Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

This aerosol-generating device comprises: an aerosol generator for generating aerosol; a main passage for supplying air to the aerosol generator or discharging air or the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator; a branch passage having one side connected to one region of the main passage and the other side connected to the other region of the main passage; and a puff sensor connected to the branch passage to detect the flow of at least one of the air or the aerosol in the branch passage.

Description

Aerosol generating device

[0001] The embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device that can be conveniently used with a comfortable inhalation motion.

[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 cigarettes or aerosol-generating materials using an aerosol-generating device, rather than by burning cigarettes to produce aerosol.

[0003] As demand for aerosol generating devices increases, aerosol generating devices that utilize aerosol-generating materials to generate aerosol while also improving the user's smoking convenience are emerging. For example, an aerosol generating device has been proposed that detects the user's puff motion through a sensor and operates based on the detected puff motion.

[0004] The aerosol generating device includes a sensor for detecting the user's puffing motion. For the sensor to detect the puffing motion, the airflow passing through the airflow passage must be sufficiently pressurized.

[0005] Furthermore, for the user to comfortably inhale aerosol through an aerosol generating device, the airflow pressure passing through the airflow passage must be appropriately generated. For example, if the airflow pressure becomes excessively high, increasing the "inhalation resistance" (the airflow pressure experienced by the user when puffing), the user may experience discomfort.

[0006] Airflow pressure is affected by the size of the airflow passage. For example, a larger airflow passage lowers airflow pressure, reducing suction resistance. However, this pressure may not be sufficient for sensor operation. Conversely, a smaller airflow passage increases airflow pressure, allowing the sensor to function normally, but may also increase suction resistance.

[0007] To precisely control the operation of an aerosol generator, the sensor must be able to operate accurately. Depending on the operating environment of the aerosol generator, there are situations where the sensor may struggle to operate accurately.

[0008] For example, a flow of heated air may be generated by a preheating operation performed prior to the user's inhalation. As another example, a flow of heated air may be generated by heat generated by a heater in an aerosol generating device after the user's inhalation has ended.

[0009] Additionally, the vibration transmitted to the aerosol generator during its carrying process can cause airflow. If the sensor detects that the user is inhaling due to the heated airflow or the vibration-induced airflow, the aerosol generator may operate differently than intended.

[0010] The embodiments aim to provide an aerosol generating device having a suction resistance suitable for a user's suction action.

[0011] Additionally, the embodiments seek to provide an aerosol generating device capable of precisely detecting changes in airflow.

[0012] Additionally, the embodiments seek to provide an aerosol generating device capable of minimizing false detection of a sensor.

[0013] The problems to be solved through the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the problems described above, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0014] Additional aspects will be described in the following description, some of which may be apparent or understandable from the practice of the embodiments provided in this disclosure.

[0015] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment comprises: an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol; a main passage for supplying air to the aerosol generator or for discharging aerosol or air generated from the aerosol generator; a branch passage having one end connected to one region of the main passage and the other end connected to another region of the main passage; and a puff sensor connected to the branch passage for detecting a flow of at least one of air or aerosol in the branch passage.

[0016] The width of the main passage may be greater than the width of the branch passage.

[0017] A branch passage may include a first passage connected to an area of ​​the main passage.

[0018] The branch passage may further include a second passage connected to another area of ​​the main passage and connected to the first passage.

[0019] The puff sensor can be connected to the first passage.

[0020] The width of the second passage may be greater than the width of the first passage.

[0021] The width of the main passage may be greater than the width of the secondary passage.

[0022] At least a portion of the main passage may extend at an angle relative to the length of the aerosol generating device.

[0023] The aerosol generator may include a receiving portion for receiving an aerosol generating article for generating an aerosol.

[0024] The aerosol generator may further include a heater for heating the aerosol generating article.

[0025] The main passage can be connected to the receiving section, and air can be supplied to the receiving section through the main passage.

[0026] The aerosol generator may further include a generation chamber for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material.

[0027] The main passage can be connected to the creation chamber.

[0028] As an example, air may be supplied to the generation chamber through the main passage. As another example, aerosol and air generated in the generation chamber may be discharged through the main passage.

[0029] A puff sensor can detect changes in any one of the following: pressure, flow rate, velocity, or a combination thereof.

[0030] The aerosol generating device may further include a filtering element positioned in the branch passage. The filtering element may filter out droplets or foreign substances contained in the air or aerosol.

[0031] The aerosol generating device may further include additional branch passages connected to the main passage in parallel to the branch passages.

[0032] The aerosol generating device can extend along one direction, and the branch passage can be located closer to an end of the aerosol generating device in one direction than the main passage with respect to the one direction.

[0033] The aerosol generating device can extend along one direction, and the main passage can be located closer to the one-way end of the aerosol generating device than the branch passage with respect to the one-way direction.

[0034] At least a portion of the main passage and at least a portion of the branch passage may extend in a direction transverse to the direction in which the aerosol generating device extends.

[0035] The aerosol generating device may further include a supply block positioned outside the aerosol generator. At least one of the main passage and the branch passage may pass through the supply block.

[0036] The aerosol generator may further include a receiving portion for receiving the aerosol generating article.

[0037] A main passage can be formed by the space between the outer surface of the aerosol generating article contained in the receiving portion and the inner wall of the receiving portion.

[0038] The aerosol generating device according to the embodiments described above can implement a low level of suction resistance so that a user can perform a comfortable puffing motion.

[0039] Additionally, according to the aerosol generating device according to the embodiments, the puff sensor can precisely and quickly detect the flow of air or aerosol or the flow of air and aerosol.

[0040] In addition, according to the aerosol generating device according to the embodiments, a branch passage is connected in parallel to a main passage through which a main flow of air or aerosol is generated, and a puff sensor is connected to the branch passage. Accordingly, air can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage or aerosol generated in the aerosol generator can be discharged to the outside, and at the same time, a puff sensor connected to the branch passage arranged in parallel to the main passage can precisely perform the function of detecting a user's inhalation motion.

[0041] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0042] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0043] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device to which the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be applied.

[0047] Figure 5 is a rear perspective view of the aerosol generating device of Figure 4.

[0048] FIG. 6 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0049] Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing some parts of an aerosol generating device that is a modified version of the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, separated.

[0050] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the parts shown in Fig. 7 combined.

[0051] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0052] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0053] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0054] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0055] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 14 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a portion of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 15 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the coupling relationship of elements of the aerosol generating devices of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 14.

[0058] The terms used in the examples are selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of the present invention. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the relevant invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined not simply based on their names, but based on their meanings and the overall content of the present invention.

[0059] When a part of the specification is said to "include" a component, this does not exclude other components, but rather implies the inclusion of other components, unless otherwise specifically stated. Furthermore, terms such as "-unit" and "-module" used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0060] As used herein, when an expression such as "at least one" precedes an array of elements, it modifies the entire array of elements, not just each individual element. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted to include a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c.

[0061] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette accommodated in an internal space.

[0062] The aerosol generating device may include a heater. In one embodiment, the heater may be an electrically resistive heater. For example, the heater may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater may be heated when current flows through the electrically conductive track.

[0063] The heater may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element or a rod-shaped heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0064] The cigarette may include a tobacco rod and a filter rod. The tobacco rod may be made of a sheet, a strand, or a tobacco sheet cut into small pieces. Additionally, the tobacco rod may be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material may be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil.

[0065] The filter rod may be a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod may be composed of at least one segment. For example, the filter rod may include a first segment that cools the aerosol and a second segment that filters a predetermined component contained within the aerosol.

[0066] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol using a cartridge containing an aerosol generating material.

[0067] An aerosol generating device may include a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance and a body supporting the cartridge. The cartridge may be detachably coupled to the body, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge may be formed or assembled integrally with the body, and may be secured so as not to be detached by a user. The cartridge may be mounted to the body while containing the aerosol generating substance therein. However, this is not limited thereto, and the aerosol generating substance may be injected into the cartridge while the cartridge is coupled to the body.

[0068] The cartridge may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any one of a variety of states, such as a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state. The aerosol-generating substance may comprise a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid comprising a tobacco-containing material including volatile tobacco flavoring components, or may be a liquid comprising a non-tobacco material.

[0069] The cartridge can be operated by an electric signal or wireless signal transmitted from the main body, thereby converting the phase of an aerosol-generating substance inside the cartridge into a gaseous phase to generate an aerosol. The aerosol may refer to a gas that is a mixture of vaporized particles generated from the aerosol-generating substance and air.

[0070] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may heat a liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol may be delivered to the user through a cigarette. That is, the aerosol generated from the liquid composition may travel along an airflow path of the aerosol generating device, and the airflow path may be configured such that the aerosol may pass through the cigarette and be delivered to the user.

[0071] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol from an aerosol generating material using an ultrasonic vibration method. In this case, the ultrasonic vibration method may refer to a method of generating an aerosol by atomizing the aerosol generating material with ultrasonic vibrations generated by a vibrator.

[0072] The aerosol generating device may include a vibrator, which may generate short-cycle vibrations to atomize the aerosol generating material. The vibrations generated by the vibrator may be ultrasonic vibrations, and the frequency range of the ultrasonic vibrations may be, but is not limited to, about 100 kHz to about 3.5 MHz.

