Aerosol generating method and aerosol generating device for performing same method

Abstract

According to one embodiment, the present invention may comprise the operations of: generating a magnetic field having a target frequency if an aerosol generating article is inserted into an aerosol generating device; determining a target color of a target region of the aerosol generating article; determining a target type corresponding to the target color from among a plurality of types; and heating the aerosol generating article by using a target temperature profile corresponding to the target type.

Description

Aerosol generating method and aerosol generating device performing the method

[0001] The following embodiments relate to techniques for controlling an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, to techniques for controlling an aerosol generating device that heats an aerosol generating article based on the type of identified aerosol generating article.

[0002] Recently, demand for electronic cigarette devices has been steadily increasing. Furthermore, as demand for electronic cigarette devices grows, features related to electronic cigarette devices are continuously being developed. Specifically, features specific to the type and characteristics of electronic cigarette devices are being continuously developed.

[0003] Cigarettes with a variety of flavors and aromas are manufactured to accommodate the diverse tastes of smokers. Each type of cigarette may have different optimal heating temperatures and times for optimal flavor and aroma.

[0004] One embodiment may provide an aerosol generating device that determines a type of aerosol generating article inserted into the aerosol generating device among a plurality of types.

[0005] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating method may include, when an aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device, an operation of generating a magnetic field having a target frequency, an operation of determining a target color of a target area of ​​the aerosol generating article, an operation of determining a target type corresponding to the target color among a plurality of types, and an operation of heating the aerosol generating article using a target temperature profile corresponding to the target type.

[0006] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes a coil that generates an alternating magnetic field based on an operation signal, and a control unit that controls the aerosol generating device, wherein the control unit can perform an operation of generating a magnetic field having a target frequency when an aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device, an operation of determining a target color of a target area of ​​the aerosol generating article, an operation of determining a target type corresponding to the target color among a plurality of types, and an operation of heating the aerosol generating article using a target temperature profile corresponding to the target type.

[0007] In one embodiment, an aerosol-generating article may include a tobacco rod comprising an aerosol-generating substance, a filter rod, at least one wrapper wrapping the tobacco rod and the filter rod, and an identification label positioned on the wrapper, the identification label changing color by a magnetic field.

[0008] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device may be provided that generates an aerosol based on the type of aerosol generating article determined through a color changed by a magnetic field.

[0009] FIGS. 1A to 1D are drawings illustrating examples of an aerosol generating article inserted into an aerosol generating device according to various embodiments.

[0010] FIGS. 2 and 3 are drawings illustrating examples of aerosol generating articles according to various embodiments.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to various embodiments.

[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates an identification label comprising a magnetic color-variable pigment that changes color depending on the strength of a magnetic field, according to various embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates examples of aerosol generating articles including identification labels, according to various embodiments.

[0014] Figure 7 is a flow chart of an aerosol generation method according to various embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating an example of an aerosol generating article including an identification label inserted into an aerosol generating device according to various embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method for determining a target type corresponding to a target color among a plurality of types according to various embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Specific structural or functional descriptions of the embodiments are disclosed for illustrative purposes only and may be modified and implemented in various forms. Therefore, the actual implementation is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and the scope of this specification includes modifications, equivalents, or alternatives within the technical concepts described in the embodiments.

[0022] Although terms such as "first" or "second" may be used to describe various components, these terms should be interpreted solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may also be referred to as a first component.

[0023] When it is said that a component is "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but there may also be other components in between.

[0024] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this specification, the terms "comprises" or "has" should be understood to indicate the presence of a described feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof, but not to exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0025] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the description with reference to the attached drawings, identical components are assigned the same reference numerals regardless of the drawing numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0027] FIGS. 1A to 1D are drawings illustrating examples of aerosol generating articles inserted into aerosol generating devices according to various embodiments.

[0028] Referring to Fig. 1a, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a battery (11), a control unit (12), and a heater (13). Referring to Figs. 1b and 1c, the aerosol generating device (1) further includes a vaporizer (14). Referring to Fig. 1d, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a battery (11), a control unit (12), a coil (13a), and a susceptor (13b). In addition, a cigarette (2) can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0029] The aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 4 illustrates components related to the present embodiment. Accordingly, a person skilled in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that, in addition to the components illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 4, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include other general-purpose components.

[0030] In addition, although FIGS. 1B and 1C illustrate that the aerosol generating device (1) includes a heater (13), the heater (13) may be omitted if necessary. For example, an aerosol generating device (1) that does not include a heater (13) can generate aerosol through a vaporizer (14).

[0031] In Fig. 1a, a battery (11), a control unit (12), and a heater (13) are illustrated as being arranged in a row. In addition, in Fig. 1b, a battery (11), a control unit (12), a vaporizer (14), and a heater (13) are illustrated as being arranged in a row. In addition, in Fig. 1c, a vaporizer (14) and a heater (13) are illustrated as being arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to that illustrated in Figs. 1a to 1c. In other words, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), the arrangement of the battery (11), the control unit (12), the heater (13), and the vaporizer (14) may be changed.

[0032] When a cigarette (2) is inserted into an aerosol generating device (1), the aerosol generating device (1) can generate an aerosol by operating a heater (13) and / or a vaporizer (14). The aerosol generated by the heater (13) and / or the vaporizer (14) passes through the cigarette (2) and is delivered to the user.

[0033] If necessary, the aerosol generating device (1) can heat the heater (13) even when the cigarette (2) is not inserted into the aerosol generating device (1).

[0034] The battery (11) supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the battery (11) can supply power to heat the heater (13) or the vaporizer (14), and can supply power required for the control unit (12) to operate. In addition, the battery (11) can supply power required for the operation of the display, sensor, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0035] The control unit (12) controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). Specifically, the control unit (12) controls the operation of the battery (11), heater (13), and vaporizer (14) as well as other components included in the aerosol generating device (1). In addition, the control unit (12) can also check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device (1) to determine whether the aerosol generating device (1) is in an operable state.

[0036] The control unit (12) includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable on the microprocessor. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processor may be implemented using other types of hardware.

[0037] The heater (13) can be heated by power supplied from the battery (11). For example, when a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), the heater (13) can be located outside the cigarette. Accordingly, the heated heater (13) can increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material inside the cigarette.

[0038] The heater (13) may be an electrical resistance heater. For example, the heater (13) may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater (13) may be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track. However, the heater (13) is not limited to the above-described example, and any heater capable of heating to a desired temperature may be used without limitation. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device (1), or may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0039] Meanwhile, as another example, the heater (13) may be an induction heating heater including a coil (13a) and a susceptor (13b) as shown in Fig. 1d. Therefore, a redundant description regarding the heater is omitted.

