Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

Disclosed is an aerosol-generating device. An aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure may comprise: a body; a cartridge detachably coupled to the body and including a heater for heating an aerosol-generating material; a power source for supplying power to the heater; and a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the power source to supply set power to the heater, determines the temperature of the heater in the state in which the configured power is supplied thereto, and determines, on the basis of the temperature the heater reaches, a target temperature for controlling power supplied to the heater.

Description

Aerosol generator

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

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

[0003] In an aerosol generator with replaceable cartridges, each cartridge may have different heater resistance values, etc., and thus, there may be variations between cartridges. Conventional aerosol generators have the problem of not being able to accurately control the heater temperature to a desired level because they control the power supplied to the cartridge heater without considering the variations between cartridges.

[0004] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned and other problems.

[0005] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device that supplies a set power to a heater of the cartridge and determines a target temperature of the heater based on the temperature that the heater reaches.

[0006] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device that determines a target temperature of the heater based on the first puff generated or the cartridge being joined after separation.

[0007] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device that determines the temperature of a heater that is saturated for a set period of time as a target temperature.

[0008] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device that renders the cartridge unusable if the temperature of the saturating heater is outside a reference temperature range.

[0009] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device that determines a reference temperature range of the heater based on an initial temperature of the heater.

[0010] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device that controls power supplied to a heater in a PID manner based on a determined target temperature.

[0011] Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device that determines a target temperature of the heater when the initial temperature change of the heater is less than a reference temperature deviation.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described object, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising: a body; a cartridge detachably coupled to the body and including a heater for heating an aerosol production material; a power source for supplying power to the heater; and a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the power source to supply a set power to the heater, determines a temperature of the heater while the set power is supplied to the heater, and determines a target temperature for controlling the power supplied to the heater based on the temperature reached by the heater.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a target temperature for heating the heater can be accurately set for each cartridge by supplying a set power to the heater of the cartridge and determining a target temperature of the heater based on the temperature reached by the heater.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by determining the target temperature of the heater based on the occurrence of the first puff or the reattachment of the cartridge after separation, it is possible to accurately determine that a new cartridge is mounted on the body and to set the heating target temperature of the newly mounted cartridge.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by determining the temperature of the heater that is saturated for a set period of time as the target temperature, the deviation of the cartridge can be accurately reflected to the target temperature.

[0016] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the temperature of the saturated heater is outside the reference temperature range, the cartridge is made unusable, thereby preventing the use of an unacceptable cartridge and preventing the operation of the aerosol generating device from becoming unstable.

[0017] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by determining a reference temperature range of the heater based on an initial temperature of the heater, it is possible to prevent an erroneous determination of whether a cartridge can be used due to the environment around the aerosol generating device.

[0018] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the temperature of the heater can be accurately controlled by controlling the power supplied to the heater in a PID manner based on the determined target temperature.

[0019] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by determining the target temperature of the heater when the initial temperature change of the heater is less than the reference temperature deviation, it is possible to prevent the target temperature of the heater from being determined inaccurately.

[0020] Further scope of the applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description below. However, since various modifications and variations within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of example only.

[0021] FIGS. 1 to 5 are drawings illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing how an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure determines a target temperature of a heater.

[0023] FIG. 7 illustrates a circuit diagram for measuring heater resistance of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIGS. 8 to 10 are graphs showing that the temperature of a heater changes as a set power is applied to an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing how an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure determines a target temperature of a heater.

[0026] FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are graphs showing changes in the initial temperature of the heater in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 14 illustrates a PID-based heater power control loop of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 15 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0030] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description may be assigned or used interchangeably solely for the convenience of writing the specification. "Module" and "part" do not, by themselves, have distinct meanings or roles.

[0031] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings. It should be understood that the attached drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included within the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0032] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components. However, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0033] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, although it should be understood that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0034] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0035] Throughout this specification, the direction of the aerosol generator (1) may be defined based on an orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction may be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generator (1). The y-axis direction may be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generator (1). The z-axis direction may be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generator (1).

[0036] Throughout this specification, "upstream" and "downstream" may be determined based on the direction of airflow that causes the generated aerosol to be drawn into the user's mouth or lungs when the user inhales. For example, in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the generated aerosol flows from the portion of the stick (S) that is inserted into the aerosol generating device to the portion that is not inserted, so the portion of the stick (S) that is inserted into the aerosol generating device is located upstream of the portion that is not inserted. "Upstream" and "downstream" may be determined relative to each other between components.

[0037]

[0038] Figures 1 to 5 illustrate an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generator (1) may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), and a cartridge (19). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), and the sensor (13) may be placed inside a body (10) of the aerosol generator (1). The body (10) may provide a space into which a cartridge (19) may be inserted.

[0040] The cartridge (19) may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any one of a liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel state. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavoring component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0041] The cartridge (19) can be detachably coupled to one side of the body (10). The cartridge (19) can provide an insertion space (43) that is opened upward so that a stick (S), which is an aerosol generating material, can be inserted. The insertion space (43) can be formed by being sunken into the interior of the cartridge (19) to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick (S) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space (43) can correspond to the length of the area in the stick (S) that contains the aerosol generating material and / or medium. The lower end of the stick (S) can be inserted into the interior of the cartridge (19), and the upper end of the stick (S) can protrude to the outside of the cartridge (19). The user can hold the upper end of the stick (S), which is exposed to the outside, in his / her mouth and inhale air.

[0042] The cartridge (19) can be mounted on the body (10) by being inserted into a space formed on one side of the body (10) at least in part. The airflow channel (CN) can be defined by a part of the cartridge and / or a part of the body (10), and the airflow channel (CN) can be communicated with the insertion space (43).

[0043] The body (10) can be formed in a structure in which outside air can flow into the interior of the body (10) while the cartridge (19) is inserted. At this time, the outside air flowing into the body (10) can pass through the cartridge (19) and flow into the user's oral cavity.

[0044] The cartridge (19) may include a chamber (C0) containing an aerosol generating material and a heater (24) for heating the aerosol generating material in the chamber (C0). The heater (24) may be referred to as a cartridge heater. A liquid delivery means for impregnating (containing) the aerosol generating material may be disposed inside the chamber (C0). Here, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, porous ceramic, etc. The electrically conductive track of the heater (24) may be formed in a coil-shaped structure that winds the liquid delivery means or a structure that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means. The heater (24) may be a resistive heater. The heater (24) may be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track of the heater (24). The heater (24) may be electrically connected to a power source (11). The heater (24) may receive current from the power source (11) and generate heat directly.

[0045] The cartridge (19) can generate an aerosol. As the liquid delivery means is heated by the heater (24), the aerosol can be generated. Tobacco material can be added to the aerosol while the aerosol generated by the heater (24) passes through the stick (S), and the aerosol added with the tobacco material can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick (S).

