Method for determining temperature model of susceptor and aerosol-generating device for performing same method

Abstract

This method, performed by an aerosol-generating device, for determining a temperature model of a susceptor, comprises the steps of: applying a first signal having a first frequency to a coil of a heater to generate an alternating magnetic field; determining a first value of an electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the first signal; applying a second signal having a second frequency to the coil of the heater to generate the alternating magnetic field; determining a second value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the second signal; and determining a first temperature model for the susceptor on the basis of the first value and the second value, wherein the first temperature model may be used to determine a temperature of the susceptor on the basis of the electrical characteristics of the susceptor.

Description

Method for determining a temperature model of a susceptor and an aerosol generating device performing the method

[0001] The following embodiments relate to a technique for controlling an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, to a technique for estimating the temperature of a susceptor in an induction heating type aerosol generating device.

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

[0003] Typically, e-cigarette devices that heat a cigarette using induction heating can generate an alternating magnetic field using a coil to generate eddy currents in a susceptor adjacent to the cigarette. These eddy currents can increase the temperature of the susceptor. To control the susceptor temperature in response to the user's smoking, a temperature model is required to estimate the susceptor temperature.

[0004] One embodiment may provide an aerosol generating device capable of estimating the temperature of a susceptor based on electrical characteristics of the susceptor.

[0005] One embodiment may provide an aerosol generating device capable of detecting replacement of a susceptor based on electrical characteristics of the susceptor.

[0006] However, technical challenges are not limited to the technical challenges described above, and other technical challenges may exist.

[0007] In one embodiment, a method for determining a temperature model of a susceptor, performed by an aerosol generating device, includes: applying a first signal having a first frequency to a coil of a heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field; determining a first value of an electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the first signal; applying a second signal having a second frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field; determining a second value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the second signal; and determining a first temperature model for the susceptor based on the first value and the second value, wherein the first temperature model may be a model used to determine a temperature of the susceptor based on the electrical characteristic of the susceptor.

[0008] In one embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes an induction coil generating an alternating magnetic field; and a control unit controlling the aerosol generating device, wherein the control unit applies a first signal having a first frequency to a coil of a heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field, determines a first value of an electrical characteristic of a susceptor indicated by the first signal, applies a second signal having a second frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field, determines a second value of an electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the second signal, and determines a first temperature model for the susceptor based on the first value and the second value, wherein the first temperature model may be a model used to determine a temperature of the susceptor based on the electrical characteristic of the susceptor.

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device can be provided that can determine a temperature model for estimating the temperature of a susceptor based on the magnitude of an eddy current of the susceptor indicated by a signal of a specific frequency.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device may be provided that determines a temperature model of a susceptor when an input occurs in which a susceptor is mounted, and detects replacement of the susceptor when the determined temperature model differs from a previous temperature model.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method for determining a temperature model of a susceptor according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates the trajectory of eddy currents in a susceptor as a function of the frequency of a signal, according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for determining electrical characteristics of a susceptor according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method for determining a temperature model of a susceptor based on a sensor temperature, according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 9 illustrates a temperature model of a susceptor based on the magnitude of the current, according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method for calculating a susceptor temperature based on a temperature model of the susceptor, according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a method for updating a temperature model of a susceptor according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method for determining a second temperature model for a susceptor, according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a method for receiving input for updating a temperature model of a susceptor, according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method for discarding a second temperature model or updating a first temperature model with a second temperature model, according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a method for detecting a change in a susceptor, according to one embodiment.

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components will be assigned the same reference numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar drawing numbers may be used for similar or related components.

[0027] The suffixes “module” and “unit” used for components in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves. Meanwhile, the suffixes “module” or “unit” may include units implemented with hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. A “module” or “unit” may be a component configured integrally, or a minimum unit of the component that performs one or more functions, or a part thereof. For example, a “module” or “unit” may be implemented in the form of an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit).

[0028] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0029] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0030] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0031] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory (17)) readable by a machine (e.g., an aerosol generating device (1)). For example, a processor (e.g., a control unit (12)) of the machine (e.g., an aerosol generating device (1)) may call at least one command among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called command. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0033] In the present disclosure, the direction of the aerosol generating device (1) can be defined based on the orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0034]

[0035] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor unit (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), a memory (17), and / or a heater (18, 24). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to the present embodiment that some of the components illustrated in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0037] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (13) can detect the state of the aerosol generating device (1) or the state around the aerosol generating device (1) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (12). For example, the sensor unit (13) may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a reuse detection sensor, an overly moist detection sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, a cap detection sensor, and / or a movement detection sensor. Meanwhile, the sensor unit (13) may further include various sensors, such as a liquid remaining amount sensor for detecting the liquid remaining amount of the cartridge, and an immersion sensor for detecting immersion of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0038] In one embodiment, the temperature sensor can detect the temperature at which the heater (18, 24) is heated. The aerosol generating device (1) may include a separate temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heater (18, 24), or the heater (18, 24) itself may function as a temperature sensor. As an example, the temperature sensor may be used to measure the impedance to the heater (18). The impedance to the heater (18) may be correlated with the temperature of the heater (18). The temperature sensor may measure the current and / or voltage applied to the heater (18) (or the induction coil). Based on the measured current and / or voltage, the impedance to the heater (18) may be calculated. The control unit (12) may estimate the temperature of the heater (18) based on the calculated impedance.

[0039] For example, the temperature sensor may include a resistance element (e.g., a thermistor) whose resistance value changes in response to a temperature change of the heater (18, 24). The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistance element, and the control unit (12) may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of the heater (18, 24) based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0040] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that detects the resistance value of the heater (18, 24). The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater (18, 24), and the control unit (12) may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of the heater (18, 24) based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0041] In one embodiment, the temperature sensor can detect the temperature of the power source (11). The temperature sensor can be positioned adjacent to the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor can be attached to one surface of the power source (11) (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on one surface of a printed circuit board. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) can include a power protection circuit module (PCM), and the temperature sensor can be positioned adjacent to the power source (11) together with the power protection circuit.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may be placed inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device (1) to detect the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0043] In one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect a user's puff.

[0044] For example, the puff sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1), and the control unit (12) may detect the user's puff based on the signal corresponding to the internal pressure. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1) may correspond to the pressure of an airflow path through which gas flows. The puff sensor may be arranged in correspondence to the airflow path through which gas flows in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0045] As another example, the puff sensor may include a temperature sensor. When the user puffs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, the space where the aerosol generating product is inserted (hereinafter, referred to as the insertion space), the heater (18, 24), etc. The control unit (12) may detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the temperature of the airflow path, etc. output from the temperature sensor.

[0046] As another example, the puff sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor may measure a temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an example, the puff sensor may correct a signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the puff sensor may output a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the puff sensor. In this case, the control unit (12) may receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0047] As another example, the puff sensor may include a capacitance sensor. In the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor may also be referred to as a capacitive sensor or a capacitive sensor. When a user puffs, a temperature change and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol-generating article, and thus, the permittivity within the insertion space may change. The control unit (12) may detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the permittivity within the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0048] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and may be implemented with various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0049] In one embodiment, an insertion detection sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating item. The insertion detection sensor can be installed around the insertion space. Additionally, the insertion detection sensor can include any combination of the examples described above.

[0050] For example, the insertion detection sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted or removed within the insertion space, the permittivity around the conductor may change. The control unit (12) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal corresponding to the permittivity within the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitive sensor.