[0040] Specifically, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an electrically conductive coil (13a) for inductively heating a cigarette (2), and may include a susceptor (13b) that can be heated by an inductive heater. Although not shown in Fig. 1d, the susceptor (13b) may be included in the cigarette (2) rather than in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0041] For example, the heater (13) may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette (2) depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0042] In addition, a plurality of heaters (13) may be arranged in the aerosol generating device (1). At this time, the plurality of heaters (13) may be arranged to be inserted into the interior of the cigarette (2) or may be arranged on the exterior of the cigarette (2). In addition, some of the plurality of heaters (13) may be arranged to be inserted into the interior of the cigarette (2), and the rest may be arranged on the exterior of the cigarette (2). In addition, the shape of the heater (13) is not limited to the shape illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1D, and may be manufactured in various shapes.

[0043] The vaporizer (14) can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user through the cigarette (2). In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer (14) can travel along the airflow passage of the aerosol generating device (1), and the airflow passage can be configured so that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer (14) can pass through the cigarette and be delivered to the user.

[0044] For example, the vaporizer (14) may include, but is not limited to, a liquid storage unit, a liquid delivery means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid delivery means, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device (1) as independent modules.

[0045] The liquid storage unit can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including volatile tobacco flavoring components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage unit can be designed to be detachable from / attached to the vaporizer (14), or can be designed as an integral part of the vaporizer (14).

[0046] For example, the liquid composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The flavoring agent may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, and various fruit-flavored ingredients. The flavoring agent may include ingredients that can provide a variety of flavors or tastes to the user. The vitamin mixture may include, but is not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Additionally, the liquid composition may include an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0047] The liquid delivery means can deliver the liquid composition from the liquid storage to the heating element. For example, the liquid delivery means can be, but is not limited to, a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0048] A heating element is an element for heating a liquid composition delivered by a liquid delivery means. For example, the heating element may be, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc. In addition, the heating element may be composed of a conductive filament, such as a nichrome wire, and may be arranged in a structure that is wound around the liquid delivery means. The heating element may be heated by a current supply and may transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated.

[0049] For example, the vaporizer (14) may be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0050] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery (11), the control unit (12), the heater (13), and the vaporizer (14). For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. In addition, the aerosol generating device (1) may include at least one sensor (a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, a cigarette insertion detection sensor, etc.). In addition, the aerosol generating device (1) may be manufactured in a structure in which external air can be introduced or internal gas can be discharged even when the cigarette (2) is inserted.

[0051] Although not illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1D, the aerosol generating device (1) may also be configured as a system with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may be used to charge the battery (11) of the aerosol generating device (1). Alternatively, the heater (13) may be heated while the cradle and the aerosol generating device (1) are combined.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 1d, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a battery (11), a control unit (12), a coil (13a), a susceptor (13b), and a cavity (13c).

[0053] The cigarette (2) can be inserted into the cavity (13c) of the aerosol generating device (1), and the coil (13a) can be positioned around the cavity (13c). In Fig. 1d, the coil (13a) is illustrated as being positioned to surround the cavity (13c), but this is not limited thereto.

[0054] An aerosol generating device (1) can generate an aerosol by heating a cigarette (2) using an induction heating method. The induction heating method may refer to a method of generating heat from a magnetic body by applying an alternating magnetic field.

[0055] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy loss may occur due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss. This energy loss may be released as heat energy from the magnetic material. The greater the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field, the greater the amount of heat energy released from the magnetic material. A magnetic material that generates heat due to an external magnetic field may be a susceptor.

[0056] The aerosol generating device (1) may be equipped with a susceptor (13b) that generates heat by an external magnetic field. The aerosol generating device (1) may heat a cigarette (2) by applying an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor (13b).

[0057] The susceptor (13b) may include metal or carbon. The susceptor (13b) may include at least one of ferrite, a ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al).

[0058] Additionally, the susceptor (13b) may include at least one of a ceramic such as graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, a nickel alloy, a metal film, zirconia, a transition metal such as nickel (Ni) or cobalt (Co), or a metalloid such as boron (B) or phosphorus (P).

[0059] The aerosol generating device (1) may include a cavity (13c) for receiving a cigarette (2). The cavity (13c) may include an opening that opens on the outside of the cavity (13c) for receiving the cigarette (2) into the aerosol generating device (1).

[0060] The aerosol generating device (1) may include a coil (13a) that applies an alternating magnetic field to a susceptor (13b). The coil (13a) may be wound along a side of the cavity (13c). The coil (13a) may be placed near the susceptor (13b).

[0061] The coil (13a) can be powered by the battery (10). As power is supplied to the coil (13a), a magnetic field can be formed inside the coil (13a). When an alternating current is applied to the coil (13a), the magnetic field formed inside the coil (13a) can change direction periodically. When the susceptor (13b) is exposed to the alternating magnetic field formed by the coil (13a), the susceptor (13b) generates heat, thereby heating the cigarette (2) accommodated in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0062] As the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field formed by the coil (13a) changes, the temperature of the susceptor (13b) that heats the cigarette (2) can change. The control unit (12) can adjust the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field formed by the coil (13a) by controlling the power supplied to the coil (13a), and accordingly, the temperature of the susceptor (13b) can be controlled.

[0063] As an example, the coil (13a) may be implemented as a solenoid. The coil (13a) may be a solenoid wound along the side of the cavity (13c). A cigarette (2) may be accommodated in the internal space of the solenoid. The solenoid may include, but is not limited to, copper (Cu).

[0064] To allow high current to flow by having low resistivity, the solenoid may include one or an alloy including at least one of silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni).

[0065] The cigarette (2) may be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the cigarette (2) may be divided into a first portion containing an aerosol-generating substance and a second portion containing a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second portion of the cigarette (2) may also contain an aerosol-generating substance. For example, an aerosol-generating substance in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

[0066] The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), or the entire first part and a portion of the second part may be inserted. The user may inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in his or her mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol passes through the second part and is delivered to the user's mouth.

[0067] As an example, outside air may be introduced through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the opening and / or the size of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device (1) may be controlled by the user. Accordingly, the amount of vapor, the smoking sensation, etc. may be controlled by the user. As another example, outside air may be introduced into the interior of the cigarette (2) through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette (2).

[0068] Hereinafter, examples of cigarettes (2) will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0069] Figures 2 and 3 are drawings showing examples of cigarettes.

[0070] Referring to Fig. 2, the cigarette (2) includes a tobacco rod (21) and a filter rod (22). The first part described above with reference to Figs. 1a to 1d includes the tobacco rod (21), and the second part includes the filter rod (22).

[0071] Although the filter rod (22) is illustrated as a single segment in FIG. 2, this is not limiting. In other words, the filter rod (22) may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod (22) may include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering a predetermined component contained within the aerosol. In addition, the filter rod (22) may further include at least one segment that performs another function, if necessary.