[0046] The heater (24) can be placed adjacent to the lower end of the insertion space (43). By placing the heater (24) adjacent to one end of the stick (S) accommodated in the insertion space (43), the heat transfer efficiency of the aerosol can be increased.

[0047] The aerosol generator (1) may include a cap. The cap may be detachably coupled to the body (10) so as to cover at least a portion of a cartridge (19) coupled to the body (10). A stick (S) may be inserted into the body (10) through the cap.

[0048] The power source (11) can supply power to operate the components of the aerosol generator (1). The power source (11) can be referred to as a battery. The power source (11) can supply power to at least one of the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (24). When the aerosol generator (1) includes an induction coil, the power source (11) can supply power to the induction coil.

[0049] The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator (1). The control unit can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit (12) can control the operation of at least one of the power supply (11), the sensor (13), and the cartridge (19). The control unit (12) can control the operation of a display, a motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generator (1). The control unit (12) can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator (1) to determine whether the aerosol generator (1) is in an operable state.

[0050] The control unit (12) can analyze the results detected by the sensor (13) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (24) so ​​that the operation of the heater (24) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensor (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (24) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (24) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the sensor (13).

[0051] The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a cap detection sensor. For example, the sensor (13) may sense at least one of the temperature of the heater (24), the temperature of the power source (11), and the temperature inside and outside the body (10). For example, the sensor (13) may sense the user's puff. For example, the sensor (13) may sense whether the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space. For example, the sensor (13) may sense whether the cartridge is mounted. For example, the sensor (13) may sense whether the cap is mounted.

[0052]

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the aerosol generator (1) may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), a heater (18), and a cartridge (19). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (18) may be disposed inside a body (10) of the aerosol generator. The body (10) may provide an insertion space (43) that is opened upward so that a stick (S) may be inserted. The insertion space (43) may be formed by being recessed toward the inside of the body (10) to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick (S) may be inserted. The lower end of the stick (S) may be inserted into the inside of the body (10), and the upper end of the stick (S) may protrude outside the body (10).

[0054] The heater (18) can heat the stick (S). The heater (18) can extend upwardly around the space where the stick (S) is inserted. For example, the heater (18) can be in the form of a tube having a hollow space therein. The heater (18) can be arranged around the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can heat the insertion space (43) or the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (43). The heater (18) can include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0055] For example, the heater (18) may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater (18) may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater (18) may be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track. The heater (18) may be electrically connected to a power source (11). The heater (18) may be directly heated by receiving current from the power source (11).

[0056] For example, the aerosol generator (1) may include an induction coil surrounding a heater (18). The induction coil may heat the heater (18). The heater (18) may be a susceptor, and the heater (18) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field may penetrate the heater (18) and generate an eddy current within the heater (18). The current may generate heat in the heater (18).

[0057] Meanwhile, a susceptor may be included inside the stick (S), and the susceptor inside the stick (S) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil.

[0058] The cartridge (19) may be formed integrally with the body (10) or may be detachably coupled to the body (10).

[0059] For example, referring to FIG. 2, the cartridge (19) is formed integrally with the body (10) and can communicate with the insertion space (43) through the airflow channel (CN).

[0060] For example, referring to FIG. 3, a space is formed on one side of the body (10), and at least a portion of the cartridge (19) is inserted into the space formed on one side of the body (10) so that the cartridge (19) can be mounted on the body (10). The airflow channel (CN) can be defined by a portion of the cartridge and / or a portion of the body (10), and the cartridge (19) can communicate with the insertion space (43) through the airflow channel (CN).

[0061] The cartridge (19) can generate an aerosol. The aerosol can be generated as the liquid delivery means is heated by the cartridge heater (24). The aerosol can be generated by heating the stick (S) by the heater (18). Tobacco material can be added to the aerosol while the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater (24) and the heater (18) passes through the stick (S), and the aerosol added with the tobacco material can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick (S).

[0062] The control unit (12) can analyze the results detected by the sensor (13) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the cartridge heater (18, 24) so ​​that the operation of the heater (18, 24) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensor (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (18, 24) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (18, 24) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the sensor (13).

[0063]

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a body (10) and a cartridge (19). The aerosol generating device (1) may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), and a sensor (13). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), and the sensor (13) may be disposed inside the body (10). The body (10) may be equipped with a cartridge (19), which is an aerosol generating article. A user may inhale the aerosol by putting a mouthpiece provided at one end of the cartridge (19) in his / her mouth.

[0065] The cartridge (19) can be detachably coupled to the body (10). The cartridge (19) can be mounted on the body (10) by being inserted into the body (10).

[0066] The body (10) can be formed in a structure in which outside air can be introduced into the interior of the body (10) while the cartridge (19) is inserted. At this time, the outside air introduced into the body (10) can pass through the cartridge (19) and flow into the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel (CN).

[0067] The cartridge (19) may include a chamber (C0) containing an aerosol generating material and / or a heater (24) for heating the aerosol generating material in the chamber (C0). A liquid delivery means (25) impregnated with (contained by) the aerosol generating material may be disposed inside the chamber (C0). The electrically conductive track of the heater (24) may be formed in a coil-shaped structure that winds around the liquid delivery means (25) or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means (25). The heater (24) may be referred to as a cartridge heater.

[0068] An airflow channel (CN) may be provided in the cartridge (19). The airflow channel (CN) may communicate a chamber in which a heater (24) of the cartridge (19) is arranged with the outside of the cartridge. One end of the airflow channel (CN) may be opened to the chamber in which the heater (24) is arranged, and the other end may be communicated with a mouthpiece (not shown). For example, referring to FIG. 4, the airflow channel (CN) may extend in a longitudinal direction of the cartridge (19) from one side of the chamber (C0) of the cartridge (19). For example, referring to FIG. 5, the airflow channel (CN) may extend in a longitudinal direction of the cartridge (19) by penetrating the chamber (C0) of the cartridge (19).

[0069] The control unit (12) can analyze the results detected by the sensor (13) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) so ​​that the operation of the heater (24) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensor (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the cartridge heater (24) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the sensor (13).

[0070]

[0071] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing how an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure determines a target temperature of a heater, FIG. 7 is an example of a circuit diagram for measuring heater resistance of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIGS. 8 to 10 are graphs showing how the temperature of a heater changes as a set power is applied in an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] In an aerosol generator with replaceable cartridges, each cartridge may have different heater resistance values, etc., and thus there may be deviations between cartridges. In an aerosol generator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a cartridge (19) is replaced, the target temperature of the heater (24) can be determined in order to accurately reflect the deviation of the cartridge (19) in the temperature control or power control of the heater (24).

