097] In addition to the sensors (131 to 139) described above, the sensor (13) may further include at least one of a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, 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.

[0098] The output unit (14) can output information on the status of the aerosol generator (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.

[0099] The display (141) can visually provide information about the aerosol generator (1) to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generator (1) may refer to various information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generator (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 upper case, or the status in which the use of the aerosol generator (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.

[0100] The haptic unit (142) can provide tactile information about the aerosol generator (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 the 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.

[0101] The acoustic output unit (143) can provide information about the aerosol generator (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.

[0102] The power source (11) can supply power used to operate the aerosol generator (1). The power source (11) can supply power so that the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) can be heated. In addition, the power source (11) can supply power required for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator (1), such as a sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), and a memory (17). The power source (11) can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source (11) can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0103] Although not shown in FIG. 10, the aerosol generator (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to a power source (11) and include a switching element.

[0104] The power protection circuit can block the power supply (11) according to certain conditions. For example, the power protection circuit can block the power supply (11) when the voltage level of the power supply (11) is higher than a first voltage corresponding to overcharge. For example, the power protection circuit can block the power supply (11) when the voltage level of the power supply (11) is lower than a second voltage corresponding to overdischarge.

[0105] The heater (18) can receive power from the power source (11) and heat the medium or aerosol generating material within the stick (S). Although not illustrated in FIG. 10, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the power source (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 power source (11) into alternating current power.

[0106] The control unit (12), sensor (13), output unit (14), input unit (15), communication unit (16), and memory (17) can receive power from the power source (11) and perform their functions. Although not illustrated in FIG. 10, the device may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the power source (11) and supplies it to each component. In addition, although not illustrated in FIG. 10, a noise filter may be provided between the power source (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 power source (11) to the heater (18). The low pass filter can prevent high frequency noise components from being applied to a sensor (13), such as an insertion detection sensor (133).

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] The input unit (15) can receive information input from a user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit (15) may be a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor that detects touch. For example, the touch sensor may 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. For example, the input unit (15) may include a biometric sensor. The biometric sensor may detect user identification information, such as a user's fingerprint or iris.

[0110] 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 to the display (141).

[0111] Meanwhile, the input unit (15) may include, but is not limited to, buttons, key pads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0112] The memory (17) is hardware that stores various data processed in the aerosol generator (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 generator (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and a user's smoking pattern.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] Although not shown in FIG. 10, the aerosol generator (1) further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can transmit and receive information or charge a power source (11) by connecting to another external device through a connection interface such as a USB interface.

[0117] The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator (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 to which the present embodiment pertains that the processor may be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0118] The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18) by controlling the supply of power from the power source (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).

[0119] The aerosol generator (1) may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply (11) between the power supply (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 (181). 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.

[0120] 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 power source (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.

[0121] The control unit (12) can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power source (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 power source (11) by controlling the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0122] The control unit (12) can control the voltage output from the power source (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 power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit can include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented using a buck-boost converter, a zener diode, etc.

[0123] 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 power source (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 power source (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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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).

[0128] The control unit (12) can control the charging and discharging of the power source (11). The control unit (12) can check the temperature of the power source (11) based on the output signal of the temperature sensor (131).

[0129] When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator (1), the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the first limit temperature, which is a standard for blocking charging of the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is lower than the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can control the power source (11) to be charged based on a preset charging current. If the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can block charging of the power source (11).

[0130] When the power of the aerosol generator (1) is turned on, the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the second limit temperature, which is a standard for blocking discharge of the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is lower than the second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can control to use the power stored in the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can stop using the power stored in the power source (11).

[0131] The control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power source (11). For example, the control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power source (11) based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power source (11).

[0132] 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).

[0133] 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).

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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).

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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).

[0139] 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 heater (24) has been heated is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time or the total amount of power supplied to the heater (24) is greater than or equal to the preset maximum amount of power.

[0140] 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).

[0141] The control unit (12) can determine whether the upper case is joined and / or removed through the upper case detection sensor (136). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the upper case is joined and / or removed based on the sensing value of the signal of the upper case detection sensor.

