Aerosol generating device comprising sensor module

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device may comprise: a housing including a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article may be inserted; and a sensor module disposed in the cavity, wherein the sensor module may include: a light-emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength toward the cavity; a light-receiving unit receiving light emitted from the aerosol-generating article; and a filter for filtering light of the first wavelength among the light received by the light-receiving unit.

Description

Aerosol generating device including a sensor module

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to an aerosol generating device including a sensor module.

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternative products that overcome the shortcomings of traditional cigarettes. For example, demand is growing for devices that generate aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette stick (e.g., heat-not-burn electronic cigarettes). Accordingly, research is actively underway on cigarette sticks (or aerosol-generating devices) and electrically heated aerosol-generating devices into which the cigarette stick is inserted.

[0003] The background technology described above is technology that the inventor possessed or acquired in the process of deriving the disclosure of the present application, and cannot necessarily be said to be publicly known technology disclosed to the general public prior to the present application.

[0004] Aerosol-generating devices can be used with various types of aerosol-generating articles inserted into them. Aerosol-generating articles include aerosol-generating substances, and may be, for example, cigarettes, sticks, capsules, liquid substances, or cartridges.

[0005] The aerosol-generating device can identify information about the aerosol-generating item and generate aerosol based on this information. For example, the aerosol-generating device can control the operation of the heater based on information about the inserted stick, thereby providing a temperature profile appropriate for each stick.

[0006] If the aerosol-generating device cannot recognize the aerosol-generating item itself, the user must manually enter the type of aerosol-generating item being inserted, which is cumbersome. Furthermore, creating markers for identifying each aerosol-generating item presents various challenges, and depending on the recognition method, the aerosol-generating device's recognition accuracy can sometimes be reduced.

[0007] In one embodiment, an aerosol-generating device may include a housing including a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted; a sensor module disposed in the cavity; at least one processor receiving a detection result from the sensor module; and a memory operatively connected to the at least one processor and storing executable instructions. In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a light-emitting unit emitting light of a first wavelength toward the cavity, a light-receiving unit receiving light emitted from the aerosol-generating article, and a filter filtering light of the first wavelength among light received by the light-receiving unit. In one embodiment, the at least one processor may recognize identification information for the aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light filtered by the filter by executing the instructions stored in the memory.

[0008] Alternatively, an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment may include a housing including a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted; a sensor module disposed in the cavity; at least one processor receiving a detection result from the sensor module; and a memory operatively connected to the at least one processor and storing executable instructions. In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a light-emitting unit emitting light of a first wavelength toward the cavity, a light-receiving unit receiving light emitted from the aerosol-generating article, and a filter for filtering light of the first wavelength among light received by the light-receiving unit. In one embodiment, the at least one processor may recognize identification information for the aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light filtered by the filter by executing the instructions stored in the memory.

[0009] An aerosol generating device including a sensor module of one embodiment can identify information about an inserted aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a stick, a capsule, or a cartridge) based on the amount of light of a specific wavelength transmitted to the light receiving unit.

[0010] Additionally, an aerosol generating device including a sensor module according to one embodiment may have design advantages in the control unit and may improve the accuracy of optical recognition. Furthermore, the manufacturing difficulty of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment and the identification marker of the aerosol-generating article inserted therein may be improved.

[0011] The effects of the aerosol generating device including a sensor module according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an example of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette or a stick) inserted into an aerosol-generating device according to various embodiments.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of an aerosol-generating article inserted into an aerosol-generating device according to various embodiments.

[0014] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 4b is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 6A is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 6b is a plan view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 6c is a block diagram of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 7a is a graph illustrating a detection result of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 7b is a graph illustrating the detection results of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 8 is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 9 is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 10 is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 11 is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 12 is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 13 is a plan view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 14 is a plan view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 15 is a plan view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0031] The terms used in the examples are selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of the present invention. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the relevant invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined not simply based on their names, but based on their meanings and the overall content of the present invention.

[0032] When a part of the specification is said to "include" a component, this does not exclude other components, but rather implies the inclusion of other components, unless otherwise specifically stated. Furthermore, terms such as "part" and "module" used in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0033] Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. However, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0035] Figures 1 and 2 are drawings showing examples of cigarettes inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0036] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a battery (11), a control unit (12), and a heater (13), and in one embodiment, may further include a vaporizer (14). In addition, a stick (2) (e.g., a cigarette, an aerosol generating article, or a cartridge) may be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0037] Hereinafter, an object inserted into an aerosol generating device (1) according to various embodiments of the present document is described as a 'stick (2)', but the object inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to a stick (2), and various objects such as, for example, a cigarette, a cartridge, or other electronic devices may be inserted into the aerosol generating device (1).

[0038] The aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 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. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include other general-purpose components.

[0039] In Fig. 1, the battery (11), the control unit (12), the vaporizer (14), and the heater (13) are illustrated as being arranged in a row, and in Fig. 2, the vaporizer (14) and the 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. 1 and 2. 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.

[0040] In one embodiment, when the stick (2) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), the aerosol generating device (1) can operate the heater (13) and / or the vaporizer (14) to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater (13) and / or the vaporizer (14) passes through the stick (2) and is delivered to the user. If necessary, the aerosol generating device (1) can heat the heater (13) even when the stick (2) is not inserted into the aerosol generating device (1).

[0041] In one embodiment, the battery (11) supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the battery (11) may supply power to heat the heater (13) or the vaporizer (14), and may supply power required for the control unit (12) to operate. In addition, the battery (11) may supply power required for the operation of the display, sensors, motors, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0042] In one embodiment, 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), the heater (13), and the 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.

[0043] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) may include at least one processor. The at least one processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates. Alternatively, the at least one processor may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present embodiment may be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0044] In one embodiment, the heater (13) may 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) may be located on the outside of the cigarette. The heated heater (13) may increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material within the cigarette.

[0045] In one embodiment, the heater (13) may be an electrically resistive 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 may be any heater that can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device (1), or may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0046] In one embodiment, the heater (13) may be an induction heater. Specifically, the heater (13) may include an electrically conductive coil for inductively heating a cigarette, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heater.

[0047] 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 stick (2) depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0048] In one embodiment, 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 stick (2) or may be arranged on the exterior of the stick (2). In addition, some of the plurality of heaters (13) may be arranged to be inserted into the interior of the stick (2), and the remainder may be arranged on the exterior of the stick (2). In addition, the shape of the heater (13) is not limited to the shape illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, and may be manufactured in various shapes.

[0049] In one embodiment, the vaporizer (14) can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user through the stick (2). The aerosol generated by the vaporizer (14) can travel along the airflow path of the aerosol generating device (1), and the airflow path can be configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer (14) can pass through the cigarette and be delivered to the user.

[0050] 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.

[0051] In one embodiment, the liquid reservoir can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material including volatile tobacco flavoring components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. The liquid reservoir can be constructed to be detachable from / attached to the vaporizer (14), or can be constructed integrally with the vaporizer (14).

[0052] 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.

[0053] In one embodiment, 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 a wick such as, but not limited to, cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramics.

[0054] In one embodiment, the 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.

[0055] For example, the vaporizer (14) may be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0056] In one embodiment, 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 stick (2) is inserted.

[0057] Although not illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device (1) may 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.

[0058] In one embodiment, the stick (2) may resemble a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the stick (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 stick (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.

[0059] In one embodiment, the entire first part may be inserted into the interior of 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 interior of 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 their mouth. 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.

[0060] In one embodiment, 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 stick (2) through at least one hole formed on the surface of the stick (2).

[0061] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment may include a control unit (110) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2), a sensing unit (120), an output unit (130), a battery (140), a heater (150) (e.g., the battery (11) of FIGS. 1 and 2), a user input unit (160), a memory (170), and a communication unit (180).

[0063] However, the configuration of the aerosol generating device (100) is not limited to that shown in FIG. 3, and some of the configurations of FIG. 3 may be omitted or replaced, or new configurations may be added, depending on the aerosol generating device (100) of various embodiments.

