Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device according to one aspect comprises: a substrate detection unit of which the capacitance varies depending on the presence or absence of an aerosol-generating substrate; a heating unit for heating the aerosol-generating substrate when the aerosol-generating substrate is inserted into a cavity; and a control unit for acquiring a monitoring value of the substrate detection unit according to a change in the capacitance, and controlling the heating unit on the basis of the monitoring value, wherein the control unit determines, on the basis of the monitoring value, whether the aerosol-generating substrate is extracted in a state in which the aerosol-generating substrate is inserted into the cavity and heated.

Description

Aerosol generating device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device capable of accurately determining whether an aerosol generating substrate has been extracted.

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternative methods that overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for systems that generate aerosols by heating an aerosol-generating substrate using an aerosol-generating device, rather than by burning cigarettes to produce aerosol.

[0003] Such an aerosol generating system can automatically heat the heating unit upon insertion of an aerosol generating substrate, and automatically stop heating the heating unit upon extraction of the aerosol generating substrate, without user input for the convenience of the user. In addition, such an automatic heating system requires a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of an aerosol generating substrate. However, such a sensor is easily disturbed by internal or external factors, and therefore, if a method for accurately recognizing the aerosol generating substrate is absent, there is a problem in that the heating unit may stop heating even when the aerosol generating substrate has not been extracted from the cavity, causing inconvenience to the user, or the heating unit may be maintained even when the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted from the cavity, causing overheating of the device.

[0004] The technical challenge of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can more accurately determine whether an aerosol generating substrate has been extracted through a sensor.

[0005] The technical problems of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other technical problems can be inferred from the following examples.

[0006] An aerosol generating device according to one aspect includes a substrate detection unit whose capacitance varies as an aerosol generating substrate is inserted and extracted into a cavity, a heating unit which heats the aerosol generating substrate when the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity, and a control unit which obtains a monitoring value of the substrate detection unit according to a change in the capacitance and controls the heating unit based on the monitoring value, wherein the control unit determines whether the aerosol generating substrate is extracted based on a first change amount of the monitoring value before a reference time point and a second change amount of the monitoring value after the reference time point in a state where the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity and the aerosol generating substrate is heated.

[0007] The aerosol generating device of the present disclosure determines whether an aerosol generating substrate is extracted based on the amount of change in the sensor output value rather than the absolute reference value of the sensor output value, so that it can more accurately detect whether an aerosol generating substrate is extracted from a cavity.

[0008] In addition, the aerosol generating device determines whether the aerosol generating substrate is extracted based on the changes in the sections before and after the reference point, rather than simply using the change in the sensor output value in a single section, so that it can more accurately detect whether the aerosol generating substrate is extracted from the cavity.

[0009] In addition, the aerosol generating device has the effect of increasing user satisfaction by accurately determining whether the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted, thereby eliminating situations where the user unintentionally stops or maintains heating.

[0010] The effects of the invention are not limited to those exemplified above, and more diverse effects are included in this specification.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the upper case and body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 6 is an internal block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating changes in monitoring values ​​according to various events.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a method for determining a reference point according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating changes in monitoring values ​​for events other than extraction events according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating changes in monitoring values ​​according to an extraction event according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] An aerosol generating device according to one aspect includes a substrate detection unit whose capacitance varies as an aerosol generating substrate is inserted and extracted into a cavity, a heating unit which heats the aerosol generating substrate when the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity, and a control unit which obtains a monitoring value of the substrate detection unit according to a change in the capacitance and controls the heating unit based on the monitoring value, wherein the control unit determines whether the aerosol generating substrate is extracted based on a first change amount of the monitoring value before a reference time point and a second change amount of the monitoring value after the reference time point in a state where the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity and the aerosol generating substrate is heated.

[0023] Additionally, the control unit sets the reference point based on the monitoring value exceeding a preset reference increase amount.

[0024] In addition, the control unit sets a monitoring section before and after the reaching point so as to include a point in time when the monitoring value reaches the reference increase amount, and sets a point in time when the monitoring value reaches the maximum value in the monitoring section as the reference point in time.

[0025] In addition, the control unit obtains the first change amount in a first section selected between a first time point before the reference time point and the reference time point, and obtains the second change amount in a second section selected between the reference time point and a second time point after the reference time point, and the lengths of the first section and the second section are set to be equal to each other.

[0026] Additionally, the control unit determines that the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted from the cavity when the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first section and the second change amount is maintained within a reference range in the second section.

[0027] Additionally, the control unit controls the heating unit to maintain the heating state of the aerosol generating substrate when the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first section and the second change amount gradually decreases over time in the second section.

[0028] In addition, the substrate detection unit includes at least one electrode disposed on an insulating substrate, and the monitoring value is set to at least one of a charging time, a discharging time, a number of charge / discharge cycles, and a capacitance value of the electrode.

[0029] In addition, the heating unit includes an induction coil that surrounds the outer surface of a receiving space in which the aerosol generating substrate is received and generates an alternating magnetic field, and a susceptor that is disposed within the receiving space and is heated by the alternating magnetic field, and the substrate detection unit is disposed between the outer surface of the receiving space and the induction coil.