[0051] As another example, the insertion detection sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and the at least one coil may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. If the aerosol-generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol-generating article) includes a conductor, a change in a magnetic field may occur around the current-carrying coil when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space. The control unit (12) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency of the alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.). Alternatively, the aerosol-generating article (e.g., the medium portion of the aerosol-generating article) may include a susceptor (SUS). Even in this case, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil based on the insertion or removal of a susceptor or the like within the insertion space, and the control unit (12) may also detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article based on the characteristics of the current of the inductive sensor.

[0052] The insertion detection sensor is not limited to the examples described above, and may be implemented with various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors, etc.) for detecting the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, the insertion detection sensor may include any combination of the examples described above. In one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor may include a switch or the like for detecting pressure by an aerosol-generating article.

[0053] In one embodiment, a reuse detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article has been reused. For example, the reuse detection sensor may be a color sensor for detecting the color of the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article is used by a user, a color change may occur in a portion of a wrapper surrounding the exterior of the aerosol-generating article due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor can output a signal corresponding to an optical characteristic (e.g., a wavelength of light) corresponding to the color of the wrapper based on light reflected from the wrapper. If a change in the color of a portion of the wrapper is detected, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has already been used.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the over-humidity detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is over-humidified. For example, the over-humidity detection sensor can include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor can include at least one conductor disposed adjacent to an insertion space. The control unit (12) can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is over-humidified based on the level of a signal corresponding to a permittivity or the like output from the capacitive sensor. For example, the control unit (12) can check a level range within which the level of the signal is included based on a look-up table, and determine the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article based on the checked level range.

[0055] In one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can detect whether an aerosol generating article is genuine and / or detect the type of aerosol generating article.

[0056] For example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an optical sensor for detecting an identification material (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., wrapper) of an aerosol-generating article. The optical sensor may irradiate light toward the identification material (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating article based on the reflected light. For example, the identification material may include a material that emits light in a specific wavelength range based on the irradiated light. The control unit (12) may detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating article based on the range of the wavelength.

[0057] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The dielectric constant within the insertion space may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating product inserted into the insertion space. The control unit (12) may detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating product based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant within the insertion space output from the capacitive sensor.

[0058] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. When a conductor is included in the wrapper and / or the interior (e.g., the medium portion) of the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space, the characteristics of the current detected by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency of the alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the insertion space may differ depending on the type of the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit (12) may detect whether the inserted aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of the inserted aerosol-generating article based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor.

[0059] The cigarette identification sensor is not limited to the examples described above, and may be implemented with various sensors to detect the authenticity of an aerosol-generating product and / or the type of aerosol-generating product. Furthermore, the cigarette identification sensor may include any combination of the examples described above.

[0060] In one embodiment, the cartridge detection sensor may detect the mounting and / or removal of a cartridge. For example, the cartridge detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0061] In one embodiment, the cap detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of the cap. For example, the cap detection sensor can include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap can include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), or covers at least a portion of a housing of the aerosol generating device (1). The cap detection sensor can output a signal corresponding to the mounting or removal when the cap is mounted on or removed from the housing, and the control unit (12) can detect the mounting or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the mounting or removal.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the motion detection sensor can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device (1). The motion detection sensor can be implemented as at least one of an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (13) may further include, in addition to the aforementioned sensors, at least one of a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System, GPS), or a proximity sensor. Since the functions of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the output unit (14) can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device (1). The output unit (14) can include, but is not limited to, a display, a haptic unit, and / or an audio output unit. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device (1) can include a charging / discharging status of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generating device (1), a preheating status of the heater (18, 24), an insertion / removal status of an aerosol generating article and / or a cartridge, a mounting and / or removal status of a cap, or a status in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal article). The display can visually provide information about the status of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the display can include a light emitting diode (LED) light emitting element, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), etc. The display, if it includes a touch pad, can also be used as an input unit (15). The haptic unit can provide tactile information about the status of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the haptic unit can include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulation device, etc. The acoustic output unit can provide audible information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the power source (11) can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The power source (11) can include one or more batteries. The power source (11) can supply power so that the heaters (18, 24) can be heated. In addition, the power source (11) can also supply power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device (1), such as the control unit (12), the sensor unit (13), the output unit (14), the input unit (15), the communication unit (16), and the memory (17). The power source (11) can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source (11) can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source (11) can also be a replaceable type (detachable) battery (hereinafter, referred to as a removable battery). The removable battery may be mounted in the battery compartment provided within the aerosol generating device (1) or may be removed from the battery compartment. The removable battery may be charged by wire and / or wirelessly.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the heater (18, 24) may be powered by the power source (11) to heat the aerosol generating article and / or the medium and / or the aerosol generating material within the cartridge. The aerosol generating device (1) may include a heater (18) for heating the aerosol generating article and / or a cartridge heater (24) for heating the cartridge (i.e., the solid and / or liquid medium).

[0067] In one embodiment, the heater (18, 24) may be an electrically resistive heater. For example, the electrically resistive heater may include an electrically resistive material, such as a metal or metal alloy including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. The electrically resistive heater may be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate having electrically conductive tracks arranged thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0068] In one embodiment, the heater (18, 24) may be an induction heating heater. For example, the induction heating heater may include a susceptor that generates heat by a magnetic field. A magnetic field may be generated from the induction coil by an alternating current flowing through the induction coil. The generated magnetic field may penetrate the heater, and an eddy current may be generated in the susceptor. The susceptor may be heated based on the generation of the eddy current. In one embodiment, the susceptor may be included within the aerosol generating article (e.g., the medium portion). In this case, the susceptor included within the aerosol generating article may be heated by the induction coil.

[0069] The heater (18, 24) is not limited to the examples described above, and may include or be replaced with various heating methods, structures, components, etc. for heating the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the input unit (15) can receive information input from a user. For example, the input unit (15) can include a touch panel, a button, a key pad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the memory (17) is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (1), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (12). For example, the memory (17) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. For example, the memory (17) may store data on the operation 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.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the communication unit (16) may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device (e.g., a portable electronic device). For example, the communication unit (16) may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (wireless local area network) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (infrared Data Association, IrDA) communication unit, a WFD (Wireless Fidelity Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an ANT (Adaptive Network Topology)+ communication unit, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the control unit (12) can include at least one processor. The control unit (12) can be implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates, or can be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose MCU (microcontroller unit) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program that can be executed in such an MCU. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present embodiment pertains that the control unit (12) can be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18, 24) by controlling the supply of power from the power source (11) to the heater (18, 24). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18, 24) and / or the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) based on the temperature of the heater (18, 24) detected using a temperature sensor (e.g., the sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18, 24) and / or the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) based on a temperature profile and / or a power profile stored in the memory (17).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heater (18, 24) by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heater (18, 24) and the power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / DC converter (e.g., a buck converter, a buck-boost converter, a boost converter, a Zener diode, etc.) that converts power to be supplied to the heater (18, 24), and a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter) that converts power to be supplied to an induction coil (not shown). The DC / AC converter may be implemented as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements. For example, a power conversion circuit may include at least one switching element, such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or a field effect transistor (FET).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the current and / or voltage supplied to the heater (18, 24) by controlling the frequency and / or duty ratio of a current pulse input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit (not shown). The duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element can correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power source (11).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method. For example, the control unit (12) can control a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the heater (18, 24) using the PWM method. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse. For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature that is a target of control based on a temperature profile. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) by using the PID method, which is a feedback control method using the difference value between the temperature of the heater (18, 24) and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference value over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference value over time.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can determine a target power that is the target of control based on the power profile. The control unit (12) can also control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) to correspond to the preset target power over time.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can detect the user's puff by detecting the power supplied to the heater (18, 24). More specifically, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) using a PID method. When the user's puff is generated, a temporary temperature drop may occur in a space where an aerosol generating article is inserted (hereinafter, referred to as the insertion space), the heater (18, 24), etc. Accordingly, a change may occur in the power (or current) supplied to the heater (18, 24) during the power control using the PID method. The control unit (12) can detect the user's puff based on the change in the controlled power.