[0142] 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 generator (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 upper case 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).

[0143] The control unit (12) can store and update the history of the event that occurred in the memory (17) based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. The event may include operations such as detection of insertion of the 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 generator (1), initiation of charging of the power supply (11), detection of overcharge of the power supply (11), termination of charging of the power supply (11), etc. performed in the aerosol generator (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.

[0144] 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 generator (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 generator (1) from an external server. The external device can transmit data indicating completion of user authentication to the aerosol generator (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 generator (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.

[0145] The control unit (12) can transmit data on the status of the aerosol generator (1) to an external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity, operation mode, etc. of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generator (1) via a display of the external device.

[0146] An external device may transmit a location search request to the aerosol generator (1) based on an input that initiates location search of the aerosol generator (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.

[0147] 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 generator (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 generator (1). The control unit (12) can control to perform a firmware update of the aerosol generator (1) upon receiving a new version of the firmware data.

[0148] 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.

[0149]

[0150] FIG. 11 is a flowchart related to the heating profile determination operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 11 together with FIGS. 1 to 10, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one of a body (10), a heater (18, 24), a power source (11), a control unit (12), at least one sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), and a memory (17).

[0152] The body (10) can form the exterior of the device (1). At least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), at least one sensor (13), a heater (18, 24), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), and a memory (17) can be arranged inside the body (10).

[0153] The power source (11) can supply power to components provided inside the body (10), including a control unit (12), at least one sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), a memory (17), and a heater (18, 24).

[0154] The heater (18, 24) can receive power from the power source (11) and heat the aerosol product.

[0155] At least one sensor (13) can output a sensing signal. At least one sensor (13) can output a signal related to the surrounding environment of the aerosol generator (1). The sensing signal can reflect information about the surrounding environment of the aerosol generator (1). For example, at least one sensor (13) can include at least one of a temperature sensor (131), a puff sensor (132), and a humidity sensor (138). The temperature sensor (131) can be disposed on the outside of the body (10) or in a space communicating with the outside of the body (10) to detect the temperature surrounding the aerosol generator (1). The puff sensor (132) can detect a puff of a user. The puff sensor (132) can be disposed on an airflow path through which gas flows, and can output a signal corresponding to a pressure change caused by the puff of the user. The humidity sensor (138) can be placed on the outside of the body (10) or in a space communicating with the outside of the body (10) to measure the humidity around the aerosol generating device (1).

[0156] The input unit (15) can receive user input. The input unit (15) can receive user preference information regarding inhalation from the user as input.

[0157] Referring to Fig. 11, the control unit (12) can control the power source (11) to supply power to the heater (18, 24). The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) based on the heating profile (S1110).

[0158] The heating profile is for controlling the heating of the heater (18, 24) and may include at least one heating section and target temperature information of the heating section. The heating profile may include information on the number of puffs that can be provided to the user by heating the heater (18, 24).

[0159] The control unit (12) can identify the user before supplying power to the heater (18, 24). The control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) to output information requesting the user's identification information. The control unit (12) can obtain the user's identification information based on the user input received from the input unit (15). The identification information can include at least one of an ID (identification), a PW (password), and user biometric information.

[0160] The control unit (12) can determine or determine whether the user is an authenticated user based on the identification information. The control unit (12) can compare the registered information with the identification information to determine or determine whether they are identical. Here, the registered information may be unique identification information registered by the user through at least one of the aerosol generator (1), an external device, and an external server.

[0161] If the control unit (12) determines or determines that the user is an authenticated user, it may perform a heating profile determination process based on the user's preference information and the surrounding environment information acquired during the inhalation period. If the control unit (12) determines or determines that the user is an unauthenticated user, it may not perform the heating profile determination process.

[0162] Accordingly, it is possible to prevent user preferences from being accurately reflected in the heating profile by multiple users.