[0064] In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) can detect the status of the aerosol generating device (100) or the status around the aerosol generating device (100) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (110). Based on the detected information, the control unit (110) can control the aerosol generating device (100) to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater (150), restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating item (e.g., a cigarette, a cartridge, a stick, etc.) (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2) is inserted, and displaying a notification.

[0065] In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) may include at least one of a temperature sensor (122), an insertion detection sensor (124), and a puff sensor (126).

[0066] In one embodiment, the temperature sensor (122) can detect the temperature at which the heater (150) (or the aerosol generating material) is heated. The aerosol generating device (100) may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heater (150). Alternatively, the heater (150) may act as the temperature sensor (122). In one embodiment, the temperature sensor (122) may be placed around the battery (140) to monitor the temperature of the battery (140).

[0067] In one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor (124) can detect insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. For example, the insertion detection sensor (124) 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 an aerosol-generating article is inserted and / or removed.

[0068] In one embodiment, the puff sensor (126) may detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in an airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor (126) may detect a user's puff based on any one of temperature changes, flow changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0069] In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) is not limited to the sensors described above, and 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 by a person skilled in the art from its name, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0070] In one embodiment, the output unit (130) can output information on the status of the aerosol generating device (100) and provide it to the user. The output unit (130) can include at least one of a display unit (132), a haptic unit (134), and an audio output unit (136), but is not limited thereto. When the display unit (132) and the touch pad form a touch screen having a layered structure, the display unit (132) can be used as an input device as well as an output device.

[0071] In one embodiment, the display unit (132) can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device (100) to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device (100) can mean various information such as the charging / discharging status of the battery (140) of the aerosol generating device (100), the preheating status of the heater (150), the insertion / removal status of an aerosol generating item, or a status in which the use of the aerosol generating device (100) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the display unit (132) can output the information to the outside. The display unit (132) can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. In addition, the display unit (132) can also be in the form of an LED light-emitting element.

[0072] In one embodiment, the haptic component (134) may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus to provide tactile information about the aerosol generating device (100) to the user. For example, the haptic component (134) may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0073] In one embodiment, the acoustic output unit (136) can provide information about the aerosol generating device (100) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit (136) can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it externally.

[0074] In one embodiment, the battery (140) can supply power used to operate the aerosol generating device (100). The battery (140) can supply power so that the heater (150) can be heated. In addition, the battery (140) can supply power required for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generating device (100) (e.g., the sensing unit (120), the output unit (130), the user input unit (160), the memory (170), and the communication unit (180)). The battery (140) can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery (140) can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0075] In one embodiment, the heater (150) may receive power from the battery (140) to heat the aerosol generating material. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (100) may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / AC converter) that converts power from the battery (140) and supplies it to the heater (150).

[0076] In one embodiment, when the aerosol generating device (100) generates the aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating device (100) may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the direct current power of the battery (140) into alternating current power.

[0077] In one embodiment, the control unit (110), the sensing unit (120), the output unit (130), the user input unit (160), the memory (170), and the communication unit (180) can perform functions by receiving power from the battery (140).

[0078] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (100) may further include a power conversion circuit, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts power from the battery (140) and supplies it to each of the components.

[0079] In one embodiment, the heater (150) 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 (150) 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.

[0080] In one embodiment, the heater (150) may be an induction heating heater. For example, the heater (150) may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil.

[0081] In one embodiment, the heater (150) may be comprised of a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater (150) may include a first heater for heating the cigarette and a second heater for heating the liquid.

[0082] In one embodiment, the user input unit (160) may receive information input from a user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit (160) may include, but is not limited to, a keypad, 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.

[0083] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (100) may further include a connection interface, such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface. The aerosol generating device (100) may be connected to another external device through a connection interface, such as a USB interface, to transmit and receive information or to charge a battery (140).

[0084] In one embodiment, the memory (170) is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (100), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (110). The memory (170) 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 (170) may store data on the operation time of the aerosol generating device (100), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and a user's smoking pattern.

[0085] In one embodiment, the communication unit (180) may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit (180) may include a short-range communication unit (182) and a wireless communication unit (184).

[0086] In one embodiment, the short-range wireless communication unit (182) may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra-wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0087] In one embodiment, the wireless communication unit (184) 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 (184) may also use subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) to identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device (100) within the communication network.

[0088] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (100). In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can include at least one processor. The at least one 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 to which the present embodiment pertains that the processor can be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0089] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the temperature of the heater (150) by controlling the supply of power from the battery (140) to the heater (150). For example, the control unit (110) can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery (140) and the heater (150). In one embodiment, the heating integrated circuit can control the power supply to the heater (150) according to a control command of the control unit (110).

[0090] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can analyze the results detected by the sensing unit (120) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (110) can control the power supplied to the heater (150) so that the operation of the heater (150) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensing unit (120). For example, the control unit (110) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (150) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (150) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the sensing unit (120).

[0091] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may control the output unit (130) based on the result detected by the sensing unit (120). For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor (126) reaches a preset number, the control unit (110) may notify the user that the aerosol generating device (100) will soon be terminated through at least one of the display unit (132), the haptic unit (134), and the sound output unit (136).

[0092] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater (150) depending on the state of the aerosol-generating article detected by the sensing unit (120). For example, when the aerosol-generating article is in a hyper-humid state, the control unit (110) 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.

[0093] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) 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 may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer, and may include both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Furthermore, computer-readable media may include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media may include 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 in a modulated data signal, such as program modules, or other transmission mechanisms, and may include any information delivery media.

[0094] FIG. 4a and FIG. 4b are schematic diagrams of an aerosol generating device (200) and an aerosol generating article (201) according to one embodiment.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, an aerosol generating device (200) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 3) may include a housing (210) and a sensor module (250) (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3).

[0096] Hereinafter, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted for explanation, and it is to be understood that some components and structures of the aerosol generating device (200) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the embodiments described above may be combined in the aerosol generating device (200) unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0097] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (200). Alternatively, the housing (210) may accommodate other components of the aerosol generating device (200). The housing (210) may be a body or a main body.

[0098] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may include at least one of an inlet (211) and a cover (217). The inlet (211) may be an opening or hole for inserting an aerosol-generating article (201) (e.g., a stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2). The inlet (211) may be formed to be open on one side of the housing (210) (e.g., an upper side or a side in the +Z direction). The cover (217) may be movably (e.g., slidably) coupled to one side of the housing (210). The cover (217) may open and close the inlet (211).

[0099] Hereinafter, an object inserted or removed from an aerosol generating device (200) according to various embodiments of this document is referred to as an 'aerosol generating article (201)', but is not limited to this when actually implementing the aerosol generating device (200).

[0100] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may include a cavity (213). An aerosol-generating article (201) may be inserted into the cavity (213). The cavity (213) may be an elongated cavity, a bonding region, an insertion region, or a heating region that accommodates the aerosol-generating article (201). The cavity (213) may have a shape corresponding to at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article (201).

[0101] In one embodiment, the cavity (213) may be connected to the suction port (211). The cavity (213) may have a shape extending in one direction (e.g., in the -Z direction) from the suction port (211). The aerosol-generating article (201) may be inserted longitudinally through the suction port (211) into the cavity (213).

[0102] In one embodiment, a sensor module (250) may be placed in the cavity (213). The sensor module (250) may detect whether an aerosol-generating article (201) has been inserted into the cavity (213). In addition, the sensor module (250) may detect identification information of the aerosol-generating article (201).

[0103] In one embodiment, the sensor module (250) may include a light emitting unit (251) and a light receiving unit (255). The light emitting unit (251) may emit light of a first wavelength toward the cavity (213). For example, the light emitting unit (251) may be formed of at least one light emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows therethrough.

[0104] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating article (201) may include an identification area (203). The identification area (203) may be provided on at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article (201). A physical, chemical, or optical marker (e.g., a taggant) may be provided in the identification area (203).