[0030] Additionally, the control unit controls the heating unit to heat the aerosol generating substrate in the preheating section and the smoking section after the preheating section, and determines whether the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted from the cavity in the smoking section.

[0031] Additionally, the control unit cuts off power supplied to the heating unit when the aerosol generating substrate is extracted from the cavity.

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are given the same reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0033] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing specifications, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0034] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0035] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0036] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0037] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an aerosol generating device (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one of a battery (11), a control unit (12), a detection unit (13), and a heater (18). At least one of the battery (11), the control unit (12), the detection unit (13), and the heater (18) may be disposed inside a body (10) of the aerosol generating device (1). The body (10) may provide a space opened upwardly so that an aerosol generating substrate (S), which is an aerosol generating article, may be inserted. The space opened upwardly may be referred to as an insertion space or a cavity. The insertion space may be formed by being recessed toward the interior of the body (10) by a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the aerosol generating substrate (S) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of a region in the aerosol generating substrate (S) into which an aerosol generating material and / or medium are included. The lower end of the aerosol generating substrate (S) may be inserted into the interior of the body (10), and the upper end of the aerosol generating substrate (S) may protrude outside the body (10). The user may hold the upper end of the aerosol generating substrate (S), which is exposed to the outside, in his / her mouth and inhale air. According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a vaporizer (not shown), and the aerosol generated by the vaporizer may pass through the aerosol generating substrate (S) and be delivered to the user. For this purpose, the vaporizer may include a liquid storage portion, a liquid delivery means, and an additional heating element.

[0040] The heater (18) can heat the aerosol generating substrate (S). The heater (18) can extend upwardly in a space where the aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted. For example, the heater (18) can include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element. The heater (18) can be inserted into the lower portion of the aerosol generating substrate (S). According to an embodiment, the heater (18) can include a cylindrical heating element, unlike FIGS. 1 and 2, and the cylindrical heating element can accommodate the aerosol generating substrate (S) and heat at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol generating substrate (S).

[0041] The heater (18) may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater.

[0042] For example, referring to FIG. 1, the heater (18) may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater (18) may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater (18) may be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track. The heater (18) may be electrically connected to a battery (11). The heater (18) may be directly heated by receiving current from the battery (11). The heater (18) may also be referred to as a heating element (180) in that it is configured to heat an aerosol generating substrate (S).

[0043] For example, the heater (18) may be a multi-heater. The heater (18) may include a first heater (18A) and a second heater (18B). The first and second heaters (18A, 18B) may be arranged side by side along the length direction. The first and second heaters (18A, 18B) may be heated sequentially or simultaneously.

[0044] For example, referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an induction coil (181) surrounding a susceptor (182). The induction coil (181) may heat the susceptor (182). In an example where the heater (18) of the aerosol generating device (1) is an induction heating heater, the induction coil (181) and the susceptor (182) may be referred to as a heater (18). In an embodiment, only the susceptor (182) may be referred to as a heater (18). In addition, the induction coil (181) and the susceptor (182) may be referred to as a heating unit (180) in that the induction coil (181) and the susceptor (182) contribute to heating.

[0045] The susceptor (182) can be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil (181). The magnetic field can penetrate the susceptor (182) and generate an eddy current within the susceptor (182). The current can generate heat in the susceptor (182). The susceptor (182) can be a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, as shown in FIG. 2. However, according to an embodiment, the susceptor (182) can have a cylindrical shape to accommodate the aerosol generating substrate (S) and heat at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol generating substrate (S). In addition, according to an embodiment, the susceptor (182) can be a component included in the aerosol generating substrate (S) rather than the aerosol generating device (1).

[0046] The battery (11) can supply power to operate components of the aerosol generating device (1). The battery (11) can supply power to at least one of the control unit (12), the detection unit (13), and the heater (18).

[0047] The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (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 battery (11), the detection unit (13), and the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the operation of the induction coil (181). The control unit (12) can control the operation of the display, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device (1). The control unit (12) can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device (1) to determine whether the aerosol generating device (1) is in an operable state.

[0048] The control unit (12) can analyze the results detected by the detection unit (13) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) so that the operation of the heater (18) is started or ended based on the results detected by the detection unit (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (18) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (18) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the detection unit (13).

[0049] The sensing unit (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, and an acceleration sensor. For example, the sensing unit (13) may sense at least one of the temperature of the heater (18), the temperature of the battery (11), and the temperature inside and outside the body (10). For example, the sensing unit (13) may sense a puff of a user. For example, the sensing unit (13) may sense whether an aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted into the insertion space. For example, the sensing unit (13) may sense the movement of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0050] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] In the following drawings, the description is centered on the case where the heater (18) is an induction heater, but the following description can also be applied to the case of the electric resistance heater of FIG. 1.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 3, the upper case (40) can be detachably coupled to the body (10). The upper case (40) can be coupled to the upper side of the body (10). The upper case (40) can cover the upper periphery of the body (10). The upper case (40) can have an insertion port (44). An aerosol generating substrate (S) can be inserted into the insertion port (44). The insertion port (44) can have a configuration corresponding to the insertion space or cavity described in FIGS. 1 and 2. The upper case (40) can include a cover (45) for opening and closing the insertion port (44). The cover (45) can slide laterally to open and close the insertion port (44).