[0163] The control unit (12) can determine a heating profile. To determine the heating profile, the control unit (12) can obtain information on the surrounding environment during the inhalation period based on signals received from at least one sensor (131, 138) (S1120). For example, the control unit (12) can obtain information on the surrounding temperature and humidity during the inhalation period of the user based on signals received from the temperature sensor (131) and the humidity sensor (138).

[0164] The user's inhalation period can be defined as the period during which a series of puffs are emitted by the user. For example, when the user inhales through a stick (S) or a mouthpiece, multiple puffs may be emitted by the user. The time at which the user first inhales may be the start of the inhalation, and the time at which the user's last puff ends may be the end of the inhalation. The inhalation period can be defined as the period from the start of the inhalation to the end of the inhalation.

[0165] The control unit (12) calculates or determines the difference between the start time of suction and the end time of suction as the suction section, and can obtain temperature information and humidity information during the suction section based on signals received from the temperature sensor (131) and humidity sensor (138) during the suction section.

[0166] The control unit (12) can obtain preference information on inhalation from the user to determine the heating profile (S1130). The control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) to output information querying preference on inhalation. The control unit (12) can sequentially output information querying preference by controlling the output unit (14). The control unit (12) can receive user input corresponding to preference query information and obtain preference information corresponding to each query information.

[0167] The control unit (12) can receive preference information from an external device through the communication unit (16). The external device may have an application installed thereon, which is linked to the aerosol generator (1). When the external device receives a preference query information output request signal from the aerosol generator (1), the external device can output information querying preferences for inhalation based on the preference query information. The external device can receive user input corresponding to the preference query information through an input unit provided in the external device. The external device can transmit user input information corresponding to the preference query information to the aerosol generator (1).

[0168] The control unit (12) can input the acquired surrounding environment information and preference information into the learning model. The control unit (12) can determine a heating profile based on the information output from the learning model (S1140). The control unit can store the determined heating profile in the memory (17). The memory (17) can store at least one heating profile corresponding to the preference information and surrounding environment information acquired during the suction period.

[0169] The control unit (12), when inhalation by the user occurs thereafter, can acquire surrounding environment information through at least one sensor (131, 138), search for a heating profile in the memory (17), and select a heating profile corresponding to the acquired surrounding environment information. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) based on the selected heating profile. If a heating profile corresponding to the acquired surrounding environment information is not searched in the memory (17), the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) based on a heating profile set as a default heating profile. The default heating profile may be a heating profile applied to the device (1) when the device (1) is shipped from the factory. The control unit (12) can acquire surrounding environment information and user preference information during the smoking period, input the same into a learning model, and determine a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and preference information.

[0170] Meanwhile, the control unit (12) can input the surrounding environment information, preference information, and weather information corresponding to the current location of the aerosol generator (1) into the learning model. The control unit (12) can obtain the location information of the aerosol generator (1) or the user through a location sensor (139) implemented with GPS or the like, and transmit it to an external server through the communication unit (16). The control unit (12) can receive weather information corresponding to the location of the aerosol generator (1) or the user from the external server through the communication unit (16). The control unit (12) can input the surrounding environment information, preference information, and weather information into the learning model, and determine a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information, the preference information, and the weather information.

[0171] Accordingly, the weather of the location or region where the user inhales can be reflected in the heating profile, so that the surrounding environmental information of the user inhaling can be more accurately reflected in the heating profile.

[0172]

[0173] FIG. 12 is an exemplary drawing for explaining a learning model of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 12, the control unit (12) can determine a heating profile using a learning model.

[0175] Machine learning refers to the process of enabling electronic devices to learn from data and solve problems without a human directly instructing them on the logic.

[0176] Deep learning is an artificial intelligence technology that teaches electronic devices human thought patterns based on artificial neural networks (ANNs), enabling them to learn on their own like humans. ANNs can be implemented in software or hardware, such as chips. For example, ANNs can encompass various types of algorithms, including deep neural networks (DNNs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), and deep belief networks (DBNs).

[0177] Referring to Figure 12, an artificial neural network (ANN) may include an input layer, a hidden layer, and an output layer. Each layer may include multiple nodes, each layer may be connected to the next layer, and nodes between adjacent layers may be connected to each other using weights.