[0105] For example, the identification area (203) may be coated with a chemical substance that emits light by changing the wavelength of the transmitted light. Based on the identification information of each aerosol-generating article (201), the amount, type, and / or composition ratio of the chemical substance applied to the identification area (203) may be determined. The aerosol-generating device (200) may recognize the identification information for the aerosol-generating article (201) from the identification area (203).

[0106] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the light of the first wavelength emitted by the light emitting unit (251) can be transmitted to the identification area (203) of the aerosol-generating article (201). The light of the first wavelength is excited in the identification area (203), and the identification area (203) can emit light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength. Optical characteristics, such as the wavelength and amount of light emitted from the identification area (203), can be determined by a marker provided in the identification area (203).

[0107] In one embodiment, the light receiving unit (255) can receive light emitted from the identification area (203) of the aerosol generating article (201). For example, the light receiving unit (255) can be formed of at least one light receiving diode that conducts current when irradiated with light.

[0108] In one embodiment, the sensor module (250) can detect the optical characteristics of light emitted from the aerosol-generating article (201), for example, the amount of light of a second wavelength, to recognize identification information about the aerosol-generating article (201). The sensor module (250) can provide the detection result to at least one processor (260) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the control unit (110) of FIG. 3).

[0109] In one embodiment, the sensor module (250) may include a filter (e.g., filter (480) of FIG. 6C) to filter light of a first wavelength or a wavelength of a portion adjacent thereto among the light received by the light receiving unit (255). The sensor module (250) may recognize identification information for the aerosol-generating article (201) based on optical characteristics (e.g., light quantity) of the light after being filtered.

[0110] Hereinafter, in explaining the optical characteristics of light detected by the sensor module (250), the amount of light of the second wavelength (or the amount of light after filtering) is explained as an example of the optical characteristics. However, the optical characteristics detected by the sensor module (250) are not limited thereto.

[0111] In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength may be infrared, and the light of the second wavelength may be infrared having a wavelength different from the first wavelength. For example, the first wavelength may be a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm. The second wavelength may be a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

[0112] In one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (250) can recognize identification information of an aerosol-generating article (201) without being visually exposed to a user by using light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength, which are infrared rays.

[0113] In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength may be ultraviolet light and the light of the second wavelength may be infrared light. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength may be ultraviolet light and the light of the second wavelength may be visible light.

[0114] In one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (250) can improve identification accuracy by using different types of light (or light with a relatively large wavelength change) such as light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength.

[0115] In one embodiment, at least one processor (260) can receive detection results from the sensor module (250). A memory (265) (e.g., memory (170) of FIG. 3) is operatively connected to at least one processor (260) and can store executable instructions. At least one processor (260) can control the operation of the aerosol generating device (200) by executing the instructions stored in the memory (265).

[0116] In one embodiment, at least one processor (260) receives a detection result from a sensor module (250) and executes a command related to the sensor module (250) among the commands stored in the memory (265), thereby recognizing identification information for an aerosol-generating article (201) based on the amount of light of the second wavelength.

[0117] For example, the identification information may be information about the type, authenticity, and / or content of the aerosol-generating article (201). At least one processor (260) may control the operation of the aerosol-generating device (200) based on the recognized identification information.

[0118] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (200) may further include a heater (270) (e.g., heater (13) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or heater (150) of FIG. 3). At least one processor (260) may control the operation of the heater (270) differently based on identification information by executing commands related to the operation of the heater (270) among commands stored in the memory (265).

[0119] For example, the memory (265) of the aerosol generating device (200) may have information on an appropriate temperature profile and operation based on various information such as the type of the aerosol generating article (201), the type of the contained substance, the content ratio of the substance, the content of the substance, and the degree of over-humidification. At least one processor (260) may execute a command for operation of the heater (270) (e.g., operation cycle, operation intensity, etc.) from the memory (265) based on the identification information, thereby performing operation customized to the aerosol generating article (201).

[0120] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (200) can recognize identification information about an aerosol generating item (201) identified through a sensor module (250) and automatically customize and control the operation of the aerosol generating device (200) based on the identification information, even if the user does not input information about the aerosol generating item (201) or directly control the operation of the aerosol generating device (200).

[0121] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device (300) and an aerosol generating article (301) according to one embodiment.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 5, an aerosol generating device (300) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 3, or the aerosol generating device (200) of FIGS. 4a and 4b) may include a housing (310) and a sensor module (350) (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3 or the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4a and 4b).

[0123] Hereinafter, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted for explanation, and it is to be understood that some components and structures of the aerosol generating device (300) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the embodiments described above may be combined in the aerosol generating device (300) unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0124] In one embodiment, the housing (310) may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (300). Alternatively, the housing (310) may house other components of the aerosol generating device (300). The housing (310) may be a body or a main body.

[0125] In one embodiment, the housing (310) may include at least one of an inlet (311) and a cover (317). The inlet (311) may be an opening or hole for a user to inhale an aerosol. Alternatively, the inlet (311) may be an opening or hole for inserting a stick-shaped aerosol-generating article (e.g., a stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or an aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B). The inlet (311) may be formed to be open on one side of the housing (310) (e.g., an upper side or a side in the +Z direction). The cover (317) may be movably (e.g., slidably) coupled to one side of the housing (310). The cover (317) may open and close the inlet (311).

[0126] In one embodiment, the housing (310) may include a cavity (313). An aerosol-generating article (301) (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B) may be inserted into the cavity (313). The aerosol-generating article (301) may be configured as a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol-generating material, a solid aerosol-generating material, and / or a capsule. The aerosol-generating article (301) may be detachably coupled to the housing (310).

[0127] Hereinafter, an object inserted or removed from an aerosol generating device (300) according to various embodiments of this document is referred to as an 'aerosol generating article (301)', but is not limited to this in the actual implementation of the aerosol generating device (300).

[0128] In one embodiment, the cavity (313) may be a cavity, a bonding region, an insertion region, or a heating region that accommodates the aerosol-generating article (301). The cavity (313) may have a shape corresponding to at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article (301).

[0129] In one embodiment, the housing (310) may further include an aerosol flow path (315) and a terminal (319). When an aerosol-generating article (301) is inserted into the cavity (313), the aerosol flow path (315) and the terminal (319) may be connected to the aerosol-generating article (301), respectively.

[0130] In one embodiment, the aerosol conduit (315) can receive aerosol generating material and / or aerosol from the aerosol generating article (301). The aerosol conduit (315) can be connected to the inlet (311).

[0131] In one embodiment, the terminal (319) can be electrically connected to the aerosol-generating article (301). The terminal (319) can transmit and receive power and / or electrical signals for the aerosol-generating article (301).

[0132] In one embodiment, a sensor module (350) may be placed in the cavity (313). The sensor module (350) may detect whether an aerosol-generating article (301) has been inserted into the cavity (313). In addition, the sensor module (350) may detect identification information of the aerosol-generating article (301).

[0133] In one embodiment, the sensor module (350) may include a light emitting unit (351) and a light receiving unit (355). The light emitting unit (351) may emit light of a first wavelength toward the cavity (313). For example, the light emitting unit (351) may be formed of at least one light emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows therethrough.

[0134] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating article (301) may include an identification area (303). The identification area (303) may be provided on at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article (301). A physical, chemical, or optical marker (e.g., a taggant) may be provided in the identification area (303).

[0135] For example, the identification area (303) may be coated with a chemical substance that emits light by changing the wavelength of the transmitted light. Based on the identification information of each aerosol-generating article (301), the amount, type, and / or composition ratio of the chemical substance applied to the identification area (303) may be determined. The aerosol-generating device (300) may recognize the identification information for the aerosol-generating article (301) from the identification area (303).

[0136] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the light of the first wavelength emitted by the light emitting unit (351) can be transmitted to the identification area (303) of the aerosol-generating article (301). The light of the first wavelength is excited in the identification area (303), and the identification area (303) can emit light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength. Optical characteristics, such as the wavelength and amount of light emitted from the identification area (303), can be determined by a marker provided in the identification area (303).

[0137] In one embodiment, the light receiving unit (355) can receive light emitted from the identification area (303) of the aerosol generating article (301). For example, the light receiving unit (355) can be formed of at least one light receiving diode that allows current to flow when light is irradiated.