[0073] The aerosol generating device may further include a wick that absorbs the aerosol generating substance. For example, the wick may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the vibrator or may be positioned to contact at least a portion of the vibrator.

[0074] When a voltage (e.g., an alternating current) is applied to the vibrator, heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations may be generated from the vibrator, and the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations generated from the vibrator may be transmitted to an aerosol-generating substance absorbed in the wick. The aerosol-generating substance absorbed in the wick may be converted into a gaseous phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations transmitted from the vibrator, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0075] For example, the viscosity of an aerosol-generating substance absorbed into a wick may be lowered by heat generated from a vibrator, and an aerosol may be generated by fine particles of an aerosol-generating substance with a lowered viscosity due to ultrasonic vibration generated from a vibrator, but is not limited thereto.

[0076] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article accommodated in the aerosol generating device by induction heating.

[0077] An aerosol generating device may include a susceptor and a coil. In one embodiment, the coil may apply a magnetic field to the susceptor. As power is supplied to the coil from the aerosol generating device, a magnetic field may be formed within the coil. In one embodiment, the susceptor may be a magnetic material that generates heat due to an external magnetic field. When the susceptor is positioned within the coil and a magnetic field is applied, the susceptor generates heat, thereby heating the aerosol generating article. Additionally, optionally, the susceptor may be positioned within the aerosol generating article.

[0078] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further comprise a cradle.

[0079] The aerosol generator can be configured as a system with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle can charge the aerosol generator's battery. Alternatively, the heater can be heated while the cradle and aerosol generator are combined.

[0080] Below, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. The present disclosure may be implemented in a form that can be implemented in the aerosol generating devices of the various embodiments described above, or may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0081] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0082] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0083] An aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor unit (13), and a heater (18). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), the sensor unit (13), and the heater (18) may be disposed inside a body (10) of the aerosol generating device. The body (10) may provide a space opened upwardly so that a stick (S), which is an aerosol generating article or an aerosol generating substance, may be inserted. The space opened upwardly may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by being recessed toward the inside of the body (10) by a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick (S) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of a region of the stick (S) containing the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the stick (S) is inserted into the inside of the body (10), and the upper end of the stick (S) can protrude outside the body (10). The user can inhale air by putting the upper end of the stick (S) exposed to the outside in his / her mouth.

[0084] The heater (18) is an example of an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from a stick (S). The aerosol generator may include a receiving portion (102p) including an insertion space for receiving the stick (S), and a heater (18) disposed in the receiving portion (102p) to generate heat for heating the stick (S).

[0085] 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 placed around the insertion space. The heater (18) can be placed to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The heater (18) can heat the insertion space or the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space. The heater (18) can include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0086] For example, referring to FIG. 1, the heater (18) may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater (18) may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater (18) may be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track. The heater (18) may be electrically connected to a power source (11). The heater (18) may be directly heated by receiving current from the power source (11). The heater (18) may be a hollow heater arranged to surround at least a portion of a stick (S) inserted into an insertion space to heat the outside of the inserted stick (S), or may be a heater in the shape of a needle, rod, tube, or the like to be inserted into the inside of the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space to heat the inside.

[0087] The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The control unit (12) 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) and the sensor unit (13). The control unit (12) can control the operation of the heater (18). 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.

[0088] The control unit (12) can analyze the results detected by the sensor 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 sensor 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 sensor unit (13).

[0089] The sensor unit (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion detection sensor. For example, the sensor unit (13) may sense at least one of the temperature of the heater (18), the temperature of the power source (11), and the temperature inside and outside the body (10). For example, the sensor unit (13) may sense the user's puff. For example, the sensor unit (13) may sense whether the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space.

[0090] For example, 'the sensor unit (13) includes a puff sensor' may mean that the sensor unit (13) illustrated in FIG. 1 is connected to the puff sensor (132), such that the sensor unit (13) supplies electricity to the puff sensor (132), receives a signal generated by the puff sensor (132), and the sensor unit (13) converts the signal of the puff sensor (132) into a 'puff signal' to be transmitted to the control unit (12), etc. The 'puff signal' may be a signal indicating that an inhalation motion (puff motion) performed by a user has been detected.

[0091] The aerosol generating device (1) includes a main passage (150) and a branch passage (160) connected to the main passage (150). Air can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage (150). In addition, the aerosol generating device (1) includes an opening (150i) open to the outside to introduce external air into the interior of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0092] One end of the main passage (150) is connected to the opening (150i) of the aerosol generating device (1). The other end of the main passage (150) is connected to the supply opening (150d) of the receiving portion (102p). Air can be supplied to the receiving portion (102p) through the supply opening (150d). Therefore, air introduced from the outside into the aerosol generating device (1) through the opening (150i) can be supplied to the receiving portion (102p) through the main passage (150).

[0093] The branch passage (160) is connected in parallel to the main passage (150). The term "connected in parallel" can be explained in terms of the flow of fluid passing through the main passage (150). In other words, since the branch passage (160) is connected in parallel to the main passage (150), it means that when the fluid passes through the main passage (150), a flow of fluid can also be generated in the branch passage (160).

[0094] In order for the branch passage (160) to be connected in parallel to the main passage (150), one side (160a) of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side (160b) of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150).

[0095] A puff sensor (132) is connected to the branch passage (160). The puff sensor (132) can detect the flow of air and / or aerosol passing through the branch passage (160) and generate a signal.

[0096] The branch passage (160) includes a first passage (161) connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150) and a second passage (162) connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150). The puff sensor (132) can be connected to the first passage (161).

[0097] The first passage (161) can extend along a direction (X-axis direction) that crosses the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends. The second passage (162) can extend along the extension direction of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0098] A filtering element (180) for filtering out foreign substances such as droplets or dust contained in the fluid flow may be placed in the branch passage (160). The filtering element (180) may be placed in the second passage (162) of the branch passage (160).

[0099] The filtering element (180) may include, for example, a mesh material manufactured from one or a combination of metal, plastic, and fiber. As another example, the filtering element (180) may be implemented with a synthetic fiber that can filter liquid and allow air to pass through. As another example, the filtering element (180) may be implemented with at least one protrusion or protruding structure formed to protrude from the wall surface of the second passage (162).

[0100] The width of the main passage (150) may be formed to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160). More specifically, the width of the second passage (162) of the branch passage (160) is larger than the width of the first passage (161), and the width of the main passage (150) is larger than the width of the second passage (162).

[0101] The main passage (150) includes a first main passage (151) inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends, and a second main passage (152) connecting the first main passage (151) and the supply port (150d).

[0102] One end of the second main passage (152) is connected to the first main passage (151) and the second passage (162) of the branch passage (160). The second main passage (152) extends in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device (1) (X-axis direction) to connect the first main passage (151) and the supply port (150d).

[0103] The aerosol generating device (1) can be extended in one direction (Z-axis direction). The aerosol generating device (1) can include one end in one direction (Z-axis direction) and the other end in the other direction (-Z-axis direction). An opening (150i) and an insertion hole for a stick (S) can be formed at one end of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0104] Based on one direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends, the branch passage (160) may be located closer to one end of the aerosol generating device (1) than the main passage (150).

[0105] According to the structure in which the branch passage (160) is positioned closer to one end of the aerosol generating device (1) than the main passage (150), it is possible to minimize the droplets generated by cooling the aerosol in the main passage (150) and the like from entering the puff sensor (132). When the user holds the aerosol generating device (1), the direction of the posture of the aerosol generating device (1) is approximately the same as the Z-axis direction illustrated in FIG. 1. Therefore, even if droplets are generated in the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160), it is difficult for the droplets to enter the puff sensor (132) connected to the upper portion of the first passage (161) extending horizontally with respect to the direction of gravity.

[0106] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, a branch passage (160) is connected in parallel to the main passage (150) connecting the receiving portion (102p) for receiving the stick (S) and the opening (150i), so that when the user performs an inhalation motion, external air can pass through the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) and then be supplied to the stick (S). As air is introduced into the heated stick (S), the vapor generated in the stick (S) is mixed with the air, and the generated aerosol can be smoothly supplied to the user.

[0107] When the aerosol generating device (1) includes only one passage for delivering air to the stick (S), the width of the one passage must be determined by considering both the operation of the puff sensor (132) and the suction resistance associated with the user's inhalation motion. The narrower the width of the one passage, the more precisely the puff sensor (132) can operate. However, when the width of the one passage is set to be excessively narrow, the 'suction resistance', which is the fluid resistance felt by the user when performing the inhalation motion, may increase, causing discomfort to the user.

[0108] Conversely, if the width of one passage that delivers air to the stick (S) is too large, the puff sensor (132) may not operate precisely.

[0109] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, when a user inhales an aerosol, sufficient air can be supplied to the stick (S) through the wide main passage (150), thereby providing sufficient 'inhalation resistance' at a level that makes the user feel comfortable. In addition, since air also flows through the narrow branch passage (160) while the user inhales an aerosol, the puff sensor (132) can operate precisely.