[0178] Electronic devices can discover certain patterns from data to form a feature map, extract low-level features, mid-level features, and high-level features, recognize objects, and output the results.

[0179] Additionally, each node can operate based on an activation model, and an output value corresponding to an input value can be determined according to the activation model.

[0180] Any node, for example, the output value of a low-level feature, can be input to the next layer connected to that node, for example, a node of an intermediate-level feature. A node of the next layer, for example, a node of an intermediate-level feature, can receive input values ​​output from multiple nodes of a low-level feature.

[0181] At this time, the input value of each node can be the weighted value of the output value of the node in the previous layer. The weight can represent the strength of the connection between nodes. Furthermore, the deep learning process can also be viewed as a process of finding appropriate weights and biases.

[0182] Meanwhile, the output value of any node, for example, an intermediate-level feature, can be input to the next layer connected to that node, for example, a node of a higher-level feature. A node of the next layer, for example, a node of a higher-level feature, can receive values ​​output from multiple nodes of the intermediate-level feature.

[0183] An artificial neural network (ANN) can extract feature information corresponding to each level by utilizing trained layers corresponding to each level. By sequentially abstracting, ANNs can utilize feature information at the highest level to recognize a given object.

[0184] Meanwhile, artificial neural networks (ANNs) can learn by adjusting the weights of connections between nodes to produce the desired output for input data. If necessary, bias values ​​can also be adjusted. Furthermore, ANNs can continuously update their weight values ​​through learning. Furthermore, methods such as backpropagation can be used for ANN learning.

[0185] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (1) may store data obtained from each component provided in the aerosol generating device (1), data for learning an artificial neural network (ANN), etc. For example, the memory (17) of the aerosol generating device (1) may store a database for each component provided in the aerosol generating device (1) for learning an artificial neural network (ANN), weights, and biases forming an artificial neural network (ANN) structure. The aerosol generating device (1) may learn data on sensing values ​​of at least one sensor (13), a user's inhalation pattern, a heating profile, etc. stored in the memory (17), and generate at least one learning model used for determining a user's inhalation pattern, generating a heating profile, etc.

[0186] The control unit (12) can determine a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and preference information by inputting the surrounding environment information and preference information into a learning model that determines the heating profile.

[0187]

[0188] FIG. 13 is a flowchart related to a preference information acquisition operation during the heating profile determination operation of FIG. 11, and FIG. 14 is an exemplary drawing for explaining a preference query output of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0189]

[0190] Referring to FIG. 13, the control unit (12) may obtain preference information for inhalation from the user to determine a heating profile (S1130). The control unit (12) may control the output unit (14) to output information querying the preference for inhalation. The control unit (12) may output the preference query information through the output unit (14) during the inhalation period or based on the end of inhalation. For example, the control unit (12) may detect or determine that the user's inhalation has ended and output the preference query information through the output unit (14). For example, the control unit (12) may output the preference query information at certain points during the inhalation period. In this case, the preference query information may be repeatedly output during the inhalation period. This will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 16.

[0191] The control unit (12) can sequentially output information querying preference by controlling the output unit (14). The preference query information can include at least one of information querying whether the flavor is appropriate, information querying whether the amount of vaporization is appropriate, and information querying whether the number of puffs is appropriate.

[0192] The control unit (12) controls the output unit (14) to output information inquiring about the appropriateness of the flavor provided through the aerosol generator (1), and can receive a corresponding user input through the input unit (15) (S1131).

[0193] The control unit (12) controls the output unit (14) to output information inquiring about the appropriateness of the amount of vapor provided through the aerosol generator (1), and can receive a corresponding user input through the input unit (15) (S1132).

[0194] The control unit (12) controls the output unit (14) to output information inquiring about whether the number of puffs provided through the aerosol generator (1) is appropriate, and can receive a corresponding user input through the input unit (15) (S1133).