[0138] In one embodiment, the sensor module (350) can detect the optical characteristics of light emitted from the aerosol-generating article (301), for example, the amount of light of a second wavelength, to recognize identification information about the aerosol-generating article (301). The sensor module (350) can provide the detection result to at least one processor (360) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the control unit (110) of FIG. 3, or at least one processor (260) of FIG. 4b).

[0139] In one embodiment, the sensor module (350) may include a filter (e.g., filter (480) of FIG. 6C) to filter light of a first wavelength or a wavelength of a region adjacent thereto among the light received by the light receiving unit (355). The sensor module (350) may recognize identification information for the aerosol-generating article (301) based on optical characteristics (e.g., light quantity) of the light after being filtered.

[0140] Hereinafter, when explaining the optical characteristics of light detected by the sensor module (350), the amount of light of the second wavelength (or the amount of light after filtering) is explained as an example of the optical characteristics. However, the optical characteristics detected by the sensor module (350) are not limited thereto.

[0141] In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength may be infrared, and the light of the second wavelength may be infrared having a wavelength different from the first wavelength. For example, the first wavelength may be a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm. The second wavelength may be a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

[0142] In one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (350) can safely recognize the identification information of an aerosol-generating article (301) without being visually exposed to the user by using light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength, which are infrared rays.

[0143] In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength may be ultraviolet light and the light of the second wavelength may be infrared light. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength may be ultraviolet light and the light of the second wavelength may be visible light.

[0144] In one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (350) can improve identification accuracy by using different types of light (or light with a relatively large wavelength change) such as light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength.

[0145] In one embodiment, at least one processor (360) can receive detection results from the sensor module (350). A memory (365) (e.g., memory (170) of FIG. 3 or memory (265) of FIG. 4B) is operatively connected to at least one processor (360) and can store executable instructions. At least one processor (360) can control the operation of the aerosol generating device (300) by executing instructions stored in the memory (365).

[0146] In one embodiment, at least one processor (360) receives a detection result from a sensor module (350) and executes a command related to the sensor module (350) among the commands stored in the memory (365), thereby recognizing identification information for an aerosol-generating article (301) based on the amount of light of the second wavelength.

[0147] For example, the identification information may be information about the type, authenticity, and / or content of the aerosol-generating article (301). At least one processor (360) may control the operation of the aerosol-generating device (300) based on the recognized identification information.

[0148] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (300) may further include a heater (370) (e.g., heater (13) of FIGS. 1 and 2, heater (150) of FIG. 3, or heater (370) of FIG. 4B). The heater (370) may be disposed inside the housing (310). Alternatively, the heater (370) may be disposed in the aerosol generating article (301), and the aerosol generating article (301) may receive power and / or an electrical signal for driving the heater (370) from the aerosol generating device (300) via the terminal (319).

[0149] In one embodiment, at least one processor (360) can control the operation of the heater (370) differently based on the identification information by executing a command related to the operation of the heater (370) among the commands stored in the memory (365).

[0150] For example, the memory (365) of the aerosol generating device (300) may have information on an appropriate temperature profile and operation based on various information such as the type of the aerosol generating article (301), the type of the contained substance, the content ratio of the substance, the content of the substance, and the degree of over-humidification. At least one processor (360) may execute a command for operation of the heater (370) (e.g., operation cycle, operation intensity, etc.) from the memory (365) based on the identification information, thereby performing operation customized to the aerosol generating article (301).

[0151] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (300) can recognize identification information about an aerosol generating item (301) identified through a sensor module (350) and automatically customize and control the operation of the aerosol generating device (300) based on the identification information, even if the user does not input information about the aerosol generating item (301) or directly control the operation of the aerosol generating device (300).

[0152] Hereinafter, various embodiments of a sensor module (e.g., the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5) will be described with reference to the drawings. However, this is merely a limited description of an exemplary implementation, and the implementation of the sensor module (250, 350) is not limited to the drawings and the description to be provided below, and the sensor module (250, 350) may have various structures, shapes, components, and arrangements.

[0153] FIG. 6a is a side view of a sensor module (450) according to one embodiment, FIG. 6b is a plan view of a sensor module (450) according to one embodiment, and FIG. 6c is a block diagram of a sensor module (450) according to one embodiment.

[0154] Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, a sensor module (450) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, or the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5) may further include at least a portion of a substrate (458), a molding member (460), and a filter (480).

[0155] Hereinafter, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted for explanation. It should be understood that, with reference to the drawings and descriptions below, some configurations and structures of the sensor module (450) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with an electronic device, unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0156] In one embodiment, the substrate (458) may include a substrate surface (458a) and a substrate terminal (459). The substrate surface (458a) may be a surface of the substrate (458) on which a device or chip is placed (e.g., a surface in the +Z direction). The substrate terminal (459) may be formed on a surface opposite to the substrate surface (458a) (e.g., a surface in the -Z direction).

[0157] In one embodiment, the substrate surface (458a) may be a surface facing a detection target of the sensor module (450) (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, or the aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5). The substrate terminal (459) may be electrically and / or physically connected to an aerosol-generating device (e.g., the aerosol-generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating device (100) of FIG. 3, the aerosol-generating device (200) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, or the aerosol-generating device (300) of FIG. 5).

[0158] In one embodiment, the light emitting unit (451) (e.g., the light emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B or the light emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5) may be formed of at least one light emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows through it.

[0159] In one embodiment, the light receiving unit (455) (e.g., the light receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4b or the light receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5) may be comprised of at least one light receiving diode through which current flows when light is irradiated.

[0160] In one embodiment, the sensor module (450) may include at least some of a first element (451), a second element (456), a first conductive member (453), and a second conductive member (457).

[0161] In one embodiment, the first element (451) and the second element (456) may be provided on the substrate surface (458a). The first element (451) may be connected to a light-emitting unit (451) formed of a light-emitting diode. The second element (456) may be connected to a light-receiving unit (455) formed of a light-receiving diode.

[0162] In one embodiment, the first conductive member (453) can electrically connect the first element (451) and the light-emitting unit (451). The second conductive member (457) can electrically connect the second element (456) and the light-receiving unit (455).

[0163] For example, the first element (451) may be composed of two terminals including a negative terminal and a positive terminal. The light emitting unit (451) may be directly coupled to either of the two terminals. The first conductive member (453) may connect the light emitting unit (451) to the other of the two terminals.

[0164] For example, the second element (456) may be composed of two terminals (e.g., a negative terminal and a positive terminal). The light receiving unit (455) may be directly coupled to either of the two terminals. The second conductive member (457) may connect the light receiving unit (455) to the other of the two terminals.

[0165] In one embodiment, the first element (451) and the second element (456) may be arranged adjacent to each other on the substrate surface (458a). In addition, the light emitting unit (451) and the light receiving unit (455) may be arranged adjacent to each other on the substrate surface (458a).

[0166] In one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (450) may be implemented in a package form by arranging a light emitting unit (451) and a light receiving unit (455) on a substrate surface (458a) of a single substrate (458). The sensor module (450) in a package form may be advantageous for miniaturization. The sensor module (450) may provide space efficiency for the aerosol generating device.

[0167] In one embodiment, a molding member (460) may be disposed on the substrate surface (458a). The molding member (460) may protect the substrate surface (458a) and other components mounted on the substrate surface (458a). The molding member (460) may be made of a non-conductive material. The molding member (460) may reduce or prevent electrical short-circuiting or unnecessary short-circuiting of the substrate surface (458a) and other components mounted on the substrate surface (458a).

[0168] In one embodiment, the molding member (460) may include a base region (461). The base region (461) may be arranged to surround the light emitting unit (451) and the light receiving unit (455) on the substrate surface (458a).

[0169] In one embodiment, the molding member (460) may be made of a light-transmitting material. The molding member (460) may guide light emitted from the light-emitting unit (451) through the base region (461) to be transmitted to the detection target of the sensor module (450).