[0080] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) can prevent the heater (18, 24) from overheating. For example, the control unit (12) can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to reduce the amount of power supplied to the heater (18, 24) or to stop supplying power to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the temperature of the heater (18, 24) exceeds a preset limit temperature.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control charging and discharging of the power source (11). For example, the control unit (12) can check the temperature of the power source (11) using a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). If the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than a first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can block charging of the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is higher than a second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can stop using (e.g., discharging) the power stored in the power source (11). 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 voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power source (11).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on the result detected by the sensor unit (13).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article into the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can control to supply power to the heater (18, 24) when it is determined that the aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space using an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24) when it is determined that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space using an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can also determine that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater (18, 24) is equal to or higher than a limited temperature or when the temperature change slope of the heater (18, 24) is equal to or higher than a set slope.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater (18, 24) based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, if the control unit (12) determines that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humidity state by using an over-humidity detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)), the control unit (12) can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) to the heater (18, 24).

[0085] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) may control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the aerosol generating article has been reused. For example, the control unit (12) may cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24) if it is determined that the aerosol generating article has been used.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the cartridge is coupled and / or removed. For example, if the control unit (12) determines that the cartridge is coupled and / or removed using a cartridge detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)), the control unit (12) can control to stop the power supply to the heater (18, 24) or prevent power from being supplied to the heater (18, 24).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) may control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge has been exhausted. For example, if the control unit (12) determines that the temperature of the heater (18, 24) exceeds a limit temperature while preheating the heater (18, 24) (i.e., during the preheating period), the control unit (12) may determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge has been exhausted. If the control unit (12) determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge has been exhausted, the control unit (12) may cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) may control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the cartridge is available for use. For example, the control unit (12) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if the current number of puffs is determined to be greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge based on data stored in the memory (17). Alternatively, the control unit (12) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if the total time that the heater (18, 24) has been heated is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time or the total amount of power supplied to the heater (18, 24) is greater than or equal to the preset maximum amount of power. In this case, the control unit (12) may stop the power supply to the heater (18, 24) or control that power is not supplied to the heater (18, 24).

[0089] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on the user's puff. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether a puff has been generated and / or the intensity of the puff using a puff sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24) when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs and / or no puffs are detected for a preset period of time. The control unit (12) can also control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) when a puff is detected.

[0090] In one embodiment, the control unit (12) may control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is genuine and / or the type thereof. For example, the control unit (12) may detect whether the aerosol generating article is genuine and / or the type thereof using a cigarette identification sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). For example, if the control unit (12) detects that the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is counterfeit, the control unit (12) may cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24). If the control unit (12) detects that the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is genuine, the control unit (12) may control (e.g., start) the power supply to the heater (18, 24). As another example, the control unit (12) may control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) differently depending on the type of the aerosol generating article (or cartridge). More specifically, the control unit (12) can control the temperature and / or power of the heater (18, 24) based on a first temperature profile (or a first power profile) when the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a first aerosol generating article (or a first cartridge), and can control the temperature and / or power of the heater (18, 24) based on a second temperature profile (or a second power profile) when the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a second aerosol generating article (or a second cartridge).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) based on the result detected by the sensor unit (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) to visually, tactilely and / or audibly provide information that the aerosol generating device (1) is about to be terminated when the number of puffs counted using the puff sensor (e.g., the sensor unit (13)) reaches a preset number. For example, the control unit (12) can also control the output unit (14) to visually, tactilely and / or audibly provide information about the temperature of the heater (18, 24).

[0092] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) may store and update a history of events that have occurred in the memory (17) based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. For example, the event may include operations such as detection of insertion of an aerosol generating article, initiation of heating of the aerosol generating article, detection of puff, termination of puff, detection of overheating of the heater (18, 24), detection of overvoltage application to the heater (18, 24), termination of heating of the aerosol generating article, power on / off of the aerosol generating device (1), initiation of charging of the power source (11), detection of overcharging of the power source (11), termination of charging of the power source (11), etc., performed in the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the history of events may include the date and time when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if a given event is detection of insertion of an aerosol generating article, log data corresponding to the event may include data on the sensing value of an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). For example, if a given event is detection of overheating of a heater (18, 24), log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the heater (18, 24), the voltage applied to the heater (18, 24), the current flowing through the heater (18, 24), and the like.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the communication unit (16) to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) may release restrictions on the use of at least one function (e.g., heating function) of the aerosol generating device (1) when authentication data is received from an external device via a communication link. For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique number identifying the user, whether the user has completed authentication, etc.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can transmit data on the status of the aerosol generating device (1) to an external device via a communication link (e.g., remaining capacity of the power source (11), operating mode, etc.). The transmitted data can be output through a display of the external device, etc.

[0096] According to one embodiment, when a request for location search of the aerosol generating device (1) is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the control unit (12) can control the haptic unit to generate vibration or control the display to output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can perform a firmware update when firmware data is received from an external device via a communication link.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) may transmit data on the sensed values ​​of at least one sensor unit (13) to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensed values ​​through machine learning, such as deep learning, from the server. The control unit (12) may perform an operation of determining a user's suction pattern, an operation of generating a temperature profile, etc., using the learning model received from the server.

[0099] Although not shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may include at least one switching element and may cut off the power supply (11) in response to overcharging and / or overdischarging of the power supply (11). The aerosol generating device (1) may further include a connection interface, such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and may transmit and receive information or charge the power supply (11) by connecting to another external device through the connection interface.

[0100] The aerosol generating article referred to in the present disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium portion) and at least one filter rod. The heater (18) may be arranged to correspond to the at least one aerosol generating rod, and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating material, and an additive. For example, the aerosol generating material may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may also include various other substances. For example, the additive may include a flavoring agent and / or an organic acid, and may also include various other substances. For example, the aerosol-generating rod may comprise an aerosol-generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco material (e.g., an aerosol-generating material and / or nicotine), and / or may comprise a solid tobacco material (e.g., leaf tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). The tobacco material may be included in the aerosol-generating rod in various forms, such as cut tobacco, granules, powder, etc. In one embodiment, the additive of the aerosol-generating rod may include an alkaline material. Based on the alkaline material, the nicotine of the tobacco material included in the aerosol-generating rod may have an alkaline pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, freebase nicotine may be released from the aerosol-generating rod even at low temperatures. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating rod may include two or more aerosol-generating rods, and the two or more aerosol-generating rods may each include a tobacco material and / or a non-tobacco material.Meanwhile, although not shown, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may be individually and / or integrally wrapped by at least one wrapper. In the present disclosure, the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as a stick.

[0101] The cartridge referred to in the present disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating material having any one of the following states: a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state. The aerosol-generating material may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. Meanwhile, the cartridge may include a storage unit containing the aerosol-generating material and / or a liquid delivery means impregnating (containing) the aerosol-generating material. For example, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The cartridge heater (24) may be included in the cartridge in the form of a coil-shaped structure surrounding (or winding) the liquid delivery means, or in a structure contacting one side of the liquid delivery means. Alternatively, the cartridge heater (24) may be included in an aerosol-generating device (1) that is separable from the cartridge.