[0195]

[0196] For example, referring to FIG. 14, the output section (14) may display information querying the appropriateness of the provided flavor, as well as selection information allowing selection of excessive, appropriate, or insufficient flavor. The user may input a response regarding the appropriateness of the flavor by selecting one of the three outputted selection information.

[0197] After the user's response regarding the appropriateness of the flavor is input, the output section (14) may display information querying the appropriateness of the provided amount of vaporization, as well as selection information allowing selection of excessive, appropriate, or insufficient vaporization. The user may input a response regarding the appropriateness of the amount of vaporization by selecting one of the three outputted selection information.

[0198] After the user's response regarding the appropriateness of the amount of puffs is input, the output unit (14) may display information querying whether the number of puffs provided is appropriate, as well as selection information allowing selection of whether the number of puffs is large, appropriate, or small. The user may input a response regarding the appropriateness of the number of puffs by selecting one of the three outputted selection information.

[0199] In Fig. 14, information for querying whether the flavor, amount of vaporization, and number of puffs are appropriate is sequentially displayed as an example, but it is obvious to those skilled in the art that the query information may be changed to other types of query information, and that fewer or more query information may be displayed as needed.

[0200]

[0201] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an example of a heating profile of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0202] Referring to FIG. 15, a heating profile may include at least one heating section and target temperature information for the heating section. The heating profile may include information on the number of puffs that can be provided to the user by heating the heater (18, 24). The control unit (12) may control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) based on the heating profile.

[0203] The heating profile may include information on a preheating section (P0) and at least one heating section (P1, P2, P3). The preheating section (P0) may be a section in which the heater (18, 24) is heated to a temperature for heating an aerosol production material to generate an aerosol. The at least one heating section (P1, P2, P3) may be a section in which an aerosol is generated and may be a section in which a puff is generated by a user.

[0204] At least one heating section (P1, P2, P3) may be divided into multiple sections based on the number of puffs of the user. For example, at least one heating section (P1, P2, P3) may include at least one of a first heating section (P1), a second heating section (P2), and a third heating section (P3). The first heating section (P1) may be a section corresponding to a first set number of puffs from the first puff, including the first puff. The second heating section (P2) may be a section corresponding to a second set number of puffs occurring after the first heating section (P1). The third heating section (P3) may be a section corresponding to a third set number of puffs occurring after the second heating section (P2). Here, the first to third set numbers may be set identically or differently. For example, the first to third set numbers may be 3 to 5. For example, the first setting number may be 3, and the second and third setting numbers may be the same as the first setting number.

[0205] The heating profile may include a target temperature for each heating section. For example, the heating profile may include a first target temperature (Ta) of a first section (P1), a second target temperature (Tb) of a second section (P2), and a third target temperature (Tc) of a third section (P3). The first to third target temperatures may be set to be equal to or higher than a vaporization temperature of the aerosol generating material. The first to third target temperatures may be set to be different from each other. For example, the second target temperature (Tb) may be set lower than the first target temperature (Ta), and the third target temperature (Tc) may be set higher than the first target temperature (Ta).

[0206] The target temperature of the heating section can be determined by a learning model based on environmental information and preference information. For example, the target temperature of the heating section can be determined based on preference information entered in response to information querying the appropriateness of flavor, preference information entered in response to information querying the appropriateness of vaporization, temperature information, and humidity information during the inhalation section.

[0207] The learning model can output a heating profile in which the target temperature of each heating section is maintained, increased, or decreased based on input preference information and surrounding environment information.

[0208] The heating profile may include information on the maximum number of puffs that can be provided to the user by heating the heater (18, 24).

[0209] The maximum number of puffs can be determined by a learning model based on environmental information and preference information. For example, the maximum number of puffs can be determined based on preference information entered in response to information querying the appropriateness of the number of puffs, temperature information, and humidity information during the inhalation period.

[0210] The learning model can output a heating profile in which the maximum number of puffs is maintained, increased, or decreased based on input preference information and surrounding environment information.