[0170] In one embodiment, the base region (461) may be formed as a single body by connecting regions surrounding each of the light emitting unit (451) and the light receiving unit (455). The base region (461) may be substantially uniformly applied on the substrate surface (458a) and cured. The base region (461) formed as a single body may provide efficiency in manufacturing the sensor module (450).

[0171] However, "substantially" in this document may mean the same level, reflecting tolerances or errors in typical manufacturing processes. Alternatively, "substantially" may refer to a range that includes any of + / -0.1%, + / -0.5%, + / -1%, + / -3%, + / -5%, + / -7%, + / -10%, + / -15%, and + / -20%, based on the literal equivalent 0%.

[0172] In one embodiment, the filter (480) can filter at least a portion of the light received by the light receiving unit (455). For example, the filter (480) can filter light of a first wavelength among the light received by the light receiving unit (455). Alternatively, for example, the filter (480) can filter light of a portion of the light received by the light receiving unit (455) that includes light of the first wavelength.

[0173] In one embodiment, at least one processor (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the control unit (110) of FIG. 3, at least one processor (260) of FIG. 4B, or at least one processor (360) of FIG. 5) can recognize identification information for an aerosol-generating article (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, or the aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5) based on the amount of light filtered by the filter (480) by executing instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory (170) of FIG. 3, the memory (265) of FIG. 4B, or the memory (365) of FIG. 5).

[0174] In one embodiment of the present document, the filter (480) can improve the identification accuracy of the sensor module (450) by blocking the light of the first wavelength transmitted to the light receiving unit (455). In addition, in one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (450) including the filter (480) can provide ease in the design of at least one processor and / or memory.

[0175] For example, when the light receiving unit (455) receives light including light of the first wavelength, at least one processor and / or memory needs to select light of the second wavelength among the light received by the light receiving unit (455), or ignore or block light of the first wavelength. At least one processor and / or memory may require additional configuration or operation circuit-wise (or operationally, programmatically, or in a different manner), and design difficulty may increase.

[0176] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention may have an advantage in design difficulty of at least one processor and / or memory as well as in providing identification accuracy by having a filter (480) block light of a first wavelength at the sensor module (450) stage.

[0177] In one embodiment, the filter (480) may include at least some of an optical filter (481), a filter element (482), and a switching element (483). Hereinafter, a filtering method and configuration of the filter (480) will be exemplarily described with reference to FIG. 6C. However, the method and configuration of the filter (480) described below are merely examples, and the filter (480) may filter light received by the light receiving unit (455) in various methods and configurations.

[0178] In one embodiment, the optical filter (481) can reflect (or absorb) light of the first wavelength. The optical filter (481) can be physically arranged to surround at least a portion of the light receiving unit (455). The optical filter (481) can be arranged on an outer surface of the light receiving unit (455). Alternatively, the optical filter (481) can be arranged on the molding member (460). The optical filter (481) can provide an advantage in design difficulty of the filter (480) by physically or structurally blocking light of the first wavelength.

[0179] In one embodiment, the filter element (482) can controllably filter the detection results of the sensor module (450). The filter element (482) can be controllably connected to the light receiving unit (455). For example, the filter element (482) can be implemented as a wafer filter.

[0180] In one embodiment, the filter element (482) can noise-process light of a first wavelength among the light received by the light receiving unit (455). The filter element (482) can be disposed on the light receiving unit (455) or the substrate (458). For example, the filter element (482) can be a part of the second element (456) or the substrate (458).

[0181] In one embodiment, the switching element (483) can controllably filter the detection results of the sensor module (450). The switching element (483) can be controllably connected to the light emitting unit (451) and / or the light receiving unit (455). For example, the switching element (483) can be implemented as a wafer filter.

[0182] In one embodiment, the switching element (483) can block the light emission of the light emitting unit (451) while the light receiving unit (455) receives light. The switching element (483) can be disposed in the light emitting unit (451) or the substrate (458). For example, the filter element (482) can be a part of the first element (452) or the substrate (458).

[0183] FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b are graphs illustrating detection results of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

[0184] Specifically, FIGS. 7A and 7B are graphs showing the response according to the wavelength of light received by a light-receiving unit (e.g., the light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, the light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, or the light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C) when a light-emitting unit (e.g., the light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, the light-receiving unit (351) of FIG. 5, or the light-receiving unit (451) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C) of a sensor module (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, or the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C) emits a first wavelength (W1).

[0185] For example, Fig. 7a may be a response graph according to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module before being filtered by a filter (e.g., the filter of Fig. 6c). Alternatively, Fig. 7a may be a response graph according to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module when the sensor module does not include a filter. The response graph may be a parameter that relatively indicates light of adjacent wavelengths based on the wavelength with the largest amount of light received by the light receiving unit (1.0).

[0186] For example, Fig. 7b may be a response diagram according to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module after being filtered by the filter. Alternatively, Fig. 7b may be a response diagram according to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module when the sensor module includes a filter.

[0187] In one embodiment, light of the first wavelength (W1) emitted from the light emitting unit may mean light of a wavelength that substantially primarily includes light of the first wavelength (W1). For example, the first wavelength (W1) may be a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm.

[0188] Referring to Fig. 7a, when the light emitting unit emits light of the first wavelength (W1), it can be seen that the amount of light of the first wavelength (W1) is the largest, and the amount of light of the wavelength substantially (or approximately) decreases as distance from the first wavelength (W1) increases.

[0189] However, "substantially," "approximately," or "about" in this document may mean the same level, reflecting tolerances or errors in general manufacturing processes. Alternatively, "substantially," "approximately," or "about" may refer to a range including any one of + / -0.1%, + / -0.5%, + / -1%, + / -3%, + / -5%, + / -7%, + / -10%, + / -15%, and + / -20%, based on the literal equivalent 0%.

[0190] In one embodiment, light of a first wavelength (W1) is excited at an identification region (e.g., identification region (203) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or identification region (303) of FIG. 5) of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5), and the identification region can emit light of a second wavelength (W2) different from the first wavelength (W1).

[0191] In one embodiment, the light of the second wavelength (W2) emitted from the identification unit may mean light of a wavelength that substantially primarily includes light of the second wavelength (W2). For example, the second wavelength (W2) may be a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

[0192] Referring to FIGS. 7a and 7b, when the identification area emits light of the second wavelength (W2), it can be seen that the amount of light of the second wavelength (W2) is the largest, and the amount of light of the wavelength substantially (or approximately) decreases as it moves away from the second wavelength (W2).

[0193] In one embodiment, the filter can filter wavelengths in a first filtering range (Fw). The first filtering range (Fw) can be a range from a reference wavelength between the first wavelength (W1) and the second wavelength (W2) to include the first wavelength (W1). For example, the first filtering range (Fw) can be a wavelength less than 1000 nm.

[0194] In one embodiment, at least one processor (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the control unit (110) of FIG. 3, at least one processor (260) of FIG. 4b, or at least one processor (360) of FIG. 5) can recognize identification information for an aerosol-generating article based on the amount of light of a second wavelength (W2) outside the first filtering range (Fw) by executing instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory (170) of FIG. 3, the memory (265) of FIG. 4b, or the memory (365) of FIG. 5).

[0195] In one embodiment of the present document, when the difference between the first wavelength (W1) and the second wavelength (W2) is not large, for example, when both the light of the first wavelength (W1) and the light of the second wavelength (W2) are infrared rays, at least one processor may have difficulty recognizing identification information based on the amount of light of the second wavelength (W2), and there is a possibility that an error may occur in the identification result or the accuracy may be reduced. The sensor module according to one embodiment of the present document can reduce or eliminate an error in the identification result and improve the identification accuracy by physically blocking or controllably noise-processing a first filtering range (Fw) including the light of the first wavelength (W1) through a filter.

[0196] FIG. 8 is a side view of a sensor module (450-1) according to one embodiment.

[0197] Referring to FIG. 8, a molding member (460-1) (e.g., the molding member (460) of FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c) of a sensor module (450-1) (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4a and 4b, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, or the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c) according to one embodiment may further include a first dome-shaped molding region (463-1).

