Aerosol generating device including magnetic sensor and method for controlling same

Abstract

This aerosol generating device may comprise: a cavity; a heater for heating an article inserted into the cavity; a magnetic sensor disposed in the cavity; at least one processor for receiving a detection result from the magnetic sensor and controlling driving of the heater; and a memory operatively connected to the at least one processor and storing executable instructions. The at least one processor may execute the instructions stored in the memory to control driving of the heater according to magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor, and to determine whether the article has been reused, depending on whether an intensity of a magnetic field with respect to the magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor is less than or equal to a reference value. Various other embodiments are possible.

Description

Aerosol generating device including a magnetic sensor and control method thereof

[0001] The various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to an aerosol generating device including a magnetic sensor and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative products that overcome the disadvantages of traditional cigarettes. For example, there is an increasing demand for devices that generate aerosols by electrically heating cigarette sticks (e.g., heated tobacco products). Accordingly, research on cigarette sticks (or aerosol-generating products) and electric heating aerosol-generating devices into which cigarette sticks are inserted is actively underway.

[0003] For example, an aerosol generating device can generate an aerosol by atomizing an aerosol generating material contained in an aerosol generating article such as a stick, cigarette, or cartridge.

[0004] An aerosol generating device can generate aerosols by acquiring information about an inserted aerosol generating article and controlling the operation of a heater, etc., based on this information. For example, the aerosol generating device can provide a temperature profile suitable for an individual stick by controlling the operating state of a heater based on information about an inserted stick.

[0005] The aforementioned background technology is one that the inventor possessed or acquired in the process of deriving the content of the disclosure of the present application, and it cannot be considered as prior art disclosed to the general public prior to the filing of this application.

[0006] An aerosol generating device and a control method according to one embodiment are intended to allow the device to identify information about an aerosol generating article to be inserted and to control the operation of a heater, etc., based thereon, even if the user does not directly input information about the aerosol generating article to be inserted or a signal for operation.

[0007] In addition, the aerosol generating device and the control method according to one embodiment are intended to prevent the disposable aerosol generating article from being used secondarily, reused, or overused.

[0008] However, the problems to be solved in the embodiments of this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0009] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a cavity, a heater for heating an article inserted into the cavity, a magnetic sensor disposed in the cavity, at least one processor that receives a detection result from the magnetic sensor and controls the operation of the heater, and a memory that is operatively connected to the at least one processor and stores executable instructions. In one embodiment, the at least one processor can control the operation of the heater according to magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor by executing the instructions stored in the memory, and can determine whether the article is to be used secondarily depending on whether the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor is below a reference value.

[0010] An aerosol generating system according to one embodiment may include an aerosol generating article comprising a magnetic printing having magnetic information recorded thereon, a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating article, a heater disposed in the cavity, and a magnetic sensor for recognizing the magnetic information of the magnetic printing. In one embodiment, when the heater is driven, the magnetic printing may be heated by the heater, and the recording of the magnetic information may be weakened or extinguished.

[0011] A control method for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include an operation in which a magnetic sensor recognizes magnetic information from an article inserted into the aerosol generating device, and an operation in which the strength of the magnetic field corresponding to the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor is less than or equal to a reference value. In one embodiment, the control method may drive a heater to heat the article according to the magnetic information if the strength of the magnetic field corresponding to the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor exceeds a reference value, and may recognize the article as being used for secondary use if the strength of the magnetic field corresponding to the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor is less than or equal to a reference value.

[0012] An aerosol generating device and a control method according to one embodiment can identify information about an aerosol generating article inserted through a magnetic sensor and control the operation of a heater, etc.

[0013] In addition, an aerosol generating device and a control method according to one embodiment can prevent a disposable aerosol generating article from being used secondarily, reused, or overused through a heater and a magnetic sensor.

[0014] In addition, according to one embodiment, information about the aerosol-generating article can be easily and simply recorded through magnetic printing.

[0015] However, the effects of the aerosol generating device and the control method according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below.

[0016] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 2a illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 2b illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 3a is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 3b is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 3c is a drawing of area A of the aerosol-generating article shown in FIG. 3b.

[0023] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a control method for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a control method for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a control method for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a control method for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numeral regardless of the drawing symbols, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar drawing symbols may be used for similar or related components.

[0028] The suffixes “module” and “unit” for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the sake of ease of drafting the specification, and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Meanwhile, the suffixes “module” or “unit” may include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” may be a component formed as a whole, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0029] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, such detailed description is omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings; it should be understood that the drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of this disclosure.

[0030] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0031] When it is stated that one component is “connected” or “connected” to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, or that there may be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0032] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0033] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory (17)) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)). For example, a processor (e.g., control unit (12)) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in 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 instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0034] In the present disclosure, the direction of the aerosol generating device (1) can be defined based on an 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).

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

[0036] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a power supply (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 this embodiment that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), some of the components shown in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[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 motion detection sensor. Meanwhile, the sensor unit (13) may further include various sensors, such as a liquid residue sensor for detecting the liquid residue in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for detecting the water immersion of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0038] According to one embodiment, a 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 that detects the temperature of the heater (18, 24), or the heater (18, 24) itself may perform the role of a temperature sensor. For example, the temperature sensor may be used to measure the impedance of the heater (18). The impedance of 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 induction coil). Based on the measured current and / or voltage, the impedance of 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 resistive 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 resistive 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] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature of a power source (11). The temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor may be attached to one side of the power source (11) (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on one side of a printed circuit board. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a protection circuit module (PCM), and the temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power source (11) together with the protection circuit module.