[0073] Referring to FIG. 6, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature for controlling the heater (24). The control unit (12) can control the power source (11) to supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24). The control unit (12) can determine the temperature of the heater (24) while the set power (Ps) is supplied to the heater (24). The control unit (12) can determine the target temperature for controlling the power supplied to the heater (24) based on the temperature that the heater (24) reaches.

[0074] Before supplying the set power (Ps) to the heater (24), the control unit (12) can detect the occurrence of a puff (S610). The control unit (12) can receive a signal from a puff sensor (132, see FIG. 15). The control unit (12) can repeatedly detect the occurrence of a puff based on the signal output from the puff sensor (132). The control unit (12) can determine whether a first puff and a second puff are generated consecutively.

[0075] If the control unit (12) determines that a first puff has occurred, it can determine the elapsed time between the first puff and the second puff that occurred immediately before the first puff. The control unit (12) can determine whether the elapsed time between the first puff and the second puff is greater than or equal to a preset reference time difference (S620).

[0076] When replacing the cartridge (19) from the body (10), a predetermined time difference may occur between the last puff before replacing the cartridge (19) and the first puff after replacing the cartridge (19). Reference time difference information that can determine the first puff generated after replacing the cartridge (19) may be stored in the memory (17, see FIG. 15). The control unit (12) may determine the elapsed time between puffs that occur consecutively and compare the determined elapsed time with the reference time difference stored in the memory (17). The control unit (12) may supply or not supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24) based on the comparison result between the elapsed time and the reference time difference.

[0077] The control unit (12) can control the power source (11) to supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24) when the first puff occurs and the elapsed time is greater than or equal to the reference time difference (“Yes” in S620). The control unit (12) can control the power source (11) to supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24) for a set first time period. The control unit (12) can repeatedly determine the temperature of the heater (24) for the first time period (S630).

[0078] Although not shown in the drawing, before supplying the power (Ps) set to the heater (24), the control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is coupled. The control unit (12) can receive a signal from the cartridge detection sensor (135, see FIG. 15). Based on the signal output from the cartridge detection sensor (135), the control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is separated or coupled to the body (10).

[0079] In general, once a user couples a cartridge (19) to a body (10), the cartridge (19) may not be separated from the body (10) until the cartridge (19) is replaced. The control unit (12) may supply or not supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24) based on whether or not the cartridge (19) is coupled to the body (10).

[0080] The control unit (12) can control the power source (11) to supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24) based on the coupling of the cartridge (19) to the body (10). The control unit (12) can determine the temperature of the heater (24) while the set power (Ps) is supplied to the heater (24).

[0081] Meanwhile, although not shown in the drawing, before supplying the power (Ps) set to the heater (24), the control unit (12) can perform both the process of detecting the occurrence of the first puff and determining whether the elapsed time is greater than or equal to the reference time difference (S610, S620) and the process of determining whether the cartridge (19) is coupled. Accordingly, it is possible to more accurately determine whether the cartridge (19) is replaced from the body (10).

[0082]

[0083] Referring to FIG. 7 together with FIG. 6, the control unit (12) can determine the resistance value of the heater (24) and determine the temperature of the heater (24) based on the determined resistance value.

[0084] The resistance measurement sensor (131) may be configured as a sensor that detects the resistance value (Rh) of the heater (24). The resistance measurement sensor (131) may be referred to as a temperature sensor. The resistance measurement sensor (131) may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value (Rh) of the heater (24).

[0085] The resistance measurement sensor (131) can be electrically connected to the heater (24). The heater driving circuit (200) can supply power to the heater (24) using power stored in the power source (11). The heater driving circuit can be referred to as a circuit board. The power supplied to the heater (24) through the heater driving circuit (200) can be controlled according to the control of the control unit (12).

[0086] The control unit (12) can determine the temperature of the heater (24) based on the resistance value (Rh) of the heater (24), and control the power supplied to the heater (24) based on the determined temperature of the heater (24).

[0087] The circuit board (200) can transmit electrical signals to control the operation of various components. Circuit patterns for transmitting electrical signals can be formed on the circuit board (200). The circuit board (200) can be electrically connected to a power source (11) and a control unit (12). The control unit (12) can be mounted on the circuit board (200).

[0088] The same level of current can flow through the heater (24) and the resistance measurement sensor (131). The resistance value (Rs) of the shunt resistor provided in the resistance measurement sensor (131) may be a value that does not vary depending on the temperature.

[0089] The control unit (12) can determine the voltage (Vc) applied to the heater (24) and the resistance measurement sensor (131) based on the power supplied to the heater (24) from the power source (11) through the heater driving circuit (200), the current flowing to the heater (24) and the resistance measurement sensor (131), etc. The control unit (12) can calculate the voltage (Vd) applied to the shunt resistor based on the current flowing to the shunt resistor of the resistance measurement sensor (131) and the resistance value (Rs) of the shunt resistor. The control unit (12) can calculate the difference (Vc-Vd) between the voltage (Vc) applied to the heater (24) and the resistance measurement sensor (131) and the voltage (Vd) applied to the shunt resistor as the voltage applied to the heater (24). The control unit (12) can calculate the resistance value (Rh) of the heater (24) based on the voltage applied to the heater (24) and the current flowing through the heater (24).

[0090] The resistance of the heater (24) may be a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance. The resistance value (Rh) of the heater (24) may vary depending on the temperature of the resistor. The control unit (12) may calculate the temperature of the heater (24) corresponding to the temperature coefficient of resistance of the heater (24), the resistance value (Rh) of the heater (24), and the resistance value of the heater (24) at a reference temperature based on a calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the heater (24). Here, the calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the heater (24) may correspond to the following mathematical formula 1.

[0091]

[0092] In the above mathematical expression 1, TCR may be the temperature coefficient of resistance of the heater (24), T1 may be the temperature of the heater (24), R1 may be the resistance value of the heater (24), T0 may be the reference temperature, and R0 may be the resistance value of the heater (24) at the reference temperature. Here, T0 may be 25 degrees, and R0 may be the resistance value of the heater (24) at 25 degrees.

[0093] The resistance value of the heater (24) at the reference temperature may be different for each aerosol generator (1). Taking this into consideration, data on the resistance value of the heater (24), etc., may be stored in the memory (17, see FIG. 15) of the aerosol generator (1). The control unit (12) may determine the resistance value (R0) of the heater (24) at the reference temperature (T0) used in the calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the heater (24), based on the data stored in the memory (17).

[0094] In the drawing, a resistance measurement sensor (131) connected in series to a heater (24) is described as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the resistance measurement sensor (131) may be implemented as a voltage sensor that detects the voltage applied to the heater (24).