[0198] In the following, any content that overlaps with the above will be omitted for explanation, and it should be understood that some components and structures of the sensor module (450-1) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with an electronic device, unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0199] In one embodiment, the sensor module (450-1) may include a light-emitting unit (451-1) (e.g., light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, or light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), a light-receiving unit (455-1) (e.g., light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, or light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), a substrate (458-1) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), and a molding member (460-1).

[0200] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the light emitting unit (451-1) on one side (e.g., a side in the +Z direction) of the base region (461-1) (e.g., the base region (461) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C) facing the cavity (e.g., the cavity (213) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the cavity (313) of FIG. 5). The first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) may guide light emitted from the light emitting unit (451-1).

[0201] For example, the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) can guide at least a portion of the light emitted from the light emitting unit (451-1) to be focused on an identification region (e.g., identification region (203) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or identification region (303) of FIG. 5) of a detection target (e.g., stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5) of the sensor module (450-1).

[0202] In one embodiment of the present document, the first dome-shaped molding area (463-1) can provide light transmission efficiency of the light emitting unit (451-1), and the sensor module (450-1) can improve sensing accuracy through the first dome-shaped molding area (463-1).

[0203] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) may be formed as a single body that is continuous with the base region (461-1). Alternatively, the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) may have a discontinuous structure with the base region (461-1) and may be formed by being combined with the base region (461-1).

[0204] FIG. 9 is a side view of a sensor module (450-2) according to one embodiment.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 9, a molding member (460-2) (e.g., the molding member (460) of FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c or the molding member (460-1) of FIG. 8) of a sensor module (450-2) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4a and 4b, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c or the sensor module (450-1) of FIG. 8) may further include a second dome-shaped molding region (465-2).

[0206] In the following, any content that overlaps with the above will be omitted for explanation, and it should be understood that some components and structures of the sensor module (450-2) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with an electronic device, unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0207] In one embodiment, the sensor module (450-2) may include a light-emitting unit (451-2) (e.g., light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or light-emitting unit (451-1) of FIG. 8), a light-receiving unit (455-2) (e.g., light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or light-receiving unit (455-1) of FIG. 8), a substrate (458-2) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or substrate (458-1) of FIG. 8), and a molding member (460-2).

[0208] In one embodiment, the molding member (460-2) may include at least one of a base region (461-2) (e.g., the base region (461) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C or the base region (461-1) of FIG. 8) and a first dome-shaped molding region (463-2) (e.g., the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) of FIG. 8).

[0209] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region (465-2) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the light receiving unit (455-2) on one side (e.g., a side in the +Z direction) of the base region (461-2) facing the cavity (e.g., the cavity (213) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the cavity (313) of FIG. 5). The second dome-shaped molding region (465-2) may guide light transmitted to the light receiving unit (455-2).

[0210] For example, the light receiving unit (455-2) can receive light emitted from an identification area (e.g., the identification area (203) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the identification area (303) of FIG. 5) of a detection target (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5) of the sensor module (450-2). The light emitted from the identification area can be guided to be focused on the light receiving unit (455-2).

[0211] In one embodiment of the present document, the second dome-shaped molding area (465-2) can provide light absorption efficiency of the light receiving unit (455-2), and the sensor module (450-2) can improve sensing accuracy through the second dome-shaped molding area (465-2).

[0212] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region (465-2) may be formed as a single body that is continuous with the base region (461-2). Alternatively, the second dome-shaped molding region (465-2) may have a discontinuous structure with the base region (461-2) and may be formed by being combined with the base region (461-2).

[0213] FIG. 10 is a side view of a sensor module (550) according to one embodiment.

[0214] Referring to FIG. 10, a sensor module (550) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4a and 4b, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, or the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c) may further include a partition wall (570).

[0215] In the following, any overlapping content with the above-described content will be omitted for explanation, and it should be understood that some components and structures of the sensor module (550) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with an electronic device, unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0216] In one embodiment, the sensor module (550) may include a light-emitting unit (551) (e.g., light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, or light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), a light-receiving unit (555) (e.g., light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, or light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), a substrate (558) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), and a molding member (560) (e.g., molding member (460) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C).

[0217] In one embodiment, the base region (561) of the molding member (560) (e.g., the base region (461) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C) may be arranged to surround the light emitting unit (551) and the light receiving unit (555) on the substrate surface (e.g., the substrate surface (458a) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C).

[0218] In one embodiment, the molding member (560) may be made of a light-transmitting material. The molding member (560) may guide light emitted from the light-emitting unit (551) through the base region (561) to be transmitted to the detection target of the sensor module (550).

[0219] In one embodiment, the base region (561) may include a first molding region (561a) and a second molding region (561b). The first molding region (561a) may surround the light emitting unit (551). The second molding region (561b) may surround the light receiving unit (555).

[0220] In one embodiment, the second molding region (561b) may be separated from the first molding region (561a). Alternatively, the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b) may be arranged discontinuously from each other. Alternatively, the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b) may be arranged spaced apart from each other.

[0221] In one embodiment of the present document, the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b) are separated from each other, thereby preventing light emitted from the light emitting unit (551) from being transmitted to the light receiving unit (555) via the molding member (560). The sensor module (550) can improve sensing accuracy through the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b).

[0222] In one embodiment, a partition wall (570) may separate a first molding region (561a) and a second molding region (561b). The partition wall (570) may be positioned between the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b). The partition wall (570) may have a shape extending along the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b).

[0223] In one embodiment, the partition wall (570) may be formed of an epoxy molding compound (EMC) material. The partition wall (570) may be formed of a material having relatively low light transmittance compared to the molding member (560). The partition wall (570) may prevent light emitted from the light emitting unit (551) from being transmitted to the light receiving unit (555). The sensor module (550) may improve sensing accuracy through the partition wall (570).

[0224] FIG. 11 is a side view of a sensor module (550-1) according to one embodiment.

[0225] Referring to FIG. 11, a molding member (560-1) (e.g., the molding member (460) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C or the molding member (560) of FIG. 10) of a sensor module (550-1) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C or the sensor module (550) of FIG. 10) may further include a first dome-shaped molding region (563-1).

[0226] In the following, any content that overlaps with the above will be omitted for explanation, and it should be understood that some components and structures of the sensor module (550-1) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with an electronic device, unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0227] In one embodiment, the sensor module (550-1) includes a light-emitting unit (551-1) (e.g., light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or light-emitting unit (551) of FIG. 10), a light-receiving unit (555-1) (e.g., light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or light-receiving unit (555) of FIG. 10), a substrate (558-1) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or substrate (558) of FIG. 10), a molding member (560-1), and a partition wall (570-1) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or substrate (558) of FIG. 10). It may include a bulkhead (570).

[0228] In one embodiment, the molding member (560-1) may include a base region (561-1) (e.g., base region (561) of FIG. 10) comprising a first molding region (561a-1) (e.g., first molding region (561a) of FIG. 10) and a second molding region (561b-1) (e.g., second molding region (561b) of FIG. 10).

[0229] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the light emitting unit (551-1) on one side (e.g., a side in the +Z direction) of the base region (561-1) facing the cavity (e.g., the cavity (213) of FIGS. 4a and 4b or the cavity (313) of FIG. 5). For example, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) may be positioned above the first molding region (561a-1).

[0230] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) can guide light emitted from the light emitting unit (551-1). For example, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) can guide at least a portion of the light emitted from the light emitting unit (551-1) to be focused on an identification region (e.g., identification region (203) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or identification region (303) of FIG. 5) of a detection target (e.g., stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5) of the sensor module (550-1).

[0231] In one embodiment of the present document, the first dome-shaped molding area (563-1) can provide light transmission efficiency of the light emitting unit (551-1), and the sensor module (550-1) can improve sensing accuracy through the first dome-shaped molding area (563-1).

[0232] In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) may be formed as a single body that is continuous with the base region (561-1). Alternatively, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) may have a discontinuous structure with the base region (561-1) and may be formed by being combined with the base region (561-1).

[0233] FIG. 12 is a side view of a sensor module (550-2) according to one embodiment.