[0072] The diameter of the cigarette (2) is within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length may be about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod (21) may be about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod (22) may be about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod (22) may be about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod (22) may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0073] A cigarette (2) may be wrapped by at least one wrapper (24). The wrapper (24) may have at least one hole formed therein through which outside air is introduced or internal gas is discharged. As an example, the cigarette (2) may be wrapped by one wrapper (24). As another example, the cigarette (2) may be wrapped by two or more wrappers (24) in an overlapping manner. For example, the tobacco rod (21) may be wrapped by a first wrapper (241), and the filter rod (22) may be wrapped by wrappers (242, 243, 244). In addition, the entire cigarette (2) may be repackaged by a single wrapper (245). If the filter rod (22) is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped by wrappers (242, 243, 244).

[0074] The first wrapper (241) and the second wrapper (242) may be made of general filter paper. For example, the first wrapper (241) and the second wrapper (242) may be porous paper or non-porous paper. Additionally, the first wrapper (241) and the second wrapper (242) may be made of oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum composite packaging material.

[0075] The third wrapper (243) can be made of hard paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper (243) is 88 g / m 2 96 g / m 2 may be included within the range of, preferably 90 g / m 2 94 g / m 2 It can be included within the range of. In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper (243) can be included within the range of 120 ㎛ to 130 ㎛, and preferably can be 125 ㎛.

[0076] The fourth wrapper (244) can be made of a hard, oil-resistant paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper (244) is 88 g / m 2 96 g / m 2 may be included within the range of, preferably 90 g / m 2 94 g / m 2 It can be included within the range of. In addition, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (244) can be included within the range of 120 ㎛ to 130 ㎛, and preferably can be 125 ㎛.

[0077] The fifth wrapper (245) can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (245) is 57 g / m 2 63 g / m 2 may be included within the range of, preferably 60 g / m 2It may be. In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper (245) may be within the range of 64 ㎛ to 70 ㎛, and preferably 67 ㎛.

[0078] The fifth wrapper (245) may be coated with a predetermined material. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be silicone, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicone has properties such as heat resistance with little change depending on temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicone, any material having the aforementioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper (245) without limitation.

[0079] The fifth wrapper (245) can prevent the cigarette (2) from burning. For example, if the tobacco rod (21) is heated by the heater (13), there is a possibility that the cigarette (2) will burn. Specifically, if the temperature rises above the ignition point of any of the materials contained in the tobacco rod (21), the cigarette (2) may burn. Even in this case, since the fifth wrapper (245) includes a non-combustible material, the cigarette (2) can be prevented from burning.

[0080] In addition, the fifth wrapper (245) can prevent the holder from being contaminated by substances generated from the cigarette (2). Liquid substances may be generated within the cigarette (2) by the user's puff. For example, liquid substances (e.g., moisture, etc.) may be generated when the aerosol generated from the cigarette (2) is cooled by the outside air. As the fifth wrapper (245) wraps the cigarette (2), liquid substances generated within the cigarette (2) can be prevented from leaking out of the cigarette (2).

[0081] The tobacco rod (21) contains an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. In addition, the tobacco rod (21) may contain other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. In addition, a flavoring agent, such as menthol or a humectant, may be added to the tobacco rod (21) by spraying it onto the tobacco rod (21).

[0082] The tobacco rod (21) can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod (21) can be manufactured as a sheet or as a strand. Furthermore, the tobacco rod (21) can be manufactured as a cut tobacco sheet. Furthermore, the tobacco rod (21) can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. For example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod (21) can evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod (21) to improve the heat conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the taste of the tobacco. Furthermore, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod (21) can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. Although not shown in the drawing, the tobacco rod (21) can further include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat-conducting material surrounding the exterior.

[0083] The filter rod (22) may be a cellulose acetate filter. Meanwhile, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod (22). For example, the filter rod (22) may be a cylindrical rod or a tubular rod having a hollow portion therein. In addition, the filter rod (22) may be a recessed rod. If the filter rod (22) is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

[0084] The first segment of the filter rod (22) may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure including a hollow space therein. When the heater (13) is inserted through the first segment, the internal material of the tobacco rod (21) may be prevented from being pushed back, and a cooling effect of the aerosol may also be generated. The diameter of the hollow space included in the first segment may be an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0085] The length of the first segment may be any length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the first segment may be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0086] The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by adjusting the content of the plasticizer during the manufacturing of the first segment. In addition, the first segment can be manufactured by inserting a structure, such as a film or tube, of the same or different material into the interior (e.g., hollow).

[0087] The second segment of the filter rod (22) cools the aerosol generated by the heater (13) heating the tobacco rod (21). Accordingly, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0088] The length or diameter of the second segment may vary depending on the shape of the cigarette (2). For example, the length of the second segment may be appropriately selected within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment may be approximately 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0089] The second segment can be manufactured by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a flavoring agent may be applied to the polymer fibers. Alternatively, the second segment can be manufactured by weaving together a separate fiber coated with a flavoring agent and a polymer fiber. Alternatively, the second segment can be formed by a crimped polymer sheet.

[0090] For example, the polymer may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0091] As the second segment is formed by a woven polymer fiber or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment may include one or more longitudinally extending channels. Here, a channel means a passage through which a gas (e.g., air or an aerosol) passes.

[0092] For example, the second segment made of a compressed polymer sheet can be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, for example between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. In addition, the total surface area of ​​the second segment can be about 300 mm 2 / mm and about 1000 mm 2 / mm can be between. Also, the aerosol cooling element has a specific surface area of ​​about 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100 mm 2 / mg can be formed from materials between.

[0093] Meanwhile, the second segment may include a thread containing a volatile flavoring component. Here, the volatile flavoring component may be menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide the second segment with at least 1.5 mg of menthol.

[0094] The third segment of the filter rod (22) may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be suitably selected within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be approximately 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0095] During the manufacturing process of the third segment, the third segment may be manufactured to generate a flavor by spraying a flavoring agent onto the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring agent may be inserted into the interior of the third segment. The aerosol generated from the tobacco rod (21) is cooled as it passes through the second segment of the filter rod (22), and the cooled aerosol is delivered to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the effect of enhancing the persistence of the flavor delivered to the user can be produced.

[0096] Additionally, the filter rod (22) may include at least one capsule (23). Here, the capsule (23) may perform a function of generating a flavor or a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule (23) may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavor is wrapped in a film. The capsule (23) may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 3, the cigarette (3) may further include a shear plug (33). The shear plug (33) may be positioned on one side of the tobacco rod (31) facing the filter rod (32). The shear plug (33) may prevent the tobacco rod (31) from escaping to the outside, and may prevent liquefied aerosol from the tobacco rod (31) from flowing into the aerosol generating device (FIGS. 1A to 1D) during smoking.

[0098] The filter load (32) may include a first segment (321) and a second segment (322). Here, the first segment (321) may correspond to the first segment of the filter load (22) of FIG. 2, and the second segment (322) may correspond to the third segment of the filter load (22) of FIG. 2.