[0053] The upper case (40) may include an upper case wing (42). The upper case wing (42) may extend downward from both sides of the upper case body (41). The upper case wing (42) may be referred to as an upper case grip (42).

[0054] The body (10) may include a body wing (17). The body wing (17) may extend upward from an edge of the upper portion of the body (10). The body wings (17) may be formed as a pair facing each other with the upper portion of the body (10) as the center. The body wings (17) may be formed at a position that is misaligned with the upper case wing (42).

[0055] When the upper case (40) is coupled to the body (10), the upper case (40) can form the upper exterior of the aerosol generating device. When the upper case (40) is coupled to the body (10), the body wing (17) can cover the side portion of the upper case (40) exposed between the upper case wings (42). When the upper case (40) is coupled to the body (10), the upper case wing (42) can cover the outer wall of the body (10).

[0056] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the upper case and body of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Referring to Fig. 4, the upper case (40) can be detachably connected to the body (10). The upper case (40) can include an insertion port (44). A cover (45) is movably installed on the upper case (40) to open or close the insertion port (44).

[0058] The aerosol generating substrate (S) can be accommodated in the aerosol generating device (1) through the insertion port (44) when the insertion port (44) is open. The susceptor (182) can be fixed to the body (10) or, depending on the embodiment, can be replaceably coupled to the body (10). The susceptor (182) can be inserted into the aerosol generating substrate (S) when the aerosol generating substrate (S) is accommodated in the aerosol generating device (1) through the insertion port (44).

[0059] An induction coil (181) surrounds the outer surface of the receiving space forming the insertion hole (44) and can generate a variable magnetic field by alternating current. The variable magnetic field is provided to the susceptor (182), and the susceptor (182) can be inductively heated by the variable magnetic field.

[0060] The detection unit (13) may include a substrate detection unit (131) and an upper case detection unit (132). The substrate detection unit (131) and the upper case detection unit (132) may be formed as one piece.

[0061] The substrate detection unit (131) is arranged between the outer surface of the receiving space and the induction coil (181), and can detect the presence or absence of an aerosol-generating substrate (S) inserted into the receiving space through the insertion port (44). The substrate detection unit (131) can be manufactured as a thin film so that it can be arranged between the receiving space and the induction coil (181). The substrate detection unit (131) surrounds at least a portion of the outer surface of the receiving space, and the output value can vary depending on the insertion of the aerosol-generating substrate (S). In addition, the substrate detection unit (131) can transmit the output value to the control unit (12 of FIG. 6).

[0062] The upper case detection unit (132) may be formed as an integral part by being connected to the substrate detection unit (131). The upper case detection unit (132) may be disposed on the body (10), and may be disposed on the inside of the surface where the upper case (40) comes into contact with the body (10), and may extend in one direction. The one direction may be perpendicular to the insertion direction of the aerosol generating substrate (S). The upper case (40) includes at least one conductor (43) at a portion that comes into contact with the upper case detection unit (132), and the upper case detection unit (132) may output an output value that varies depending on the approach and retreat of the at least one conductor (43). The upper case detection unit (132) may transmit the output value to the control unit (12).

[0063] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 5, the upper case detection unit (132) and the substrate detection unit (131) may be formed as an integral part. The integrated upper case detection unit (132) and the substrate detection unit (131) may be referred to as a sensing module (130). The upper case detection unit (132) and the substrate detection unit (131) may be implemented in a pattern shape on an insulating substrate. For example, the upper case detection unit (132) and the substrate detection unit (131) may each be implemented in a pattern shape on a single flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0065] The upper case detection unit (132) may include an inductive sensor. In an embodiment in which the upper case detection unit (132) includes an inductive sensor, the upper case detection unit (132) may include a detection coil (13b). The detection coil (13b) may be implemented in a pattern shape on an insulating substrate. The substrate detection unit (131) may vary its inductance according to the approach and retreat of the upper case (40), and may transmit the varied inductance value to the control unit (12). For this purpose, the detection unit (13) may further include a signal transmission unit (13c). The signal transmission unit (13c) includes a first channel (ch1) and a second channel (ch2), and the signal transmission unit (13c) may transmit the varied inductance value to the control unit (12) through the first channel (ch1).

[0066] The control unit (12) can determine whether the upper case (40) is mounted on the body (10) based on the inductance value output by the upper case detection unit (132). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the upper case (40) is mounted on the body (10) if the change in inductance per unit time output by the upper case detection unit (132) is greater than or equal to a preset reference inductance.

[0067] The substrate detection unit (131) may include at least one capacitor sensor. In an embodiment in which the substrate detection unit (131) includes a capacitor sensor, the substrate detection unit (131) may include at least one electrode (13a). Although an embodiment having three electrodes (13a) is illustrated in FIG. 5 , the number of electrodes (13a) is not limited thereto. The electrodes (13a) may be implemented in a pattern shape on an insulating substrate. The electrodes (13a) may be in contact with the outer surface of the receiving space and may surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the receiving space. According to an embodiment, the detection unit (13) may be externally coated, and the external coating layer may be in direct contact with the outer surface of the receiving space.