[0234] Referring to FIG. 12, a molding member (560-2) (e.g., the molding member (460) of FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c, the molding member (560) of FIG. 10, or the molding member (560-1) of FIG. 11) of a sensor module (550-2) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4a and 4b, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c, the sensor module (550) of FIG. 10, or the sensor module (550-1) of FIG. 11) may further include a second dome-shaped molding region (565-2).

[0235] In the following, any content that overlaps with the above will be omitted for explanation, and it should be understood that some components and structures of the sensor module (550-2) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with an electronic device, unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0236] In one embodiment, the sensor module (550-2) includes a light emitting unit (551-2) (e.g., light emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, light emitting unit (451) of FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C, light emitting unit (551) of FIG. 10, or light emitting unit (551-1) of FIG. 11), a light receiving unit (555-1) (e.g., light receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, light receiving unit (455) of FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C, light receiving unit (555) of FIG. 10, or light receiving unit (555-1) of FIG. 11), a substrate (558-2) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C, substrate (558) of FIG. 10, or FIG. 11). It may include a substrate (558-1)), a molding member (560-2) and a partition wall (570-2) (e.g., the partition wall (570) of FIG. 10 or the partition wall (570-1) of FIG. 11).

[0237] In one embodiment, the molding member (560-2) may include at least one of a base region (561-2) (e.g., the base region (561) of FIG. 10 or the base region (561-1) of FIG. 11) and a first dome-shaped molding region (563-2) (e.g., the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) of FIG. 11)) formed by a first molding region (561a-2) (e.g., the first molding region (561a) of FIG. 10 or the first molding region (561a-1) of FIG. 11) and a second molding region (561b-2) (e.g., the second molding region (561b) of FIG. 10 or the second molding region (561b-1) of FIG. 11).

[0238] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the light receiving unit (555-2) on one side (e.g., a side in the +Z direction) of the base region (561-2) facing the cavity (e.g., the cavity (213) of FIGS. 4a and 4b or the cavity (313) of FIG. 5). For example, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) may be positioned above the second molding region (561b-2).

[0239] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) can guide light transmitted to the light receiving unit (555-2). For example, the light receiving unit (555-2) can receive light emitted from an identification region (e.g., the identification region (203) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the identification region (303) of FIG. 5) of a detection target (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5) of the sensor module (550-2). The light emitted from the identification region can be guided to be focused on the light receiving unit (555-2).

[0240] In one embodiment of the present document, the second dome-shaped molding area (565-2) can provide light absorption efficiency of the light receiving unit (555-2), and the sensor module (550-2) can improve sensing accuracy through the second dome-shaped molding area (565-2).

[0241] In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) may be formed as a single body that is continuous with the base region (561-2). Alternatively, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) may have a discontinuous structure with the base region (561-2) and may be formed by being combined with the base region (561-2).

[0242] FIG. 13 is a plan view of a sensor module (650) according to one embodiment.

[0243] Referring to FIG. 13, a sensor module (650) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4a and 4b, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6a and 6b, or the sensor module (550) of FIG. 9) may include a plurality of light-receiving units (655) (e.g., the light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4b, the light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, the light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6a and 6b, or the light-receiving unit (555) of FIG. 9).

[0244] In the following, any content that overlaps with the above will be omitted for explanation, and it should be understood that some components and structures of the sensor module (650) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with the electronic device, unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0245] In one embodiment, the sensor module (650) may include a light emitting unit (651) (e.g., light emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, light emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, or light emitting unit (551) of FIG. 9), a light receiving unit (655), and a substrate (658) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, or substrate (558) of FIG. 9).

[0246] Although not shown in the drawing, the sensor module (650) may further include at least some of the components (e.g., molding members, bulkheads, etc.) of the sensor module according to one embodiment described above in at least one of FIGS. 6A to 11.

[0247] In one embodiment, a plurality of light receiving units (655) may be spaced apart from each other on a substrate surface (658a) of a substrate (658) (e.g., substrate surface (458a) of FIGS. 6A and 6B). Each of the plurality of light receiving units (655) may be composed of a light receiving diode.

[0248] For example, the plurality of light-receiving units (655) may be composed of two light-receiving units (655). The two light-receiving units (655) may be arranged adjacent to each other and spaced apart from a portion of the substrate surface (658a). The two light-receiving units (655) may be arranged spaced apart from the light-emitting unit (651) by a predetermined distance.

[0249] In one embodiment of the present document, a plurality of light receiving units (655) can provide light absorption efficiency of the sensor module (650) and improve sensing accuracy of the sensor module (650).

[0250] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a sensor module (650-1) according to one embodiment.

[0251] Referring to FIG. 14, a sensor module (650-1) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the sensor module (550) of FIG. 9, or the sensor module (650) of FIG. 13) may include a plurality of light-emitting units (651-1) (e.g., the light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, the light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, the light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the light-emitting unit (551) of FIG. 9, or the light-emitting unit (651) of FIG. 13).

[0252] In the following, any content that overlaps with the above will be omitted for explanation, and it should be understood that some components and structures of the sensor module (650-1) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with an electronic device, unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0253] In one embodiment, the sensor module (650-1) may include a light emitting unit (651-1), a light receiving unit (655-1) (e.g., the light receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, the light receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, the light receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the light receiving unit (555) of FIG. 9, or the light receiving unit (655) of FIG. 13)), and a substrate (658-1) (e.g., the substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the substrate (558) of FIG. 9, or the substrate (658) of FIG. 13)).

[0254] Although not shown in the drawing, the sensor module (650-1) may further include at least some of the components (e.g., molding members, bulkheads, etc.) of the sensor module according to one embodiment described above in at least one of FIGS. 6A to 13.

[0255] In one embodiment, a plurality of light emitting units (651-1) may be spaced apart from each other on a substrate surface (658a-1) of a substrate (658-1) (e.g., substrate surface (458a) of FIGS. 6A and 6B or substrate surface (658a) of FIG. 13). Each of the plurality of light emitting units (651-1) may be configured as a light emitting diode. Each of the plurality of light emitting units (651-1) may emit light having substantially the same or similar optical characteristics (e.g., light of a first wavelength).

[0256] For example, a plurality of light emitting units (651-1) may be composed of two light emitting units (651-1). The two light emitting units (651-1) may be arranged adjacent to each other and spaced apart from each other in a portion of the substrate surface (658a-1). The two light emitting units (651-1) may be arranged spaced apart from the light receiving unit (655-1) by a predetermined distance.

[0257] In one embodiment of the present document, the amount of light transmitted to the light receiving unit (655-1) may increase by a plurality of light emitting units (651-1). As the amount of light of the first wavelength emitted from the sensor module (650-1) increases, the amount of light of a changed optical characteristic (e.g., light of the second wavelength) transmitted to the light receiving unit (655-1) may also increase, thereby improving the sensing accuracy of the sensor module (650-1).

[0258] FIG. 15 is a plan view of a sensor module (650-2) according to one embodiment.

[0259] Referring to FIG. 15, a sensor module (650-2) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the sensor module (550) of FIG. 9, or the sensor module (650) of FIG. 13) may include a plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) (e.g., the light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, the light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, the light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the light-emitting unit (551) of FIG. 9, or the light-emitting unit (651) of FIG. 13). Additionally, in one embodiment, a plurality of light emitting units (651-2) may be arranged to surround a light receiving unit (655-2) (e.g., light receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, light receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, light receiving unit (555) of FIG. 9, or light receiving unit (655) of FIG. 13).

[0260] Hereinafter, any content overlapping with the above will be omitted for explanation, and it is to be understood that some components and structures of the sensor module (650-2) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range easily understandable to those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one component or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with an electronic device unless it is technically clearly impossible.

[0261] In one embodiment, the sensor module (650-2) may include a light emitting unit (651-2), a light receiving unit (655-2), and a substrate (658-2) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, substrate (558) of FIG. 9, or substrate (658) of FIG. 13).

[0262] Although not shown in the drawing, the sensor module (650-2) may further include at least some of the components (e.g., molding members, bulkheads, etc.) of the sensor module according to one embodiment described above in at least one of FIGS. 6A to 14.