[0110] Additionally, if only one passage is used to deliver air to the stick (S), the puff sensor (132) may perform a 'malfunction' after the user's inhalation motion (puff motion) has ended. The 'malfunction' of the puff sensor (132) may mean that the puff sensor (132) generates a signal indicating that the user's inhalation motion has been performed when the user does not perform the inhalation motion.

[0111] Even when the user does not perform an inhalation motion, the heated air around the stick (S) can be naturally discharged to the outside through one passage. For example, the heater (18) can preliminarily heat the stick (S) before the user performs an inhalation motion, and the preheating operation of the heater (18) can cause the heated air around the stick (S) to flow to the outside through one passage.

[0112] As another example, even after the user has finished the suction action, heated air around the stick (S) or residual heat present in the heater (18) may still flow outward through one passage.

[0113] As another example, even if the user does not perform an inhalation motion, airflow may occur inside one of the passages if the user moves quickly while carrying the aerosol generating device (1) or makes a shaking motion of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0114] Therefore, when the aerosol generating device (1) includes one passage and a puff sensor (132) connected to one passage, as described above, even when the user does not perform an inhalation motion, a flow of fluid may occur in one passage. This phenomenon may cause a malfunction in which the puff sensor (132) generates a signal indicating that an inhalation motion has been detected even when the user does not perform an inhalation motion.

[0115] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, air can be supplied to the receiving portion (102p) that receives the stick (S) through the main passage (150), and since the branch passage (160) is connected in parallel to the main passage (150), the occurrence of malfunction of the puff sensor (132) can be minimized.

[0116] Natural air flow may occur in the main passage (150) and branch passage (160) due to heated air generated around the stick (S) due to preheating or residual heat, or due to shaking of the aerosol generating device (1). The 'natural air flow' may refer to the air flow that flows along the main passage (150) and branch passage (160) when the user does not perform an inhalation motion.

[0117] Since the width of the main passage (150) is set to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160), the flow resistance against the air flow is formed to be larger in the branch passage (160) than in the main passage (150). A large amount of air in the natural air flow passes through the main passage (150) with small flow resistance. A small amount of air in the natural air flow passes through the branch passage (160) with relatively large flow resistance. Therefore, even if a natural air flow occurs in the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160), a small amount of air passes through the branch passage (160), so that the occurrence of a malfunction of the puff sensor (132) can be minimized.

[0118] In the following embodiments, when the same name is used for the same symbol shown in the drawings, it can be understood that the elements having the corresponding names have the same function.

[0119] Fig. 2 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0120] The heater (18) of the aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 may be an induction heating heater. For example, referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an induction coil (181) surrounding the heater (18). The induction coil (181) may heat the heater (18). The heater (18) is a susceptor, and the heater (18) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil (181). The magnetic field may penetrate the heater (18) and generate an eddy current within the heater (18). The current may generate heat in the heater (18).

[0121] Although the heater (18) is arranged outside the receiving portion (102p) in FIG. 2, the embodiment is not limited to the structure of the receiving portion (102p) and the heater (18). For example, the receiving portion (102p) may be removed, and the heater (18) functioning as a susceptor may receive the stick (S). In this case, the shape of the heater (18) may be transformed into a cup shape, such as the receiving portion (102p) illustrated in FIG. 2. When the heater (18) is transformed into a cup shape, the heater (18) may perform the function of receiving the stick (S), supplying air to the stick (S), and heating the stick (S) at the same time.

[0122] Meanwhile, a susceptor may be included inside the stick (S), and the susceptor inside the stick (S) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil (181).

[0123] The power source (11) can supply power to operate components of the aerosol generating device (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 unit (13), and the heater (18). When the aerosol generating device (1) includes an induction coil (181), the power source (11) can supply power to the induction coil (181).

[0124] The aerosol generator (1) includes a main passage (150) and a branch passage (160) connected to the main passage (150). Air can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage (150).

[0125] One side (160a) of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side (160b) of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150).

[0126] The branch passage (160) includes a first passage (161) connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150) and a second passage (162) connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150). A puff sensor (132) may be connected to the first passage (161). A filtering element (180) may be arranged in the second passage (162) of the branch passage (160).

[0127] The first passage (161) can extend along the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) or extension direction in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends. The second passage (162) can extend along the direction (X-axis direction) transverse to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends.

[0128] The width of the main passage (150) may be formed to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160). More specifically, the width of the second passage (162) of the branch passage (160) is larger than the width of the first passage (161), and the width of the main passage (150) is larger than the width of the second passage (162).

[0129] The main passage (150) includes a first main passage (151) inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends, and a second main passage (152) connecting the first main passage (151) and the supply port (150d).

[0130] The aerosol generating device (1) can be extended in one direction (Z-axis direction). Based on the direction in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends (Z-axis direction), the main passage (150) can be positioned closer to one end of the aerosol generating device (1) than the branch passage (160).

[0131] According to the structure in which the main passage (150) is located closer to one end of the aerosol generating device (1) than the branch passage (160), the droplets generated by cooling the aerosol in the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) can be minimized from entering the puff sensor (132). When the user holds the aerosol generating device (1), the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device (1) is approximately identical to the Z-axis direction illustrated in FIG. 1. The droplets generated in the main passage (150), the branch passage (160), etc. will gather in the second passage (162) located at the bottommost in FIG. 2. Therefore, it is difficult for the droplets to enter the puff sensor (132) connected to the first passage (161) extending along the extension direction (Z-axis) of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0132] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, air can be supplied to the receiving portion (102p) that receives the stick (S) through the main passage (150), and since the branch passage (160) is connected in parallel to the main passage (150), the occurrence of malfunction of the puff sensor (132) can be minimized.

[0133] Heated air may be generated around the stick (S) due to preheating or residual heat, or natural air flow may occur in the main passage (150) and branch passage (160) due to shaking of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0134] Since the width of the main passage (150) is set to be greater than the width of the branch passage (160), the flow resistance against the air flow is formed to be greater in the branch passage (160) than in the main passage (150). A large amount of air passes through the main passage (150) with small flow resistance during the natural air flow. A small amount of air passes through the branch passage (160) with relatively large flow resistance during the natural air flow.

[0135] Heated air has a lower density than the surrounding air, and thus tends to move upward in the direction opposite to the direction of gravity. Due to the rising tendency of heated air, most of the heated air surrounding the stick (S) flows into the first main passage (151) of the main passage (150) before reaching the second passage (162) of the branch passage (160). In addition, a small amount of air from the natural air flow flows into the branch passage (160).

[0136] Therefore, even if natural air flow occurs in the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160), only a small amount of air passes through the branch passage (160), so the occurrence of malfunction of the puff sensor (132) can be minimized.

[0137] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment may include a body (10) and a cartridge (19). The body (10) may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), and a sensor unit (13). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), and the sensor unit (13) may be disposed inside the body (10). A cartridge (19), which is an aerosol generating article, may be mounted on the body (10). A user may inhale the aerosol by placing a mouthpiece provided at one end of the cartridge (19) in his / her mouth.

[0139] The cartridge (19) may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any one of a liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel state within an internal chamber (C0). The aerosol-generating substance may comprise a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid comprising a tobacco-containing substance including volatile tobacco flavoring components, or may be a liquid comprising a non-tobacco substance.

[0140] 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).

[0141] The body (10) may 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 through the main passage (150).

[0142] 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). Here, the liquid delivery means (25) 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 (25) or a structure that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means (25). The heater (24) may be referred to as a cartridge heater.

[0143] The cartridge (19) can generate an aerosol. As the liquid delivery means (25) is heated by the heater (24), an aerosol can be generated. The generated aerosol can be inhaled into the user's oral cavity through the main passage (150).

[0144] The heater (24) and the liquid delivery means (25) of the cartridge (19) are other examples of an aerosol generator. The aerosol generator may include an aerosol generation chamber (C1) for generating an aerosol. At least one of the heater (24) and the liquid delivery means (25) may be located in the aerosol generation chamber (C1).

[0145] The aerosol generating device (1) includes a main passage (150) and a branch passage (160) connected to the main passage (150). Aerosol generated in the aerosol generator can be discharged to the outside through the main passage (150).

[0146] One end of the main passage (150) is open to the outside, and the other end of the main passage (150) can be connected to an aerosol generation chamber (C1). The main passage (150) can be extended along the length of the aerosol generation device (1). The aerosol generated in the aerosol generation chamber (C1) can be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generation device (1) through the main passage (150).

[0147] One side (160a) of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side (160b) of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150). The width of the main passage (150) may be formed to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160).

[0148] A puff sensor (132) is connected to the branch passage (160). The puff sensor (132) can detect changes in the flow of air and / or aerosol passing through the branch passage (160) and generate a signal.

[0149] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, the aerosol generated in the aerosol generator can be discharged to the outside through the main passage (150), and since the branch passage (160) is connected in parallel to the main passage (150), the aerosol generated in the aerosol generator can be supplied to the user after passing through the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) as the user performs an inhalation motion.

[0150] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, a sufficient amount of aerosol can be provided to the user through the wide main passage (150). Accordingly, the aerosol generating device (1) can provide sufficient 'inhalation resistance' at a level that allows the user to feel comfortable while performing an inhalation motion. In addition, since the flow of aerosol is generated through the narrow branch passage (160) while the user inhales the aerosol, the puff sensor (132) can operate precisely.