[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] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the 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 the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor may be positioned in the aerosol generating device (1) in correspondence with the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0045] As another example, the puff sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user's puff occurs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, the space where the aerosol generating article is inserted (hereinafter, the insertion space), the heater (18, 24), etc. The control unit (12) can 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 the 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 be referred to as a cap sensor or a capacitive sensor. When a user's puff occurs, a temperature change and / or a flow of aerosol may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol generating article, and accordingly, the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may change. The control unit (12) can detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

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

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

[0050] For example, the insertion detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant 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 dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0051] As another example, the insertion detection sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and said at least one coil may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. If the aerosol generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space or removed from the insertion space, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil through which the current flows. 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 alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.). Alternatively, a susceptor (SUS), etc., may be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the medium part of the aerosol generating article). In this case as well, a change in the magnetic field around the coil may occur based on the insertion or removal of a susceptor, etc., within the insertion space, and the control unit (12) may detect the insertion and / or removal of an 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 as various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors, etc.) for detecting the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the insertion detection sensor may include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor may include a switch, etc., for detecting pressure caused by an aerosol-generating article.

[0053] According to one embodiment, a reuse detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is 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 change in color may occur in a part of the wrapper covering the outside of the aerosol-generating article due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor may output a signal corresponding to an optical characteristic (e.g., wavelength of light) corresponding to the color of the wrapper based on light reflected from the wrapper. When the control unit (12) detects a change in color in a part of the wrapper, it may 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 the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor disposed adjacent to an insertion space. The control unit (12) can detect whether the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., output from the capacitance sensor. For example, the control unit (12) can determine the level range in which the level of the signal is included based on a look-up table, and determine the amount of moisture for the aerosol generating article based on the confirmed level range.

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

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

[0057] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating item inserted into the insertion space. The control unit (12) can detect whether the aerosol-generating item is genuine and / or of the type based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0058] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. If a conductor is included in the wrapper and / or interior (e.g., the medium) of the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space, the characteristics of the current detected by the inductive sensor when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space (e.g., frequency of alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) may differ depending on the type of aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit (12) can detect whether the inserted aerosol generating article is genuine and / or of the type 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 as various sensors for detecting whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine or / or for detecting the type of an aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the cigarette identification sensor may include any combination of the examples described above.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the cartridge detection sensor can 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] According to one embodiment, a cap detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of a cap. For example, the cap detection sensor may 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 may 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 the housing of the aerosol generating device (1). The cap detection sensor may output a signal corresponding to the mounting or removal when the cap is mounted on the housing or removed from the housing, and the control unit (12) may 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 may be implemented as at least one of an accelerometer or a gyro sensor.

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

[0064] According to one embodiment, the output unit (14) may output information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1). The output unit (14) may include a display, a haptic unit and / or an acoustic output unit, but is not limited thereto. For example, information regarding the aerosol generating device (1) may include the charging / discharging state of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generating device (1), the preheating state of the heater (18, 24), the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the mounting and / or removal state of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal article). The display may visually provide information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the display may include an LED (light emitting diode) light-emitting element, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), an Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLED), etc. The display can also be used as an input unit (15) if it includes a touch pad. The haptic unit can provide information about the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user tactilely. For example, the haptic unit may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electric stimulation device, etc. The acoustic output unit can provide information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it externally.

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

[0066] According to one embodiment, the heater (18, 24) can heat the aerosol generating article and / or the medium and / or aerosol generating material within the cartridge by receiving power from the power source (11). 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., solid and / or liquid medium).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the heater (18, 24) may be an electric resistive heater. For example, the electric resistive heater may include an electric 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 electric resistive heater may be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with an electric conductive track, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the heater (18, 24) may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the induction heating type 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 penetrates the heater, and eddy currents may be generated in the susceptor. The susceptor may be heated based on the generation of eddy currents. According to one embodiment, the susceptor may be contained within an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a medium). In this case as well, the susceptor contained 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 an 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) may include a touch panel, a button, a keypad, 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 by the control unit (12) and data to be processed. 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.), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. For example, the memory (17) can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the communication unit (16) may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device (e.g., 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., 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) may include at least one processor. The control unit (12) may be implemented as an array of logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose MCU (micro controller unit) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program that can be executed on such MCU. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may be implemented in other forms 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., 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 power profile stored in the memory (17).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the 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., buck converter, buck-boost converter, boost converter, Zener diode, etc.) that converts power to be supplied to the heater (18, 24), and a DC / AC converter (e.g., 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, the 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 adjust the frequency and / or duty ratio of a current pulse input to at least one switching element of a power conversion circuit (not shown) to adjust the current and / or voltage supplied to the heater (18, 24). The duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power supply (11).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) by 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 the supply of a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to the heater (18, 24) by 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 the target of the control based on a temperature profile. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) by using a 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 a power profile. The control unit (12) may also control the power supplied to the heater (18, 24) to correspond to a 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 occurs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the space where the aerosol generating item is inserted (hereinafter, 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 of the PID method. The control unit (12) can detect the user's puff based on the change in the controlled power.

[0080] According to 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 stop the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on the fact that the temperature of the heater (18, 24) exceeds a preset limit temperature.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the 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)). The control unit (12) can cut off the charging of the power source (11) if the temperature of the power source (11) is above a first limit temperature. The control unit (12) can stop the use (e.g., discharge) of the power stored in the power source (11) if the temperature of the power source (11) is above a second limit temperature. The control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power source (11). For example, the control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power source (11) based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power source (11).