[0095]

[0096] Referring to FIG. 8 together with FIG. 6, the control unit (12) can determine the temperature at which the heater (24) rises or reaches as the target temperature while the set power (Ps) is supplied to the heater (24) for the first time period.

[0097] The set power (Ps) and the first time can be preset and stored in the memory (17). The set power (Ps) can be 5 to 9 W. Preferably, the set power (Ps) can be about 7 W. The first time can be 1 to 2 seconds. Preferably, the first time can be about 1.5 seconds.

[0098] The cartridge (19) detachably coupled to the body (10) may have different characteristics for each cartridge (19). For example, there may be a difference in the resistance value of the heater (24) for each cartridge (19). Even if the heater (24) included in the cartridge (19) is produced with the same specifications and / or the same material, the resistance value of the heater (24) for each heater may be different due to various reasons including the production process. For example, the resistance value of the heater (24) may vary slightly due to dimensional errors in the shape, such as the length and thickness, of the heater (24) that may occur during manufacturing. For example, the resistance value of the heater (24) may also vary due to errors in the ratio of components constituting the alloy of the heater (24) that may occur during manufacturing. This is merely an example, and the factors affecting the resistance value of the heater (24) are not limited to those described above.

[0099] For example, liquid transfer deviations may exist for each cartridge (19). Even if the wick (25) (e.g., liquid transfer means (25)) included in the cartridge (19) is manufactured with the same specifications and / or the same material, the volume may be different or the distribution and size of the pores within the wick (25) may be different. Accordingly, the amount of liquid aerosol generating material transferred to the heater (24) through the wick (25) may vary slightly.

[0100] For example, there may be air inflow variations for each cartridge (19). Even if the cartridges (19) are manufactured with the same specifications and / or the same material, the sizes of the inlet or gap through which external air can be introduced into the cartridge (19) may differ. Accordingly, the extent to which external air is introduced into the wick (25) and / or heater (24) within the cartridge (19) may vary slightly.

[0101] In this way, due to the deviation of the cartridge (19), even if the set power (Ps) is applied, the temperature at which the heater (24) is heated and increases may be different. For example, during a first time (tb-ta), the temperature of the heater (24) may increase from the initial temperature (T0) to the first temperature (T11) (801). In contrast, during the first time (tb-ta), the temperature of the heater (24) may increase to a second temperature (T12) lower than the first temperature (T11) (802), or to a third temperature (T13) higher than the first temperature (T11) (803).

[0102] The control unit (12) can set the temperature of the heater (24) that rises or reaches during the first time (tb-ta) as the target temperature. For example, when the heater (24) of the cartridge (19) rises to the first temperature (T11) (801 in FIG. 8), the control unit (12) can determine the first temperature (T11) as the target temperature for controlling the power supplied to the heater (24). For example, when the heater (24) of the cartridge (19) rises to the second temperature (T12) (802), the control unit (12) can determine the second temperature (T12) as the target temperature for controlling the power supplied to the heater (24). For example, when the heater (24) of the cartridge (19) rises to a third temperature (T13) (803), the control unit (12) can determine the third temperature (T13) as a target temperature for controlling the power supplied to the heater (24).

[0103] Accordingly, the target temperature for heating the heater can be accurately set for each cartridge.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 9 together with FIG. 6, the control unit (12) can determine the temperature at which the temperature of the heater (24) is saturated as the target temperature (S660). The control unit (12) can determine whether the temperature of the heater (24) rises and becomes saturated during the first time (tb-ta) (S640). If the temperature of the heater (24) rises and becomes saturated at the first temperature (T11) during the first time (tb-ta) (901 of FIG. 9), the control unit (12) can determine the saturated first temperature (T11) as the target temperature. If the temperature of the heater (24) is not saturated during the first time (tb-ta) (902), even if the temperature of the heater (24) reaches the fourth temperature (T14), the control unit (12) may not determine the reached fourth temperature (T14) as the target temperature.

[0105] In the process of setting the target temperature of the heater (24), if the temperature of the heater (24) is not saturated, the temperature may not accurately reflect the deviation of the cartridge (19). Therefore, the aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can accurately reflect the deviation of the cartridge to the target temperature by determining the temperature of the heater that is saturated for a set period of time as the target temperature.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 10 together with FIG. 6, the control unit (12) can compare the temperature reached by the heater (24) with the reference temperature range (Ts1 to Ts2) (S650). If the temperature reached by the heater (24) is within the reference temperature range (Ts1 to Ts2) (1001 of FIG. 10), the control unit (12) can determine the temperature reached by the heater (24) as the target temperature. If the temperature reached by the heater (24) is lower (1002) or higher (1003) than the reference temperature range (Ts1 to Ts2), the control unit (12) may not determine the temperature reached by the heater (24) as the target temperature. The control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the heater (24) when the temperature reached by the heater (24) is outside the reference temperature range (Ts1 to Ts2) and output information related to the unusability of the cartridge (19) through the output unit (14).

[0107] Even if there is a deviation for each cartridge (19), when the set power is applied for a set first time, the temperature reached by the heater (24) can be distributed within a certain range. The reference temperature range (Ts1 to Ts2) can be preset by the manufacturer of the cartridge (19) and stored in the memory (17).

[0108] Accordingly, by making the cartridge unusable when the temperature of the saturated heater is outside the reference temperature range, the use of an unauthorized cartridge can be prevented, and the operation of the aerosol generator can be prevented from becoming unstable.

[0109] The reference temperature range (Ts1 to Ts2) may vary depending on the initial temperature of the heater (24). Here, the initial temperature of the heater (24) may be defined as the temperature of the heater (24) when the heater (24) is not heated. The initial temperature of the heater (24) may be the temperature before the power (Ps) set to the heater (24) is applied. The initial temperature of the heater (24) may be affected by the temperature of the surrounding environment in which the cartridge (19) is located. For example, in a high temperature environment, the initial temperature of the heater (24) may be a temperature higher than room temperature (e.g., 25 degrees). For example, in a low temperature environment, the initial temperature of the heater (24) may be a temperature lower than room temperature.

[0110] The control unit (12) can determine the initial temperature of the heater (24). The initial temperature of the heater (24) can be determined before the set power (Ps) is applied to the heater (24). The initial temperature of the heater (24) can be determined based on the resistance value of the heater. The control unit (12) can determine a reference temperature range (Ts1 to Ts2) based on the initial temperature of the heater (24). In the memory (17), a plurality of initial temperatures that the heater (24) can have and the corresponding reference temperature ranges (Ts1 to Ts2) can be matched and stored. The control unit (12) can determine the reference temperature range (Ts1 to Ts2) corresponding to the initial temperature of the heater (24) based on the matching information stored in the memory (17).

[0111] Accordingly, by determining the reference temperature range of the heater based on the initial temperature of the heater, it is possible to prevent incorrect determination of whether the cartridge can be used due to the environment around the aerosol generator.