[0099] The diameter and overall length of the cigarette (3) may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the cigarette (2) of Fig. 2. For example, the length of the shear plug (33) may be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod (31) may be about 15 mm, the length of the first segment (321) may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment (322) may be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0100] The cigarette (3) may be wrapped by at least one wrapper (35). The wrapper (35) may have at least one hole formed therein through which external air may flow in or internal gas may flow out. For example, the shear plug (33) may be wrapped by a first wrapper (351), the tobacco rod (31) may be wrapped by a second wrapper (352), the first segment (321) may be wrapped by a third wrapper (353), and the second segment (322) may be wrapped by a fourth wrapper (354). In addition, the entire cigarette (3) may be repackaged by a fifth wrapper (355).

[0101] Additionally, at least one perforation (355) may be formed in the fifth wrapper (355). For example, the perforation (355) may be formed in an area surrounding the tobacco rod (31), but is not limited thereto. The perforation (355) may serve to transfer heat generated by the heater (13) illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1D to the interior of the tobacco rod (31).

[0102] Additionally, the second segment (322) may include at least one capsule (34). Here, the capsule (34) may perform a function of generating a flavor or a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule (34) may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavor is encapsulated in a film. The capsule (34) may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0103] The first wrapper (351) may be a general filter paper combined with a metal foil such as aluminum foil. For example, the overall thickness of the first wrapper (351) may be within a range of 45 μm to 55 μm, preferably 50.3 μm. In addition, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper (351) may be within a range of 6 μm to 7 μm, preferably 6.3 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the first wrapper (351) is 50 g / m. 2 55 g / m 2 may be included within the range of , preferably 53 g / m 2 It could be.

[0104] The second wrapper (352) and the third wrapper (353) can be made of general filter paper. For example, the second wrapper (352) and the third wrapper (353) can be porous paper or non-porous paper.

[0105] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper (352) may be 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the second wrapper (352) may be within a range of 70 ㎛ to 80 ㎛, and preferably 78 ㎛. In addition, the basis weight of the second wrapper (352) may be 20 g / m 2 25 g / m 2 may be included within the range of , preferably 23.5 g / m 2 It could be.

[0106] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper (353) may be 24000 CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper (353) may be within a range of 60 ㎛ to 70 ㎛, and preferably 68 ㎛. In addition, the basis weight of the third wrapper (353) may be 20 g / m 2 25 g / m 2 may be included within the range of , preferably 21 g / m 2 It could be.

[0107] The fourth wrapper (354) can be made of PLA paper. Here, the PLA paper means three layers of paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (354) can be within a range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and preferably 110 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper (354) is 80 g / m. 2 100 g / m 2 may be included within the range of, preferably 88 g / m 2 It could be.

[0108] The fifth wrapper (355) can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (355) is 57 g / m 2 63 g / m 2may be included within the range of, preferably 60 g / m 2 It may be. In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper (355) may be within the range of 64 ㎛ to 70 ㎛, and preferably 67 ㎛.

[0109] The fifth wrapper (355) may be coated with a predetermined material. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be silicone, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicone has properties such as heat resistance with little change depending on temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicone, any material having the aforementioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper (355) without limitation.

[0110] The shear plug (33) may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the shear plug (33) may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be within a range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably within a range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the shear plug (33) may be 5.0. In addition, the cross-section of the filaments constituting the shear plug (33) may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the shear plug (33) may be within a range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably within a range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the shear plug (33) may be 28000.

[0111] Additionally, if necessary, the shear plug (33) may include at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel may be manufactured in various ways.

[0112] The tobacco rod (31) may correspond to the tobacco rod (21) described above with reference to FIG. 2. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco rod (31) is omitted below.

[0113] The first segment (321) may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure having a hollow interior. The first segment (321) may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the mono denier and total denier of the first segment (321) may be the same as the mono denier and total denier of the shear plug (33).

[0114] The second segment (322) may be made of cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the second segment (322) may be within a range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably within a range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment (322) may be 9.0. In addition, the cross-section of the filaments of the second segment (322) may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment (322) may be within a range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably 25,000.

[0115] Figure 4 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (400) according to another embodiment.

[0116] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device (400) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1A to 1D) may include a control unit (410), a sensing unit (420), an output unit (430), a battery (440), a heater (450), a user input unit (460), a memory (470), and a communication unit (480). However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device (400) is not limited to that illustrated in FIG. 4. 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 generating device (400), some of the components illustrated in FIG. 4 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0117] The sensing unit (420) can detect the status of the aerosol generating device (400) or the status around the aerosol generating device (400) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (410). Based on the detected information, the control unit (410) can control the aerosol generating device (400) to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the heater (450), restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.) is inserted, and displaying a notification.

[0118] The sensing unit (420) may include at least one of a temperature sensor (422), an insertion detection sensor (424), and a puff sensor (426), but is not limited thereto.

[0119] The temperature sensor (422) can detect the temperature at which the heater (450) (or the aerosol generating material) is heated. The aerosol generating device (400) may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heater (450), or the heater (450) itself may function as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor (422) may be placed around the battery (440) to monitor the temperature of the battery (440).

[0120] The insertion detection sensor (424) can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. For example, the insertion detection sensor (424) can include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can detect a signal change as the aerosol-generating article is inserted and / or removed.

[0121] The puff sensor (426) can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor (426) can detect the user's puff based on any one of temperature changes, flow changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0122] In addition to the sensors (422 to 426) described above, the sensing unit (420) may further include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred from its name by a person skilled in the art, a detailed description thereof may be omitted. For example, the sensing unit (420) may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor is disposed adjacent to a space where a cigarette (e.g., cigarette (2) of FIG. 2 or cigarette (3) of FIG. 3) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (400), and may detect changes in airflow in the space. For example, the pressure sensor may detect negative pressure and / or positive pressure occurring in the space where the pressure sensor is disposed. The pressure sensor may comprise at least a portion of the puff sensor (426) or the barometric pressure sensor.

[0123] The output unit (430) can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device (400) and provide it to the user. The output unit (430) can include at least one of a display unit (432), a haptic unit (434), and an audio output unit (436), but is not limited thereto. When the display unit (432) and the touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit (432) can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0124] The display unit (432) can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device (400) to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device (400) can mean various information such as the charging / discharging status of the battery (440) of the aerosol generating device (400), the preheating status of the heater (450), the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating product, or the status in which the use of the aerosol generating device (400) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal product), and the display unit (432) can output the above information to the outside. The display unit (432) can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc. In addition, the display unit (432) can also be in the form of an LED light-emitting element.

[0125] The haptic unit (434) can provide tactile information about the aerosol generating device (400) to the user by converting an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus. For example, the haptic unit (434) can include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulus device.

[0126] The acoustic output unit (436) can provide information about the aerosol generating device (400) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit (436) can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0127] The battery (440) can supply power used to operate the aerosol generating device (400). The battery (440) can supply power so that the heater (450) can be heated. In addition, the battery (440) can supply power required for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generating device (400) (e.g., the sensing unit (420), the output unit (430), the user input unit (460), the memory (470), and the communication unit (480)). The battery (440) can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery (440) can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0128] The heater (450) can receive power from the battery (440) to heat the aerosol generating material. Although not illustrated in FIG. 4, the aerosol generating device (400) may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery (440) and supplies it to the heater (450). In addition, when the aerosol generating device (400) generates the aerosol using an induction heating method, the aerosol generating device (400) may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the direct current power of the battery (440) into alternating current power.