[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 an aerosol-generating article into the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) when it is determined that an 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 an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space using an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) may also determine that an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the heater (18, 24) is above a limit temperature or the temperature change slope of the heater (18, 24) is above a set slope.

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

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

[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, the control unit (12) can use a cartridge detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)) to determine that the cartridge is separated, and if it is determined that the cartridge is separated, the power supply to the heater (18, 24) is stopped or the power is not supplied to the heater (18, 24).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted. For example, the control unit (12) may determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted if it 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). If it is determined that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted, the control unit (12) may cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the cartridge is usable. For example, the control unit (12) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if, based on data stored in the memory (17), the current number of puffs is determined to be greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set in the cartridge. Alternatively, the control unit (12) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if the total time the heater (18, 24) is heated is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time, or if 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 occurred 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 or / or when no puff is detected for more than a preset time. The control unit (12) may also control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) when a puff is detected.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) based on whether the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine and / or of a specific type. For example, the control unit (12) can detect whether the aerosol generating item is genuine and / or of a specific type using a cigarette identification sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). For example, if the control unit (12) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is counterfeit, it can cut off the power supply to the heater (18, 24). If the control unit (12) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine, it can control (e.g., start) the power supply to the heater (18, 24). For another example, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18, 24) differently depending on the specific type of the aerosol generating item (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 to be a first aerosol generating article (or a first cartridge), and 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 a second cartridge) is detected to be 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 provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information that the aerosol generating device (1) will soon be terminated when the number of puffs counted using the puff sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)) reaches a preset number. For example, the control unit (12) can also control the output unit (14) to provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information regarding the temperature of the heater (18, 24).

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

[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, when the control unit (12) receives authentication data from an external device via a communication link, it may release the restriction on the use of at least one function (e.g., heating function) of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique number representing the user, whether the user's authentication is complete, etc.

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

[0096] According to one embodiment, when a control unit (12) receives a location search request for an aerosol generating device (1) 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 vibrations 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 through a communication link.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) transmits data regarding the sensing value of at least one sensor unit (13) to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and receives and stores a learning model generated by learning the sensing value through machine learning, such as deep learning, from the server. The control unit (12) can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0099] Although not illustrated 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 over-discharging 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 mentioned in the present disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium part) and at least one filter rod. A heater (18) may be positioned to correspond to 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 include various other materials. For example, the additive may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may include various other materials. 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 whole tobacco, granules, or powder. According to one embodiment, the additive of the aerosol generating rod may comprise a basic material. Based on the basic material, the nicotine in the tobacco material included in the aerosol generating rod may have a basic 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. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod comprises two or more aerosol generating rods, and said two or more aerosol generating rods may each comprise a tobacco material and / or a non-tobacco material.Meanwhile, although not illustrated, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each and / or integrally be wrapped by at least one wrapper. In the present disclosure, the aerosol generating article may be referred to as a stick.

[0101] The cartridge mentioned in the present disclosure may contain an aerosol generating material having any one of the states, such as 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 containing a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. Meanwhile, the cartridge may include a storage portion containing the aerosol generating material and / or a liquid delivery means impregnated (containing) the aerosol generating material. For example, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as a cotton fiber, a ceramic fiber, a glass fiber, or a porous ceramic. The cartridge heater (24) may be included in the cartridge in a coil-shaped structure that surrounds (or winds) the liquid delivery means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means. Alternatively, the cartridge heater (24) may be included in an aerosol generating device (1) that is detachable from the cartridge.

[0102] FIG. 2a illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment. FIG. 2b illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a housing (10), a power supply (11), a control unit (12), a sensor unit (13), and / or a heater (182, 183) (e.g., heater (18) of FIG. 1). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to this embodiment that the components included in the aerosol generating device (1) are not limited to those shown in FIG. 2a or FIG. 2b, and that some of the components may be omitted or new configurations may be added. The aerosol generating device (1) shown in FIG. 2a may be referred to as an 'internal heating type' aerosol generating device that heats the inside of an aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generating device (1) shown in FIG. 2b may be referred to as an 'external heating type' aerosol generating device that heats the outside of an aerosol generating article (2). In the following drawings, descriptions that overlap with FIG. 1 will be omitted.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the housing (10) may provide a space that is open upward to allow an aerosol generating article (2) to be inserted. In the present disclosure, the space that is open upward may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by being recessed to a predetermined depth toward the interior of the housing (10) so that at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (2) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may be greater than the length of the area containing the aerosol generating material and / or medium in the aerosol generating article (2). 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 take the upper end of the aerosol generating article (2) exposed to the outside into their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the heater (182, 183) can heat the aerosol-generating article (2).

[0106] Referring to FIG. 2a, the heater (182) may be an internal heating type heater.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the internal heating element may extend upward in a space (i.e., an insertion space) into which the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted. For example, the internal heating element 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 internal heating element may be inserted through the lower part of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the internal heating type heater may include an electric resistance heater and / or an induction heating type heater.

[0109] For example, an electric resistive heater may contain an electric resistive material on the inside (e.g., inner hollow or inner surface) or on the outside (e.g., outer surface) and may be heated as current flows through the electric resistive material. In this case, the electric resistive heater may be electrically connected to a power source (11) and may be directly heated by receiving current from the power source (11). Additionally, the induction coil (181) may be omitted.