[0211]

[0212] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a preference query output point of an aerosol generator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a heating profile determined by an aerosol generator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0213]

[0214] Referring to FIG. 16, the control unit (12) can obtain preference information for inhalation from the user multiple times during the inhalation period. The control unit (12) can output preference query information at regular intervals during the inhalation period. The control unit (12) can count the number of puffs generated after the start of inhalation based on a signal received from the puff sensor (132), and control the output unit (14) to output preference query information at each interval (t1, t2, t3) when the counted number of puffs becomes a first set number. The control unit (12) can obtain preference information for each interval based on a user input input corresponding to the preference query information.

[0215] For example, the first set number may be 3. In this case, the control unit (12) may output preference query information every time three puffs occur based on the first puff (pf1). The control unit (12) may detect that the third puff (pf3) occurs and output preference query information through the output unit (14) and obtain user input related to preference through the input unit (15). Similarly, when detecting that the 6th and 9th puffs (pf6, pf9) occur, the process of outputting preference query information and obtaining user input may be performed.

[0216]

[0217] Referring to FIG. 17 together with FIG. 15, the control unit (12) can input preference information and surrounding environment information repeatedly acquired at regular intervals into the learning model to determine heating profiles (HP1_0, HP1_1, HP1_2). The target temperature of each heating section (P1, P2, P3) of the heating profile can be determined by the learning model based on the preference information and surrounding environment information acquired at each interval. For example, the target temperature of each heating section (P1, P2, P3) can be determined based on preference information input corresponding to information inquiring about whether the flavor is appropriate, preference information input corresponding to information inquiring about whether the amount of vaporization is appropriate, temperature information and humidity information acquired during each heating section (P1, P2, P3), etc.

[0218] The first target temperature (Ta) of the first heating section (P1) can be determined based on temperature information and humidity information acquired during the first heating section (P1), and preference information acquired at or after the end of the first heating section (P1).

[0219] For example, if the user inputs that the provided flavor and / or vaporization amount is insufficient, the first target temperature (Ta) determined by the learning model may increase. At this time, if the temperature obtained during the first heating section (P1) is higher than the set temperature and the humidity is higher than the set humidity, the first target temperature (Ta) determined by the learning model may increase by the first temperature (heating profile HP1_1 in FIG. 17). If the temperature obtained during the first heating section (P1) is lower than the set temperature and the humidity is lower than the set humidity, the first target temperature (Ta) determined by the learning model may increase by a second temperature that is higher than the first temperature (heating profile HP1_2 in FIG. 17).

[0220] Similarly, the second target temperature (Tb) of the second heating section (P2) can be determined based on temperature information and humidity information acquired during the second heating section (P2), and preference information acquired at or after the end of the second heating section (P2).

[0221] For example, if the user inputs that the provided flavor and / or vaporization amount is excessive, the second target temperature (Tb) determined by the learning model may decrease. At this time, if the temperature obtained during the second heating section (P2) is higher than the set temperature and the humidity is higher than the set humidity, the second target temperature (Tb) determined by the learning model may decrease by a third temperature (heating profile HP1_1 in FIG. 17). If the temperature obtained during the second heating section (P2) is lower than the set temperature and the humidity is lower than the set humidity, the second target temperature (Tb) determined by the learning model may decrease by a fourth temperature that is greater than the third temperature (heating profile HP1_2 in FIG. 17).

[0222] The set temperature and set humidity can be preset. The set temperature can be a preset temperature value that can be determined to be high or low in the surrounding environment, and can be a value preset through experimentation, taking into account the temperatures of multiple environments, multiple locations, or multiple regions where the user may be located. The set humidity can be a preset humidity value that can be determined to be high or low in the surrounding environment, and can be a value preset through experimentation, taking into account the humidity of multiple environments, multiple locations, or multiple regions where the user may be located.

[0223] Accordingly, by repeatedly collecting preferences at regular intervals during the user's inhalation period, the user's preferences can be reflected in detail at each inhalation point within a single inhalation period.

[0224]

[0225] As described above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user's preference and surrounding environment information can be reflected together in the heating profile to provide an amount of vapor and / or number of puffs suitable for the environment in which the user is located and the user's preference.