[0129] The control unit (410), sensing unit (420), output unit (430), user input unit (460), memory (470), and communication unit (480) can perform functions by receiving power from the battery (440). Although not shown in FIG. 4, the device may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts power from the battery (440) and supplies it to each component.

[0130] In one embodiment, the heater (450) 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. In addition, the heater (450) 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.

[0131] In another embodiment, the heater (450) may be an induction heating heater. For example, the heater (450) may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil.

[0132] In one embodiment, the heater (450) may include multiple heaters. For example, the heater (450) may include a first heater for heating the cigarette and a second heater for heating the liquid.

[0133] The user input unit (460) can receive information input from a user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit (460) may include, but is not limited to, a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (contact electrostatic capacitance type, pressure resistive film type, infrared detection type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezo effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. In addition, although not illustrated in FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device (400) further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can transmit and receive information or charge a battery (440) by connecting to another external device through a connection interface such as a USB interface.

[0134] The memory (470) is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (400), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (410). The memory (470) 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 (470) may store data on the operation time of the aerosol generating device (400), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile (or heating profile), and a user's smoking pattern.

[0135] The communication unit (480) may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit (480) may include a short-range communication unit (482) and a wireless communication unit (484).

[0136] The short-range wireless communication unit (482) 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, a UWB (ultra-wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0137] The wireless communication unit (484) 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. The wireless communication unit (484) may also use subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) to identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device (400) within the communication network.

[0138] The control unit (410) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (400). In one embodiment, the control unit (410) can include at least one processor. The processor can be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or can be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present embodiment can be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0139] The control unit (410) can control the temperature of the heater (450) by controlling the supply of power from the battery (440) to the heater (450). For example, the control unit (410) can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery (440) and the heater (450). In another example, the heating direct circuit can control the power supply to the heater (450) according to a control command from the control unit (410).

[0140] The control unit (410) can analyze the results detected by the sensing unit (420) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (410) can control the power supplied to the heater (450) so that the operation of the heater (450) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensing unit (420). As another example, the control unit (410) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (450) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (450) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the sensing unit (420).

[0141] The control unit (410) can control the output unit (430) based on the result detected by the sensing unit (420). For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor (426) reaches a preset number, the control unit (410) can notify the user that the aerosol generating device (400) will soon be terminated through at least one of the display unit (432), the haptic unit (434), and the sound output unit (436).

[0142] In one embodiment, the control unit (410) may control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater (450) depending on the state of the aerosol-generating article detected by the sensing unit (420). For example, when the aerosol-generating article is in a hyper-humidified state, the control unit (410) may control the power supply time to the induction coil to increase the preheating time compared to when the aerosol-generating article is in a normal state.

[0143] An embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by a computer. Computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer, and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Furthermore, computer-readable media can include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically includes computer-readable instructions, data structures, other data, such as program modules, in a modulated data signal, or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media.

[0144] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (400) includes at least one processor and a memory storing instructions, which, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, can cause the aerosol generating device (400) to perform various operations. A description of the various operations is described in detail below with reference to FIG. 7.

[0145] FIG. 5 illustrates an identification label comprising a magnetic color-variable pigment that changes color depending on the strength of a magnetic field, according to various embodiments.

[0146] Magnetic color tunable pigments are inks based on photonic crystal technology, and can be inks whose colors reflected by light change depending on the arrangement, spacing, or density of nanoparticles dispersed in a dispersion medium. The arrangement, spacing, or density of the nanoparticles of magnetic color tunable pigments can be controlled by a magnetic field.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the magnetic color variable pigment may be a pigment in which the first colored particle positioned at the top and the second colored particle positioned at the bottom switch positions with respect to each other when a magnetic field is applied, so that the color appearing at the top changes to the opposite color.

[0148] According to one embodiment, the magnetic color-variable pigment may be a pigment whose transparency appears to change at the top as the arrangement angle of the nanoparticles changes depending on the angle at which a magnetic field is applied.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the magnetic color tunable pigment may be a pigment in which the density of nanoparticles changes in the direction or opposite direction of the applied magnetic field depending on the strength of the applied magnetic field, thereby changing the saturation of the color appearing on top.

[0150] For example, the nanoparticles included in the magnetic color-variable pigment may be nanoparticles having the same color as each other.

[0151] For example, the nanoparticles included in the magnetic color-tunable pigment may include first nanoparticles exhibiting a first color and second nanoparticles exhibiting a second color. The first nanoparticles and the second nanoparticles may respond differently to the same magnetic field intensity. For example, the first nanoparticles may not respond to the first intensity of the magnetic field, but the second nanoparticles may respond to the first intensity of the magnetic field.

[0152] In one embodiment, the magnetic color-variable pigment may include first nanoparticles (501), second nanoparticles (502), and third nanoparticles (503) that exhibit different colors. For example, the first nanoparticles (501) may exhibit yellow, the second nanoparticles (502) may exhibit red, and the third nanoparticles (503) may exhibit black. The first nanoparticles (501) may be nanoparticles that do not respond to a magnetic field, and the second nanoparticles (502) may be nanoparticles that respond even at a relatively lower magnetic field intensity than the third nanoparticles (503).

[0153] In a state 510 where no magnetic field is applied, nanoparticles of the magnetic color-variable pigment can be evenly distributed. The color observed from the top of the magnetic color-variable pigment can be a color of a mixture of the first nanoparticle (501), the second nanoparticle (502), and the third nanoparticle (503). For example, when the number of the first nanoparticle (501) is relatively greater than the number of the second nanoparticle (502) and the number of the third nanoparticle (503), the color observed from the top of the magnetic color-variable pigment can be dark yellow.

[0154] In a state 520 where a magnetic field is applied in the first century, the second nanoparticle (502) among the nanoparticles of the magnetic color variable pigment can move in the direction of application of the magnetic field. The color observed at the top of the magnetic color variable pigment due to the movement of the second nanoparticle (502) can be red, which is the color of the second nanoparticle (502).

[0155] In state 530, when a magnetic field of a second intensity stronger than the first intensity is applied, the third nanoparticle (503) among the nanoparticles of the magnetic color variable pigment can additionally move in the direction of application of the magnetic field. The color observed at the top of the magnetic color variable pigment due to the additional movement of the third nanoparticle (503) may be a mixed color of the second nanoparticle (502) and the third nanoparticle (503). For example, when the color of the third nanoparticle (503) is darker than that of the second nanoparticle (502), the color observed at the top of the variable pigment may be a color that is darker than the color of state 520 (e.g., black).