[0151] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, since the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) are connected to the aerosol generator, when a flow of heated air is generated due to the preheating operation of the heater (24) or residual heat after the operation of the heater (24) is completed, a large amount of the heated air can be discharged to the outside through the main passage (150) having a small flow resistance.

[0152] Since the width of the main passage (150) is set to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160), the flow resistance against the air flow is formed to be larger in the branch passage (160) than in the main passage (150). A large amount of air passes through the main passage (150) with small flow resistance during the natural air flow. A small amount of air passes through the branch passage (160) with relatively large flow resistance during the natural air flow. Therefore, even if a natural air flow occurs in the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160), only a small amount of air passes through the branch passage (160), so that the occurrence of malfunction of the puff sensor (132) can be minimized.

[0153] The main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) can extend long along the extension direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends. For example, at least a portion of the main passage (150) and at least a portion of the branch passage (160) can extend parallel to each other along the extension direction of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0154] According to the structure in which the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) extend in the same direction, it is possible to minimize the droplets generated by cooling the aerosol in the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) from entering the puff sensor (132). When the user holds the aerosol generating device (1), the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device (1) roughly matches the direction of gravity. Since the droplets generated in the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) will flow downward along the direction of gravity, it is difficult for the droplets to enter the puff sensor (132) connected to the branch passage (160) extending along the extension direction of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0155] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device (1) to which the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be applied, and FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 4.

[0156] The aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), and a sensor unit (13). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), and the sensor unit (13) may be disposed inside the body (10) of the aerosol generating device (1). The contents of the power source (11), the control unit (12), and the sensor unit (13) described above in FIGS. 1-3 may be equally applied to the power source (11), the control unit (12), and the sensor unit (13).

[0157] The body (10) forms the overall appearance of the aerosol generating device (1) and may include an internal space in which components of the aerosol generating device (1) can be arranged. In the drawing, only an embodiment in which the body (10) is formed in a semicircular cross-section as a whole is shown, but the shape of the body (10) is not limited thereto, and the body (10) may be formed in a cylindrical shape as a whole or in a polygonal pillar shape.

[0158] The body (10) may include a first body surface (10A) (e.g., a body upper surface), a second body surface (10B) opposite to the first body surface (10A) (e.g., a body lower surface), and at least one third body surface (10C) (e.g., a body side surface) between the first body surface (10A) and the second body surface (10B).

[0159] Referring to FIG. 5, an insertion space (102) may be formed inside the body (10). The insertion space (102) may be formed at the upper portion of the body (10). The insertion space (102) may be opened upward. The insertion space (102) may have a cylindrical shape that extends vertically. At least a portion of the stick (S) may be inserted into the body (10) through the opening (101) at the upper portion of the insertion space (102). The aerosol generating material may be in the form of a cigarette, such as the stick (S) of FIGS. 1 and 2, but the form of the aerosol generating material is not limited thereto. The depth of the insertion space (102) may correspond to the length of the region in the stick (S) that includes the aerosol generating material or medium.

[0160] A heater (240) (e.g., heater 18 of FIGS. 1 and 2) can surround at least a portion of the outside of the insertion space (102). The heater (240) can extend vertically along the insertion space (102). For example, the heater (240) can be a cylindrical electrical resistance heater surrounding at least a portion of the insertion space (102). For example, the heater (240) can include a cylindrical susceptor surrounding at least a portion of the insertion space (102) and an induction coil surrounding the susceptor. The heater (240) can heat the outside of the stick (S) accommodated in the insertion space (102). At least one area of ​​the stick (S) accommodated in the insertion space (102) can be heated by the heater (240), and the vaporized particles generated by the heating of the stick (S) and the air introduced into the internal space of the body (10) through the opening (101) can be mixed to generate an aerosol.

[0161] A display (141) may be placed on one side of the body (10). At least a portion of the display (141) may be exposed to the outside of the body (10).

[0162] The display (141) can provide various visual information to the user. The display (141) can include a display panel and / or a touch panel. The display (141) can include a cover glass.

[0163] The cover glass can form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (1) together with the body (10). The cover glass can come into contact with a part of the user's body. The cover glass can protect the display panel and / or the touch panel from external impact.

[0164] The display panel may be arranged in a direction facing the inside of the body (10) from the cover glass. The display panel may be arranged parallel to the cover glass.

[0165] The touch panel can detect touch corresponding to contact with an object. For example, the touch panel can detect touch corresponding to contact with a part of the user's body. The touch panel can receive user input.

[0166] A cover (104) may be provided on the upper side of the body (10). The cover (104) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the opening (101) of the body (10). For example, the opening (101) of the body (10) may be circular, and the cover (104) may be circular with a diameter larger than the diameter of the opening (101).

[0167] The cover (104) can be movably connected to a guide (103) formed on the body (10). The cover (104) can move along the guide (103). For example, the guide (103) can be a groove formed on one surface of the body (10), and the cover (104) can include a protrusion that slides while being inserted into the groove of the body (10). As another example, the guide (103) can be a protrusion protruding from one surface of the body (10), and the cover (104) has a groove that is inserted into the protrusion, and can slide along the protrusion.

[0168] The cover (104) can open and close the opening (101) of the body (10) by moving along the guide (103). For example, the cover (104) can close the opening (101) at a first position and open the opening (101) at a second position. The position of the cover (104) can be manually moved by a user. Alternatively, the aerosol generating device (1) may be equipped with a driving device, and the position of the cover (104) may be moved by the driving device.

[0169] The body (10) may include a connection terminal (not shown). The connection terminal may include a connector that allows the aerosol generating device (1) to be physically connected to an external electronic device. For example, the connection terminal may include at least one or a combination of an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0170] Fig. 6 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0171] An aerosol generating device (1) according to an embodiment shown in Fig. 6 includes an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol, a main passage (150), a branch passage (160) connected to the main passage (150), and a puff sensor (132) connected to the branch passage (160) for detecting a change in the flow of air. Air can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage (150).

[0172] Components such as an aerosol generator, a main passage (150), a branch passage (160), and a puff sensor (132) can be arranged inside the body (10). When the cover (104) moves relative to the body (10) and a part of the body (10) is opened, a part of the stick (S) is inserted into the body (10) and another part of the stick (S) is exposed to the outside of the body (10).

[0173] The aerosol generator includes a receiving portion (102p) including an insertion space into which a stick (S) can be inserted, a support tube (18s) for supporting the outer surface of the stick (S) received in the receiving portion (102p), and a heater (18) disposed on the outer surface of the support tube (18s) for generating heat for heating the stick (S).

[0174] The stick (S) is heated by a heater (18) to generate an aerosol. The stick (S) may be referred to as a cigarette. The stick (S) is an example of an aerosol generating article. The embodiments are not limited to the method of generating an aerosol by heating the stick (S) of the aerosol generator illustrated in FIG. 6. The aerosol generator may generate an aerosol, for example, by using a heater inserted into the stick (S) to generate heat, by heating a liquid aerosol generating substance, or by generating an aerosol from a liquid aerosol generating substance through ultrasonic vibration.

[0175] The receiving portion (102p) includes a supply chamber (102c) and an inlet (102i). Air can be supplied to a stick (S) inserted into the receiving portion (102p) through the supply chamber (102c). The inlet (102i) opens to the outside of the receiving portion (102p). The inlet (102i) can be formed to protrude outward from the receiving portion (102p). Air can be supplied to the supply chamber (102c) through the inlet (102i).

[0176] A supply block (150b) is arranged on the outside of the receiving portion (102p). Air can be supplied to the receiving portion (102p) through the supply block (150b). The aerosol generating device (1) includes a main passage (150) and a branch passage (160) connected to the main passage (150). Air can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage (150). The width of the main passage (150) can be formed to be greater than the width of the branch passage (160).

[0177] The main passage (150) and branch passage (160) can be arranged by forming a flow path within the supply block (150b). For example, the supply block (150b) can be formed by an injection molding process in which resin is injected into a mold and cured. Through the injection molding process, the main passage (150) and branch passage (160) having a position and structure pre-designed by the mold can be formed within the supply block (150b).

[0178] The method for forming the main passage (150) and branch passages (160) is not limited to the 'injection molding process'. For example, after manufacturing a block shape using a metal material or plastic material, etc., a supply block (150b) including the main passage (150) and branch passages (160) can be completed by drilling the interior of the block shape.

[0179] One end of the main passage (150) is connected to the opening (150i) of the aerosol generating device (1). The other end of the main passage (150) includes a supply port (150d). Air can be supplied to the inlet (102i) through the supply port (150d). The supply port (150d) of the main passage (150) can be formed to protrude from the supply block (150b) toward the receiving portion (102p). Therefore, air introduced from the outside through the main passage (150) can be supplied to the receiving portion (102p).

[0180] The supply port (150d) of the main passage (150) and the inlet (102i) of the receiving portion (102p) may be tightly coupled by a sealing portion (160r). The term "tightly coupled" may mean that a sealed state is implemented so that air or liquid does not pass through the connection portion between the supply port (150d) and the inlet (102i). The sealing portion (160r) may be formed of, for example, rubber or an elastic resin material.

