Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device for generating aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating article, comprising: a first heater for generating heat inside the aerosol-generating article; a second heater for generating heat outside the aerosol-generating article; and a sensor disposed outside the aerosol-generating article in a region that is different from the region in which the second heater is disposed, and that corresponds to the first heater, so as to detect the aerosol-generating article and generate a signal.

Description

Aerosol generating device

[0001] The embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating device capable of effectively heating multiple zones of an aerosol generating article.

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is an increasing demand for systems that generate aerosols by heating a cigarette or an aerosol generating material using an aerosol generating device, rather than by burning a cigarette to generate an aerosol.

[0003] The aerosol generating article includes various zones to perform functions such as aerosol generation, flavor imparting, and provision of functional ingredients. In order for the aerosol generating device to produce high-quality aerosols from the aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article must be able to be heated uniformly. Furthermore, for each zone of the aerosol generating article to perform its function, each zone of the aerosol generating article needs to be heated to an appropriate temperature.

[0004] The embodiments provide an aerosol generating device capable of uniformly heating an aerosol generating article.

[0005] In addition, the embodiments provide an aerosol generating device capable of heating each section of an aerosol generating article to a suitable temperature.

[0006] In addition, the embodiments provide an aerosol generating device that improves the precision and durability of the sensor.

[0007] The problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0008] Additional aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below, and these additional aspects will be known through the practice of the embodiments or will be apparent from the description.

[0009] An aerosol generating device according to one aspect is an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article, comprising: a first heater for generating heat inside the aerosol generating article; a second heater for generating heat outside the aerosol generating article; and a sensor for detecting the aerosol generating article and generating a signal, the sensor being positioned outside the aerosol generating article in an area different from the area where the second heater is positioned, corresponding to the first heater.

[0010] The aerosol generating device according to the above-described embodiments includes a first heater inserted into a part of the aerosol generating device to heat the interior of an aerosol generating article and a second heater located outside another part of the aerosol generating article to heat the exterior of the aerosol generating article, so that various zones of the aerosol generating article can be effectively heated.

[0011] In addition, since the heating operation of the first heater and the second heater can be controlled in response to the type of aerosol-generating article based on the sensor signal, various types of aerosol-generating articles can be effectively heated.

[0012] In addition, since the sensor is placed in an area different from the area where the second heater is placed, the impact of heat generated from the second heater on the sensor is minimized, which can improve the reliability and durability of the sensor's operation.

[0013] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0014] The above aspects, other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become clear from the accompanying drawings and the following description.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing some elements of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 separated.

[0019] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which different types of aerosol generating articles are inserted into the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 8.

[0024] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of operation of an aerosol generating device according to the embodiments shown in FIG. 1 to 9.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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. "Module" or "unit" may be a component formed as a whole, or the smallest unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, "module" or "unit" may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also 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.

[0030] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0031] 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 be operated 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.

[0032] 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).

[0033] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0034] 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). 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.

[0035] 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).

[0036] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature at which the heater (18) is heated. The aerosol generating device (1) may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heater (18), or the heater (18) 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.

[0037] 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). 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 of the heater (18) and / or a temperature change based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0038] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that detects the resistance value of the heater (18). The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater (18), and the control unit (12) may detect the temperature of the heater (18) and / or a change in temperature based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0039] 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.

[0040] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor may be placed inside a housing (not shown) of an aerosol generating device (1) to detect the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0041] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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 item is inserted (hereinafter, the insertion space), the heater (18), 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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), 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.

[0063] 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 heater (18) 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.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the heater (18) may heat an aerosol generating article and / or a medium and / or aerosol generating material within a cartridge by receiving power from a power source (11). The aerosol generating device (1) may include a heater (18) for heating an aerosol generating article and / or a cartridge heater for heating a cartridge (i.e., a solid and / or liquid medium).

[0065] According to one embodiment, the heater (18) 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.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the heater (18) 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.