[0068] Since the electrode (13a) surrounds the receiving space, the receiving space can be understood as a dielectric space that causes a change in capacitance. In other words, when an aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted into the receiving space, the dielectric constant of the electrode (13a) changes, and the capacitance of the substrate detection unit (131) can change. In this way, the substrate detection unit (131) can output a capacitance value that changes according to the change in the capacitance of the electrode (13a) itself, without separately having a transmitting electrode and a receiving electrode. The substrate detection unit (131) can transmit the capacitance value to the control unit (12). The signal transmission unit (13c) can transmit the capacitance value to the control unit (12) through a second channel (ch2) different from the first channel (ch1).

[0069] The control unit (12) can determine whether an aerosol-generating substrate (S) inserted into the receiving space exists based on the capacitance value output by the substrate detection unit (131). For example, the control unit (12) can obtain a monitoring value according to a change in the capacitance of the substrate detection unit (131), and determine whether an aerosol-generating substrate (S) inserted into the receiving space exists based on the monitoring value. The monitoring value may include a charging time, a discharging time, a number of charge / discharge cycles, and a capacitance change amount of the electrode (13a) according to a change in the capacitance of the substrate detection unit (131). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that an aerosol-generating substrate (S) is inserted into the cavity if the monitoring value decreases by a reference decrease amount or more within a preset time. Meanwhile, a method for determining whether an aerosol-generating substrate (S) has been extracted from the cavity while the aerosol-generating substrate (S) is heated will be described below with reference to FIG. 7 and below.

[0070] FIG. 6 is an internal block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device (1) may include at least one of a battery (11), a heating unit (180), a detection unit (13), a control unit (12), a memory (14), an input unit (15), and an output unit (16). Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (1) of the present disclosure may further include other general-purpose components in addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 6. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a communication unit (not illustrated) for communicating with an external device.

[0072] The battery (11) supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the battery (11) may supply power to at least one of the heating unit (180), the detection unit (13), the control unit (12), the memory (14), the input unit (15), and the output unit (16). The aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power conversion unit (not shown) to supply power to the internal components of the aerosol generating device (1). The power conversion unit may include a DC / DC converter. The DC / DC converter may supply power to the internal components of the aerosol generating device (1) by boosting or lowering the direct current power supplied from the battery (11). When the heating unit (180) is an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a DC / AC converter. The DC / AC converter can convert direct current power supplied from the battery (11) into alternating current power and supply it to the heating unit (180).

[0073] The battery (11) may be configured as a detachable battery that is detachably placed on the aerosol generating device (1). Alternatively, the battery (11) may be fixed to the aerosol generating device (1). In this case, the battery (11) may be a rechargeable or disposable battery. For example, the battery (11) may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0074] The heating element (180) may include an induction coil (181) and a susceptor (182). The induction coil (181) may generate a variable magnetic field when supplied with AC power. The susceptor (182) may be heated by the variable magnetic field, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0075] The detection unit (13) can detect various status information of the aerosol generating device (1). The results detected by the detection unit (13) are transmitted to the control unit (12), and the control unit (12) can control the aerosol generating device (1) so that various functions such as controlling the operation of the heating unit (180), restricting smoking, determining whether or not the heating unit (180) is inserted, and displaying notifications are performed based on the detection results.

[0076] The detection unit (13) may include a substrate detection unit (131), an upper case detection unit (132), and a puff detection unit (133).

[0077] The substrate detection unit (131) and the upper case detection unit (132) may be implemented in a pattern shape on a single insulating substrate, respectively. The substrate detection unit (131) may include a capacitance sensor including at least one electrode (13a). Accordingly, the substrate detection unit (131) may have a variable capacitance as the aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted into and extracted from the cavity. The substrate detection unit (131) may transmit the capacitance value to the control unit (12) in real time or periodically.

[0078] The upper case detection unit (132) may include an inductive sensor. Accordingly, the inductance of the upper case detection unit (132) may vary as the upper case (40) approaches and retreats from the body (10). The upper case detection unit (132) may transmit the inductance value to the control unit (12) in real time or periodically.

[0079] The puff detection unit (133) can detect the user's puff. To this end, the puff detection unit (133) may include a pressure sensor, a flow sensor, an airflow sensor, a microphone, and the like.

[0080] Meanwhile, the sensing unit (13) of FIG. 6 illustrates components related to the present embodiment. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that, in addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 6, the sensing unit (13) may further include other general-purpose components. For example, the sensing unit (13) may further include a water detection sensor for detecting water inside and / or outside the aerosol generating device (1), a battery temperature sensor, and the like.

[0081] The memory (14) is a hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (1), and the memory (14) can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (12). The memory (14) can be implemented in various types such as random access memory (RAM) such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc. In one embodiment, the memory (14) can store the capacitance value output by the substrate detection unit (131) in real time. Alternatively, the memory (14) can store the monitoring value of the substrate detection unit (131) obtained by the control unit (12) in real time. The capacitance value and monitoring value stored in the memory (14) can be used to calculate the amount of change for each value before and after a reference point.