[0112]

[0113] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing how an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure determines a target temperature of a heater, and FIGS. 12 and 13 are graphs showing how the initial temperature of a heater changes in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13 together with FIG. 11, before supplying the set power (Ps) to the heater (24), the control unit (12) can determine the amount of change in the initial temperature of the heater (24). Based on the amount of change in the initial temperature of the heater (24), the control unit (12) can newly set the target temperature of the heater (24) or set the previous target temperature as the target temperature of the heater (24).

[0115] The control unit (12) can determine the amount of change (T0b-T0a) in the initial temperature of the heater (24) for a set second time (ta-tc) before the set power (Ps) is supplied to the heater (24) (S1110). The control unit (12) can repeatedly determine the initial temperature of the heater (24) for the second time (ta-tc) and determine the amount of change (T0b-T0a) in the initial temperature from the determined initial temperature values ​​of the heater (24).

[0116] The control unit (12) can compare the initial temperature change amount (T0b-T0a) with the reference temperature deviation (S1120). If the initial temperature change amount (T0b-T0a) is less than the reference temperature deviation (1201 of FIG. 12), the control unit (12) can supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24). The control unit (12) can control the power source (11) to supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24) for a set first time period. The control unit (12) can repeatedly determine the temperature of the heater (24) for the first time period (S1130). A series of processes (S1140 to S1160) in which the control unit (12) determines the temperature of the heater (24), determines whether the temperature of the heater (24) is saturated and / or exists within a reference temperature range, and determines the temperature of the heater (24) as the target temperature may be the same as the series of processes (S630 to S660) previously illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0117] The control unit (12) can determine the previous target temperature stored in the memory (17) as the target temperature for controlling the power supplied to the heater (24) when the amount of change in the initial temperature (T0b-T0a) is greater than or equal to the reference temperature deviation (1301 in FIG. 13) (S1170).

[0118] When the cartridge (19) is coupled to the body (10), there may be cases where the initial temperature of the heater (24) does not remain constant but continuously decreases. In this case, the cartridge (19) may not be a newly replaced cartridge, but rather a cartridge that was previously used, separated, and re-coupled. In the case of a previously used cartridge, there is no need to set a new target temperature. In the case of a previously used cartridge, the control unit (12) may control the temperature of the heater (24) or the supplied power based on the target temperature pre-stored in the memory (17).

[0119] Accordingly, by re-determining the target temperature of the heater when the initial temperature change of the heater is less than the reference temperature deviation, unnecessary setting of the heater target temperature can be prevented, and the target temperature of the heater can be prevented from being determined inaccurately.

[0120]

[0121] FIG. 14 illustrates a PID-based heater power control loop of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 14, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (24) in a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) manner based on the determined target temperature. The control unit (12) can include a PID controller. The PID controller (12) can compare the heater temperature, which is a measured variable, with the target temperature, which is a set point. The PID controller (12) can calculate the difference between the heater temperature and the target temperature as an error. The heater temperature measurement circuit (131, 200) can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater (24) in a state where power is supplied to the heater (24). For example, the heater temperature measurement circuit (131, 200) can include a resistance measurement sensor (131) and a heater driving circuit (200). The PID controller (12) can determine the temperature of the heater (24) based on the signal output from the heater temperature measurement circuit (131,200).

[0123] The PID controller (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (24) so ​​that the temperature of the heater (24) follows the target temperature. The PID controller (12) can determine the power supplied to the heater (24) based on the difference between the heater temperature and the target temperature. Specifically, the PID controller (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (24) according to a feedback control method using a difference value between the temperature of the heater (24) and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference value over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference value over time. The coefficients of the PID control can include a proportional control gain value, an integral control gain value, and a differential control gain value. The coefficients of the PID control can be experimentally preset so that the temperature of the heater (24) can be optimally controlled. The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (24) so ​​that the temperature of the heater (24) reaches the target temperature according to the set coefficients of the PID control.

[0124] When controlling the power supplied to the heater (24) in a PID manner, it is difficult to accurately control the temperature of the heater (24) due to the deviation of the cartridge (19). According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by supplying the set power to the heater of the cartridge and determining the target temperature of the heater based on the temperature reached by the heater, the target temperature for heating the heater can be accurately set for each cartridge, and the temperature of the heater can be accurately controlled.

[0125]

[0126] Fig. 15 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] The aerosol generator (1) may include a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), a memory (17), and at least one heater (18, 24). However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator (1) is not limited to that illustrated in Fig. 15. That is, a person having ordinary skill in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that some of the components illustrated in Fig. 15 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generator (1).

[0128] The sensor (13) can detect the status of the aerosol generator (1) or the status around the aerosol generator (1) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (12). Based on the detected information, the control unit (12) can control the aerosol generator (1) so that various functions such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), restricting smoking, determining whether a stick (S) and / or cartridge (19) is inserted, and displaying a notification are performed.

[0129] The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor (131), a puff sensor (132), an insertion detection sensor (133), a reuse detection sensor (134), a cartridge detection sensor (135), a cap detection sensor (136), and a movement detection sensor (137).

[0130] The temperature sensor (131) can detect the temperature at which the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) is heated. The aerosol generator (1) may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18), or the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) itself may serve as a temperature sensor.

[0131] The temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the temperature sensor (131) can include a resistance element whose resistance value changes in response to a change in the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). It can be implemented by a thermistor, which is an element that utilizes the property of changing resistance depending on temperature. At this time, the temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistance element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the temperature sensor (131) can be configured as a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). At this time, the temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0132] A temperature sensor (131) may be placed around the power source (11) to monitor the temperature of the power source (11). The temperature sensor (131) may be placed adjacent to the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be attached to one side of a battery, which is the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0133] A temperature sensor (131) is placed inside the body (10) and can detect the internal temperature of the body (10).

[0134] The puff sensor (132) can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor (132) can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor (132) can be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor (132) can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1) can correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor (132) can be arranged in correspondence to the airflow path through which the gas flows in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0135] The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect insertion and / or removal of the stick (S). The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect a signal change according to the insertion and / or removal of the stick (S). The insertion detection sensor (133) can be installed around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick (S) according to a change in the permittivity inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor (133) can be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0136] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be positioned adjacent to an insertion space. For example, when a magnetic field changes around a current-flowing coil, the characteristics of the current flowing in the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing in the coil may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0137] An inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil. For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0138] A capacitance sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitance sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitance sensor may output a signal corresponding to the electromagnetic properties of the surroundings, for example, the electrostatic capacitance around the conductor. For example, when a stick (S) including a wrapper made of a metallic material is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic properties around the conductor may be changed by the wrapper of the stick (S).