[0067] The heater (18) 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18) by controlling the supply of power from the power source (11) to the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18) and / or the power supplied to the heater (18) based on the temperature of the heater (18) detected using a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18) and / or the power supplied to the heater (18) based on a temperature profile and / or power profile stored in a memory (17).

[0073] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heater (18) by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heater (18) 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), 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).

[0074] 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). 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).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) 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) by using the PWM method. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse. 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) by using a PID method, which is a feedback control method through the difference value between the temperature of the heater (18) 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.

[0076] 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) to correspond to a preset target power over time.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can detect the user's puff by detecting the power supplied to the heater (18). More specifically, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) 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), etc. Accordingly, a change may occur in the power (or current) supplied to the heater (18) 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.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can prevent the heater (18) 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) or stop the power supply to the heater (18) based on the fact that the temperature of the heater (18) exceeds a preset limit temperature.

[0079] 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).

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18) based on the result detected by the sensor unit (13).

[0081] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18) 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) 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) 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 determine that an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater (18) is above a limit temperature or the temperature change slope of the heater (18) is above a set slope.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount for the heater (18) 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) 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)).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18) 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).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18) based on whether the cartridge is connected 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) can be stopped or the power supply to the heater (18) can be controlled so that power is not supplied to the heater (18).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18) 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) exceeds a limit temperature while preheating the heater (18) (i.e., during the preheating period). If it determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted, the control unit (12) may cut off the power supply to the heater (18).

[0086] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18) 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) is heated is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the heater (18) 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) or control it so that power is not supplied to the heater (18).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18) 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) when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs or / or when no puff is detected for a preset time or longer. The control unit (12) may also control the power supply to the heater (18) when a puff is detected.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18) 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). 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). For another example, the control unit (12) can control the power supply to the heater (18) 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) based on a first temperature profile (or a first power profile) when it is detected that the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is a first aerosol generating article (or a first cartridge), and control the temperature and / or power of the heater (18) based on a second temperature profile (or a second power profile) when it is detected that the aerosol generating article (or a second cartridge) is a second aerosol generating article (or a second cartridge).

[0089] 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).

[0090] 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 by the aerosol generating device (1), such as detection of insertion of an aerosol generating item, initiation of heating of the aerosol generating item, puff detection, puff termination, detection of overheating of the heater (18), detection of overvoltage application to the heater (18), termination of heating of the aerosol generating item, 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 the predetermined event is detection of insertion of an aerosol generating item, the log data corresponding to the event may include data regarding the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit (13)). For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating of the heater (18), the log data corresponding to the event may include data regarding the temperature of the heater (18), the voltage applied to the heater (18), the current flowing through the heater (18), etc.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] According to one embodiment, when a location search request for an aerosol generating device (1) is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit (12) can control the communication unit (16) 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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. A cartridge heater 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 may be included in an aerosol generating device (1) that is detachable from the cartridge.

[0100] FIG. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0101] 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 (18) (e.g., the 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. 2, and some of the components may be omitted or new configurations may be added. The aerosol generating device (1) shown in FIG. 2 may be referred to as an 'external and internal heating type' aerosol generating device that heats the inner and outer sides of an aerosol generating article (2). In the following drawings, descriptions that overlap with FIG. 1 will be omitted.

[0102] 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.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the heater (18) can heat the aerosol generating article (2).

[0104] Referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a receiving portion (102p) including an insertion space (102s) for receiving an aerosol generating article (2). The heater (18) may include a first heater (182) which is an internal heating type heater and a second heater (183) which is an external heating type heater. The first heater (182) may heat the inside of the aerosol generating article (2), and the second heater (183) may heat the outside of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0105] The aerosol generating device (1) includes a sensor (130) located outside the aerosol generating article (2). The sensor (130) can detect the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the insertion space (102s) of the aerosol generating device (1). The sensor (130) may be positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2). The sensor (130) may be positioned to correspond to the first heater (182) and may be positioned in a different area from the area where the second heater (183) is positioned.