[0082] The input unit (15) can receive user input. The input unit (15) can be implemented with a physical key and / or a touch sensor for receiving user input. Depending on the embodiment, the input unit (15) may be omitted, in which case the heating unit (180) can be heated by the user's suction. For example, the input unit (15) may include, but is not limited to, a button, a key pad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0083] The output unit (16) may include a display that outputs visual information related to the aerosol generating device (1). In addition, the output unit (16) may include a motor that outputs tactile information related to the aerosol generating device (1). Here, the visual and tactile information related to the aerosol generating device (1) includes all information related to the operation of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the output unit (16) may visually and tactilely output information about the insertion and extraction of the aerosol generating substrate (S) through a predetermined means. For this purpose, the output unit (16) may include a display and a haptic motor. The display may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD) and an organic light emitting display panel (OLED). Meanwhile, when the display and the touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display may be used as an input device in addition to an output device. A haptic motor can provide tactile information to a user about an aerosol generating device (1) by converting an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus.

[0084] The control unit (12) controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). In one embodiment, the control unit (12) may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present embodiment may be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0085] The control unit (12) can control the heating unit (180) to heat the aerosol generating substrate (S) when the aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted into the cavity. In one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the direct current power output from the battery (11) or the alternating current power supplied to the induction coil (181) so that the induction coil (181) generates a variable magnetic field. The susceptor (182) is heated by the variable magnetic field generated from the induction coil (181), and thus an aerosol can be generated. In this way, the aerosol generating device (1) of the present disclosure can automatically heat the aerosol generating substrate (S) when the aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted into the cavity without a user input.

[0086] Meanwhile, automatic heating of the aerosol generating substrate (S) is possible only when the upper case detection unit (132) detects the upper case (40). In other words, the control unit (12) determines whether the upper case (40) is mounted on the body (10) based on the inductance value provided by the upper case detection unit (132) through the first channel (ch1). Even if the control unit (12) receives a capacitance value greater than the reference change amount provided by the substrate detection unit (131) through the second channel (ch2) before determining that the upper case (40) is mounted on the body (10), the control unit (12) does not automatically heat the aerosol generating substrate (S). This is to prevent the heating unit (180) from being heated by misrecognition that the aerosol generating substrate (S) is not inserted into the cavity.

[0087] The control unit (12) can control the heating unit (180) to heat the aerosol generating substrate (S) when the substrate detection unit (131) detects the aerosol generating substrate (S) inserted into the cavity while the upper case (40) is mounted on the body (10). In addition, the control unit (12) can cut off the power supplied to the heating unit (180) when the substrate detection unit (131) detects the extraction of the aerosol generating substrate (S) while the aerosol generating substrate (S) is heated.

[0088] Meanwhile, when the substrate detection unit (131) includes a capacitance sensor and is positioned adjacent to the heating unit (180), the capacitance output value gradually decreases over time according to the heating of the heating unit (180) even when a specific event has not occurred. This is caused by an increase in the temperature of the capacitance sensor due to the heating of the heating unit (180). The present disclosure can accurately determine whether or not the aerosol generating substrate (S) is extracted by using the change trend in the output of the capacitance sensor due to the heating of the heating unit (180). This change trend can be performed by comparing the change amount before the reference point and the change amount after the reference point.

[0089] More specifically, the control unit (12) can obtain the monitoring value of the substrate detection unit (131) according to the change in capacitance, and control the heating unit (180) based on the monitoring value. In addition, the control unit (12) can determine whether the aerosol generating substrate (S) is extracted based on the first change amount of the monitoring value before the reference time and the second change amount of the monitoring value after the reference time in a state where the aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted into the cavity and heated. In Fig. 7, the change trend of the output of the capacitance sensor according to various events is examined, and in Figs. 7 to 9, a comparison of the change amounts before and after the reference time is examined.

[0090] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating changes in monitoring values ​​according to various events.

[0091] The x-axis of FIG. 7 represents time (sec), and the y-axis represents the monitoring value of the substrate detection unit (131) according to the change in capacitance. The monitoring value may be the capacitance value itself output by the substrate detection unit (131), but may also be at least one of the charging time, the discharging time, and the number of charge / discharge cycles of the electrode (13a). In one embodiment, the monitoring value may be at least one or a combination of the capacitance value itself, the charging time, the discharging time, and the number of charge / discharge cycles, which may be determined according to the manufacturing specifications of the substrate detection unit (131) and the control unit (12), or may be selected from the monitoring values ​​described above in order to clearly distinguish the trend of the capacitance change amount.

[0092] Referring to Fig. 7, the aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted at a first time point (t1). Since the heating unit (180) is not heated before the first time point (t1), the monitoring value of the substrate detecting unit (131) does not substantially change from the initial value (A1).

[0093] When an aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted at the first time point (t1), the permittivity inside the receiving space changes rapidly, so the monitoring value also changes rapidly. For example, when an aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted, the permittivity of the receiving space increases rapidly, so the monitoring value decreases overall. Fig. 7 shows an example in which the monitoring value decreases from the initial value (A1) to the change value (A2). The control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating substrate (S) has been inserted into the cavity if the monitoring value decreases by more than the standard decrease amount within a preset time. In Fig. 7, the decrease amount is the initial value (A1) - the change value (A2), and the control unit (12) determines that the decrease amount is more than the standard decrease amount, so that the aerosol generating substrate (S) has been inserted into the cavity. The standard decrease amount can be appropriately set according to the capacitance of the substrate detection unit (131) and the values ​​that are targets of the monitoring value. For example, if the monitoring value is the number of charge / discharge cycles of the electrode (13a) per unit time (sec), the reference reduction amount can be selected in the range of about 15,000 to about 22,000.