[0226] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the user preference can be accurately reflected in the heating profile by determining the heating profile based on a learning model that learns the user preference and the surrounding environment information.

[0227] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by repeatedly collecting preferences at regular intervals during the user's inhalation period, the user's preferences can be reflected in detail at each inhalation point within a single inhalation period.

[0228] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the weather of the location or region where the user inhales can be reflected in the heating profile, so that the surrounding environmental information of the user inhaling can be more accurately reflected in the heating profile.

[0229] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, user convenience can be improved by collecting user preference information through an external device capable of communicating with an aerosol generating device.

[0230] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by reflecting user preferences for identified users into a heating profile, it is possible to prevent user preferences from being accurately reflected in the heating profile by multiple users.

[0231]

[0232] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 17, an aerosol generating device (10) according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a heater (18, 24) for heating an aerosol product; at least one sensor (131, 138) for outputting a signal related to a surrounding environment; an input unit (15) for receiving a user input; and a control unit (12) for controlling power supplied to the heater (18, 24) based on a heating profile. The control unit (12) obtains information on the surrounding environment during an inhalation period based on a signal received from the at least one sensor (131, 138) during the user's inhalation period, obtains preference information on the user's inhalation based on the user input received from the input unit (15), and inputs the surrounding environment information and the preference information into a learning model for determining the heating profile, thereby determining a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information and the preference information.

[0233] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device further includes an output unit (14) for outputting information; and a puff sensor (132) for detecting a puff; and the control unit (12) determines the start of inhalation, which is the time point at which the first puff is generated, and the end of inhalation, which is the time point at which the last puff is ended, based on a signal received from the puff sensor (132), determines the difference between the start of inhalation and the end of inhalation as the inhalation section, and controls the output unit (14) during the inhalation section or based on the end of the inhalation, to output preference query information for the user's inhalation.

[0234] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) counts the number of puffs generated after the start of the inhalation based on a signal received from the puff sensor (132), and controls the output unit (14) to output the preference query information at each time point when the counted number of puffs becomes a first set number, and obtains preference information for each time point based on the user input input corresponding to the preference query information.

[0235] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the heating profile includes a plurality of heating sections distinguished based on the first set number of puffs and a target temperature for each of the plurality of heating sections, and the target temperature of each of the plurality of heating sections can be determined based on the surrounding environment information during the inhalation section and the preference information for each point in time.

[0236] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first set number of times may be 3 to 5 times.

[0237] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the preference query information may include information querying at least one of whether there is a lack of flavor, whether there is a lack of vaporization, and whether there is a lack of the number of puffs.

[0238] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the heating profile includes maximum puff count information, and the maximum puff count can be determined based on a user input input corresponding to information querying whether the number of puffs is insufficient.

[0239] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the at least one sensor (131, 138) may include at least one of a temperature sensor (131) and a humidity sensor (138), and the surrounding environment information may include at least one of temperature information and humidity information during the suction section.

[0240] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the heating profile includes at least one heating section and a target temperature of the heating section, and the target temperature of the heating section can be determined based on a user input corresponding to at least one of information querying whether there is a lack of flavor and information querying whether there is a lack of atomization, and temperature information and humidity information during the inhalation section.

[0241] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device further includes a communication unit (16); and a location sensor (139) for detecting a geographical location; and the control unit (12) receives weather information corresponding to the user's location from an external server through the communication unit (16), and inputs the weather information into the learning model to determine a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information, the preference information, and the weather information.

[0242] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device further includes a memory (17) for storing at least one heating profile, and the control unit (12) accumulates and stores a heating profile determined by inputting the learning model, the surrounding environment information, and the preference information in the memory (17), selects a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information, and controls power supplied to the heater (18, 24) based on the selected heating profile.

[0243] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) further includes a communication unit (16); and receives the preference information from an external device through the communication unit (16), and inputs the surrounding environment information and the preference information received from the external device into the learning model to determine the heating profile.

[0244] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) may obtain identification information of the user based on a user input received from the input unit (15), determine whether the user is an authenticated user based on the identification information, and input the surrounding environment information and the preference information into the learning model based on the user being an authenticated user, thereby determining the heating profile.