[0102]

[0103] FIG. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 3 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a housing (10), a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor unit (13), and / or a heater (182, 183) (e.g., the heater (18) of FIG. 1). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to the present embodiment that the components included in the aerosol generating device (1) are not limited to those illustrated in FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, and that some of the components may be omitted or new configurations may be added. The aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIG. 2 may be referred to as an 'internal heating type' aerosol generating device that heats the inside of the aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIG. 3 may be referred to as an 'external heating type' aerosol generating device that heats the outside of the aerosol generating article (2). In the drawings below, any description overlapping with that of FIG. 1 will be omitted.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the housing (10) may provide a space that is opened upwardly to allow an aerosol-generating article (2) to be inserted. In the present disclosure, the space that is opened upwardly may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by being recessed toward the interior of the housing (10) to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article (2) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may be longer than the length of a region of the aerosol-generating article (2) containing an aerosol-generating material and / or medium. The lower end of the aerosol-generating article (2) may be inserted into the interior of the housing (10), and the upper end of the aerosol-generating article (2) may protrude outside the housing (10). A user may hold the upper end of the aerosol-generating article (2) exposed to the outside in his / her mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the heater (182, 183) can heat the aerosol generating article (2).

[0107] Referring to FIG. 2, the heater (182) may be an internal heating type heater.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the internally heated heater may extend upwardly in a space (i.e., an insertion space) into which the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted. For example, the internally heated heater may include a rod-shaped or needle-shaped heating element as illustrated, but may also include various heating elements such as a tubular heating element or a plate-shaped heating element. The internally heated heater may be inserted through the lower portion of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the internal heating heater may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater.

[0110] For example, an electric resistance heater may include an electric resistance material on the inside (e.g., an inner hollow portion or inner surface) or the outside (e.g., an outer surface), and may be heated as current flows through the electric resistance material. In this case, the electric resistance heater may be electrically connected to a power source (11), and may directly generate heat by receiving current from the power source (11). In addition, the induction coil (181) may be omitted.

[0111] For example, in the case of an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an induction coil (181) that surrounds at least a portion of the internal heating type heater (e.g., is disposed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). In this case, a magnetic flux concentrator or the like may be further included on the outside of the induction coil (181) to increase the efficiency of induction heating. The induction heating type heater includes a susceptor and may generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil (181). According to one embodiment, the induction heating type heater (e.g., susceptor) (or a heater module including the same) may be arranged to be detachable from the housing (10).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the heater (182) may be a multi-heater. The multi-heater may include a first heater and a second heater, and may be inserted into the aerosol generating article (2). The first heater and the second heater may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. The first heater and the second heater may operate as an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first heater and the second heater may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of two or more aerosol generating rods, respectively (respectively). Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of a first portion and a second portion of one aerosol generating rod, respectively. Meanwhile, when the heater (182) is an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, and the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be respectively disposed at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may respectively be disposed at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first part and the second part of one heater (182). In addition, three or more heaters and / or induction coils may be included.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the susceptor may be disposed (or included) within the aerosol generating article (2) (e.g., the medium portion), and the susceptor included within the aerosol generating article (2) may be implemented to generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from an induction coil (181).

[0114] Referring to FIG. 3, the heater (183) may be an external heating type heater.

[0115] In one embodiment, the external heating heater may extend upwardly around the space into which the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). For example, the external heating heater may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. For example, the external heating heater may have a tubular shape (e.g., a cylindrical shape) having a hollow space therein. The external heating heater may also have a shape having a hollow space on the inside and surrounding the hollow space. In this case, the external heating heater may be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film may be referred to as a film heater. The external heating heater may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The external heating heater may heat the outside of the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the hollow space.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the external heating heater may include an electric resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater, and a description overlapping with FIG. 2 will be omitted. Meanwhile, in the case of an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an external heating heater implemented as a tubular susceptor, and may include an induction coil (181) surrounding at least a portion of the external heating heater (e.g., disposed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). In addition, the induction coil (181) may include a fan coil. Meanwhile, when the external heating heater is an electric resistance heater, a separate induction coil (181) may be omitted since heat generation is possible through current flow on a tubular electric resistance heater (e.g., a film heater). Meanwhile, an insulating material may be disposed on the outside of the external heating heater. Through this, heat radiating from the heater (183) in an outward direction and applied to the outside of the housing (10) may be reduced.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the heater (183) may be a multiple heater, and the first heater and the second heater may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction to surround at least a portion of the insertion space, respectively. The first heater and the second heater may operate as an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heating heater, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. Meanwhile, when the heater (183) is an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, and the first induction coil and the second induction coil may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater, respectively. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may be arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first portion and the second portion of one heater (183), respectively.

[0118] Unlike as shown in FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, the heater (182) of FIG. 2 and the heater (183) of FIG. 3 may be included together in the aerosol generating device (1). In this case, the heater (182) may heat the inside of the aerosol generating article (2), and the heater (183) may heat the outside of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0119] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may be provided with an airflow channel through which air flows. For example, the housing (10) may include a structure (e.g., a hole) through which air can be introduced from the outside into the housing (10). The air introduced into the housing (10) may be introduced into the aerosol generating article (2) through the lower end (i.e., the upstream side) of the aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generated based on the heating of the aerosol generating article (2) may be inhaled into the user's oral cavity through the upper end (i.e., the downstream side) of the aerosol generating article (2) together with the introduced air.

[0120]

[0121] Figure 4 illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a temperature sensor (131). The temperature sensor (131) may be disposed within the body (e.g., housing (10)) of the aerosol generating device (1) to measure temperature. For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be disposed below the heater (182) as illustrated, and may be disposed below a rod-shaped or needle-shaped heating element included in the heater (182). For example, the control unit (12) may obtain information regarding the internal temperature of the body and the rise or fall of the temperature of the heater (182) due to the external environment or the operation of the aerosol generating device (1) through the temperature sensor (131).

[0123] For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) temperature sensor. The control unit (12) may determine a temperature model of the heater (182) based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor (131).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the heater (182) is an induction heating type heater, and the induction heating type heater (182) (e.g., a susceptor) (or a heater module including the same) may be arranged to be detachable from the housing (10). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be arranged to measure the temperature around the heater (182). Even if the heater (182) is detachable from the housing (10), the temperature sensor (131) may not be detachable from the housing (10).

[0125] Unlike as shown in Fig. 4, the heater (182) is an external heating type heater capable of heating the outside of an aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the hollow, and the heater (182) may be arranged to be detachable from the housing (10). For example, a temperature sensor (131) may be arranged to measure the temperature around the heater (182).

[0126]

[0127] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method for determining a temperature model of a susceptor according to one embodiment.

[0128] The following operations 510 to 550 may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., an aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 4). The aerosol generating device may include a susceptor (e.g., a heater (18) of FIG. 1, a heater (182) of FIGS. 2 and 4, or a heater (183) of FIG. 3), a sensor unit (e.g., a sensor unit (13) of FIGS. 1 to 4), and a control unit (e.g., a control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 to 4).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device can determine a temperature model of the susceptor based on electrical characteristics of the susceptor that correspond to each of an alternating magnetic field having a first frequency and an alternating magnetic field having a second frequency in a temperature model determination mode. For example, the temperature model determination mode can be a mode for determining a temperature model corresponding to the susceptor. For example, the aerosol generating device can calculate a temperature of the susceptor based on the electrical characteristics and the temperature model of the susceptor, and control an operation of the aerosol generating device based on the calculated temperature of the susceptor. For example, the control unit can perform heating of the aerosol generating article for optimal smoking by controlling a signal applied to a coil of the heater so that the temperature of the susceptor corresponds to a preset temperature profile (e.g., a first temperature profile) based on the calculated temperature of the susceptor.