[0106] The aerosol generating article (2) may be extended along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The aerosol generating article (2) may include a first segment (2a), a second segment (2b), a third segment (2c), and a fourth segment (2d) positioned sequentially along the extension direction.

[0107] When the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), the first heater (182) may be inserted into a part of the first segment (2a). The sensor (130) may be positioned outside the first segment (2a) to correspond to the position of the first heater (182). The sensor (130) may be located outside a part of the first segment (2a).

[0108] The second heater (183) is positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) and may extend toward the second segment (2b) from another part of the first segment (2a). The other part of the first segment (2a) where the second heater (183) is located may correspond to the remaining part of the first segment (2a), excluding the part of the first segment (2a) where the first heater (182) is located.

[0109] According to the aerosol generating device (1) of the above-described embodiment, the sensor (130) may be placed in an area different from the area where the second heater (183) is located. Since the heat generated from the second heater (183) is not directly transferred to the sensor (130), the reliability and durability of the sensor (130) can be improved.

[0110] 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).

[0111] According to one embodiment, the internal heating type heater may include an electric resistance heater and / or an induction heating type heater.

[0112] 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).

[0113] For example, in the case of an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an induction coil that surrounds at least a portion of an internal heating type heater (e.g., 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 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. 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).

[0114] According to one embodiment, the first heater (182) may be a multiple heater. The multiple heater may include a plurality of first lower heating elements and may be inserted into the aerosol generating article (2). The plurality of first lower heating elements may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. The plurality of first lower heating elements may operate as electric resistive heaters and / or induction heaters, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the plurality of first lower heating elements may be respectively arranged at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of two or more aerosol generating rods. Alternatively, the plurality of first lower heating elements may be respectively arranged at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of a first part and a second part of a single aerosol generating rod. Meanwhile, if the first 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 arranged at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of a plurality of first lower heating parts. Alternatively, a plurality of first lower heating parts may be respectively arranged at positions corresponding to longitudinal positions of a first part and a second part of a single first heater (182). In addition, the heater and / or induction coil may include three or more.

[0115] 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.

[0116] The second heater (183) may be an external heating type heater.

[0117] 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.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the external heating type heater may include an electric resistive heater and / or an induction heating type heater, and redundant descriptions are 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 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 may include a fan coil. Meanwhile, if the external heating type heater is an electric resistive heater, 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 second heater (183) and applied to the outside of the housing (10).

[0119] According to one embodiment, the second heater (183) may be a multiple heater and may include second lower heating sections. The second lower heating sections may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction to each surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The second lower heating sections may operate as electric resistive heaters and / or induction heating heaters, and may be heated sequentially or simultaneously. Meanwhile, if the second heater (183) is an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device (1) may include 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 and second portions of a single second heater (183).

[0120] 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.

[0121] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment, and FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing some elements of the aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 separated.

[0122] The aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 can generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article (2).

[0123] The aerosol generating device (1) includes a heater (18) for heating an aerosol generating article (2) and a sensor (130) for detecting an aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) and generating a signal.

[0124] The heater (18) includes a first heater (182) and a second heater (183). The first heater (182) can generate heat inside the aerosol generating article (2) to heat the inside of the aerosol generating article (2). The second heater (183) can generate heat outside the aerosol generating article (2) to heat the outside of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0125] The second heater (183) has a tubular shape for receiving the aerosol generating article (2). For example, the second heater (183) may have a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0126] The first heater (182) can be inserted into a part of the aerosol generating article (2) through one end of the aerosol generating article (2) accommodated in the second heater (183). The lower part of the first heater (182) can be supported by the first support (25).

[0127] The second heater (183) may include a heat transfer tube (183s) and a film heater (183h) surrounding the heat transfer tube (183s).

[0128] The heat transfer tube (183s) has a hollow cylindrical shape and can accommodate an aerosol generating article (2). The heat transfer tube (183s) may include a thermally conductive material capable of transferring heat toward the aerosol generating article (2). For example, the heat transfer tube (183s) may include a thermally conductive metal material such as aluminum or stainless steel.