[0139] A reuse detection sensor (134) can detect whether the stick (S) has been reused. The reuse detection sensor (134) may be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the color of the stick (S). The color sensor can detect the color of a portion of a wrapper that wraps the outside of the stick (S). The color sensor can detect a value for an optical characteristic corresponding to the color of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical characteristic may be a wavelength of light. The color sensor may be implemented as a single component with the proximity sensor, or may be implemented as a separate component distinct from the proximity sensor.

[0140] At least some of the wrappers constituting the stick (S) may change color due to the aerosol. The reuse detection sensor (134) may be positioned corresponding to a position where at least some of the wrappers whose color changes due to the aerosol are disposed when the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick (S) is used by a user, the color of at least some of the wrappers may be a first color. At this time, as at least some of the wrappers are wetted by the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device (1) while passing through the stick (S), the color of at least some of the wrappers may change to a second color. Meanwhile, the color of at least some of the wrappers may be maintained at the second color after changing from the first color to the second color.

[0141] The cartridge detection sensor (135) can detect the mounting and / or removal of the cartridge (19). The cartridge detection sensor (135) can be implemented by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC) using the Hall effect, etc.

[0142] The cap detection sensor (136) can detect the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the body (10), the cartridge (19) and a portion of the body (10) covered by the cap may be exposed to the outside. The cap detection sensor (136) can be implemented by a contact sensor, a hall sensor (hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0143] A motion detection sensor (137) can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device. The motion detection sensor (137) can be implemented with at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0144] In addition to the sensors (131 to 137) described above, the sensor (13) may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor. Since the functions of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0145] The output unit (14) can output information on the status of the aerosol generator (1) and provide it to the user. The output unit (14) may include at least one of a display (141), a haptic unit (142), and an audio output unit (143), but is not limited thereto. When the display (141) and the touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit (141) can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0146] The display (141) can visually provide information about the aerosol generator (1) to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generator (1) can mean various information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generator (1), the preheating status of the heater (18), the insertion / removal status of the stick (S) and / or cartridge (19), the mounting / removal status of the cap, or the status in which the use of the aerosol generator (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the display (141) can output the above information to the outside. For example, the display (141) can be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display (141) can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0147] The haptic unit (142) can provide tactile information about the aerosol generator (1) to the user by converting an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus. For example, the haptic unit (142) can generate a vibration corresponding to the completion of the initial preheating when the initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18) for a set period of time. The haptic unit (142) can include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0148] The acoustic output unit (143) can provide information about the aerosol generator (1) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit (143) can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0149] The power source (11) can supply power used to operate the aerosol generator (1). The power source (11) can supply power so that the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) can be heated. In addition, the power source (11) can supply power required for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator (1), such as a sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), and a memory (17). The power source (11) can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source (11) can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0150] Although not shown in FIG. 15, the aerosol generator (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power source (11) and include a switching element.

[0151] The power protection circuit can block the power supply (11) according to certain conditions. For example, the power protection circuit can block the power supply (11) when the voltage level of the power supply (11) is higher than a first voltage corresponding to overcharge. For example, the power protection circuit can block the power supply (11) when the voltage level of the power supply (11) is lower than a second voltage corresponding to overdischarge.

[0152] The heater (18) can receive power from the power source (11) and heat the medium or aerosol generating material within the stick (S). Although not illustrated in FIG. 10, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the power source (11) and supplies it to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). In addition, when the aerosol generating device (1) generates the aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the direct current power of the power source (11) into alternating current power.

[0153] The control unit (12), sensor (13), output unit (14), input unit (15), communication unit (16), and memory (17) can receive power from the power source (11) and perform their functions. Although not illustrated in FIG. 15, the device may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the power source (11) and supplies it to each component. In addition, although not illustrated in FIG. 15, a noise filter may be provided between the power source (11) and the heater (18). The noise filter may be a low pass filter. The low pass filter may include at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high frequency switching current applied from the power source (11) to the heater (18). The low pass filter can prevent high frequency noise components from being applied to a sensor (13), such as an insertion detection sensor (133).

[0154] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18) may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, and the like. Additionally, the heater (18) may be implemented as, but not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate having electrically conductive tracks arranged thereon, a ceramic heating element, and the like.

[0155] In another embodiment, the heater (18) may be an induction heater. For example, the heater (18) may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil.

[0156] The input unit (15) can receive information input from a user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit (15) can be a touch panel. The touch panel can include at least one touch sensor that detects touch. For example, the touch sensor can include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc.

[0157] The display (141) and the touch panel may be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel may be inserted into the display (141) (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added-on to the display panel (141).

[0158] Meanwhile, the input unit (15) may include, but is not limited to, buttons, key pads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0159] The memory (17) is hardware that stores various data processed in the aerosol generator (1), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (12). The memory (17) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The memory (17) may store data on the operation time of the aerosol generator (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and a user's smoking pattern.

[0160] The communication unit (16) may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit (16) may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0161] The short-range wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0162] The wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0163] Although not shown in FIG. 15, the aerosol generator (1) further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can transmit and receive information or charge a power source (11) by connecting to another external device through a connection interface such as a USB interface.

[0164] The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator (1). In one embodiment, the control unit (12) may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present embodiment pertains that the processor may be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0165] The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18) by controlling the supply of power from the power source (11) to the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) sensed by the temperature sensor (131). The control unit (12) can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on a temperature profile stored in the memory (17).

[0166] The aerosol generator (1) may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply (11) between the power supply (11) and the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater (24), the heater (18), or the induction coil (181). The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit (12) may control the power supply circuit.

[0167] The control unit (12) can control power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts direct current power output from the power source (11) into alternating current power. For example, the inverter may be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements.

[0168] The control unit (12) can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power source (11) to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). The control unit (12) can turn off the switching element so that power is cut off to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the current supplied from the power source (11) by controlling the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0169] The control unit (12) can control the voltage output from the power source (11) by controlling the switching of the switching element of the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit can include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented using a buck-boost converter, a zener diode, etc.

[0170] The control unit (12) can control the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit to adjust the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit. When the on state of the switching element continues, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may correspond to the level of the voltage output from the power source (11). The duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power source (11). As the duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may decrease. The heater (18) can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0171] The control unit (12) can control power to be supplied to the heater (18) using at least one of the pulse width modulation (PWM) method and the proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0172] For example, the control unit (12) can control a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the heater (18) using the PWM method. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0173] For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature that is the target of control based on a temperature profile. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) by using the PID method, which is a feedback control method using a difference value between the temperature of the heater (18) and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference value over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference value over time.

[0174] The control unit (12) can prevent the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) from overheating. For example, the control unit (12) can control the operation of the power conversion circuit so that the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) is cut off based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit (12) can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) by a certain percentage based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating substance contained in the cartridge (19) is exhausted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeding the limit temperature, and can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24).