[0156] With reference to the drawings, a magnetic color-tunable pigment comprising nanoparticles exhibiting different colors is described,

[0157] By adjusting the density of nanoparticles contained in a magnetic color-tunable pigment, various magnetic color-tunable pigments can be created that exhibit different colors even when a magnetic field of the same strength is applied. For example, if the nanoparticles are red, a magnetic color-tunable pigment with a low nanoparticle density may exhibit a pink color, while a magnetic color-tunable pigment with a high nanoparticle density may exhibit a red color.

[0158] FIG. 6 illustrates examples of aerosol generating articles including identification labels, according to various embodiments.

[0159] According to one embodiment, an identification label (610 or 620) may be provided based on the magnetic color variable pigment described above with reference to FIG. 5. For example, the identification label (610 or 620) may be provided on a wrapper of a cigarette (2) (e.g., cigarette (3) of FIG. 3 or an aerosol generating article) described above with reference to FIG. 2. The identification label (610 or 620) may display a color indicating the type of cigarette (2) when a magnetic field is applied. For example, when there are three types of cigarettes (2), three types of identification labels may be manufactured to display different colors for a magnetic field of the same strength, and the identification label (610 or 620) may be an identification label having a color corresponding to a target type among the three types.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the identification label (610 or 620) may be located on the second wrapper (242), the third wrapper (243), or the fourth wrapper (244) described above with reference to FIG. 2.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the identification label (610) may be positioned on the wrapper to correspond to a distal portion of a coil (e.g., coil (13a) of FIG. 1d) or susceptor (e.g., susceptor (13b) of FIG. 1d) of an aerosol generating device when the cigarette (2) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (e.g., aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1a to 1d or aerosol generating device (400) of FIG. 4).

[0162] According to one embodiment, the identification label (620) may be positioned on the wrapper to correspond to the distal end of a cavity (e.g., cavity (13c) in FIG. 1d) of the aerosol generating device for receiving the aerosol generating article when the cigarette (2) is inserted into the aerosol generating device.

[0163] According to one embodiment, an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette (2)) may include a tobacco rod (e.g., a tobacco rod (21) of FIG. 2 or a tobacco rod (31) of FIG. 3) comprising an aerosol-generating substance, a filter rod (e.g., a filter rod (22) of FIG. 2 or a filter rod (32) of FIG. 3), at least one wrapper (e.g., a wrapper (24) of FIG. 2 or a wrapper (35) of FIG. 3) for wrapping the tobacco rod and the filter rod, and an identification label (610 or 620) positioned on the wrapper and whose color changes by a magnetic field.

[0164] According to one embodiment, the identification label (610 or 620) may include a self-color variable pigment.

[0165] Figure 7 is a flow chart of an aerosol generation method according to various embodiments.

[0166] The following operations 710 to 740 may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., an aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1A to 1D or an aerosol generating device (400) of FIG. 4). The aerosol generating device may include a heater (e.g., a heater (13) of FIGS. 1A to 1D or a heater (450) of FIG. 4) and a controller (e.g., a controller (12) of FIGS. 1A to 1D or a controller (410) of the aerosol generating device (400) of FIG. 4). For example, the heater may include a coil for induction heating (e.g., a coil (13a) of FIG. 1D).

[0167] In operation 710, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can generate a magnetic field having a target frequency when an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette (2) of FIG. 2 or a cigarette (3) of FIG. 3) is inserted. For example, the generated magnetic field can have a target intensity.

[0168] According to one embodiment, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can generate a magnetic field using a coil (13a). The control unit can generate a magnetic field inside the coil (13a) by applying an alternating current to the coil (13a).

[0169] In one embodiment, before operation 710 is performed, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine whether an aerosol generating article has been inserted into the aerosol generating device using a sensor. For example, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine whether an aerosol generating article has been inserted using an inductance sensor. For example, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine whether an aerosol generating article has been inserted using a humidity sensor. For example, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine whether an aerosol generating article has been inserted when a user input is received via a button as a sensor. For example, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine whether an aerosol generating article has been inserted using a Hall sensor located at an opening of the aerosol generating device.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can generate a magnetic field having a target frequency when it is determined that an aerosol generating article has been inserted.

[0171] In one embodiment, the control unit of the aerosol generating device may generate a magnetic field having a target frequency while preheating the aerosol generating article. For example, the control unit of the aerosol generating device may alternately generate a magnetic field for induction heating and a magnetic field for identifying the type of aerosol generating article. The frequency of the alternating current for the magnetic field for induction heating may be different from the target frequency.

[0172] In operation 720, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine a target color of a target area of ​​the aerosol generating article. For example, the target area of ​​the aerosol generating article may be an area corresponding to an identification label of the aerosol generating article (e.g., identification label (610 or 620) of FIG. 6). For example, the target area of ​​the aerosol generating article may correspond to a distal end of a coil (e.g., coil (13a) of FIG. 1D) or a susceptor (e.g., susceptor (13b) of FIG. 1D) of the aerosol generating device.

[0173] The magnetically variable pigment in the identification label can change color in response to a magnetic field. The color of the identification label provided for each type of aerosol-generating product may vary. The color of the target area of ​​the aerosol-generating product can be changed to the target color by a magnetic field.

[0174] According to one embodiment, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine a target color of a target area of ​​an aerosol generating article using a color sensor. The control unit of the aerosol generating device can include a color sensor for determining the target color of the target area. For example, the color sensor can be a light sensor or an RGB (red, green, blue) sensor.

[0175] For example, if the types of aerosol generating articles include a first type, a second type, and a third type, a first color corresponding to the first type, a second color corresponding to the second type, and a third color corresponding to the third type may be preset. The first color may be defined by a first color range, the first color may be defined by a second color range, and the third color may be defined by a third color range. The color range may be defined by the values ​​of at least one channel constituting the color (e.g., an R channel, a G channel, and a B channel). Below, a method for determining a target color of a target area of ​​an aerosol generating article is described in detail with reference to FIG. 9.

[0176] In operation 730, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine a target type corresponding to a target color among a plurality of types.

[0177] In operation 740, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can heat the aerosol generating article using a target temperature profile corresponding to the target type. Depending on the type of the aerosol generating article, the optimal heating temperature and heating time for optimal taste and / or aroma may vary. The target temperature profile can be preset so that the optimal heating temperature and heating time are indicated for generating the aerosol using the aerosol generating device having the target type. The control unit of the aerosol generating device can generate the aerosol by heating the aerosol generating article using the target temperature profile.

[0178] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating an example of an aerosol generating article including an identification label inserted into an aerosol generating device according to various embodiments.

[0179] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette (2) of FIG. 2) may be inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) described above with reference to FIG. 1d. For example, the target area (810) of the aerosol generating article may correspond to a distal end of the coil (13a) or the susceptor (13b) of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the target area (810) of the aerosol generating article may correspond to a distal end of the cavity (13c) of the aerosol generating device (1) for accommodating the aerosol generating article. The target area (810 or 820) may be located within a range of a magnetic force of a magnetic field generated by the coil (13a).