[0130] In operation 510, the aerosol generating device may apply a first signal having a first frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field. The first signal may have a preset current, voltage, and duty ratio. The first frequency may be the frequency of a signal applied to the coil of the heater in a mode in which the aerosol generating device measures the temperature of the susceptor. For example, the first frequency may be 290 kHz.

[0131] In one embodiment, the susceptor of the aerosol generating device is arranged to be detachable, and the aerosol generating device can perform operation 510 when it is determined that the arranged susceptor has changed. For example, the aerosol generating device can perform operation 510 when a user input corresponding to a change in the susceptor is received. For example, the aerosol generating device can perform operation 510 when an input is received that a susceptor is newly mounted.

[0132] In one embodiment, the operation of applying the first signal to the coil may be performed for a short period of time (e.g., several milliseconds) so that the temperature of the susceptor does not increase due to eddy currents induced in the susceptor by the first signal.

[0133] In one embodiment, the voltage of the first signal may be less than a preset voltage so that the temperature of the susceptor does not increase due to eddy currents induced in the susceptor by the first signal.

[0134] In one embodiment, the susceptor may not be electrically connected to the aerosol generating device. Although no electricity flows from the aerosol generating device to the susceptor, an alternating magnetic field generated by the aerosol generating device and the coil of the aerosol generating device may induce electromagnetic induction in the susceptor, thereby causing eddy currents to flow in the susceptor.

[0135] In one embodiment, the susceptor can be positioned within the interior of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device. For example, the susceptor can be a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element.

[0136] In one embodiment, the susceptor may be incorporated into an aerosol-generating article that is inserted into an aerosol-generating device. For example, the susceptor may be incorporated into the filter paper of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the susceptor may be incorporated into the tobacco rod of the aerosol-generating article.

[0137] In operation 520, the aerosol generating device can determine a first value of an electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the first signal. The operation of determining the first value is described in detail below with reference to FIG. 7.

[0138] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include a detection circuit for determining a first value of an electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by a first signal at an output terminal of the coil of the heater. The detection circuit may not be electrically connected to the susceptor.

[0139] In operation 530, the aerosol generating device may apply a second signal having a second frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field. The second signal may have a preset current, voltage, and duty cycle. For example, the second frequency may be 303 kHz.

[0140] In one embodiment, the electrical characteristics exhibited by the susceptor at the first reference temperature (e.g., 25°C) by the second signal may correspond to the electrical characteristics exhibited by the susceptor at the second reference temperature by the first signal. For example, the magnitude of the eddy current generated in the susceptor at 25°C when the second signal is applied to the coil of the heater may be the same as the magnitude of the eddy current generated in the susceptor at 300°C when the first signal is applied to the coil of the heater.

[0141] In one embodiment, the operation of applying the second signal to the coil so that the temperature of the susceptor does not increase due to eddy currents induced in the susceptor by the second signal can be performed for a short time (e.g., several milliseconds).

[0142] In one embodiment, the voltage of the second signal may be less than a preset voltage so that the temperature of the susceptor does not increase due to eddy currents induced in the susceptor by the second signal.

[0143] In operation 540, the aerosol generating device can determine a second value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the second signal. For operation 540, the description for operation 520 can be applied with a similar modification.

[0144] In operation 550, the aerosol generating device can determine a first temperature model for the susceptor based on the first value and the second value. A method for determining the temperature model for the susceptor is described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9.

[0145]

[0146] FIG. 6 illustrates the trajectory of eddy currents in a susceptor as a function of the frequency of a signal, according to one embodiment.

[0147] According to one embodiment, since a first natural frequency (614) of a susceptor (e.g., heater (18) of FIG. 1, heater (182) of FIGS. 2 and 4, or heater (183) of FIG. 3) at a first reference temperature (e.g., 25°C) and a second natural frequency (612) of the susceptor at a second reference temperature (e.g., 300°C) are different from each other, a first eddy current trajectory (604) of the susceptor at the first reference temperature and a second eddy current trajectory (602) of the susceptor at the second reference temperature, which are indicated by the frequency of the provided signal, may be different. For example, as the temperature of the susceptor increases, electrical characteristics such as natural frequency and impedance of the susceptor may change. When an aerosol generating device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 4) performs a frequency sweep over the entire frequency band, a first eddy current trajectory (604) of the susceptor at a first reference temperature and a second eddy current trajectory (602) of the susceptor at a second reference temperature can be generated.

[0148] In one embodiment, a susceptor may exhibit different electrical characteristics for the same signal depending on its temperature. For example, when a first signal having a first frequency (620) is applied to the susceptor, a susceptor at a first reference temperature may generate an eddy current of a first value (a), while a susceptor at a second reference temperature may generate an eddy current of a second value (b).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the magnitude of the eddy current appearing in the susceptor at the first reference temperature by the second signal having the second frequency (630) may correspond to the magnitude of the eddy current appearing in the susceptor at the second reference temperature by the first signal having the first frequency (620). For example, the first frequency (620) may be 290 kHz, and the second frequency (630) may be 303 kHz. For example, the magnitude of the eddy current occurring in the susceptor at the first reference temperature when the second signal is applied to the coil of the heater may be the second value (b), which may be equal to the magnitude of the eddy current occurring in the susceptor at the second reference temperature when the first signal is applied to the coil of the heater.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device can estimate the temperature of the susceptor based on the magnitude of the eddy current appearing in the susceptor by the first signal. For example, the magnitude of the eddy current appearing in the susceptor by the first signal and the temperature of the susceptor can exhibit a linear relationship in the interval between the first reference temperature and the second reference temperature. For example, the aerosol generating device can determine a temperature model of the susceptor based on the linear relationship. The operation of determining the temperature model of the susceptor is described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the magnitude of the eddy current of the susceptor, which is indicated by the signal frequency, can be indirectly obtained from a detection circuit connected to the output terminal of the coil of the heater. Since at least a portion of the electric energy of the signal applied to the coil of the heater is absorbed by the susceptor to generate an eddy current, the detection circuit can indirectly obtain the magnitude of the eddy current of the susceptor by comparing the current, voltage, or power of the signal applied to the coil of the heater with the current, voltage, or power of the output signal. When the eddy current of the susceptor is indirectly obtained through the detection circuit, the susceptor of the aerosol generating device can be easily replaced because the susceptor is not electrically connected to other components of the aerosol generating device.

[0152]

[0153] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for determining electrical characteristics of a susceptor according to one embodiment.

[0154] The operation 710 below may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., an aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 4). The aerosol generating device may include a susceptor (e.g., a heater (18) of FIG. 1, a heater (182) of FIGS. 2 and 4, or a heater (183) of FIG. 3), a sensor unit (e.g., a sensor unit (13) of FIGS. 1 to 4), and a control unit (e.g., a control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 to 4). For example, operation 520 described above with reference to FIG. 5 may include operation 710.

[0155] In operation 710, the aerosol generating device can determine a first value based on at least one of a current, voltage, or power of a first output signal appearing at an output terminal of a coil of the heater. For example, the aerosol generating device can further include a detection circuit for determining a first value of an electrical characteristic of a susceptor appearing by the first signal at the output terminal of the coil of the heater. The detection circuit may not be electrically connected to the susceptor.

[0156] For example, the electrical characteristic may be at least one of a current, voltage, or power of a first output signal appearing at an output terminal of a coil of the heater. For example, the electrical characteristic may be a characteristic determined based on at least one of a current, voltage, or power of a first output signal appearing at an output terminal of a coil of the heater. For example, the electrical characteristic may be an eddy current generated in a susceptor. For example, the electrical characteristic may be an impedance of the susceptor. As the alternating magnetic field generated in the coil of the heater generates an eddy current in the susceptor, a portion of the electrical energy of the first signal is transferred to the susceptor, and the current, voltage, or power of the first signal may be different from the current, voltage, or power of the first output signal.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device can determine the second value in operation 540 described above with reference to FIG. 5 using the manner in which the first value was determined in operation 710.