[0263] In one embodiment, a plurality of light emitting units (651-2) may be spaced apart from each other on a substrate surface (658a-2) of a substrate (658-2) (e.g., substrate surface (458a) of FIGS. 6A and 6B or substrate surface (658a) of FIG. 13). Each of the plurality of light emitting units (651-2) may be configured as a light emitting diode. Each of the plurality of light emitting units (651-2) may emit light having substantially the same optical characteristics (e.g., light of a first wavelength).

[0264] In one embodiment, the substrate (658-2) may include a circular substrate surface (658a-2). Alternatively, the substrate surface (658a-2) may have an oval, square, or polygonal shape. The substrate (658-2) may have a shape corresponding to the arrangement or arrangement structure of the plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) and at least one light-receiving unit (655-2).

[0265] In one embodiment, a plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) may be arranged to surround a light-receiving unit (655-2). The plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) may be arranged adjacent to each other and spaced apart from each other.

[0266] In one embodiment of the present document, the amount of light transmitted to the light receiving unit (655-2) may increase by a plurality of light emitting units (651-2). As the amount of light of the first wavelength emitted from the sensor module (650-2) increases, the amount of light of a changed optical characteristic (e.g., light of the second wavelength) transmitted to the light receiving unit (655-2) may also increase, thereby improving the sensing accuracy of the sensor module (650-2).

[0267] In one embodiment, an aerosol-generating device may include a housing including a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted, a sensor module disposed in the cavity, at least one processor receiving a detection result from the sensor module, and a memory operatively connected to the at least one processor and storing executable instructions. In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a light-emitting unit emitting light of a first wavelength toward the cavity and a light-receiving unit receiving light emitted from the aerosol-generating article. In one embodiment, the at least one processor may recognize identification information for the aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength by executing instructions stored in the memory.

[0268] In one embodiment, the sensor module may further include a substrate including a substrate surface on which light emitting units and light receiving units are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0269] In one embodiment, the sensor module may further include a molding member made of a light-transmitting material. In one embodiment, the molding member may include a base region arranged to surround the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit on the substrate surface.

[0270] In one embodiment, the molding member may include a first dome-shaped molding region positioned at a position corresponding to the light emitting unit on one side of the base region facing the cavity.

[0271] In one embodiment, the molding member may include a second dome-shaped molding region positioned at a position corresponding to the light receiving unit on one side of the base region facing the cavity.

[0272] In one embodiment, the base region may be formed as a single body by connecting regions surrounding each of the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit.

[0273] In one embodiment, the base region may include a first molding region surrounding the light emitting unit and a second molding region separated from the first molding region and surrounding the light receiving unit.

[0274] In one embodiment, the sensor module may further include a partition wall dividing the first molding region and the second molding region.

[0275] In one embodiment, the bulkhead may be formed of a material having relatively low light transmittance compared to the molding member.

[0276] In one embodiment, the light-emitting unit may be formed of a light-emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows through it. In one embodiment, the light-receiving unit may be formed of a light-receiving diode that causes current to flow when light is irradiated.

[0277] In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a plurality of light receiving units.

[0278] In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a plurality of light-emitting units.

[0279] In one embodiment, a plurality of light emitting units may be arranged to surround a light receiving unit.

[0280] In one embodiment, the first wavelength may be a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm, and the second wavelength may be a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

[0281] In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength may be ultraviolet light, and the light of the second wavelength may be either infrared light or visible light.

[0282] In one embodiment, an aerosol-generating device may include a housing including a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted, a sensor module disposed in the cavity, at least one processor receiving a detection result from the sensor module, and a memory operatively connected to the at least one processor and storing executable instructions. In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a light-emitting unit emitting light of a first wavelength toward the cavity, a light-receiving unit receiving light emitted from the aerosol-generating article, and a filter filtering light of the first wavelength among the light received by the light-receiving unit. In one embodiment, the at least one processor may recognize identification information about the aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light filtered by the filter by executing instructions stored in the memory.

[0283] In one embodiment, the filter may include an optical filter that reflects light of a first wavelength.

[0284] In one embodiment, the filter may include a filter element controllably connected to the light receiving unit and configured to noise-process light of a first wavelength among light received by the light receiving unit.

[0285] In one embodiment, the filter may include a switching element controllably connected to the light emitting unit and blocking light emission from the light emitting unit while the light receiving unit is receiving light.

[0286] In one embodiment, the filter can filter wavelengths in a first filtering range that includes a first wavelength.

[0287] In one embodiment, the first wavelength may be a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm. In one embodiment, the first filtering range may be a wavelength less than 1000 nm.

[0288] In one embodiment, at least one processor can recognize identification information for an aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light of a second wavelength outside the first filtering range by executing instructions stored in the memory.

[0289] In one embodiment, the second wavelength may be a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

[0290] 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 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. Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents of the claims also fall within the scope of the claims described below.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating device, A housing comprising a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted; A sensor module placed in the above cavity; At least one processor receiving detection results from the sensor module; and a memory operatively connected to at least one processor and storing executable instructions; The above sensor module, A light emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength toward the cavity; and Includes a light receiving unit that receives light emitted from the aerosol generating article; The at least one processor executes the instructions stored in the memory, An aerosol generating device that recognizes identification information for the aerosol generating article based on the amount of light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength.

2. In paragraph 1, The above sensor module, An aerosol generating device further comprising a substrate including a substrate surface on which the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit are arranged adjacent to each other.

3. In paragraph 2, The above sensor module further includes a molding member made of a light-transmitting material, The above molding member, An aerosol generating device comprising a base region arranged to surround the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit on the substrate surface.

4. In paragraph 3, The above molding member, A first dome-shaped molding region positioned at a position corresponding to the light emitting unit on one side of the base region facing the cavity; and A second dome-shaped molding area positioned at a position corresponding to the light receiving unit on one side of the base area facing the cavity An aerosol generating device comprising at least one of:

5. In paragraph 3, The above base area is, An aerosol generating device, wherein the areas surrounding each of the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit are connected to form a single body.

6. In paragraph 3, The above base area is, A first molding region surrounding the above light-emitting unit, and An aerosol generating device comprising a second molding region separated from the first molding region and surrounding the light receiving unit.

7. In paragraph 6, The above sensor module, An aerosol generating device further comprising a partition wall that divides the first molding region and the second molding region and is made of a material having relatively low light transmittance compared to the molding member.

8. In paragraph 1, The above light-emitting unit is composed of a light-emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows through it, The above light-receiving unit is an aerosol generating device comprising a light-receiving diode through which current flows when light is irradiated.

9. In paragraph 1, The above sensor module, An aerosol generating device comprising at least one of the above light receiving unit and the above light emitting unit in multiple quantities.

10. In paragraph 1, The first wavelength is a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm, An aerosol generating device, wherein the second wavelength is a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

11. In paragraph 1, The above sensor module, An aerosol generating device further comprising a filter for filtering light of the first wavelength among light received by the light receiving unit.

12. In paragraph 11, The above filter is, An aerosol generating device comprising an optical filter reflecting light of the first wavelength.

13. In paragraph 11, The above filter is, An aerosol generating device, comprising a filter element controllably connected to the light receiving unit and configured to noise-process light of the first wavelength among light received by the light receiving unit.

14. In paragraph 1, The above filter is, An aerosol generating device comprising a switching element controllably connected to the light emitting unit and blocking light emission of the light emitting unit while the light receiving unit receives light.

15. In an aerosol generating device, A housing comprising a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted; A sensor module placed in the above cavity; At least one processor receiving detection results from the sensor module; and a memory operatively connected to at least one processor and storing executable instructions; The above sensor module, A light emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength toward the cavity; A light receiving unit that receives light emitted from the above aerosol generating article, and Including a filter for filtering light of the first wavelength among the light received by the light receiving unit, The at least one processor executes the instructions stored in the memory, An aerosol generating device that recognizes identification information about an aerosol generating article based on the amount of light filtered by the filter.

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