[0180] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method for determining a target type corresponding to a target color among a plurality of types according to various embodiments.

[0181] According to one embodiment, operation 720 described above with reference to FIG. 7 may include operations 910 to 930 below. Operations 910 to 930 may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1A to 1D or the aerosol generating device (400) of FIG. 4). The aerosol generating device may include a control unit (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1A to 1D or the control unit (410) of the aerosol generating device (400) of FIG. 4).

[0182] In operation 910, a control unit of an aerosol generating device can determine an initial color of a target area of ​​an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette (2) of FIG. 2 or a cigarette (3) of FIG. 3). For example, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine the initial color using a color sensor. The initial color can be determined as a sensor value for at least one channel (e.g., an R channel, a G channel, and a B channel).

[0183] In operation 920, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine whether at least one sensor value representing an initial color corresponds to any one of a color range corresponding to a plurality of types.

[0184] In one embodiment, if the initial color does not correspond to any of the color ranges, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can repeatedly perform operation 920 for a preset period of time.

[0185] In operation 930, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can determine the initial color as the target color if the initial color corresponds to any one of the color ranges.

[0186] In one embodiment, if the initial color does not correspond to any of the color ranges, the control unit of the aerosol generating device may determine the initial color as the base color. For example, the base color may be the most recently determined previous target color. For example, the base color may be a preset color. For example, if the control unit of the aerosol generating device repeatedly performs operation 920 for a preset period of time and the initial color is determined not to correspond to any of the color ranges, the initial color may be determined as the base color.

[0187] In one embodiment, after operation 930 is performed, operation 940 may be further performed below.

[0188] In operation 940, the control unit of the aerosol generating device can stop generating the magnetic field when the target color of the target area of ​​the aerosol generating article is determined.

[0189] FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 illustrate an aerosol generating device (1001) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 10, the aerosol generating device (1001) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1A to 1D or the aerosol generating device (400) of FIG. 4) may include at least one of a power source (1011) (e.g., the battery (11) of FIGS. 1A to 1D or the battery (440) of FIG. 4), a control unit (1012) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1A to 1D or the control unit (410) of FIG. 4), a sensor (1013) (e.g., the sensing unit (420) of FIG. 4), and a heater (1018) (e.g., the heater (13) of FIGS. 1A to 1D or the heater (450) of FIG. 4). At least one of the power supply (1011), the control unit (1012), the sensor (1013), and the heater (1018) may be disposed inside the body (1010) of the aerosol generating device (1001). The body (1010) may provide a space opened upwardly so that an aerosol generating article, a stick (S) (e.g., a cigarette (2) of FIG. 2 or a cigarette (3) of FIG. 3), may be inserted. The space opened upwardly may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by being recessed toward the inside of the body (1010) by a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick (S) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space 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) may be inserted into the inside of the body (1010), and the upper end of the stick (S) may protrude outside the body (1010). The user can inhale air by placing the top of the stick (S) exposed to the outside in his mouth.

[0191] The heater (1018) can heat the stick (S). The heater (1018) can extend upwardly around the space where the stick (S) is inserted. For example, the heater (1018) can be in the form of a tube having a hollow interior. The heater (1018) can be positioned around the insertion space. The heater (1018) can be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The heater (1018) can heat the insertion space or the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space. The heater (1018) can include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0192] For example, referring to FIG. 10, the heater (1018) may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater (1018) may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater (1018) may be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track. The heater (1018) may be electrically connected to a power source (1011). The heater (1018) may receive current from the power source (1011) and may be directly heated. The heater (1018) may be a hollow heater that is arranged to surround at least a portion of a stick (S) inserted into an insertion space to heat the outside of the inserted stick (S), or may be a heater in the shape of a needle, rod, tube, or the like that may be inserted into the inside of the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space to heat the inside.

[0193] For example, referring to FIG. 11, the aerosol generator (1001) may include an induction coil (1181) surrounding a heater (1018). The induction coil (1181) may heat the heater (1018). The heater (1018) may be a susceptor, and the heater (1018) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil (1181). The magnetic field may penetrate the heater (1018) and generate an eddy current within the heater (1018). The current may generate heat in the heater (1018).

[0194] 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 (1181).

[0195] The power source (1011) can supply power to operate components of the aerosol generator (1001). The power source (1011) can be referred to as a battery. The power source (1011) can supply power to at least one of the control unit (1012), the sensor (1013), and the heater (1018). When the aerosol generator (1001) includes an induction coil (1181), the power source (1011) can supply power to the induction coil (1181).

[0196] The control unit (1012) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator (1001). The control unit (1012) can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit (1012) can control the operation of at least one of the power supply (1011) and the sensor (1013). The control unit (1012) can control the operation of the induction coil (1181). The control unit (1012) can control the operation of the display, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generator (1001). The control unit (1012) can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator (1001) to determine whether the aerosol generator (1001) is in an operable state.

[0197] The control unit (1012) can analyze the results detected by the sensor (1013) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (1012) can control the power supplied to the heater (1018) so that the operation of the heater (1018) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensor (1013). For example, the control unit (1012) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (1018) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (1018) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the sensor (1013).

[0198] The sensor (1013) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion detection sensor. For example, the sensor (1013) may sense at least one of the temperature of the heater (1018), the temperature of the power source (1011), and the temperature inside and outside the body (1010). For example, the sensor (1013) may sense the user's puff. For example, the sensor (1013) may sense whether the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space.

[0199] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0200] Referring to FIG. 12, an aerosol generating device (1001) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one of a power source (1011), a control unit (1012), and a sensor (1013). At least one of the power source (1011), the control unit (1012), and the sensor (1013) may be disposed inside the body (1010) of the aerosol generating device (1001). The features of the power source (1011), the control unit (1012), and the sensor (1013) may be identically applied to the contents of the power source (1011), the control unit (1012), and the sensor (1013) described above with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0201] The body (1010) forms the overall appearance of the aerosol generator (1001) and may include an internal space in which components of the aerosol generator (1001) may be arranged. In the drawing, only an embodiment in which the body (1010) is formed in a semicircular cross-section is shown, but the shape of the body (1010) is not limited thereto, and the body (1010) may be formed in a cylindrical shape overall or in a polygonal pillar shape.

[0202] The body (1010) may include a first body surface (1010A) (e.g., a front surface of the body), a second body surface (1010B) opposite the first body surface (1010A) (e.g., a back surface of the body), and at least one third body surface (10C) (e.g., a side surface of the body) between the first body surface (1010A) and the second body surface (1010B).

[0203] Referring to FIG. 13, the body (1010) may have an insertion space (1102) formed therein. The insertion space (1102) may be formed at an upper portion of the body (1010). The insertion space (1102) may be opened upward. The insertion space (1102) may have a cylindrical shape that extends vertically. At least a portion of the stick (S) may be inserted into the body (1010) through the opening (1101) at the upper portion of the insertion space (1102). The depth of the insertion space (1102) may correspond to the length of a region of the stick (S) containing an aerosol generating material or medium.