[0158]

[0159] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method for determining a temperature model of a susceptor based on a sensor temperature according to one embodiment, and FIG. 9 illustrates a temperature model of a susceptor based on a magnitude of a current according to one embodiment.

[0160] The following operations 810 to 830 may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., an aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 4). The aerosol generating device may include a susceptor (e.g., a heater (18) of FIG. 1, a heater (182) of FIGS. 2 and 4, or a heater (183) of FIG. 3), a sensor unit (e.g., a sensor unit (13) of FIGS. 1 to 4), and a control unit (e.g., a control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 to 4). For example, operation 550 described above with reference to FIG. 5 may include operations 810 to 830.

[0161] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device includes a first temperature sensor (e.g., temperature sensor (131) of FIG. 4) positioned around a susceptor to measure temperature, and a temperature model of the susceptor can be determined based on the first sensor temperature sensed by the first temperature sensor. For example, the first temperature sensor can be positioned around the susceptor to obtain information regarding a rise or fall in the temperature of the susceptor. For example, the first temperature sensor can be an NTC temperature sensor.

[0162] In operation 810, the aerosol generating device may acquire a first sensor temperature using a first temperature sensor disposed within the body of the aerosol generating device. For example, the first sensor temperature may be measured at the time the first value (920) is acquired.

[0163] In operation 820, the aerosol generating device can correct the first value (920) based on the first sensor temperature to correspond to the electrical characteristics of the susceptor when the temperature of the susceptor is the first reference temperature (922). Since the magnitude of the eddy current indicated by the first signal having the first frequency can change in response to the temperature of the susceptor, by correcting the first value (920) by the first sensor temperature, a change in the magnitude of the eddy current due to external factors (e.g., external temperature, residual heat of the susceptor, etc.) can be corrected.

[0164] For example, the electrical characteristic of the susceptor may be the magnitude of the eddy current, and the first reference temperature may be 25°C. As the temperature of the susceptor increases, the magnitude of the eddy current corresponding to the first signal having the first frequency decreases. Therefore, when the magnitude of the eddy current indicated by the first signal is 900 when the first sensor temperature is 45°C, the magnitude of the eddy current may be corrected to 950 based on 25°C. When the magnitude of the eddy current indicated by the first signal is 930 when the first sensor temperature is 35°C, the magnitude of the eddy current may be corrected to 950 based on 25°C. When the magnitude of the eddy current indicated by the first signal is 1000 when the first sensor temperature is 0°C, the magnitude of the measured eddy current may be corrected to 950 based on 25°C. The values ​​for the magnitude of the eddy current described above are arbitrarily described to exemplify changes in values, and are not limited to the described values.

[0165] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device can compensate the second value (910) based on the first sensor temperature to correspond to the electrical characteristics of the susceptor when the temperature of the susceptor is a first reference temperature (922). Since the magnitude of the eddy current indicated by the second signal having the second frequency can change in response to the temperature of the susceptor, the second value (910) can be compensated by the first sensor temperature. The degree to which the second value (910) is compensated by the first sensor temperature can be different from the degree to which the first value (920) is compensated by the first sensor temperature.

[0166] In operation 830, the aerosol generating device may determine a first temperature model by viewing the first value (920) as the electrical characteristics of the susceptor when the temperature of the susceptor is a first reference temperature (922), and viewing the second value (910) as the electrical characteristics of the susceptor when the temperature of the susceptor is a second reference temperature (912).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the electrical characteristics and the temperature of the susceptor exhibited by the first signal may exhibit a linear relationship in the interval between the first value (920) (e.g., the first value (a) of FIG. 1) and the second value (910) (e.g., the second value (b) of FIG. 1). Referring to FIG. 9, the first temperature model defined between the first value (920) and the second value (910) may be expressed as [Mathematical Formula 1] below.

[0168] [Mathematical Formula 1]

[0169]

[0170]

[0171] T is the temperature of the susceptor, x is the electrical characteristic of the susceptor, and a and b are the coefficient and constant terms of the first term, respectively, in the temperature model corresponding to the susceptor. For example, if the first value (920) is regarded as the electrical characteristic of the susceptor when the temperature of the susceptor is the first reference temperature (922), and the second value (910) is regarded as the electrical characteristic of the susceptor when the temperature of the susceptor is the second reference temperature (912), the temperature model of the susceptor can be determined by determining a and b of the temperature model.

[0172]

[0173] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method for calculating a susceptor temperature based on a temperature model of the susceptor, according to one embodiment.

[0174] The following operations 1010 to 1030 may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 4). The aerosol generating device may include a susceptor (e.g., the heater (18) of FIG. 1, the heater (182) of FIGS. 2 and 4, or the heater (183) of FIG. 3), a sensor unit (e.g., the sensor unit (13) of FIGS. 1 to 4), and a control unit (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 to 4). For example, operations 1010 to 1030 may be performed after operation 550 described above with reference to FIG. 5 is performed.

[0175] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device can determine the temperature of the susceptor using the first temperature model. For example, the aerosol generating device can include a temperature sensing section at regular time intervals in the preheating section or the heating section, and perform an operation of determining the temperature of the susceptor in the temperature sensing section.

[0176] In operation 1010, the aerosol generating device may apply a third signal having a first frequency to the coil of the heater to generate an alternating magnetic field. The third signal may have a preset current, voltage, and duty ratio as a signal for temperature sensing of the susceptor. For example, the first frequency may be 290 kHz.

[0177] In one embodiment, the operation of applying the first signal to the coil so that the temperature of the susceptor does not increase due to eddy currents induced in the susceptor by the third signal can be performed for a short time (e.g., several milliseconds).

[0178] In one embodiment, the voltage of the first signal may be less than a preset voltage so that the temperature of the susceptor does not increase due to eddy currents induced in the susceptor by the third signal.

[0179] In operation 1020, the aerosol generating device can determine a third value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the third signal. For operation 1020, the description of operation 520 described above with reference to FIGS. 5 and 7 may be similarly modified and applied.

[0180] In operation 1030, the aerosol generating device may calculate a first susceptor temperature of the susceptor based on the first temperature model and the third value. For example, the temperature of the susceptor may be calculated by substituting a third value corresponding to the electrical characteristics of the susceptor into a mathematical equation (e.g., [Mathematical Equation 1]) corresponding to the first temperature model.

[0181] For example, the aerosol generating device can perform heating of the aerosol generating article for optimal smoking by controlling a signal applied to a coil of a heater so that the temperature of the susceptor corresponds to a preset temperature profile (e.g., a first temperature profile) based on the calculated temperature of the susceptor.

[0182]

[0183] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a method for updating a temperature model of a susceptor according to one embodiment.

[0184] The following operations 1110 to 1140 may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 4). The aerosol generating device may include a susceptor (e.g., the heater (18) of FIG. 1, the heater (182) of FIGS. 2 and 4, or the heater (183) of FIG. 3), a sensor unit (e.g., the sensor unit (13) of FIGS. 1 to 4), and a control unit (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 to 4). For example, operations 1110 to 1140 may be performed after operation 550 described above with reference to FIG. 5 is performed.