[0181] The user can inhale the aerosol by holding the stick (S) protruding from the outside of the body (10) in his / her mouth. The action of the user inhaling the stick (S) in his / her mouth may be referred to as a "puff action" or "inhalation action." When the puff action is performed, a flow of air is generated through the stick (S), thereby allowing the aerosol generated from the stick (S) to be delivered to the user.

[0182] While the puff action is being performed, external air can be supplied to the stick (S). As illustrated in FIG. 6, a state in which a portion of the stick (S) is inserted into the body (10) corresponds to a state in which the cover (104) opens a portion of the body (10). External air of the body (10) can be introduced into the interior of the body (10) through the gap between the cover (104) and the body (10).

[0183] The main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) are fluidly connected to the supply chamber (10c) of the receiving portion (102p). Air drawn in from the outside of the body (10) passes through the opening (150i), the main passage (150), the branch passage (160), the supply port (150d), the inlet (102i), and the supply chamber (10c) and is then supplied to the stick (S).

[0184] One side (160a) of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side (160b) of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150).

[0185] A puff sensor (132) is connected to the branch passage (160). The puff sensor (132) is mounted on a circuit board (132b). The circuit board (132b) on which the puff sensor (132) is mounted is placed on the supply block (150b) so as to be located outside the branch passage (160).

[0186] The circuit board (132b) may be a printed circuit board made of a rigid or flexible material. The circuit board (132b) may supply electricity to the puff sensor (132) and transmit a detection signal generated by the puff sensor (132) to the control unit.

[0187] The puff sensor (132) can detect the flow of air and / or aerosol passing through the branch passage (160). The puff sensor (132) detecting the flow means that the puff sensor (132) can generate a signal based on a change in the flow of air and / or aerosol.

[0188] For example, the puff sensor (132) can detect a change in any one of the pressure, flow rate, or velocity of air flowing into the interior of the body (10) from the exterior of the aerosol generating device (1), or can generate a signal based on a change in a combination of various physical quantities related to the flow (or flow) of air.

[0189] For example, the puff sensor (132) may be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor (132) may generate a signal corresponding to a change in the pressure of the air in the branch passage (160).

[0190] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, when a user inhales an aerosol, sufficient air can be supplied to the stick (S) through the wide main passage (150), thereby providing sufficient 'inhalation resistance' at a level that makes the user feel comfortable. In addition, since air also flows through the narrow branch passage (160) while the user inhales an aerosol, the puff sensor (132) can operate precisely.

[0191] In addition, according to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, a main passage (150) is connected to a receiving portion (102p) for receiving a stick (S). The main passage (150) has a wide width so that a sufficient amount of air can be supplied to the receiving portion (102p). A branch passage (160) of a small width is connected in parallel to the main passage (150) of a large width, and a puff sensor (132) is connected to the branch passage (160) of a small width, so that the occurrence of malfunction of the puff sensor (132) can be minimized.

[0192] The main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) can be extended in a long manner along the direction in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends. By having a structure in which at least a portion of the main passage (150) and at least a portion of the branch passage (160) extend in the same direction, it is possible to minimize the droplets generated by cooling the aerosol in the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) from entering the puff sensor (132).

[0193] The embodiments are not limited to the arrangement structure of the supply block (150b) and the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) illustrated in FIG. 6, and various arrangement structures may be utilized. For example, one of the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) may be formed inside the supply block (150b), and the other of the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) may be arranged outside the supply block (150b). The other of the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) arranged outside the supply block (150b) may be implemented as, for example, a pipe or a tube.

[0194] Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing some parts of an aerosol generating device (1) that is a modified version of the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, separated, and Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the parts shown in Fig. 7 combined.

[0195] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a supply block (150b) and a branch block (160t) are used to implement a main passage (150) and a branch passage (160).

[0196] A main passage (150) is formed inside the supply block (150b). A branch passage (160) is formed inside the branch block (160t). The width of the main passage (150) may be formed to be greater than the width of the branch passage (160).

[0197] Air can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage (150). The main passage (150) connects an opening (150i) formed at the top of the supply block (150b) and a supply opening (150d) formed to protrude from one side at the bottom of the supply block (150b).

[0198] The branch block (160t) is coupled to the other side of the supply block (150b). One side (160a) of the branch passage (160) and the other side (160b) of the branch passage (160) are formed to protrude from one side of the branch block (160t).

[0199] On the other side of the supply block (150b) facing one side of the branch block (160t), a connecting hole (154, 155) is formed to expose one area and the other area of ​​the main passage (150) to the outside of the supply block (150b).

[0200] When one side of the branch block (160t) is coupled to the other side of the supply block (150b), one side (160a) and the other side (160b) of the branch block (160t) are connected to the connection holes (154, 155) of the supply block (150b). Therefore, when the branch block (160t) is coupled to the supply block (150b), one side (160a) of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side (160b) of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150).

[0201] A circuit board (132b) is attached to the outside of the branch block (106t). When the circuit board (132b) equipped with the puff sensor (132) is attached to the other surface of the branch block (106t), the puff sensor (132) is connected to the branch passage (160).

[0202] The main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) can be arranged by forming a flow path within the supply block (150b) and the branch block (106t). For example, each of the supply block (150b) and the branch block (106t) can be formed by an injection molding process in which resin is injected into a mold and cured. By combining the supply block (150b) and the branch block (106t) completed by the injection molding process, the branch passage (160) is connected in parallel to the main passage (150).

[0203] The embodiments are not limited to the method of forming the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) by the injection molding process, and either or both of the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) may be implemented using separate pipes or tubes.

[0204] The main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) can be extended in a long manner along the extension direction of the aerosol generating device (1). By having a structure in which at least a portion of the main passage (150) and at least a portion of the branch passage (160) extend in the same direction, it is possible to minimize the droplets generated by cooling the aerosol in the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) from entering the puff sensor (132).

[0205] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0206] An aerosol generating device (1) according to an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9 includes an aerosol generator (241) for generating an aerosol, a main passage (150), a branch passage (160) connected in parallel to the main passage (150), and a puff sensor (132) connected to the branch passage (160) for detecting the flow of air. Aerosol or heated air generated in the aerosol generator (241) can be discharged to the outside through the main passage (150), or the aerosol and air can be discharged to the outside together.

[0207] The aerosol generator (241) includes a chamber (C1) in which an aerosol is generated, a liquid delivery means (25) located inside the chamber (C1), and a heater (24) that heats the liquid delivery means (25) to generate an aerosol.

[0208] One end of the main passage (150) may be opened toward the outside of the aerosol generating device (1), and the other end of the main passage (150) may be connected to the aerosol generating chamber (C1). At least a portion of the main passage (150) may extend along the length of the aerosol generating device (1). The aerosol generated in the aerosol generating chamber (C1) may be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1) through the main passage (150).

[0209] One side (160a) of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side (160b) of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150). The width of the main passage (150) may be formed to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160).

[0210] A puff sensor (132) is connected to the branch passage (160). The puff sensor (132) can detect changes in the flow of air or aerosol passing through the branch passage (160) and / or changes in physical quantities related to the fluid to generate a signal.

[0211] Air from outside the aerosol generating device (1) is introduced into the interior of the aerosol generating device (1) through the inlet passage (158) of the body (10). The air introduced through the inlet passage (158) flows into the chamber (C1) where the aerosol is generated, and then the aerosol formed in the chamber (C1) is mixed with the air and discharged to the outside through the main passage (150). The user can inhale the aerosol by putting the mouthpiece (10 m) provided at one end of the aerosol generating device (1) in his / her mouth.

[0212] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, when a user performs an inhalation motion, a flow of aerosol generated from the aerosol generator can be supplied to the user after passing through the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160). A sufficient flow rate of aerosol can be supplied to the user through the wide main passage (150).

[0213] Additionally, since a flow of aerosol is generated through a branch passage (160) having a narrow width while the user inhales the aerosol, the puff sensor (132) can operate precisely.

[0214] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, since a wide main passage (150) and a narrow branch passage (160) are connected in parallel to the aerosol generator, most of the air flow generated due to preheating or residual heat, etc. can be discharged to the outside through the main passage (150), thereby minimizing malfunction of the puff sensor (132).

[0215] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0216] An aerosol generating device (1) according to an embodiment illustrated in Fig. 10 includes an aerosol generator, a main passage (150), a branch passage (160) connected in parallel to the main passage (150), and a puff sensor (132) connected to the branch passage (160) and generating a signal regarding a fluid. Air can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage (150).

[0217] The aerosol generator includes a receiving portion (102p) including a receiving space for receiving a stick (S), and a heater (18) at least partially positioned inside the receiving portion (102p) to generate heat for heating the stick (S). The aerosol generating device (1) may include a power source (11) for supplying power to the heater (18).

[0218] As illustrated in Fig. 10, when a stick (S) is inserted into a receiving portion (102p), a portion of a heater (18) can be inserted into an end of the stick (S). At least one protrusion (102g) protruding toward the end of the stick (S) is formed on the bottom surface of the receiving space inside the receiving portion (102p). The protrusion (102g) can perform a function of supporting the end of the stick (S) inserted into the receiving portion (102p).