[0204] A heater (1240) (e.g., heater (1018) of FIGS. 10 and 11) can surround at least a portion of the outside of the insertion space (1102). The heater (1240) can extend vertically along the insertion space (1102). For example, the heater (1240) can be a cylindrical electrical resistance heater surrounding at least a portion of the insertion space (1102). For example, the heater (1240) can include a cylindrical susceptor surrounding at least a portion of the insertion space (1102) and an induction coil surrounding the susceptor. The heater (1240) can heat the outside of the stick (S) accommodated in the insertion space (1102). At least one area of ​​the stick (S) accommodated in the insertion space (1102) can be heated by the heater (1240), and the vaporized particles generated by the heating of the stick (S) and the air introduced into the internal space of the body (1010) through the opening (1101) can be mixed to generate an aerosol.

[0205] A display (1141) may be placed on one side of the body (1010). At least a portion of the display (1141) may be exposed to the outside of the body (1010).

[0206] The display (1141) can provide various visual information to the user. The display (1141) can include a display panel and / or a touch panel. The display (1141) can include a cover glass.

[0207] The cover glass can form the exterior of the aerosol generator (1001) together with the body (1010). The cover glass can come into contact with a part of the user's body. The cover glass can protect the display panel and / or the touch panel from external impact.

[0208] The display panel may be arranged in a direction facing the inside of the body (1010) from the cover glass. The display panel may be arranged parallel to the cover glass.

[0209] The touch panel can detect touch corresponding to contact with an object. For example, the touch panel can detect touch corresponding to contact with a part of the user's body. The touch panel can receive user input.

[0210] A cover (1104) may be provided on the upper side of the body (1010). The cover (1104) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the opening (1101) of the body (1010). For example, the opening (1101) of the body (1010) may be circular, and the cover (1104) may be circular with a diameter larger than the diameter of the opening (1101).

[0211] The cover (1104) can be movably connected to a guide (1103) formed on the body (1010). The cover (1104) can move along the guide (1103). For example, the guide (1103) can be a groove formed on one surface of the body (1010), and the cover (1104) can include a protrusion that slides while being inserted into the groove of the body (1010). For example, the guide (1103) can be a protrusion protruding from one surface of the body (1010), and the cover (1104) has a groove that is inserted into the protrusion, and can slide along the protrusion.

[0212] The cover (1104) can open and close the opening (1101) of the body (1010) by moving along the guide (1103). For example, the cover (1104) can close the opening (1101) at a first position and open the opening (1101) at a second position. The cover (1104) can be manually moved by a user. Alternatively, the aerosol generating device (1001) may be equipped with a driving device, and the position of the cover (1104) may be moved by the driving device.

[0213] The body (1010) may include a connection terminal (not shown). The connection terminal may include a connector that allows the aerosol generator (1001) to be physically connected to an external electronic device. For example, the connection terminal may include at least one or a combination of an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0214] The method according to the embodiment may be implemented in the form of program commands that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., alone or in combination. The program commands recorded on the medium may be those specially designed and configured for the embodiment or may be those known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program commands, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories. Examples of the program commands include not only machine language codes generated by a compiler, but also high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. The hardware devices described above may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operations of the embodiment, and vice versa.

[0215] Software may include a computer program, code, instructions, or a combination of one or more of these, and may configure a processing device to perform a desired operation or, independently or collectively, command the processing device. The software and / or data may be permanently or temporarily embodied in any type of machine, component, physical device, virtual equipment, computer storage medium or device, or transmitted signal wave, for interpretation by the processing device or for providing instructions or data to the processing device. The software may also be distributed over networked computer systems and stored or executed in a distributed manner. The software and data may be stored on one or more computer-readable recording media.

[0216] Although the embodiments described above have been described with limited drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various technical modifications and variations can be applied based on the above. For example, appropriate results can still be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order than described, and / or components of the described systems, structures, devices, circuits, etc. are combined or combined in a different manner than described, or are replaced or substituted with other components or equivalents.

[0217] Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims described below.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating method performed by an aerosol generating device, When an aerosol generating article is inserted into the above aerosol generating device, an operation of generating a magnetic field having a target frequency; An action for determining a target color of a target area of ​​the aerosol generating article; An operation of determining a target type corresponding to the target color among multiple types; and An operation of heating the aerosol generating article using a target temperature profile corresponding to the target type. including, Method of generating aerosol.

2. In paragraph 1, The operation of determining the target color of the target area of ​​the above aerosol generating article is: An action for determining the initial color of the above target area; An operation of determining whether at least one sensor value representing the initial color corresponds to any one of the color ranges corresponding to the plurality of types; and An operation of determining the initial color as the target color if the initial color corresponds to any one of the color ranges. Including, Method of generating aerosol.

3. In paragraph 1, An action of stopping the generation of the magnetic field when the target color of the target area of ​​the aerosol generating product is determined. including more, Method of generating aerosol.

4. In paragraph 1, An action of determining whether the aerosol generating article has been inserted into the aerosol generating device using a sensor. including more, Method of generating aerosol.

5. In paragraph 1, The operation of generating a magnetic field having the above target frequency is: An operation of generating the magnetic field having the target frequency while preheating the aerosol generating article is performed. including, Method of generating aerosol.

6. In paragraph 1, The target area corresponds to the end portion of the coil or susceptor of the aerosol generating device. Method of generating aerosol.

7. In paragraph 1, The target area corresponds to the terminal portion of the cavity of the aerosol generating device for receiving the aerosol generating article. Method of generating aerosol.

8. In paragraph 1, The color of the target area changes to the target color by the magnetic field, Method of generating aerosol.

9. A computer-readable recording medium storing a program for executing the method according to paragraph 1.

10. In the aerosol generating device, A coil that generates an alternating magnetic field based on a motion signal; and A control unit for controlling the above aerosol generating device Including, The above control unit, When an aerosol generating article is inserted into the above aerosol generating device, an operation of generating a magnetic field having a target frequency; An action for determining a target color of a target area of ​​the aerosol generating article; An operation of determining a target type corresponding to the target color among multiple types; and An operation of heating the aerosol generating article using a target temperature profile corresponding to the target type. to perform, Aerosol generating device.

11. In paragraph 10, A color sensor for determining the target color of the target area including more, Aerosol generating device.

12. In paragraph 11, The color sensor is arranged to correspond to the end of the coil or susceptor of the aerosol generating device. Aerosol generating device.

13. In paragraph 11, The color sensor is disposed at the end of the cavity of the aerosol generating device for receiving the aerosol generating article. Aerosol generating device.

14. Aerosol generating products, Tobacco rod containing an aerosol generating substance; Filter load; At least one wrapper for wrapping the tobacco rod and filter rod; and An identification label located on the above wrapper and whose color changes due to a magnetic field including, Aerosol generating articles.

15. In paragraph 14, The above identification label comprises a self-color variable pigment, Aerosol generating articles.

Images