[0094] When the aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted into the cavity at the first time point (t1), the control unit (12) controls the heating unit (180) to heat the aerosol generating substrate (S). The heating of the aerosol generating substrate (S) continues from the first time point (t1) to the fourth time point (t4) when the aerosol generating substrate (S) is extracted. The first time point (t1) to the fourth time point (t4) may be referred to as a heating section.

[0095] In the heating section, the user performs a puff. The user puff can be determined based on the output value of the puff detection unit (133). In Fig. 7, the first puff (puff 1) was detected at the second time point (t2) and the second puff (puff 2) was detected at the third time point (t3). The permittivity of the receiving space can be varied by the user puff. This occurs due to the vaporization of the substance contained in the aerosol generating substrate (S), the release of the aerosol source into the receiving space, and the inflow of air current due to the user puff. In particular, when the user puff is generated, the monitoring value temporarily increases sharply due to the vaporization of the aerosol source and the inflow of air current, which affect the permittivity. However, in the case of the user puff, the heating unit (180) is still heated, so the monitoring value of the substrate detection unit (131) temporarily increases and then gradually decreases again. This can be observed in both the first puff (puff 1) and the second puff (puff 2).

[0096] When the aerosol generating substrate (S) is extracted from the cavity at the fourth time point (t4), as in the first time point (t1), the permittivity inside the receiving space changes rapidly, so the monitoring value also changes rapidly. However, at the fourth time point (t4), the permittivity of the receiving space decreases rapidly due to the extraction of the aerosol generating substrate (S), so the monitoring value increases overall. When the aerosol generating substrate (S) is extracted from the cavity, the control unit (12) cuts off the power supplied to the heating unit (180). Unlike the user puff in the heating section, when the aerosol generating substrate (S) is extracted from the cavity, the heating unit (180) is no longer heated, so the monitoring value of the substrate detection unit (131) increases rapidly at the fourth time point (t4), which is the extraction time point, and then maintains the value for a certain period of time and then gradually increases over time. As the temperature of the heating unit (180) decreases, the monitoring value of the substrate detection unit (131) may increase to the initial value (A1).

[0097] As described above, the user's puff event and extraction event have distinct differences in monitoring values ​​before and after the event occurrence. The present disclosure accurately determines whether an aerosol-generating substrate (S) has been extracted based on the change trends in monitoring values ​​before and after the event occurrence.

[0098] Meanwhile, the heating section of the present disclosure can be divided into a preheating section and a smoking section following the preheating section, and whether or not the aerosol generating substrate (S) is extracted can be determined in the smoking section. This is because, while the monitoring value decreases rapidly in the preheating section, which is the initial stage of heating, such rapid changes in the monitoring value do not occur in the smoking section, allowing for more accurate observation of the change trend in the monitoring value.

[0099] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a method for determining a reference point according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0100] Referring to Fig. 8, the reference point in time refers to the point in time when a rapid change in the monitoring value occurs, which may refer to the point in time when an event occurs. If the aerosol generating substrate (S) is heated, the event may refer to a puff event or an extraction event that causes a rapid change in the dielectric constant. Although Fig. 8 only describes a method for setting the point in time when a puff event occurs, the following description naturally applies to a method for setting the point in time when an extraction event occurs.

[0101] The control unit (12) can obtain a monitoring value for the substrate detection unit (131) while heating the aerosol generating substrate (S). The control unit (12) can set a reference point based on a monitoring value greater than or equal to a reference increase amount (Ri).

[0102] The memory (14) stores the monitoring value in real time, and the control unit (12) reads the monitoring value from the memory (14) to determine whether the monitoring value has increased by more than the reference increase amount (Ri) during a preset period of time. In Fig. 8, the control unit (12) obtains a monitoring value that is more than the reference increase amount (Ri) at the first observation time point (td1).

[0103] The control unit (12) includes a point in time when the monitoring value reaches the reference increase amount (Ri), and can set a monitoring section before and after the reaching point. In Fig. 8, the first observation point (td1) means the reaching point, and the monitoring section (tm1-tm2) is set before and after the first observation point (td1). The monitoring section may be a uniform section before and after the first observation point (td1). In other words, in Fig. 8, the length from the first observation point (td1) to the first monitoring time (tm1) may be the same as the length from the first observation point (td1) to the second monitoring time (tm2).

[0104] The control unit (12) can set the point in time when the monitoring value reaches the maximum value in the monitoring section (tm1-tm2) as the reference point. In Fig. 8, the maximum value of the monitoring value in the monitoring section (tm1-tm2) is the first monitoring value (m1), which has reached the second observation point in time (td2). The control unit (12) can set the second observation point in time (td2) as the reference point in time.

[0105] The present disclosure can identify a global peak by setting a monitoring interval based on the point of arrival of a reference increase (Ri). Therefore, the precise point of occurrence of an event can be identified. Meanwhile, for convenience of explanation, the reference points in FIGS. 9 and 10 below are simplified representations of only the global peak described in FIG. 8. Local peaks may also be included in FIGS. 9 and 10 below.

[0106] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating changes in monitoring values ​​for events other than extraction events according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0107] Figure 9 is an enlarged drawing of the first puff (puff 1) portion of Figure 7 as an event other than an extraction event.