[0245]

[0246] 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.

[0247] 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.

[0248] 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. A heater for heating the aerosol product; At least one sensor that outputs a signal related to the surrounding environment; an input unit that receives user input; and A control unit for controlling power supplied to the heater based on a heating profile; The above control unit, Based on the signal received from at least one sensor during the user's inhalation period, information about the surrounding environment during the inhalation period is acquired, Based on the user input received from the above input unit, information on the user's preference for inhalation is obtained, An aerosol generating device that inputs the above-mentioned surrounding environment information and the above-mentioned preference information into a learning model that determines the above-mentioned heating profile, thereby determining a heating profile corresponding to the above-mentioned surrounding environment information and the above-mentioned preference information.

2. In paragraph 1, An output section that outputs information; and Further comprising a puff sensor that detects a puff; The above control unit, Based on the signal received from the above puff sensor, the start of inhalation, which is the time when the first puff occurs, and the end of inhalation, which is the time when the last puff ends, are determined, The difference between the start time of the above inhalation and the end time of the above inhalation is determined as the above inhalation section, An aerosol generating device that controls the output unit to output preference query information for the user's inhalation during the inhalation period or based on the end of the inhalation.

3. In paragraph 2, The above control unit, Based on the signal received from the puff sensor, the number of puffs occurring after the start of the inhalation is counted, At each point when the counted number of puffs reaches the first set number, the output unit is controlled to output the preference query information, An aerosol generating device that obtains preference information for each point in time based on the user input entered in response to the preference query information.

4. In paragraph 3, The above heating profile is, A plurality of heating sections distinguished based on the first set number of puffs and a target temperature for each of the plurality of heating sections are included, An aerosol generating device in which a target temperature of each of the plurality of heating sections is determined based on the surrounding environment information during the above-described inhalation section and the preference information for each time point.

5. In paragraph 4, The above first setting number is, Aerosol generating device for 3 to 5 times.

6. In paragraph 2, The above preference query information is, An aerosol generating device comprising information querying at least one of: lack of flavor, lack of vaporization, and lack of number of puffs.

7. In paragraph 6, The above heating profile is, Contains information on the maximum number of puffs, An aerosol generating device in which the maximum number of puffs is determined based on user input received in response to information querying whether the number of puffs is insufficient.

8. In paragraph 6, At least one sensor above, comprising at least one of a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor, The above surrounding environment information is, An aerosol generating device comprising at least one of temperature information and humidity information during the above inhalation period.

9. In paragraph 8, The above heating profile is, comprising at least one heating section and a target temperature of said heating section, An aerosol generating device in which a target temperature of the heating section is determined based on a user input corresponding to at least one of information querying whether the flavor is insufficient and information querying whether the amount of vapor is insufficient, and temperature information and humidity information during the inhalation section.

10. In paragraph 1, Department of Communications; and further comprising a location sensor for detecting a geographic location; The above control unit, Through the above communication unit, weather information corresponding to the user's location is received from an external server, An aerosol generating device that inputs the above weather information into the learning model to determine a heating profile corresponding to the surrounding environment information, the preference information, and the weather information.

11. In paragraph 1, further comprising a memory storing at least one heating profile; The above control unit, Accumulate and store the heating profile, the surrounding environment information, and the preference information determined by inputting them into the above learning model in the memory, An aerosol generating device that selects a heating profile corresponding to the above-mentioned surrounding environment information and controls power supplied to the heater based on the selected heating profile.

12. In paragraph 1, Including the Department of Communications; The above control unit, An aerosol generating device that receives the preference information from an external device through the communication unit, inputs the surrounding environment information and the preference information received from the external device into the learning model, and determines the heating profile.

13. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, Based on the user input received from the above input unit, the user's identification information is obtained, Based on the above identification information, determine whether the user is an authenticated user, An aerosol generating device that determines the heating profile by inputting the surrounding environment information and the preference information into the learning model based on the user being an authenticated user.

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