[0219] In addition, air introduced into the receiving portion (102p) from the outside can be supplied to the end of the stick (S) through the space between the protrusions (102g). Since the protrusions (102g) are arranged to be spaced apart from each other, air introduced into the receiving portion (102p) can be supplied to the end of the stick (S) through the spaced space between the protrusions (102g).

[0220] The main passage (150) can be formed by a space between the inner wall surface (102s) of the receiving portion (102p) and the outer surface of the stick (S). One end of the main passage (150) is opened toward the outside of the aerosol generating device (1), and the other end of the main passage (150) is connected to the end of the stick (S) into which the heater (18) is inserted. The main passage (150) can be extended along the extension direction of the aerosol generating device (1). Therefore, air introduced into the receiving portion (102p) from the outside can be supplied to the end of the stick (S) through the main passage (150).

[0221] One side of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150). The width of the main passage (150) may be formed to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160).

[0222] A puff sensor (132) is connected to the branch passage (160). The puff sensor (132) can detect the flow of air and / or aerosol passing through the branch passage (160) and generate a signal.

[0223] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0224] The aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11 is generally similar in configuration to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 10, but the structure of the main passage (150) is modified.

[0225] In the aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11, the main passage (150) is arranged inside the receiving portion (102p). When the stick (S) is inserted into the receiving portion (102p), the inner wall surface of the receiving portion (102p) can support the outer surface of the stick (S) inserted into the receiving portion (102p). There is no space between the inner wall surface of the receiving portion (102p) and the stick (S). Therefore, unlike the aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 10, in the aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11, air does not flow in the space between the inner wall surface of the receiving portion (102p) and the stick (S).

[0226] The main passage (150) is arranged inside the receiving portion (102p) and extends in a long direction along the direction in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends. One end of the main passage (150) is opened toward the outside of the aerosol generating device (1), and the other end of the main passage (150) is opened toward the end of the stick (S) into which the heater (18) is inserted. Therefore, air from outside the aerosol generating device (1) can be supplied to the end of the stick (S) through the main passage (150).

[0227] One side of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150). The width of the main passage (150) may be formed to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160).

[0228] A puff sensor (132) is connected to the branch passage (160). The puff sensor (132) can detect changes in the flow of air or aerosol passing through the branch passage (160) and / or changes in physical quantities related to the fluid to generate a signal.

[0229] The receiving portion (102p) can be manufactured, for example, by an injection molding process that injects resin or molten metal into a mold and hardens it. The main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) can be formed based on the shape of the passage prepared in advance in the mold when the injection molding process is performed. As another example, a method can be used in which the receiving portion (102p) is prepared to form the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) in the receiving portion (102p), and then holes are drilled in the receiving portion (102p) to form the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160).

[0230] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0231] An aerosol generating device (1) according to an embodiment illustrated in Fig. 12 includes an aerosol generator, a main passage (150), a branch passage (160) connected to the main passage (150), and a puff sensor (132) connected to the branch passage (160) and generating a signal regarding a fluid. Air can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage (150).

[0232] The aerosol generator includes a receiving portion (102p) including a receiving space for receiving a stick (S), and a heater (18) that generates heat for heating the stick (S) by being supported at least in part by the receiving portion (102p). A main passage (150) may be formed to penetrate the receiving portion (102p).

[0233] A cartridge (19) can be coupled to one side of a receiving portion (102p) that accommodates a stick (S). The cartridge (19) can be detachably mounted on the body (10). When the cartridge (19) is mounted on the body (10), the outlet (19e) of the cartridge (19) is connected to the main passage (150) of the receiving portion (102p).

[0234] One end of the main passage (150) is opened toward the stick (S). The other end of the main passage (150) is connected to the outlet (19e) of the cartridge (19). Therefore, at least one of the air and the aerosol transmitted through the outlet (19e) of the cartridge (19) can be supplied to the stick (S) through the main passage (150). For example, when the aerosol generating device (1) operates to heat only the stick (S) while the cartridge (19) is stopped, air can be supplied to the main passage (150) from the cartridge (19).

[0235] A branch passage (160) may be formed inside the receiving portion (102p) so as to be connected in parallel to the main passage (150). One side of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150). The width of the main passage (150) may be formed to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160).

[0236] The main passage (150) and branch passage (160) can be installed by forming a flow path inside the receiving portion (102p). For example, the receiving portion (102p) can be formed by an injection molding process in which resin is injected into a mold and cured. During the injection molding process, the main passage (150) and branch passage (160) can be formed inside the receiving portion (102p).

[0237] The cartridge (19) may include a chamber (C0) therein. The chamber (C0) may store an aerosol generating material in any one of a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state.

[0238] With the cartridge (19) inserted into the body (10), outside air can be introduced into the interior of the body (10). The outside air can be introduced into the aerosol generation chamber (C1) inside the cartridge (19) through the inlet (19i) of the cartridge (19).

[0239] The cartridge (19) may include a heater (24) for heating an aerosol generating material in a chamber (C0) containing the aerosol generating material. A liquid delivery means (25) impregnating (containing) the aerosol generating material may be disposed inside the chamber (C0).

[0240] The cartridge (19) can generate an aerosol. As the liquid delivery means (25) is heated by the heater (24), the aerosol can be generated. The aerosol generated in the aerosol generation chamber (C1) of the cartridge (19) can pass through the outlet (19e), the main passage (150), and the branch passage (160) to be transferred to the stick (S).

[0241] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, when the user performs an inhalation motion, the aerosol generated in the cartridge (19) can be supplied to the user after passing through the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160). Through the wide main passage (150), a sufficient amount of aerosol can be supplied to the user by passing through the stick (S).

[0242] Additionally, since a flow of aerosol is generated through a branch passage (160) having a narrow width while the user inhales the aerosol, the puff sensor (132) can operate precisely.

[0243] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, air and / or aerosol can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage (150), and since the branch passage (160) is connected in parallel to the main passage (150), most of the air flow generated due to preheating or residual heat, etc. can be discharged toward the aerosol generating chamber (C1) of the cartridge (19) through the main passage (150), thereby minimizing malfunction of the puff sensor (132).

[0244] The embodiments are not limited to the arrangement positions of the main passage (150), the branch passage (160), and the puff sensor (132) illustrated in FIG. 12. For example, the main passage (150) in which the puff sensor (132) and the branch passage (160) are arranged may be formed at a position between the cartridge (19) and the receiving portion (102p), or may be formed in a passage for delivering air to the cartridge (19). That is, the structure illustrated in FIG. 12 may be modified to arrange the main passage (150), the branch passage (160), and the puff sensor (132) in either the outlet (19e) or the inlet (19i).

[0245] As another example, the puff sensor (132), branch passage (160), and main passage (150) may be placed in all or part of the receiving portion (102p), outlet (19e), and inlet (19i).

[0246] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0247] The aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 13 is similar in structure to the aerosol generating devices according to the embodiments illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2.

[0248] An aerosol generating device (1) according to an embodiment illustrated in Fig. 13 includes an aerosol generator, a main passage (150), a branch passage (160) connected to the main passage (150), and an additional branch passage (170) connected to the main passage (150) in parallel with the branch passage (160). Air can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage (150).

[0249] The aerosol generator may include a receiving portion (102p) including an insertion space for receiving a stick (S), and a heater (240) disposed in the receiving portion (102p) to generate heat for heating the stick (S).

[0250] The main passage (150) includes a first main passage (151) inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends, and a second main passage (152) connecting the first main passage (151) and a receiving portion (102p) for receiving a stick (S).

[0251] One side of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the main passage (150).

[0252] The branch passage (160) includes a first passage (161) connected to a first region of the main passage (150) and a second passage (162) connected to a second region of the main passage (150). The puff sensor (132) can be connected to the first passage (161).

[0253] The first passage (161) of the branch passage (160) can extend along the extension direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating device (1). The second passage (162) can extend along the direction (X-axis direction) transverse to the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends.

[0254] One side of the additional branch passage (170) is connected to the third area of ​​the main passage (150), and the other side of the additional branch passage (170) is connected to the fourth area of ​​the main passage (150). Therefore, the additional branch passage (170) and the branch passage (160) are connected in parallel to the main passage (150).

[0255] The additional branch passage (170) includes a first additional passage (171) connected to the third area of ​​the main passage (150) and a second additional passage (172) connected to the fourth area of ​​the main passage (150).

[0256] The first additional passage (171) of the additional branch passage (170) can extend along a direction (X-axis direction) that crosses the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends. The second additional passage (172) can extend along the extension direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0257] The width of the main passage (150) may be formed to be larger than the width of the additional branch passage (170). In addition, the width of the additional branch passage (170) may be formed to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160).

[0258] The aerosol generating device (1) can be extended in one direction (Z-axis direction). Based on the direction in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends (Z-axis direction), the main passage (150) can be positioned closer to one end of the aerosol generating device (1) than the branch passage (160).

[0259] Additionally, based on one direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends, the additional branch passage (170) may be located closer to one end of the aerosol generating device (1) than the main passage (150).

[0260] According to the arrangement structure of the main passage (150), the additional branch passage (170), and the branch passage (160) as illustrated in Fig. 13, it is possible to minimize the droplets generated by cooling the aerosol in the main passage (150), the additional branch passage (170), and the branch passage (160) from entering the puff sensor (132).