[0175] The control unit (12) can control the charging and discharging of the power source (11). The control unit (12) can check the temperature of the power source (11) based on the output signal of the temperature sensor (131).

[0176] When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator (1), the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the first limit temperature, which is a standard for blocking charging of the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is lower than the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can control the power source (11) to be charged based on a preset charging current. If the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can block charging of the power source (11).

[0177] When the power of the aerosol generator (1) is turned on, the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the second limit temperature, which is a standard for blocking discharge of the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is lower than the second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can control to use the power stored in the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than or equal to the second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can stop using the power stored in the power source (11).

[0178] The control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power source (11). For example, the control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power source (11) based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power source (11).

[0179] The control unit (12) can determine whether a stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor (133). The control unit (12) can determine that the stick (S) is inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor (133). If it is determined that the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space, the control unit (12) can control to supply power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18). For example, the control unit (12) can supply power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) based on the temperature profile stored in the memory (17).

[0180] The control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor (133). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater (18) is higher than a limited temperature or when the temperature change slope of the heater (18) is higher than a set slope. When it is determined that the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space, the control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0181] The control unit (12) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater (18) according to the state of the stick (S) detected by the sensor (13). The control unit (12) can check the level range that includes the level of the signal of the capacitance sensor based on a lookup table. The control unit (12) can determine the moisture content of the stick (S) according to the checked level range.

[0182] When the stick (S) is in an over-humidified state, the control unit (12) can control the power supply time to the heater (18) to increase the preheating time of the stick (S) compared to the normal state.

[0183] The control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space has been reused through the reuse detection sensor (134). For example, the control unit (12) can compare the sensing value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor with a first reference range that includes a first color, and if the sensing value is included in the first reference range, it can determine that the stick (S) has not been used. For example, the control unit (12) can compare the sensing value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor with a second reference range that includes a second color, and if the sensing value is included in the second reference range, it can determine that the stick (S) has been used. If it is determined that the stick (S) has been used, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0184] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is coupled and / or removed through the cartridge detection sensor (135). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is coupled and / or removed based on the sensing value of the signal of the cartridge detection sensor.

[0185] The control unit (12) can determine whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted. For example, the control unit (12) can preheat the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) by applying power, and determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeds a limited temperature during the preheating period. If the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeds the limited temperature, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted. If the control unit (12) determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18).

[0186] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is usable. For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the cartridge (19) is unusable if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge (19) based on data stored in the memory (17). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the cartridge (19) is unusable if the total time that the heater (24) has been heated is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time or the total amount of power supplied to the heater (24) is greater than or equal to the preset maximum amount of power.

[0187] The control unit (12) can make a judgment regarding the user's inhalation through the puff sensor (132). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether a puff has been generated based on the sensing value of the signal of the puff sensor. For example, the control unit (12) can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal of the puff sensor (132). If the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs or if no puffs are detected for a preset time or longer, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18).

[0188] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed through the cap detection sensor (136). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed based on the sensing value of the signal of the cap detection sensor.

[0189] The control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) based on the result detected by the sensor (13). For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor (132) reaches a preset number, the control unit (12) can notify the user that the aerosol generator (1) will soon be terminated through at least one of the display (141), the haptic unit (142), and the sound output unit (143). For example, the control unit (12) can notify the user through the output unit (14) based on the determination that the stick (S) does not exist in the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can notify the user through the output unit (14) based on the determination that the cartridge (19) and / or the cap is not mounted. For example, the control unit (12) can transmit information about the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or the heater (18) to the user through the output unit (14).

[0190] The control unit (12) can store and update the history of events that have occurred in the memory (17) based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. The event may include operations such as detection of insertion of a stick (S), initiation of heating of the stick (S), detection of puff, termination of puff, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), detection of overvoltage application to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), termination of heating of the stick (S), power on / off of the aerosol generator (1), initiation of charging of the power source (11), detection of overcharge of the power source (11), termination of charging of the power source (11), etc. performed in the aerosol generator (1). The history of the event may include the date and time when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, when the predetermined event is detection of insertion of a stick (S), the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor (133), etc. For example, if a given event is overheating detection of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), the voltage applied to the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), the current flowing through the cartridge heater (24) and / or heater (18), etc.

[0191] The control unit (12) can control to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. When data regarding authentication is received from the external device through the communication link, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator (1). Here, the data regarding authentication can include data indicating completion of user authentication for a user corresponding to the external device. The user can perform user authentication through the external device. The external device can determine whether user data is valid based on the user's birthday, a unique number representing the user, etc., and can receive data regarding the use authority of the aerosol generator (1) from an external server. The external device can transmit data indicating completion of user authentication to the aerosol generator (1) based on the data regarding the use authority. When the user authentication is completed, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator (1). For example, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the heater (18) when user authentication is completed.

[0192] The control unit (12) can transmit data on the status of the aerosol generator (1) to an external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generator (1), the operation mode, etc. through the display of the external device.

[0193] An external device may transmit a location search request to the aerosol generator (1) based on an input that initiates location search of the aerosol generator (1). When receiving a location search request from the external device, the control unit (12) may control at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, in response to the location search request, the haptic unit (142) may generate vibration. For example, in response to the location search request, the display (141) may output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0194] The control unit (12) can control to perform a firmware update when receiving firmware data from an external device. The external device can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generator (1) and determine whether a new version of the firmware exists. When an input requesting firmware download is received, the external device can receive a new version of the firmware data and transmit the new version of the firmware data to the aerosol generator (1). The control unit (12) can control to perform a firmware update of the aerosol generator (1) upon receiving a new version of the firmware data.

[0195] The control unit (12) can transmit data on the sensing value of at least one sensor (13) to an external server (not shown) through the communication unit (16), and receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensing value through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The control unit (12) can perform an operation of determining a user's inhalation pattern, an operation of generating a temperature profile, etc. using the learning model received from the server. The control unit (12) can store, in the memory (17), the sensing value data of at least one sensor (13) and data for learning an artificial neural network (ANN). For example, the memory (17) can store a database for each component provided in the aerosol generating device (1) for learning the artificial neural network (ANN), and weights and biases forming the artificial neural network (ANN) structure. The control unit (12) can learn data on the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor (13), the user's suction pattern, the temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory (17), and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's suction pattern, generating the temperature profile, etc.

[0196]

[0197] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, by supplying a set power to the heater of the cartridge and determining the target temperature of the heater based on the temperature reached by the heater, the target temperature for heating the heater can be accurately set for each cartridge.