[0129] A film heater (183h) may be disposed on the outside of a heat transfer tube (183s). The film heater (183h) may surround the heat transfer tube (183s) and support the heat transfer tube (183s). The film heater (183h) may include an insulating substrate and a heating pattern (183p) located on the surface of the insulating substrate. When electricity is supplied to the heating pattern (183p), the heating pattern (183p) may generate heat. The insulating substrate of the film heater (183h) may include, for example, a flexible polyimide.

[0130] A second support (22) is attached to one end of the second heater (183). The second support (22) can support the second heater (183). An inlet guide (21) is attached to the other end of the second heater (183). The inlet guide (21), the second heater (183), and the second support (22) can form a receiving space for receiving an aerosol generating article (2).

[0131] The upper end of the first heater (182) can protrude toward the receiving space formed by the inlet guide (21), the second heater (183), and the second support (22).

[0132] The aerosol generating article (2) may be extended along the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating device (1). The aerosol generating article (2) may include a first segment (2a) and a second segment (2b) positioned sequentially along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2) from one end of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0133] When the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), the first heater (182) can be inserted into a part of the first segment (2a).

[0134] The second heater (183) is positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) and may extend from another part of the first segment (2a) to at least a part of the second segment (2b). The other part of the first segment (2a) where the second heater (183) is located may correspond to the remaining part of the first segment (2a), excluding the part of the first segment (2a) where the first heater (182) is located.

[0135] According to a structure in which a first heater (182) is inserted into a part of the aerosol generating article (2) and a second heater (183) is located outside another part of the aerosol generating article (2), the entire area of ​​the aerosol generating article (2) can be effectively heated.

[0136] The first segment (2a) and the second segment (2b) of the aerosol generating article (2) may contain different materials. For example, the first segment (2a) may contain an aerosol forming agent such as glycerin, so that when the first segment (2a) is heated, a large amount of aerosol can be generated. The second segment (2b) may contain a medium capable of imparting flavor and / or nicotine to the aerosol formed in the first segment (2a).

[0137] Since the first segment (2a) and the second segment (2b) perform different functions related to the formation of an aerosol, the aerosol generating device (1) can heat each of the first segment (2a) and the second segment (2b) to different temperature ranges. For example, the first segment (2a) can be heated by the first heater (182) to a temperature range of about 100 to 200 degrees Celsius. Also, the second segment (2b) can be heated by the second heater (183) to a temperature range of about 200 to 280 degrees Celsius.

[0138] The sensor (130) can generate a signal by detecting that an aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) and / or that an aerosol generating article (2) is removed from the aerosol generating device (1). For example, as the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into or removed from the aerosol generating device (1), the sensor (130) can generate a signal by detecting a change in the dielectric constant around the sensor (130). As another example, the sensor (130) can generate a signal indicating the type of aerosol generating article (2) by detecting a different change in dielectric constant depending on the type of aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the aerosol generating device (1).

[0139] The sensor (130) may be placed outside the aerosol generating article (2). The sensor (130) may be placed to correspond to the first heater (182) inserted inside the aerosol generating article (2). The statement that "the position of the sensor (130) corresponds to the first heater (182)" may mean that the positions of the sensor (130) and the first heater (182) correspond to each other with respect to the direction in which the aerosol generating article (2) extends (Z-axis direction).

[0140] The sensor (130) may be located outside one area of ​​the first segment (2a). The sensor (130) may be placed outside the aerosol generating article (2) in an area different from the area where the second heater (183) is placed. The sensor (130) and the second heater (183) may be placed sequentially along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2). For example, the sensor (130) and the second heater (183) may be placed spaced apart from each other along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0141] According to the structure in which the sensor (130) is placed in an area different from the area where the second heater (183) is placed, the effect of heat generated from the second heater (183) on the sensor (130) can be minimized. That is, since the sensor (130) is placed in an area different from the area where the second heater (183) is placed, the heat generated from the second heater (183) is not directly transferred to the sensor (130), so the reliability and durability of the sensor (130)'s operation can be ensured.