[0261] When a user holds the aerosol generating device (1), the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device (1) roughly coincides with the Z-axis direction illustrated in Fig. 1. Droplets generated from the main passage (150), branch passage (160), and additional branch passage (170) will gather in the second passage (162) located at the bottom. Therefore, it is difficult for droplets to enter the puff sensor (132) connected to the first passage (161) extending along the extension direction (Z-axis) of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0262] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, air can be supplied to the receiving portion (102p) that receives the stick (S) through the main passage (150), and since the branch passage (160) and the additional branch passage (170) are connected in parallel to the main passage (150), the occurrence of malfunction of the puff sensor (132) can be minimized.

[0263] Heated air may be generated around the stick (S) due to preheating or residual heat, or natural air flow may occur in the main passage (150), additional branch passage (170), and branch passage (160) due to shaking of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0264] The widths of the main passage (150), additional branch passage (170), and branch passage (160) are as follows.

[0265] Width of main passage (150) > Width of additional branch passage (170) > Width of branch passage (160)

[0266] Therefore, the flow resistance against the air flow formed in each of the main passage (150), the additional branch passage (170), and the branch passage (160) is as follows.

[0267] Flow resistance of branch passage (160) > Flow resistance of additional branch passage (170) > Flow resistance of main passage (150)

[0268] The largest amount of air in the natural air flow is first discharged through the main passage (150). Then, a large amount of air in the remaining natural air flow after being discharged through the main passage (150) is discharged through an additional branch passage (170). Finally, a small amount of air remaining in the natural air flow is discharged through a branch passage (160).

[0269] Therefore, even if natural air flow occurs in the main passage (150), additional branch passage (170), and branch passage (160), only a small amount of air flow passes through the branch passage (160), so the occurrence of malfunction of the puff sensor (132) can be minimized.

[0270] Fig. 14 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a part of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0271] An aerosol generating device (1) according to an embodiment illustrated in Fig. 14 includes an aerosol generator, a main passage (150), a branch passage (160) connected to the main passage (150), and a puff sensor (132) connected to the branch passage (160). Air can be supplied to the aerosol generator through the main passage (150).

[0272] The aerosol generator may include a receiving portion (102p) including an insertion space for receiving a stick (S), and a heater (not shown) disposed in the receiving portion (102p) to generate heat for heating the stick (S).

[0273] The main passage (150) includes a first main passage (151) connected to a receiving portion (102p) for receiving a stick (S), and a second main passage (152) having one end open toward the outside of the receiving portion (102p) and the other end connected to the first main passage (151). External air can be supplied to the first main passage (151) through the second main passage (152). Air can be supplied to the stick (S) through the first main passage (151).

[0274] One side of the branch passage (160) is connected to one area of ​​the second main passage (152), and the other side of the branch passage (160) is connected to another area of ​​the second main passage (152).

[0275] The width of the main passage (150) can be formed to be larger than the width of the branch passage (160).

[0276] In Fig. 14, a second main passage (152), which is a part of a main passage (150), extends along a direction (X-axis direction) that crosses one direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends. In addition, a part of a branch passage (160) also extends along a direction that crosses one direction in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends. The center of the second main passage (152) and the center of the branch passage (160) can extend horizontally in a direction (X-axis direction) that crosses one direction (Z-axis direction) at the same height based on one direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating device (1) extends.

[0277] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, air can be supplied to the receiving portion (102p) that receives the stick (S) through the main passage (150), and since the branch passage (160) is connected in parallel to the main passage (150), external air can be supplied to the stick (S) after passing through the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) as the user performs an inhalation motion. As air is introduced into the heated stick (S), the aerosol generated in the stick (S) can be smoothly supplied to the user.

[0278] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, when a user inhales an aerosol, sufficient air can be supplied to the stick (S) through the wide main passage (150), thereby providing sufficient 'inhalation resistance' at a level that makes the user feel comfortable. In addition, since air also flows through the narrow branch passage (160) while the user inhales an aerosol, the puff sensor (132) can operate precisely.

[0279] According to the aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiment, since the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) are connected to the receiving portion (102p) that receives the stick (S), when a flow of heated air occurs due to preliminary heating or residual heat, most of the air flow can be discharged through the main passage (150) having a large width. Even if a natural air flow occurs in the main passage (150) and the branch passage (160) due to preliminary heating or residual heat, only a small amount of air flow passes through the branch passage (160) having a small width, so that the occurrence of a malfunction of the puff sensor (132) can be minimized.

[0280] FIG. 15 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the coupling relationship of elements of the aerosol generating device (1) of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 14.

[0281] The aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIG. 15 may include a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor unit (13), an output unit (40), an input unit (70), a communication unit (50), a memory (60), and at least one stick heater (18). However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to that illustrated in FIG. 15. That is, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), some of the components illustrated in FIG. 15 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0282] The sensor unit (13) can detect the status of the aerosol generating device (1) or the status of the surroundings of the aerosol generating device (1) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (12). Based on the detected information, the control unit (12) can control the aerosol generating device (1) so that various functions such as controlling the operation of a cartridge heater (e.g., heater (24) of FIG. 3) and / or a stick heater (18), restricting smoking, determining whether a stick and / or cartridge is inserted, and displaying a notification are performed.

[0283] The sensor unit (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).

[0284] The temperature sensor (131) can detect the temperature at which the cartridge heater and / or stick heater (18) (e.g., the heater (18) of FIGS. 1 and 2) is heated. The aerosol generating device (1) may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or stick heater (18), or the cartridge heater and / or stick heater (18) itself may serve as the temperature sensor.

[0285] The temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the stick 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 and / or the stick heater (18). It can be implemented by a thermistor, which is an element that utilizes the property of changing resistance depending on the 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 and / or the stick heater (18). For example, the temperature sensor (131) can be configured as a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18). At this time, the temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18).

[0286] 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 surface of the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be mounted on one surface of a printed circuit board.

[0287] A temperature sensor (131) is placed inside the main body and can detect the internal temperature of the main body.

[0288] 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).

[0289] The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick. The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect a signal change according to the insertion and / or removal of the stick. 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 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.

[0290] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. For example, when a magnetic field changes around a current-carrying 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.

[0291] 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.

[0292] 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, such as the electrostatic capacitance around the conductor. For example, when a stick including a metallic wrapper is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic properties around the conductor may be changed by the wrapper of the stick.

[0293] A reuse detection sensor (134) can detect whether the stick has been reused. The reuse detection sensor (134) may be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the color of the stick. The color sensor can detect the color of a portion of the wrapper that wraps the outside of the stick. 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.

[0294] At least some of the wrappers constituting the stick 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 that change color due to the aerosol are disposed when the stick is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick 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, 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.

[0295] The cartridge detection sensor (135) can detect the mounting and / or removal of the cartridge. 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.

[0296] The cap detection sensor (136) can detect the attachment and / or removal of the cap. If the cap is separated from the main body, the cartridge and part of the main body 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.

[0297] 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.

[0298] In addition to the sensors (131 to 137) described above, the sensor unit (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. A detailed description of the functions of each sensor may be omitted.

[0299] The output unit (40) can output information on the status of the aerosol generating device (1) and provide it to the user. The output unit (40) may include at least one of a display unit (41), a haptic unit (42), and an audio output unit (43), but is not limited thereto. When the display unit (41) and the touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit (41) can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0300] The display unit (41) (e.g., display (130) of FIG. 4) can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device (1) may refer to various information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generating device (1), the preheating status of the stick heater (18), the insertion / removal status of the stick and / or cartridge, the mounting / removal status of the cap, or the status in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the display unit (41) can output the above information to the outside. For example, the display unit (41) may be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display unit (41) may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0301] The haptic unit (42) can provide tactile information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user by converting an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus. For example, the haptic unit (42) can generate a vibration corresponding to the completion of the initial preheating when the initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater and / or stick heater (18) for a set period of time. The haptic unit (42) can include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0302] The acoustic output unit (43) can provide information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit (43) can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0303] The power source (11) can supply power used to operate the aerosol generating device (1). The power source (11) can supply power so that the cartridge heater and / or the stick 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 generating device (1), such as the sensor unit (13), the output unit (40), the input unit (70), the communication unit (50), and the memory (60). 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.

[0304] Although not shown in the drawing, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power source (11) and may include a switching element.

[0305] 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.

[0306] The stick heater (18) can receive power from the power source (11) to heat the medium or aerosol generating material within the stick. Although not shown in the drawing, 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 and / or the stick 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.

[0307] The control unit (12), sensor unit (13), output unit (40), input unit (70), communication unit (50), and memory (60) can receive power from the power source (11) and perform their functions. Although not shown in the drawing, a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power of the power source (11) and supplies it to each component may be further included. In addition, although not shown in the drawing, a noise filter may be provided between the power source (11) and the stick 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 stick heater (18). By the low pass filter, high frequency noise components can be prevented from being applied to the sensor unit (13), such as the insertion detection sensor (133).

[0308] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater and / or stick 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 stick 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.

[0309] In another embodiment, the stick heater (18) may be an induction heater. For example, the stick heater (18) may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil.