[0108] Referring to Fig. 9, the control unit (12) can set a reference time point (tr). The reference time point (tr) is as described in Fig. 8.

[0109] The control unit (12) can obtain the first change amount of the monitoring value of the substrate detection unit (131) in the first section (se1) selected between the first time point (t1) before the reference time point (tr) and the reference time point (tr). The reason why the length of the first section (se1) is set to be selectable between the first time point (t1) and the reference time point (tr) is so that the local peak portion is not included in the change amount calculation portion, as shown in FIG. 8. However, the length of the first section (se1) does not necessarily have to be smaller than the length between the first time point (t1) and the reference time point (tr). FIG. 9 illustrates an example in which the length of the first section (se1) is the same as the length between the first time point (t1) and the reference time point (tr).

[0110] The control unit (12) can obtain the second change amount of the monitoring value of the substrate detection unit (131) in the second section (se2) selected between the reference time point (tr) and the second time point (t2) after the reference time point. The reason for setting the range of the second section (se2) is the same as the reason for setting the range of the first section (se1).

[0111] The lengths of the first section (se1) and the second section (se2) may be equal to each other. This is to observe the change trend of the monitoring value under the same conditions.

[0112] The control unit (12) determines that the aerosol generating substrate (S) is not extracted from the cavity when the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first section (se1) and the second change amount gradually decreases over time in the second section (se2).

[0113] The decrease in change over time can be obtained from the decrease in change per unit time. This can be calculated by linearly approximating the monitoring value of the first section (se1). For example, if the monitoring value at the first time point (t1), which is the start of the first section (se1), is P1, and the monitoring value at the reference time point (tr), which is the end of the first section (se1), is Pr', the first change in the first section (se1) can be obtained from the linear slope value (Pr'-P1) / (tr-t1). Similarly, the monitoring value of the second section (se2) can also be linearly approximated, and at this time, the second change in the second section (se2) can be obtained from (P2-Pr") / (t2-tr).

[0114] If the change amount per unit time in both the first section (se1) and the second section (se2) is less than a preset reference value, the control unit (12) determines that the first change amount and the second change amount gradually decrease over time, and thus determines that the aerosol generating substrate (S) is not extracted from the cavity. If the first change amount and the second change amount are linearly approximated, the reference value may be a reference slope. In other words, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating substrate (S) is not extracted from the cavity if the first change amount and the second change amount are less than the reference slope (however, in this case, all slopes are negative).

[0115] The control unit (12) can maintain heating of the heating unit (180) when the aerosol generating substrate (S) is not extracted from the cavity.

[0116] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating changes in monitoring values ​​according to an extraction event according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0117] The reasons for setting the reference point (tr), the first section (se1), and the second section (se2) are the same as in Fig. 9. In addition, the explanation for the decrease in variation in Fig. 9 also applies to Fig. 10.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 10, if the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first section (se1) of the control unit (12) and the second change amount is maintained within the reference range in the second section (se2), it can be determined that the aerosol generating substrate (S) has been extracted from the cavity.

[0119] The amount of change in the first section (se1) can be obtained from a linear approximation value of the monitoring value, as shown in Fig. 9, and the first amount of change in the first section (se1) can be obtained from the linear slope value (Pr'-P1) / (tr-t1). The control unit (12) compares the reference slope with the first amount of change, and if the first amount of change is smaller than the reference slope (however, in this case, all slopes are negative), the second amount of change in the second section (se2) can be continuously obtained.

[0120] If the second change amount in the second section (se2) is maintained within the reference range, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating substrate (S) has been extracted from the cavity since the change trends of the first change amount and the monitoring value are different. In an embodiment where the monitoring value is the number of charge / discharge cycles, the reference range may be 500 times, but is not limited thereto. Meanwhile, if the second change amount is linearly approximated, the slope of the second change amount is substantially flat, and the control unit (12) can determine whether the aerosol generating substrate (S) has been extracted through such a change in slope.

[0121] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 11, in step S1110, the control unit (12) can heat the aerosol generating substrate (S) by controlling the power supplied to the heating unit (180).

[0123] When an aerosol generating substrate (S) is accommodated in the cavity, the substrate detection unit (131) can vary its capacitance, and the substrate detection unit (131) can transmit this capacitance value to the control unit (12). The control unit (12) can determine whether the aerosol generating substrate (S) is accommodated in the cavity based on the capacitance value. When the monitoring value of the substrate detection unit (131) decreases by more than a reference decrease amount, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted into the cavity.

[0124] The control unit (12) can control the heating unit (180) to heat the aerosol generating substrate (S) when the aerosol generating substrate (S) is inserted into the cavity.

[0125] At step S1120, the control unit (12) can monitor changes in the substrate detection unit (131) according to changes in capacitance.

[0126] The change pattern of the substrate detection unit (131) according to the change in capacitance can be expressed as a monitoring value. The monitoring value can be at least one or a combination of the capacitance value itself, the charging time, the discharging time, and the number of charge / discharge cycles.

[0127] At step S1130, the control unit (12) can obtain a first change amount of the monitoring value before the reference point and a second change amount of the monitoring value after the reference point.