[0142] An air supply port (22p) may be formed between the first support (25) and the second support (22). Air introduced from the outside of the aerosol generating device (1) toward the inside of the aerosol generating device (1) may be supplied toward one end of the aerosol generating article (2) through the air supply port (22p).

[0143] The second support (22) may extend along the circumferential direction of one end of the second heater (183) to surround the first support (25). The second support (22) may have a plate shape or a ring shape with a through hole in the center. The first support (25) supporting the first heater (182) is positioned to pass through the through hole in the center of the second support (22). An air supply port (22p) may be formed by the inner wall of the second support (22) facing the first support (25) and the outer wall of the first support (25).

[0144] The aerosol generating device (1) may include an inlet pipe (31) that allows external air to be introduced into the interior of the aerosol generating device (1). The inlet pipe (31) may extend along the extension direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The inlet pipe (31) may extend from the outside of the second heater (183) along the extension direction of the second heater (183). The inlet pipe (31) includes an inlet port (31a) open toward the outside, an outlet port (31b) open toward the air supply port (22p) inside the aerosol generating device (1), and an internal flow path (31f) through which air can flow.

[0145] External air introduced into the interior of the aerosol generating device (1) by the introduction tube (31) can flow along the flow path (31f) inside the introduction tube (31) separated from the outer surface of the second heater (183).

[0146] The air supply port (22p) may include an extension (22e) that expands in size toward one end of the aerosol generating article (2). The extension (22e) may be formed by increasing the diameter of the end of the air supply port (22p), which is open toward one end of the aerosol generating article (2), toward the aerosol generating article (2). The extension (22e) may be formed by an inclined surface or a curved surface that slopes toward the aerosol generating article (2).

[0147] Air from the air supply port (22p) passes through an expansion portion (22e) that expands in size at the end of the air supply port (22p) and can flow smoothly into the interior of the aerosol generating article (2) through the surface of one end of the aerosol generating article (2). A sufficient amount of air can be supplied to one end of the aerosol generating device (1) at an appropriate pressure by means of the expansion portion (22e).

[0148] The aerosol generating device (1) may include a sealing part (23) positioned between an inlet tube (31) and an air supply port (22p). The sealing part (23) may allow air from the inlet tube (31) to flow to the air supply port (22p). The sealing part (23) may include a connecting hole (23a) communicating with the discharge hole (31b) of the inlet tube (31). The sealing part (23) may include a hollow chamber (23b). One side of the chamber (23b) is connected to the connecting hole (23a), and the other side of the chamber (23b) is connected to the air supply port (22p). Air introduced into the chamber (23b) through the connecting hole (23a) can be delivered to the air supply port (22p).

[0149] The sealing portion (23) may include a bottom hole (23c) through which the first support (25) passes. The sealing portion (23) may include an elastic material such as rubber or silicone. Since the bottom hole (23c) of the sealing portion (23) and the outer surface of the first support (25) are in close contact with each other, the bottom hole (23c) of the sealing portion (23) and the outer surface of the first support (25) can be sealed.

[0150] In addition, the upper surface of the sealing part (23) is joined to the lower side of the second support (22), so that the joint between the upper surface of the sealing part (23) and the lower side of the second support (22) can be sealed.

[0151] The first support (25) and / or the second support (22) are completely sealed by the seal (23). Thus, the phenomenon of a droplet, which is formed by the condensation of a portion of the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article (2), leaking into another space inside the aerosol generating device (1) through the first support (25) and the second support (22) can be minimized.

[0152] A terminal (183t) is disposed at one end of the film heater (183h). The terminal (183t) is electrically connected to a heating pattern (183p) and may protrude downward from one end of the film heater (183h). A connecting wire (183w) may be electrically connected to the terminal (183t) of the film heater (183h). The connecting wire (183w) may pass through the wiring passage (22w) of the second support (22) and extend to the lower part of the second support (22).