[0185] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device can perform an operation to calibrate a temperature model. For example, the aerosol generating device can perform power PID control to heat a susceptor based on a power profile to calibrate the temperature model. The aerosol generating device can precisely calibrate the temperature model of the susceptor based on a characteristic that the temperature of the susceptor converges to a specific target temperature when inductive heating of the susceptor is performed in response to a specific power profile.

[0186] In operation 1110, the aerosol generating device may apply a fourth signal to the coil of the heater so that power PID control is performed based on the first power profile. For example, the aerosol generating device may perform inductive heating of the susceptor at a first power based on the first power profile. For example, the first power may be 6 W. For example, the temperature of the susceptor that is inductively heated based on the first power profile for a predetermined period of time may converge to a first target temperature.

[0187] In operation 1120, the aerosol generating device can determine a fourth value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the fourth signal. For operation 1120, the description of operation 520 described above with reference to FIGS. 5 and 7 may be similarly modified and applied.

[0188] In operation 1130, the aerosol generating device may calculate a second susceptor temperature corresponding to the fourth value and the first temperature model. For example, the temperature of the susceptor may be calculated by substituting the fourth value corresponding to the electrical characteristics of the susceptor into a mathematical equation (e.g., [Mathematical Equation 1]) corresponding to the first temperature model.

[0189] In operation 1140, the aerosol generating device can calibrate the first temperature model based on the second susceptor temperature. For example, for the first temperature model represented by a linear function (e.g., [Equation 1]), a constant term (e.g., b in [Equation 1]) can be adjusted so that the second susceptor temperature matches the second target temperature.

[0190]

[0191] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method for determining a second temperature model for a susceptor, according to one embodiment.

[0192] The following operations 1210 to 1260 may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 4). The aerosol generating device may include a susceptor (e.g., the heater (18) of FIG. 1, the heater (182) of FIGS. 2 and 4, or the heater (183) of FIG. 3), a sensor unit (e.g., the sensor unit (13) of FIGS. 1 to 4), and a control unit (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 to 4). For example, operations 1210 to 1260 may be performed after operation 550 described above with reference to FIG. 5 is performed.

[0193] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device can determine a new temperature model (e.g., a second temperature model) in response to input that updates the temperature model. For example, if the previously determined first temperature model is no longer usable due to, for example, replacement of a susceptor, the method for determining the temperature model can be performed again to determine the second temperature model.

[0194] In operation 1210, the aerosol generating device may receive an input for updating the temperature model of the susceptor. For example, the aerosol generating device may receive an input corresponding to mounting the susceptor as an input for updating the temperature model of the susceptor. For example, the aerosol generating device may receive an input from a user performing device calibration as an input for updating the temperature model of the susceptor. A method for receiving an input for updating the temperature of the susceptor is described in detail below with reference to FIG. 13.

[0195] At operation 1220, the aerosol generating device can apply a fifth signal having a first frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field.

[0196] At operation 1230, the aerosol generating device can determine a fifth value of an electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the fifth signal.

[0197] At operation 1240, the aerosol generating device can apply a sixth signal having a second frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field.

[0198] At operation 1250, the aerosol generating device can determine a sixth value of an electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the sixth signal.

[0199] At operation 1260, the aerosol generating device can determine a second temperature model for the susceptor based on the fifth value and the sixth value.

[0200] For each of operations 1220 to 1260, the description of operations 510 to 550 described above with reference to FIGS. 5 to 9 may be applied with similar modifications.

[0201]

[0202] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a method for receiving input for updating a temperature model of a susceptor, according to one embodiment.

[0203] The following operations 1310 to 1330 may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., an aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 4). The aerosol generating device may include a susceptor (e.g., a heater (18) of FIG. 1, a heater (182) of FIGS. 2 and 4, or a heater (183) of FIG. 3), a sensor unit (e.g., a sensor unit (13) of FIGS. 1 to 4), and a control unit (e.g., a control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 to 4). For example, operation 1210 described above with reference to FIG. 12 may include operations 1310 to 1330.

[0204] In operation 1310, the aerosol generating device may receive an input corresponding to the mounting of a susceptor of the aerosol generating device as an input for updating a temperature model of the susceptor. For example, an input corresponding to the mounting of a susceptor may be generated when a susceptor is detached from the aerosol generating device and then remounted, or when an existing susceptor is detached from the aerosol generating device and a new susceptor is mounted.

[0205] In operation 1320, the aerosol generating device can acquire a second sensor temperature using a first temperature sensor disposed within the body of the aerosol generating device. For example, the second sensor temperature can be measured at a time when an input for updating a temperature model of the susceptor is received. For example, the first temperature sensor can be disposed around the susceptor to acquire information regarding a rise or fall in the temperature of the susceptor. For example, the first temperature sensor can be an NTC temperature sensor.

[0206] In operation 1330, the aerosol generating device may invalidate an input for updating a temperature model of the susceptor if the second sensor temperature falls outside a preset reference range. For example, the preset reference range for the second sensor temperature may be a range of 0°C or more and 50°C or less. For example, the aerosol generating device may invalidate an input for updating a temperature model if the temperature of the susceptor falls outside the preset reference range, as the second temperature model may be determined inaccurately.

[0207] For example, the aerosol generating device may determine that the susceptor has been detached and reattached due to heating of the aerosol generating device when the temperature of the second sensor falls outside a preset reference range. If the same susceptor is detached and reattached, the first temperature model can be used as is to determine the temperature of the susceptor, thereby invalidating the input for updating the temperature model of the susceptor.

[0208]

[0209] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method for discarding a second temperature model or updating a first temperature model with a second temperature model, according to one embodiment.

[0210] The following operations 1410 to 1470 may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 4). The aerosol generating device may include a susceptor (e.g., the heater (18) of FIG. 1, the heater (182) of FIGS. 2 and 4, or the heater (183) of FIG. 3), a sensor unit (e.g., the sensor unit (13) of FIGS. 1 to 4), and a control unit (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 to 4). For example, operations 1410 to 1470 may be performed after operation 1260 described above with reference to FIG. 12 is performed.

[0211] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may perform an operation to verify a newly determined second temperature model. If the second temperature model is determined to be accurate, the aerosol generating model may update the first temperature model with the second temperature model. If the second temperature model is determined to be inaccurate, the second temperature model may be discarded and the first temperature model may be used.

[0212] In operation 1410, the aerosol generating device may apply a seventh signal having a first frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field when a first time elapses from the time at which the fifth signal is applied to the coil of the heater. For operation 1410, the description of operation 510 described above with reference to FIG. 5 may be similarly modified and applied.

[0213] In operation 1420, the aerosol generating device can determine a seventh value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the seventh signal. For operation 1420, the description of operation 520 described above with reference to FIGS. 5 and 7 may be similarly modified and applied.

[0214] At operation 1430, the aerosol generating device may calculate a third susceptor temperature corresponding to the fifth value and the second temperature model. For example, the third susceptor temperature may be calculated by substituting the fifth value corresponding to the electrical characteristics of the susceptor into a mathematical equation corresponding to the second temperature model.

[0215] At operation 1440, the aerosol generating device may calculate a fourth susceptor temperature corresponding to the seventh value and the second temperature model. For example, the fourth susceptor temperature may be calculated by substituting the seventh value corresponding to the electrical characteristics of the susceptor into a mathematical equation corresponding to the second temperature model.

[0216] At operation 1450, the aerosol generating device can determine whether a difference between the third susceptor temperature and the fourth susceptor temperature exceeds a preset threshold. For example, if the difference between the third susceptor temperature and the fourth susceptor temperature exceeds the preset threshold, the aerosol generating device can determine that the second temperature model is inaccurately determined or that the heated susceptor has cooled for a first time after being detached and reattached. For example, if the difference between the third susceptor temperature and the fourth susceptor temperature does not exceed the preset threshold, the aerosol generating device can determine that the second temperature model is determined while the temperature of the susceptor is stable.