[0128] The reference point is the point in time when a rapid change in the monitoring value occurs, which may indicate the point in time when an event occurs. The control unit (12) may set the reference point based on a monitoring value that is greater than the reference increase amount.

[0129] The control unit (12) can set a monitoring section before and after the reaching point, including the reaching point when the monitoring value reaches the reference increase amount. The length between the start point of the monitoring section and the reaching point may be the same as the length between the reaching point and the end point of the monitoring section.

[0130] The control unit (12) can set the point in time when the monitoring value reaches the maximum value in the monitoring section as the reference point. Accordingly, the control unit (12) can set the global peak as the reference point.

[0131] The control unit (12) can compare the change trends of the first change amount in the first section and the second change amount in the second section.

[0132] At step S1140, the control unit (12) can determine whether the second change amount is maintained within the reference range while the first change amount is reduced.

[0133] The first change amount and the second change amount can be linearly approximated, and the control unit (12) can compare the linearly approximated first change amount and the second change amount with a reference slope. The control unit (12) can determine whether the first change amount in the first section is smaller than the reference slope (however, in this case, the reference slope and the linearly approximated first change amount are negative numbers), and whether the second change amount in the second section is substantially flat.

[0134] At step S1150, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating substrate (S) has been extracted from the cavity if the first change amount is less than the reference slope and the second change amount is substantially flat.

[0135] At step S1160, the control unit (12) can stop heating of the heating unit (180) by cutting off the power supplied to the heating unit (180) when the aerosol generating substrate (S) is extracted from the cavity.

[0136] At step S1170, if the first change amount and the second change amount do not satisfy the conditions of step S1140, the control unit (12) can determine that it is an event other than an extraction event.

[0137] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) may determine that a user's puff event has occurred when the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first section and the second change amount gradually decreases over time in the second section.

[0138] At step S1180, if the control unit (12) detects an event other than an extraction event, it can control the heating unit (180) to maintain heating.

[0139] If the control unit (12) controls the heating unit (180) to maintain heating, the process returns to step S1120 and the change in the substrate detection unit (131) can be continuously monitored. In other words, the control unit (12) can monitor the change in the substrate detection unit (131) according to the change in capacitance.

[0140] When the capacitance sensor is placed adjacent to the heating unit (180), the capacitance gradually decreases as the heating unit (180) is heated. In particular, when the capacitance sensor is placed between the induction coil (181) and the outer surface of the receiving space, it cannot help but be formed as a thin film, and is also affected by the magnetic field generated by the induction coil (181), so it is difficult to set an absolute reference value commonly applied to all capacitance sensors to determine whether the aerosol generating substrate (S) is extracted. The aerosol generating device (1) of the present disclosure can solve the above-described problem by comparing the change trend of the monitoring value before and after the reference time point with respect to the reference time point as the standard, and can detect the extraction event more accurately.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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. In the aerosol generating device, A substrate sensing unit whose capacitance varies as the aerosol generating substrate is inserted and extracted into the cavity; When the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity, a heating unit for heating the aerosol generating substrate; and A control unit is included that obtains a monitoring value of the substrate detection unit according to a change in the capacitance and controls the heating unit based on the monitoring value. The above control unit An aerosol generating device that determines whether the aerosol generating substrate is extracted based on a first change amount of the monitoring value before a reference time point and a second change amount of the monitoring value after the reference time point, while the aerosol generating substrate is inserted into the cavity and the aerosol generating substrate is heated.

2. In paragraph 1, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that sets the reference point based on the monitoring value exceeding a preset reference increase amount.

3. In paragraph 2, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that sets a monitoring section before and after the reaching point so as to include a point in time when the monitoring value reaches the reference increase amount, and sets the point in time when the monitoring value reaches the maximum value in the monitoring section as the reference point in time.

4. In paragraph 1, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that obtains the first change amount in a first section selected between a first time point before the reference time point and the reference time point, obtains the second change amount in a second section selected between the reference time point and a second time point after the reference time point, and the lengths of the first section and the second section are the same.

5. In paragraph 4, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that determines that the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted from the cavity when the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first section and the second change amount is maintained within a reference range in the second section.

6. In paragraph 4, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that controls the heating unit to maintain the heating state of the aerosol generating substrate when the first change amount gradually decreases over time in the first section and the second change amount gradually decreases over time in the second section.

7. In paragraph 1, The above substrate detection unit comprising at least one electrode disposed on an insulating substrate, An aerosol generating device wherein the monitoring value is at least one of a charging time, a discharging time, a number of charge / discharge cycles, and a capacitance value of the electrode.

8. In paragraph 7, The above heating part It includes an induction coil that surrounds the outer surface of the receiving space where the aerosol generating substrate is received and generates an alternating magnetic field, and a susceptor that is placed within the receiving space and is heated by the alternating magnetic field. The above substrate detection unit An aerosol generating device disposed between the outer surface of the above-mentioned receiving space and the above-mentioned induction coil.

9. In paragraph 1, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that controls the heating unit to heat the aerosol generating substrate in a preheating section and a smoking section after the preheating section, and determines whether the aerosol generating substrate has been extracted from the cavity in the smoking section.

10. In paragraph 1, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that cuts off power supplied to the heating unit when the aerosol generating substrate is extracted from the cavity.

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