[0153] The other end of the first support (25) may protrude downward through the bottom hole (23c) of the sealing portion (23). The other end of the first support (25) may be integrally connected to a component bracket (25c). For example, the first support (25) and the component bracket (25c) may be integrally formed by a plastic injection molding process. The component bracket (25c) may include a circuit board (12b) inside.

[0154] The first heater (182), supported by the first support (25), can be electrically connected to the heater wiring (182c). The heater wiring (182c) can be electrically connected to the circuit board (12b) inside the component bracket (25c) by extending downward along the interior of the first support (25).

[0155] Additionally, the connecting wire (183w) electrically connected to the terminal (183t) of the second heater (183) can pass through the component bracket (25c) and be electrically connected to the circuit board (12b).

[0156] The aerosol generating device (1) may further include an insulating tube (41) disposed outside the second heater (183). One end of the insulating tube (41) is connected to an inlet guide (21), and the other end of the insulating tube (41) is connected to a second support (22). The insulating tube (41) may be disposed spaced outward from the outer surface of the film heater (183h). The insulating tube (41) can block heat discharged outward from the film heater (183h). The insulating tube (41) may include a heat-blocking material, such as a vacuum space or a graphite sheet, inside, for example.

[0157] According to the insulation tube (41), the heat generated from the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) can be minimized from being transferred to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0158] The aerosol generating device (1) may further include an electromagnetic shielding tube (42) disposed outside the insulation tube (41). The electromagnetic shielding tube (42) may be a heat-blocking film, for example, containing graphite.

[0159] According to the electromagnetic shielding tube (42), electromagnetic waves that may be generated during the operation of the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) can be prevented from leaking to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0160] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0161] The aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 includes a heater (18) for heating a portion of an aerosol generating article (2) that extends along one direction (Z-axis direction), a sensor (130) for detecting the aerosol generating article (2), and a control unit (12) for controlling the heater (18) based on a signal from the sensor (130).

[0162] The aerosol generating article (2) may include a first segment (2a), a second segment (2b), a third segment (2c), and a fourth segment (2d) positioned sequentially along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2). The first segment (2a) may include an aerosol forming agent, such as glycerin, for the generation of aerosol. The second segment (2b) may impart flavor and / or nicotine to the aerosol. The third segment (2c) may cool the aerosol. The fourth segment (2d) may function as a filter to filter out some substances from the aerosol.

[0163] The heater (18) includes a first heater (182) and a second heater (183) for generating heat when electricity is applied. As an example, the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) may have different resistance temperature coefficients. As another example, the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) may have the same resistance temperature coefficient.

[0164] The first heater (182) may be inserted into a part of the first segment (2a) of the aerosol generating article (2). The second heater (183) may be placed outside the aerosol generating article (2). The second heater (183) may be placed in a part different from the part of the first segment (2a) into which the first heater (182) is inserted. The statement that the second heater (183) is placed in a part different from the part of the first segment (2a) into which the first heater (182) is inserted may mean that the position of the geometric center of the first heater (182) and the position of the geometric center of the second heater (183) are different from each other in the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2). Thus, a part of the first heater (182) and a part of the second heater (183) may be positioned to overlap each other in the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0165] The sensor (130) may be positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) to correspond to the first heater (182). The sensor (130) may be positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) in an area different from the area where the second heater (183) is positioned. The sensor (130) may generate a signal by detecting a change in dielectric constant as the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) and / or a change in dielectric constant as the aerosol generating article (2) is removed from the aerosol generating device (1).

[0166] The control unit (12) can control the heating operation of the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) based on the signal of the sensor (130). For example, by controlling the amount of power or the power supply time supplied to each of the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) by the control unit (12), the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) can generate heat in different temperature ranges. As another example, the control unit (12) can independently control the heating start time, heating duration time, and heating stop time of each of the first heater (182) and the second heater (183). As yet another example, the control unit (12) can control the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) based on different temperature profiles.

[0167] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0168] The first heater (182) of the aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6 may be an electric resistance heater that generates heat when electricity is applied.