[0110] 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 an internal heating type heater (e.g., is placed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). In this case, a magnetic flux concentrator, etc., may be further included outside the induction coil (181) to increase the efficiency of induction heating. The induction heating type heater may include 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 disposed so as to be detachable from the housing (10).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the heater (182) may be a multiple heater. The multiple heater may include a first heater and a second heater and may be inserted into an 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 electric resistive heaters and / or induction heating heaters, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first heater and the second heater may be respectively placed at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of two or more aerosol generating rods. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may be respectively placed at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of a first part and a second part of a single aerosol generating rod. Meanwhile, if 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 placed at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may be respectively placed at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of a first part and a second part of a single heater (182). In addition, the heater and / or induction coil may include three or more.

[0112] According to one embodiment, a susceptor may be placed (or included) inside an aerosol generating article (2) (e.g., a medium part), and the susceptor included inside the aerosol generating article (2) may be implemented to generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from an induction coil (181).

[0113] Referring to FIG. 2b, the heater (183) may be an external heating type heater.

[0114] According to one embodiment, an external heating type heater may extend upwardly around a space (i.e., an insertion space) into which an aerosol generating article (2) is inserted. For example, the external heating type heater may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. As an example, the external heating type heater may include a tube shape (e.g., a cylindrical shape) containing a hollow inside. The external heating type heater may also include a shape containing a hollow inside and surrounding said hollow. In this case, the external heating type 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 type heater may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The external heating type heater may heat the outside of the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into said hollow.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the external heating type heater may include an electric resistive heater and / or an induction heating type heater, and a description redundant with FIG. 2a is omitted. Meanwhile, in the case of an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an external heating type heater implemented as a tubular susceptor and may include an induction coil (181) that surrounds at least a portion of the external heating type heater (e.g., placed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). Additionally, the induction coil (181) may include a fan coil. Meanwhile, if the external heating type heater is an electric resistive heater, a separate induction coil (181) may be omitted because heat generation is possible through the flow of current on the tubular electric resistive heater (e.g., film heater). Meanwhile, an insulating material may be placed on the outside of the external heating type heater. This reduces the heat radiating outward from the heater (183) and applied to the outside of the housing (10).

[0116] 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 each surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The first heater and the second heater may operate as an electric resistive heater and / or an induction heating type heater, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. Meanwhile, if the heater (183) 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 arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first heater and the second heater. Alternatively, the first heater and the second heater may be respectively arranged at positions corresponding to the longitudinal positions of the first portion and the second portion of a single heater (183).

[0117] Unlike as depicted in FIG. 2a or FIG. 2b, the heater (182) of FIG. 2a and the heater (183) of FIG. 2b 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).

[0118] 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 from the outside can be introduced into the housing (10). The air introduced into the housing (10) may be introduced into the aerosol generating article (2) through the bottom (i.e., 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 mouth through the top (i.e., downstream side) of the aerosol generating article (2) together with the introduced air.

[0119] FIG. 3a is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment, FIG. 3b is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device (200) and an aerosol generating article (201) according to one embodiment, and FIG. 3c is a diagram of area A of the aerosol generating article (201) shown in FIG. 3b.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 3a, 3b, and 3c, an aerosol generating device (200) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1, 2a, and 2b) may include a housing (210) and a magnetic sensor (250) (e.g., the sensor part (13) of FIG. 1).

[0121] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device (200), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that they are easily understood by a person skilled in the art with reference to the drawings and descriptions below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device (200) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0122] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (200). Alternatively, the housing (210) may accommodate other components of the aerosol generating device (200). The housing (210) may be the body or main body of the aerosol generating device (200).

[0123] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may include an intake port (211). The intake port (211) may be an opening or hole for inserting an aerosol-generating article (201) (e.g., the aerosol-generating article (2) of FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b). The intake port (211) may be formed by opening on one side of the housing (210) (e.g., the top surface or the surface in the +Z direction).

[0124] In the following, the object inserted into the aerosol generating device (200) according to various embodiments of this document is described as a stick-shaped aerosol generating article (201), but in actual implementation of the aerosol generating device (200), it is not limited thereto, and the aerosol generating article (201) can be replaced with various shapes and structures such as a cartridge or a capsule.

[0125] In one embodiment, the housing (210) may include a cavity (213). An aerosol-generating article (201) may be inserted into the cavity (213). The cavity (213) may be an elongated cavity, a coupling area, an insertion area, or a heating area that accommodates the aerosol-generating article (201).

[0126] In one embodiment, the cavity (213) may have a shape corresponding to at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (201). For example, the cavity (213) may have a cylindrical shape corresponding to the stick-shaped aerosol generating article (201).

[0127] In one embodiment, the cavity (213) may be connected to the intake port (211). The cavity (213) may have a shape extending in one direction (e.g., -Z direction) from the intake port (211). An aerosol generating article (201) may pass through the intake port (211) and be inserted into the cavity (213) in a longitudinal direction (e.g., Z-axis direction).

[0128] In one embodiment, a magnetic sensor (250) may be placed in a cavity (213). The magnetic sensor (250) may detect magnetic information regarding an aerosol-generating article (201). Alternatively, the magnetic sensor (250) may detect whether the aerosol-generating article (201) has been inserted into the cavity (213).

[0129] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating article (201) may include magnetic printing (203). The magnetic printing (203) may be provided on at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol generating article (201).

[0130] In one embodiment, magnetic information may be recorded on the magnetic printing (203). When an aerosol generating article (201) is inserted into the cavity (213), the magnetic printing (203) may interact electromagnetically with a magnetic sensor (250). The magnetic sensor (250) may interact electromagnetically with the magnetic printing (203) to recognize the magnetic information recorded on the magnetic printing (203).