[0310] The input unit (70) can receive information input from a user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit (70) 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.

[0311] The display unit (41) and the touch panel can be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be inserted into the display unit (41) (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel can be added-on to the display unit (41).

[0312] Meanwhile, the input unit (70) may include, but is not limited to, buttons, key pads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0313] The memory (60) is hardware that stores various data processed in the aerosol generating device (1), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (12). The memory (60) 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 (60) may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and a user's smoking pattern.

[0314] The communication unit (50) may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit (50) may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0315] 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.

[0316] 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.

[0317] Although not shown in the drawing, the aerosol generating device (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.

[0318] A control unit (12) (e.g., a processor) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). In one embodiment, the control unit (12) can 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. Additionally, the processor may be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0319] The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the stick heater (18) by controlling the supply of power from the power source (11) to the stick heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) sensed by the temperature sensor (131). The control unit (12) can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18). For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) based on a temperature profile stored in the memory (60).

[0320] The aerosol generating device (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 and / or the stick heater (18). The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater, the stick 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.

[0321] 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.

[0322] The control unit (12) can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power source (11) to the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18). The control unit (12) can turn off the switching element so that power is cut off to the cartridge heater and / or the stick 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.

[0323] 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.

[0324] 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 stick heater (18) can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0325] The control unit (12) can control power to be supplied to the stick heater (18) using at least one of the pulse width modulation (PWM) method and the proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0326] For example, the control unit (12) can control a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the stick heater (18) using the PWM method. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the stick heater (18) by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0327] For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature that is the target of control based on the temperature profile. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the stick heater (18) by using the PID method, which is a feedback control method using a difference value between the temperature of the stick 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.

[0328] The control unit (12) can prevent the cartridge heater and / or the stick 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 and / or the stick heater (18) is cut off based on the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit (12) can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) by a certain percentage based on the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating substance contained in the cartridge is exhausted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater exceeding the limit temperature, and can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater.

[0329] 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).

[0330] When a power line is connected to the main body electrode of the aerosol generating device (1), the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the power source (11) is equal to or higher than the first limit temperature, which is a criterion for blocking charging of the power source (11). When 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. When the temperature of the power source (11) is equal to or higher than the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can block charging of the power source (11).

[0331] When the power of the aerosol generating device (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).

[0332] 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).

[0333] The control unit (12) can determine whether a stick is inserted into the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor (133). The control unit (12) can determine that a stick is inserted based on an output signal of the insertion detection sensor (133). If it is determined that a stick is inserted into the insertion space, the control unit (12) can control to supply power to the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18). For example, the control unit (12) can supply power to the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) based on a temperature profile stored in the memory (60).

[0334] The control unit (12) can determine whether the stick is removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the stick is removed from the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor (133). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the stick is removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the stick heater (18) is higher than a limited temperature or when the temperature change slope of the stick heater (18) is higher than a set slope. When it is determined that the stick is removed from the insertion space, the control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18).

[0335] The control unit (12) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the stick heater (18) according to the state of the stick detected by the sensor unit (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 according to the checked level range.

[0336] When the stick is in an over-humidified state, the control unit (12) can control the power supply time to the stick heater (18) to increase the preheating time of the stick compared to the normal state.

[0337] The control unit (12) can determine whether a stick inserted into an insertion space has been reused through a reuse detection sensor (134). For example, the control unit (12) can compare a sensing value of a 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 has not been used. For example, the control unit (12) can compare a sensing value of a 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 has been used. If it is determined that the stick has been used, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18).

[0338] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge is coupled and / or removed through the cartridge detection sensor (135). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge is coupled and / or removed based on the sensing value of the signal of the cartridge detection sensor.

[0339] The control unit (12) can determine whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is exhausted. For example, the control unit (12) can preheat the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) by applying power, and determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater exceeds a limited temperature during the preheating period. If the temperature of the cartridge heater exceeds the limited temperature, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is exhausted. If the control unit (12) determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is exhausted, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18).

[0340] The control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge is usable. For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the cartridge is unusable if the current number of puffs is greater than the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge based on data stored in the memory (60). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the cartridge is unusable if the total time that the cartridge heater has been heated is greater than the preset maximum time or the total amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater is greater than the preset maximum amount of power.

[0341] 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 and / or the stick heater (18).

[0342] 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.

[0343] The control unit (12) can control the output unit (40) based on the result detected by the sensor unit (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 generating device (1) will soon be terminated through at least one of the display unit (41), the haptic unit (42), and the sound output unit (43). For example, the control unit (12) can notify the user through the output unit (40) based on a determination that a stick is not present in the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can notify the user through the output unit (40) based on a determination that a cartridge and / or a cap is not mounted. For example, the control unit (12) can transmit information about the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the stick heater (18) to the user through the output unit (40).

[0344] The control unit (12) can store and update the history of events that have occurred in the memory (60) based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. The event may include operations such as detection of insertion of a stick, initiation of heating of the stick, detection of puff, termination of puff, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater and / or stick heater (18), detection of overvoltage application to the cartridge heater and / or stick heater (18), termination of heating of the stick, power on / off of the aerosol generating device (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 generating device (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, 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 a cartridge heater and / or stick heater (18), log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or stick heater (18), the voltage applied to the cartridge heater and / or stick heater (18), the current flowing through the cartridge heater and / or stick heater (18), etc.

[0345] 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 generating device (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 generating device (1) from an external server. The external device can transmit data indicating completion of user authentication to the aerosol generating device (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 generating device (1). For example, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the stick heater (18) when user authentication is completed.

[0346] The control unit (12) can transmit data on the status of the aerosol generating device (1) to the external device through 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 generating device (1), the operation mode, etc. through the display of the external device.

[0347] An external device may transmit a location search request to the aerosol generating device (1) based on an input that initiates location search of the aerosol generating device (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 (42) may generate vibration. For example, in response to the location search request, the display unit (41) may output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0348] 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 generating device (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 generating device (1). The control unit (12) can control to perform a firmware update of the aerosol generating device (1) upon receiving a new version of the firmware data.

[0349] The control unit (12) can transmit data on the sensing value of at least one sensor unit (13) to an external server (not shown) through the communication unit (50), 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 (60), the sensing value data of at least one sensor unit (13) and data for learning an artificial neural network (ANN). For example, the memory (60) can store a database for each component provided in the aerosol generating device (1) for learning an artificial neural network (ANN), and weights and biases forming an artificial neural network (ANN) structure. The control unit (12) can learn data on the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor unit (13), the user's suction pattern, the temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory (60), and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's suction pattern, generating the temperature profile, etc.

[0350] 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.

[0351] 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.

[0352] 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.

[0353] The embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device that can be conveniently used with a comfortable inhalation motion.

Claims

1. An aerosol generator for generating an aerosol; A main passage for supplying air to the aerosol generator or for discharging aerosol or air generated from the aerosol generator; A branch passage having one side connected to one area of ​​the main passage and the other side connected to another area of ​​the main passage; and An aerosol generating device, comprising a puff sensor connected to the branch passage and configured to detect a flow of at least one of air and aerosol in the branch passage.

2. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device wherein the width of the main passage is greater than the width of the branch passage.

3. In paragraph 1, The branch passage includes a first passage connected to the one area of ​​the main passage, and a second passage connected to the other area of ​​the main passage and connected to the first passage, An aerosol generating device, wherein the puff sensor is connected to the first passage.

4. In paragraph 3, An aerosol generating device, wherein the width of the second passage is greater than the width of the first passage, and the width of the main passage is greater than the width of the second passage.

5. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device, wherein at least a portion of the main passage extends at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device.

6. In paragraph 1, The aerosol generator includes a receiving portion for receiving an aerosol generating article for generating an aerosol, and a heater for heating the aerosol generating article, An aerosol generating device wherein the main passage is connected to the receiving portion, and air is supplied to the receiving portion through the main passage.

7. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generator comprises a generating chamber for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material, the main passage being connected to the generating chamber, and air being supplied to the generating chamber through the main passage or the aerosol and air generated in the generating chamber being discharged.

8. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device wherein the puff sensor detects a change in any one of the pressure, flow rate, flow velocity, or a combination thereof of the flow.

9. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device further comprising a filtering element positioned in the branch passage to filter droplets or foreign substances contained in the air or aerosol.

10. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device further comprising an additional branch passage connected to the main passage in parallel with the branch passage.

11. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating device extends in one direction, and the branch passage is located closer to an end of the aerosol generating device in the one direction than the main passage based on the one direction.

12. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating device extends in one direction, and the main passage is located closer to the end of the aerosol generating device in the one direction than the branch passage based on the one direction.

13. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device, wherein at least a portion of the main passage and at least a portion of the branch passage extend in a direction transverse to one direction in which the aerosol generating device extends.

14. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device further comprising a supply block positioned outside the aerosol generator, wherein at least one of the main passage and the branch passage is formed to penetrate the supply block.

15. In paragraph 1, The aerosol generator includes a receiving portion for receiving an aerosol generating article, An aerosol generating device, wherein the main passage is formed by a space between the outer surface of the aerosol generating article accommodated in the accommodation portion and the inner wall of the accommodation portion.

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