[0217] At operation 1460, the aerosol generating device may discard the second temperature model if the difference between the third susceptor temperature and the fourth susceptor temperature exceeds a preset threshold. If the second temperature model is determined inaccurately or the heated susceptor has cooled for a first time after being detached and reattached, the aerosol generating device may discard the second temperature model and determine the temperature of the susceptor in the temperature sensing section using the existing first temperature model.

[0218] In operation 1470, the aerosol generating device may update the first temperature model to the second temperature model if the difference between the third susceptor temperature and the fourth susceptor temperature does not exceed a preset threshold. If the second temperature model is determined while the temperature of the susceptor is stable, the aerosol generating device may update the first temperature model to the second temperature model and determine the temperature of the susceptor in the temperature sensing section using the second temperature model.

[0219] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device can calibrate the temperature model by performing operations 1110 to 1140 described above with reference to FIG. 11 for the updated second temperature model. For example, the operation of calibrating the second temperature model can be performed after the second temperature model is determined and the aerosol generating device is rebooted.

[0220]

[0221] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a method for detecting a change in a susceptor, according to one embodiment.

[0222] The operation 1510 below may be performed by an aerosol generating device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 to 4). The aerosol generating device may include a susceptor (e.g., the heater (18) of FIG. 1, the heater (182) of FIGS. 2 and 4, or the heater (183) of FIG. 3), a sensor unit (e.g., the sensor unit (13) of FIGS. 1 to 4), and a control unit (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 to 4). For example, operation 1510 may be performed after operation 1470 described above with reference to FIG. 14 is performed.

[0223] In operation 1510, the aerosol generating device can determine that the susceptor has changed if the second temperature model is different from the first temperature model. If the difference between the third susceptor temperature and the fourth susceptor temperature is less than or equal to a preset threshold, since the second temperature model was determined while the temperature of the susceptor was stable, the temperature model for determining the temperature of the susceptor can be updated to the second temperature model. Since the temperature model of the susceptor is determined corresponding to the susceptor, if the updated second temperature model is different from the existing first temperature model, the aerosol generating device can determine that the susceptor has changed. For example, if the first temperature model and the second temperature model are expressed as linear functions (e.g., [Equation 1]), and the coefficient of the linear term (e.g., a in [Equation 1]) and the coefficient of the constant term (e.g., b in [Equation 1]) of the first temperature model are different from the coefficient of the linear term and the coefficient of the constant term of the second temperature model, the aerosol generating device can determine that the susceptor has changed.

[0224]

[0225] 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.

[0226] 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.

[0227] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for determining a temperature model of a susceptor, performed by an aerosol generating device, An operation of applying a first signal having a first frequency to a coil of a heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field; An operation of determining a first value of an electrical characteristic of a susceptor indicated by the first signal; An operation of applying a second signal having a second frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field; An operation of determining a second value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the second signal; and An operation of determining a first temperature model for the susceptor based on the first value and the second value. Including, The above first temperature model is a model used to determine the temperature of the susceptor based on the electrical characteristics of the susceptor. How to determine the temperature model.

2. In paragraph 1, An operation of applying a third signal having the first frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field; An operation of determining a third value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the third signal; and An operation of calculating a first susceptor temperature of the susceptor based on the first temperature model and the third value. including more, How to determine the temperature model.

3. In paragraph 1, The above first temperature model is expressed by the following [Mathematical Formula 1], [Mathematical Formula 1] The above T is the temperature of the susceptor, and the above x is the electrical characteristic of the susceptor. How to determine the temperature model.

4. In paragraph 3, The operation of determining the first temperature model of the above susceptor is: An operation of determining a and b of [Mathematical Formula 1] by considering the first value as the electrical characteristic of the susceptor when the temperature of the susceptor is the first reference temperature, and considering the second value as the electrical characteristic of the susceptor when the temperature of the susceptor is the second reference temperature. including, How to determine the temperature model.

5. In paragraph 1, The operation of determining the first value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor is, An operation for determining the first value based on at least one of the current, voltage, or power of the first output signal appearing at the output terminal of the coil of the heater including, How to determine the temperature model.

6. In paragraph 5, The electrical characteristics of the above susceptor are eddy currents, How to determine the temperature model.

7. In paragraph 4, The operation of determining the first temperature model of the above susceptor is: An operation of obtaining a first sensor temperature using a first temperature sensor disposed within the body of the aerosol generating device; and An operation of correcting the first value based on the first sensor temperature to correspond to the electrical characteristics of the susceptor when the temperature of the susceptor is a first reference temperature. including more, How to determine the temperature model.

8. In paragraph 1, An operation of applying a fourth signal to the coil of the heater so that power PID (Proportional-Integral-Differential) control is performed based on the first power profile; An operation of determining a fourth value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the fourth signal; An operation of calculating a second susceptor temperature corresponding to the fourth value and the first temperature model; and An operation of correcting the first temperature model based on the second susceptor temperature. including more, How to determine the temperature model.

9. In paragraph 1, An operation of receiving an input for updating a temperature model of the susceptor; An operation of applying a fifth signal having the first frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field; An operation of determining a fifth value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the fifth signal; An operation of applying a sixth signal having the second frequency to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field; An operation of determining a sixth value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the sixth signal; and An operation of determining a second temperature model for the susceptor based on the fifth value and the sixth value. including more, How to determine the temperature model.

10. In paragraph 9, The operation of receiving an input for updating the temperature model of the above susceptor is: An operation of receiving an input corresponding to the mounting of the susceptor of the aerosol generating device as an input for updating the temperature model of the susceptor. including, How to determine the temperature model.

11. In paragraph 10, The operation of receiving an input for updating the temperature model of the above susceptor is: An operation of obtaining a second sensor temperature using a first temperature sensor disposed within the body of the aerosol generating device; and An operation of invalidating an input for updating the temperature model of the susceptor when the temperature of the second sensor is outside a preset reference range. including more, How to determine the temperature model.

12. In paragraph 9, An operation of applying a seventh signal having the first frequency to the coil of the heater so that an alternating magnetic field is generated when a first time elapses from the time at which the fifth signal is applied to the coil of the heater; An operation of determining a seventh value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the seventh signal; An operation of calculating a third susceptor temperature corresponding to the fifth value and the second temperature model; An operation of calculating a fourth susceptor temperature corresponding to the seventh value and the second temperature model; An operation of discarding the second temperature model when the difference between the third susceptor temperature and the fourth susceptor temperature exceeds a preset threshold; and An operation of updating the first temperature model to the second temperature model when the difference between the third susceptor temperature and the fourth susceptor temperature is less than or equal to the preset threshold. including more, How to determine the temperature model.

13. In paragraph 12, An operation for determining that the susceptor has been changed when the difference between the third susceptor temperature and the fourth susceptor temperature is less than or equal to the preset threshold and the second temperature model is different from the first temperature model. including more, How to determine the temperature model.

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

15. In the aerosol generating device, An induction coil that generates an alternating magnetic field; and A control unit for controlling the above aerosol generating device Including, The above control unit, A first signal having a first frequency is applied to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field, Determine the first value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the first signal, A second signal having a second frequency is applied to the coil of the heater so as to generate an alternating magnetic field, Determine the second value of the electrical characteristic of the susceptor indicated by the second signal, Determine a first temperature model for the susceptor based on the first value and the second value, The above first temperature model is a model used to determine the temperature of the susceptor based on the electrical characteristics of the susceptor. Aerosol generating device.

Images