[0131] In one embodiment, the magnetic printing (203) may be magnetized in a certain direction. The magnetic sensor (250) can detect the magnetization direction of the magnetic printing (203) and recognize magnetic information recorded on the magnetic printing (203).

[0132] In one embodiment, the magnetic printing (203) may include a plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d). Each of the plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) may be magnetized in a certain direction.

[0133] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3c, each of the plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) may be made of a metallic material, and the metallic material may be magnetized such that the N pole faces any one of a first direction (e.g., upward or +Z direction), a second direction (e.g., left or -X direction), a third direction (e.g., right or +X direction), and a fourth direction (e.g., downward or -Z direction).

[0134] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3c, each of the plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) may be magnetized in different directions. However, FIG. 3c is merely an example, and at least some of the plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) may be magnetized in the same direction.

[0135] In one embodiment of the present document, the magnetic printing (203) can configure magnetic information for an aerosol generating article (201) by configuring the magnetization direction of each of the plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) in various ways.

[0136] Additionally, although the plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) are shown as four in FIG. 3c, this is merely an example, and the plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) may be composed of a single region or two or more. Also, as shown in FIG. 3c, the plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) may be arranged in an up-and-down direction, or at least some of the plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) may be adjacent in a left-right direction, or arranged with a certain pattern or shape.

[0137] In one embodiment, the magnetization direction, arrangement, pattern, and / or shape of a plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) of the magnetic printing (203) may be determined based on information of the aerosol generating article (201) (e.g., type of the aerosol generating article (201), whether it is genuine, type and / or ratio of the contained material, etc.). The magnetic sensor (250) may recognize magnetic information regarding the aerosol generating article (201) from the magnetic printing (203).

[0138] In one embodiment, the magnetic sensor (250) may be composed of a magnetoresistive (MR) sensor whose resistance changes according to changes in the magnetic field inside the cavity (213). The magnetic sensor (250) composed of a magnetoresistive sensor may be advantageous for measuring the strength and direction of the magnetic field by magnetic printing (203).

[0139] In one embodiment, the magnetic sensor (250) may be composed of a 3-axis sensor that detects changes in the magnetic field with respect to three mutually orthogonal axes inside the cavity (213). The magnetic sensor (250) composed of a 3-axis sensor can more accurately and precisely recognize the direction in which each of the plurality of magnetized regions (203a, 203b, 203c, 203d) is magnetized.

[0140] In one embodiment, at least one processor (260) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIG. 1, FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b) may receive detection results from a magnetic sensor (250). A memory (270) (e.g., the memory (17) of FIG. 1) may be operatively connected to at least one processor (260) and may store executable instructions. At least one processor (260) may control the operation of an aerosol generating device (200) by executing instructions stored in the memory (270).

[0141] In one embodiment, at least one processor (260) receives a detection result from a magnetic sensor (250) and, by executing a command related to the magnetic sensor (250) among the commands stored in memory (270), can recognize magnetic information about an aerosol generating article (201) based on the detection result of the magnetic sensor (250).

[0142] In one embodiment, the memory (270) of the aerosol generating device (200) may have information regarding an appropriate temperature profile and operation based on various information such as the type of aerosol generating article (201), the type of contained material, the ratio of the material, the amount of the material, and the degree of excessive humidity.

[0143] In one embodiment, a heater (230) (e.g., heater (18, 24) of FIG. 1, heater (182) of FIG. 2a, or heater (183) of FIG. 2b) can heat an aerosol-generating article (201) inserted into a cavity (213). The heater (230) can heat the aerosol-generating article (201) to generate an aerosol.

[0144] In one embodiment, the operation of the heater (230) can be controlled by at least one processor (260). At least one processor (260) can control the operation of the heater (230) according to magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor (250).

[0145] For example, at least one processor (260) can execute instructions for information regarding the operation of the heater (230) (e.g., operation time, operation cycle, operation intensity, etc.) from memory (270) based on identified magnetic information, thereby performing operation customized to the aerosol generating article (201).

[0146] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (200) can provide customized operation for an aerosol generating article (201) through a magnetic sensor (250). The aerosol generating device (200) can provide an improved user experience for various aerosol generating articles (201).

[0147] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (200) can recognize identification information regarding an aerosol generating item (201) identified through a magnetic sensor (250) and automatically customize and control the operation of the aerosol generating device (200) based thereon, even if the user does not input information regarding an aerosol generating item (201) or directly control the operation of the aerosol generating device (200).

[0148] In one embodiment, when the heater (230) is driven, the magnetic printing (203) is heated by the heater (230), so that the record of magnetic information may be weakened or lost. Alternatively, the magnetic printing (203) may provide information to the magnetic sensor (250) regarding whether the aerosol generating article (201) is used.

[0149] For example, after the magnetic printing (203) is heated by the heater (230), the strength of the magnetic field formed by the magnetic printing (203) interacting electromagnetically with the magnetic sensor (250) may be weakened.

[0150] In one embodiment, the magnetic sensor (250) can determine whether the aerosol generating article (201) is used secondarily depending on whether the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information recorded in the magnetic printing (203) is below a reference value.

[0151] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (200) can prevent secondary use or reuse of the aerosol generating article (201) by weakening or extinguishing the record of magnetic information of the magnetic printing (203) through the heater (230).

[0152] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (200) can prevent the user from reusing the aerosol generating item (201) by limiting the operation of the heater (230) when the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information is detected as weak through the magnetic sensor (250).

[0153] For example, if the aerosol generating article (201) is used a second time or is reused, an aerosol with a composition different from the first use may be generated, or harmful substances may be generated, and the user's smoking experience may be degraded.