[0198] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by determining the target temperature of the heater based on the occurrence of the first puff or the reattachment of the cartridge after separation, it is possible to accurately determine that a new cartridge is mounted on the body and to set the heating target temperature of the newly mounted cartridge.

[0199] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by determining the temperature of the heater that is saturated for a set period of time as the target temperature, the deviation of the cartridge can be accurately reflected to the target temperature.

[0200] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the temperature of the saturated heater is outside the reference temperature range, the cartridge is made unusable, thereby preventing the use of an unacceptable cartridge and preventing the operation of the aerosol generating device from becoming unstable.

[0201] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by determining a reference temperature range of the heater based on an initial temperature of the heater, it is possible to prevent an erroneous determination of whether a cartridge can be used due to the environment around the aerosol generating device.

[0202] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the temperature of the heater can be accurately controlled by controlling the power supplied to the heater in a PID manner based on the determined target temperature.

[0203] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by determining the target temperature of the heater when the initial temperature change of the heater is less than the reference temperature deviation, it is possible to prevent the target temperature of the heater from being determined inaccurately.

[0204]

[0205] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 15, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a body (10); a cartridge (19) detachably coupled to the body (10) and including a heater (24) for heating an aerosol product; a power source (11) for supplying power to the heater (24); and a control unit (12), wherein the control unit (12) controls the power source (11) to supply a set power (Ps) to the heater (24), determines the temperature of the heater (24) while the set power (Ps) is supplied to the heater (24), and determines a target temperature for controlling the power supplied to the heater (24) based on the temperature reached by the heater (24).

[0206] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) further includes a puff sensor (132), and determines whether a first puff has occurred based on a signal output from the puff sensor (132), determines an elapsed time between the first puff and a second puff that occurred immediately before the first puff, and controls the power source (11) to supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24) based on the fact that the first puff has occurred and the elapsed time is greater than or equal to a reference time difference.

[0207] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the present invention further includes a cartridge detection sensor (135) that detects whether the cartridge (19) is coupled; and the control unit (12) determines whether the cartridge (19) is separated or coupled to the body (10) based on a signal output from the cartridge detection sensor (135), and controls the power source (11) to supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24) based on whether the cartridge (19) is coupled to the body (10).

[0208] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) can control the power source (11) so that the set power (Ps) is supplied to the heater (24) for a first period of time, and determine the temperature that the heater (24) reaches during the first period of time as the target temperature.

[0209] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) can determine the temperature at which the temperature of the heater (24) is saturated during the first time period as the target temperature.

[0210] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the set power may be 5 to 9 W, and the first time may be 1 to 2 sec.

[0211] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) further includes an output unit (14), and compares the temperature reached by the heater (24) during the first time period with a reference temperature range, and based on the fact that the reached temperature is outside the reference temperature range, cuts off the power supply to the heater (24), and outputs information related to the unusability of the cartridge (19) through the output unit (14).

[0212] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) can determine the initial temperature of the heater (24) and determine the reference temperature range based on the initial temperature of the heater (24).

[0213] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (24) in a PID manner based on the determined target temperature.

[0214] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (24) so ​​that the temperature of the heater (24) follows the determined target temperature.

[0215] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the heater (24) further includes a sensor (131) that measures at least one of a voltage and a current, and the control unit (12) can determine a resistance value of the heater (24) based on a signal output from the sensor (131), and determine a temperature of the heater (24) based on the determined resistance value.

[0216] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (12) can determine the amount of change in the initial temperature of the heater (24) for a second time before the set power (Ps) is supplied to the heater (24), and control the power source (11) to supply the set power (Ps) to the heater (24) based on the amount of change in the initial temperature being less than a reference temperature deviation.

[0217] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device further includes a memory (17) in which the target temperature is stored, and the control unit (12) can determine the previous target temperature previously stored in the memory (17) as the target temperature for controlling the power supplied to the heater (24) based on the amount of change in the initial temperature being greater than or equal to the reference temperature deviation.

[0218]

[0219] Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

[0220] For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

[0221] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. Body; A cartridge detachably coupled to the body and including a heater for heating an aerosol product; A power source supplying power to the above heater; and Including a control unit, The above control unit, Control the power to supply the set power to the above heater, In a state where the above-set power is supplied to the heater, the temperature of the heater is determined, An aerosol generating device that determines a target temperature for controlling power supplied to the heater based on the temperature reached by the heater.

2. In paragraph 1, Including a puff sensor; The above control unit, Based on the signal output from the above puff sensor, it is determined whether a first puff is generated, Determine the elapsed time between the first puff and the second puff that occurred immediately before the first puff, An aerosol generating device that controls the power supply to supply the set power to the heater based on the occurrence of the first puff and the elapsed time being greater than or equal to a reference time difference.

3. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a cartridge detection sensor that detects whether the cartridge is combined; The above control unit, Based on the signal output from the cartridge detection sensor, it is determined whether the cartridge is separated or combined with the body, An aerosol generating device that controls the power supply to supply the set power to the heater based on the coupling of the cartridge to the body.

4. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, Control the power so that the above-set power is supplied to the heater for a first time period, An aerosol generating device that determines the temperature reached by the heater during the first time period as the target temperature.

5. In paragraph 4, The above control unit, An aerosol generating device that determines the temperature at which the temperature of the heater is saturated during the first time period as the target temperature.

6. In paragraph 4, The above set power is 5 to 9 W, An aerosol generating device wherein the first time is 1 to 2 sec.

7. In paragraph 4, Including an output section; The above control unit, Compare the temperature reached by the heater during the first time period with the reference temperature range, An aerosol generating device that cuts off power supply to the heater and outputs information related to the unusability of the cartridge through the output unit based on the temperature reached being outside the reference temperature range.

8. In paragraph 7, The above control unit, Determine the initial temperature of the above heater, An aerosol generating device that determines the reference temperature range based on the initial temperature of the heater.

9. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, An aerosol generating device that controls the power supplied to the heater in a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) manner based on the determined target temperature.

10. In paragraph 9, The above control unit, An aerosol generating device that controls the power supplied to the heater so that the temperature of the heater follows the determined target temperature.

11. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a sensor for measuring at least one of the voltage and current of the heater, The above control unit, Based on the signal output from the above sensor, the resistance value of the heater is determined, An aerosol generating device that determines the temperature of the heater based on the determined resistance value.

12. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, Before the above-mentioned set power is supplied to the heater, the amount of change in the initial temperature of the heater is determined for a second time, An aerosol generating device that controls the power supply to supply the set power to the heater based on the change in the initial temperature being less than the reference temperature deviation.

13. In paragraph 12, further comprising a memory in which the target temperature is stored; The above control unit, An aerosol generating device that determines the previous target temperature stored in the memory as the target temperature for controlling the power supplied to the heater based on the change in the initial temperature being greater than or equal to the reference temperature deviation.

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