[0154] In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (200) weakens or extinguishes the record of magnetic information of the magnetic printing (203) upon the first use of the aerosol generating article (201), and the magnetic sensor (250) detects the strength of the magnetic field for the magnetic information, thereby preventing the secondary use or reuse of the aerosol generating article (201).

[0155] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a control method (300) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 4, a control method (300) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include at least some of a magnetic information recognition operation (310), a magnetic field strength determination operation (330), a heater driving operation (335), and a secondary use recognition operation (340).

[0157] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device and its control method (300), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted within a scope that is easily understood by a person skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device and its control method (300) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0158] In one embodiment, each operation of the control method (300) of the aerosol generating device may be performed by at least one processor executing instructions stored in memory. Alternatively, the control method (300) of the aerosol generating device may be performed by a main processor, or may be performed together by a main processor, an auxiliary processor, or other components.

[0159] A control method (300) for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may be a control method (300) for the aerosol generating device described above (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1, FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b, or the aerosol generating device (200) of FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b), or may be a control method (300) for an aerosol generating device of a different type, shape, structure, and configuration, not limited thereto.

[0160] In one embodiment, the magnetic information recognition operation (310) can recognize magnetic information from an article inserted into an aerosol generating device using a magnetic sensor. The magnetic sensor can acquire information about the aerosol generating article by electromagnetically interacting with the magnetic printing of the inserted aerosol generating article.

[0161] However, FIG. 4 illustrates that the magnetic information recognition operation (310) is performed before the magnetic field strength determination operation (330), but this is merely an example of the control method (300). For example, the magnetic information recognition operation (310) may be performed after the magnetic field strength determination operation (330), and specifically, it may be performed before the heater driving operation (335).

[0162] In one embodiment, the magnetic field strength determination operation (330) can determine whether the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor is less than or equal to a reference value (R0). The reference value (R0) that serves as the determination standard may be 1 / 2, 1 / 2, or less than the magnetic field strength of the unused aerosol generating article generally or on average recognized.

[0163] For example, the average (or median) magnetic field strength recognized by the magnetic sensor through magnetic printing of an unused aerosol generating article may be R (A / m), and the reference value (R0) used as a judgment criterion may be 0.5 R (A / m). When the aerosol generating article is inserted, if the magnetic field strength recognized by the magnetic sensor is 0.5 R (A / m) or less, the aerosol generating device may determine that the inserted aerosol generating article is being used secondarily.

[0164] In one embodiment, the control method (300) can perform a heater driving operation (335) when the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor exceeds a reference value (R0). The heater driving operation (335) can drive the heater in accordance with the magnetic information to suit the aerosol generating article.

[0165] In one embodiment, the control method (300) can perform a secondary use recognition operation (340) if the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor is less than or equal to a reference value (R0). The secondary use recognition operation (340) can control driving conditions such as the driving time, driving cycle, and driving strength of the heater to suit the aerosol generating article according to the magnetic information.

[0166] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a control method (300) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0167] Referring to FIG. 5, a control method (300) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include at least some of a heater driving limiting operation (341), a user notification operation (343), an input signal reception operation (345), and a heater driving operation (347).

[0168] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device and its control method (300), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted within a scope that is easily understood by a person skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device and its control method (300) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0169] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating exemplary operations that a control method (300) can perform after a secondary use recognition operation (340) of an aerosol-generating item.

[0170] In one embodiment, the control method (300) may perform at least one of a heater drive limiting operation (341) and a user notification operation (343) after a secondary use recognition operation (340), or perform both simultaneously.

[0171] In one embodiment, the heater drive restriction operation (341) can cut off power supplied to the heater when secondary use of the aerosol-generating item is detected. Since secondary use of the aerosol-generating item may generate an aerosol with a composition different from the initial use or generate harmful substances and degrade the user's smoking experience, secondary use of the aerosol-generating item can be prevented by restricting the operation of the heater.

[0172] In one embodiment, the user notification operation (343) may output information regarding secondary use to the user through an output unit (e.g., output unit (14) of FIG. 1) that displays sound information, vibration information, optical information, or screen information. For example, the user notification operation (343) may include at least some of a plurality of output methods (343a, 343b, 343c, 343d).

[0173] In one embodiment, the sound output operation (343a) may output a notification sound or a guidance to the user. In one embodiment, the haptic driving operation (343b) may output a vibration signal to the user. In one embodiment, the optical output operation (343c) may output a flashing light signal or an optical signal of a certain color to the user. In one embodiment, the screen display operation (343d) may output a secondary usage guide to the user through a display.

[0174] In one embodiment, the input signal receiving operation (345) may receive an input signal from another component (e.g., an insertion detection sensor), a user, or an external device through an input unit (e.g., the input unit (15) of FIG. 1). For example, the input signal may be a heater drive restart signal or a forced drive signal.

[0175] In one embodiment, the control method (300) may terminate the heater drive limiting operation (341) and proceed to the heater drive operation (347) upon receiving an input signal. The heater drive operation (347) may drive the heater.

[0176] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a control method (300) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0177] Referring to FIG. 6, a control method (300) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include at least some of a reference value derivation operation (320) and a database update operation (325).

[0178] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device and its control method (300), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted within a scope that is easily understood by a person skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device and its control method (300) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0179] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating exemplary operations that a control method (300) can perform prior to the operation (330) of determining the strength of the magnetic field of an aerosol-generating article.

[0180] In one embodiment, the reference value derivation operation (320) can retrieve an appropriate reference value (R0) from memory based on magnetic information. In memory, a reference value for magnetic field strength that serves as the basis for secondary use judgment may be stored. The reference value derivation operation (320) can retrieve an appropriate reference value among a plurality of reference values ​​that serves as the basis for secondary use judgment of the magnetic field based on magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor.

[0181] For example, the reference value (R0) needs to be adjusted according to various factors such as the usage area of ​​the aerosol generating device, the usage environment, the production environment of the aerosol generating product, and the distribution channel of the aerosol generating product. For example, magnetic printing may be somewhat weakened in aerosol generating products distributed in regions with high average temperatures or produced or distributed during periods of high average temperatures. The control method (300) can derive the reference value (R0) by adjusting it based on magnetic information, taking this into consideration.

[0182] In one embodiment, the database update operation (325) can update the database for reference values ​​stored in memory according to information input through the communication unit (e.g., the communication unit (16) of FIG. 1). For example, the database update operation (325) can adjust the numerical value of the reference value, add a new reference value, or delete duplicate or unnecessary reference values ​​among a plurality of reference values.

[0183] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a control method (300) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0184] Referring to FIG. 7, a control method (300) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include at least some of an article insertion detection operation (305), an unauthorized use recognition operation (325), and a heater driving restriction operation (315).

[0185] In the following description, details that overlap with the above-described content are omitted. It is understood that in the aerosol generating device and its control method (300), some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted within a scope that is easily understood by a person skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and description below. Furthermore, at least one component or feature of the previously described embodiments may be combined in the aerosol generating device and its control method (300) unless it is not technically obvious.

[0186] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating, exemplarily, the operations that a control method (300) can perform prior to the operation (330) of determining the strength of the magnetic field of an aerosol-generating article.

[0187] In one embodiment, the article insertion detection operation (305) can detect whether an aerosol-generating article or other article has been inserted into the cavity from an insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor part (13) of FIG. 1). The magnetic information recognition operation (310) can determine whether magnetic information is recognized when the insertion of an article is detected.

[0188] In one embodiment, if there is no magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor in the magnetic information recognition operation (310), the control method (300) may recognize the misuse of the article. The misuse recognition operation (311) may recognize the misuse or repeated use of the article inserted into the cavity. For example, if the inserted article is a counterfeit, a damaged article, or is used misuse, the magnetic printing may not be present or may be damaged.

[0189] In one embodiment, the control method (300) may perform a heater drive restriction operation (315) after an unauthorized use detection operation (311) to cut off power delivered to the heater or temporarily restrict the operation of the heater. Although not shown in the drawing, the control method (300) may also perform an operation to notify the user of this after the unauthorized use detection operation (311).

[0190] However, the above description is merely an example of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment of this document, and does not mean that the configuration of the aerosol generating device (100) necessarily includes any one of the above configurations. Furthermore, the above configurations may be implemented with modifications within an equivalent range that are substantially identical, similar, or easily modifiable by a person skilled in the art, and it is obvious that these are also included in the aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment of this document.

[0191] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a cavity, a heater for heating an article inserted into the cavity, a magnetic sensor disposed in the cavity, at least one processor that receives a detection result from the magnetic sensor and controls the operation of the heater, and a memory that is operatively connected to at least one processor and stores executable instructions. In one embodiment, the at least one processor can control the operation of the heater according to magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor by executing instructions stored in the memory, and can determine whether the article is to be used secondarily based on whether the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor is below a reference value.

[0192] In one embodiment, the magnetic sensor may be composed of a magnetoresistive (MR) sensor in which resistance changes according to changes in the magnetic field inside the cavity.

[0193] In one embodiment, the magnetic sensor may be composed of a 3-axis sensor that detects changes in the magnetic field with respect to three mutually orthogonal axes inside the cavity.

[0194] In one embodiment, at least one processor can cut off power supplied to the heater when secondary use of the article is recognized by executing instructions stored in memory.

[0195] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include an output unit that displays acoustic information, vibration information, optical information, or screen information. In one embodiment, at least one processor may output information about the secondary use through the output unit when the secondary use of the article is recognized by executing instructions stored in memory.

[0196] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may add an input unit capable of receiving input information. In one embodiment, at least one processor may drive a heater when it receives an input signal from the input unit after outputting information for secondary use through an output unit by executing instructions stored in memory.

[0197] In one embodiment, a plurality of reference values ​​for magnetic field strength that serve as the basis for secondary use judgment are stored in the memory, and at least one processor can retrieve one of the plurality of reference values ​​based on magnetic information recognized by a magnetic sensor.

[0198] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include a communication unit that forms a communication link with the outside of the aerosol generating device. In one embodiment, at least one processor may update a database of reference values ​​stored in memory according to information input through the communication unit.

[0199] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include an insertion detection sensor that detects whether an article is inserted into a cavity. In one embodiment, at least one processor may recognize unauthorized use of an article if, by executing instructions stored in memory, there is no magnetic information detected by a magnetic sensor while the insertion detection sensor has detected insertion.

[0200] In one embodiment, at least one processor can restrict the operation of the heater when it detects unauthorized use of the article by executing instructions stored in memory.

[0201] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating system may include an aerosol generating article comprising a magnetic printing having magnetic information recorded thereon, a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating article, a heater disposed in the cavity, and a magnetic sensor for recognizing the magnetic information of the magnetic printing. In one embodiment, when the heater is driven, the magnetic printing may be heated by the heater, and the recording of the magnetic information may be weakened or extinguished.

[0202] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating system may further include at least one processor that receives detection results from a magnetic sensor and controls the operation of a heater, and a memory that is operatively connected to at least one processor and stores executable instructions. In one embodiment, the at least one processor can control the operation of a heater according to magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor from an article by executing instructions stored in memory, and determine whether to use the aerosol generating article secondarily based on whether the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor is below a reference value.

[0203] In one embodiment, the magnetic printing includes a plurality of magnetized regions, and each of the plurality of magnetized regions can be magnetized in a certain direction.

[0204] In one embodiment, the magnetic sensor can recognize magnetic information based on the direction in which each of the plurality of magnetized regions is magnetized.

[0205] In one embodiment, a control method for an aerosol generating device may include an operation in which a magnetic sensor recognizes magnetic information from an article inserted into the aerosol generating device, and an operation in which the strength of the magnetic field corresponding to the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor is less than or equal to a reference value. In one embodiment, if the strength of the magnetic field corresponding to the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor exceeds a reference value, the control method drives a heater to heat the article according to the magnetic information, and if the strength of the magnetic field corresponding to the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor is less than or equal to a reference value, the article may be recognized as being used for secondary purposes.

[0206] Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinguishable from one another. Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or combined for their respective configurations or functions.

[0207] For example, this means that configuration A described in a specific embodiment and / or drawing and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing can be combined. That is, even if the combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that combination is possible, except where it is described that combination is impossible.

[0208] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating device, Cavity; A heater for heating an article inserted into the above cavity; A magnetic sensor disposed in the above cavity; At least one processor that receives a detection result from the magnetic sensor and controls the operation of the heater; and It includes a memory that is operatively connected to at least one processor and stores executable instructions, and The above-mentioned at least one processor is, By executing the above instructions stored in the memory, The operation of the heater is controlled according to the magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor, and An aerosol generating device that determines whether to use the above article secondarily based on whether the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information detected by the above magnetic sensor is below a reference value.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above magnetic sensor is, An aerosol generating device comprising a magnetoresistive (MR) sensor whose resistance changes according to changes in the magnetic field inside the cavity.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above magnetic sensor is, An aerosol generating device comprising a 3-axis sensor that detects changes in a magnetic field with respect to three mutually orthogonal axes inside the cavity.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned at least one processor is, By executing the above instructions stored in the memory, An aerosol generating device that cuts off power supplied to the heater when secondary use of the above-mentioned item is detected.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned aerosol generating device further includes an output unit that displays acoustic information, vibration information, optical information, or screen information, and The above-mentioned at least one processor is, By executing the above instructions stored in the memory, An aerosol generating device that outputs information regarding the secondary use of the above-mentioned item through the output unit when the secondary use of the above-mentioned item is recognized.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above-mentioned aerosol generating device further includes an input unit capable of receiving input information, and The above-mentioned at least one processor is, By executing the above instructions stored in the memory, An aerosol generating device that drives the heater upon receiving an input signal from the input unit after outputting information regarding secondary use through the output unit.

7. In Paragraph 1, In the above memory, multiple reference values ​​for magnetic field strength that serve as the basis for secondary usage judgment are stored, and The above-mentioned at least one processor is, An aerosol generating device that retrieves one of a plurality of reference values ​​based on magnetic information recognized by the above magnetic sensor.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above aerosol generating device further includes a communication unit that forms a communication link with the outside of the aerosol generating device, and The above-mentioned at least one processor is, An aerosol generating device that updates a database of reference values ​​stored in the memory according to information input through the communication unit.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above aerosol generating device further includes an insertion detection sensor that detects whether an article is inserted into the cavity, and The above-mentioned at least one processor is, By executing the above instructions stored in the memory, An aerosol generating device that recognizes unauthorized use of the article when there is no magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor while the insertion detection sensor detects insertion.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above-mentioned at least one processor is, By executing the above instructions stored in the memory, An aerosol generating device that restricts the operation of the heater when it detects unauthorized use of the above-mentioned item.

11. In an aerosol generation system, Aerosol generating article including magnetic printing with recorded magnetic information; A cavity accommodating the above-mentioned aerosol-generating article; A heater disposed in the above cavity; and It includes a magnetic sensor that recognizes magnetic information of the above magnetic printing, and The above magnetic printing is, An aerosol generating system in which, when the above heater is driven, the record of the above magnetic information is weakened or extinguished by heating by the above heater.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above aerosol generating system is, At least one processor that receives a detection result from the magnetic sensor and controls the operation of the heater; and It further includes memory that is operatively connected to at least one processor and stores executable instructions, and The above-mentioned at least one processor is, By executing the above instructions stored in the memory, The above magnetic sensor controls the operation of the heater according to magnetic information detected from the above article, and An aerosol generation system that determines whether to use the aerosol generating article secondarily based on whether the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information detected by the magnetic sensor is below a reference value.

13. In Paragraph 11, The above magnetic printing includes a plurality of magnetized regions, and The above plurality of magnetized regions are each magnetized in a certain direction, in an aerosol generation system.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above magnetic sensor is, An aerosol generation system that recognizes magnetic information based on the direction in which each of the plurality of magnetized regions is magnetized.

15. A method for controlling an aerosol generating device, The operation of a magnetic sensor recognizing magnetic information from an article inserted into the aerosol generating device; and The operation includes determining whether the magnetic field strength of the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor is less than or equal to a reference value, The above control method is, If the magnetic field strength corresponding to the magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor exceeds a reference value, a heater for heating the item according to the magnetic information is driven, and A control method that recognizes secondary use of the article if the magnetic field strength for magnetic information recognized by the magnetic sensor is less than or equal to the reference value.

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