[0169] The second heater (183) may be an induction heating heater that generates heat by induction heating. The aerosol generating device (1) may include an induction coil (181) that is controlled by a control unit (12) to generate an alternating magnetic field. The induction coil (181) may be placed outside the second heater (183) to surround the second heater (183). The second heater (183) may generate heat based on the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil (181).

[0170] The sensor (130) may be positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) to correspond to the first heater (182). The sensor (130) may be positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) in a different area from the area where the second heater (183) is positioned. Additionally, the sensor (130) may be positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) in a different area from the area where the induction coil (181) is positioned. The sensor (130) and the induction coil (181) may be positioned spaced apart from each other along the extension direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating article (2) so that the effect of the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil (181) on the sensor (130) is minimized.

[0171] The control unit (12) can control the heating operation of the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) based on the signal of the sensor (130). The control unit (12) can control the heating operation of the first heater (182) by controlling the power supplied to the first heater (182). In addition, the control unit (12) can control the heating operation of the second heater (183) by controlling the electricity supplied to the induction coil (181).

[0172] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment.

[0173] Both the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) of the aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 may be induction heating heaters that generate heat by induction heating.

[0174] The aerosol generating device (1) may include an induction coil (181) that is controlled by a control unit (12) and can generate an alternating magnetic field. The induction coil (181) may be positioned outside the second heater (183) to surround at least a portion of the first heater (182) and at least a portion of the second heater (183).

[0175] As the first heater (182) generates heat based on the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil (181), the first heater (182) can heat the interior of the aerosol generating article (2). As the second heater (183) generates heat based on the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil (181), the second heater (183) can heat the exterior of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0176] The sensor (130) may be positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) to correspond to the first heater (182). The sensor (130) may be positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) in an area different from the area where the second heater (183) is positioned. Additionally, the sensor (130) may be positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) in an area different from the area where the induction coil (181) is positioned. The phrases "the sensor (130) being positioned in an area different from the area where the induction coil (181) is positioned" and "the sensor (130) being positioned in an area different from the area where the second heater (183) is positioned" may mean that the sensor (130) is positioned at a location different from the positions of the second heater (183) and the induction coil (181) with respect to the extension direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0177] In order to minimize the effect of the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil (181) on the sensor (130), the sensor (130) and the induction coil (181) may be spaced apart from each other along the extension direction (Z-axis direction) of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0178] The control unit (12) can control the heating operation of the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) based on the signal of the sensor (130). The control unit (12) can control the heating operation of the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) by controlling the electricity supplied to the induction coil (181).

[0179] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which an aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment, and FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which an aerosol generating article (2') of a different type from the aerosol generating article (2) of FIG. 8 is inserted into an aerosol generating device (1).

[0180] The types of the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 8 and the aerosol generating article (2') inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 9 are different from each other. The length of the first segment (2a) of the aerosol generating article (2) shown in FIG. 8 is longer than the length of the first segment (2a) of the aerosol generating article (2') shown in FIG. 9. Also, the length of the second segment (2b) of the aerosol generating article (2) shown in FIG. 8 is shorter than the length of the second segment (2b) of the aerosol generating article (2') shown in FIG. 9.

[0181] The aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 can efficiently heat different types of aerosol generating articles (2, 2').

[0182] The heater (18) of the aerosol generating device (1) includes a first heater (182) that can be inserted into one end of the aerosol generating article (2, 2') and a second heater (183) that can be located outside the aerosol generating article (2, 2').

[0183] The first heater (182) may include first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) partitioned to correspond to a portion of the aerosol generating article (2, 2'). For example, the first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) may be partitioned along the extension direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating article (2, 2') extends. The first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) may include a short heater (182a) formed with a short length in the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2, 2') and a long heater (182b) formed with a long length.

[0184] The control unit (12) can independently control each part of the first lower heating units (182a, 182b). For example, if only the short heater (182a) generates heat, the short length first segment (2a) of the aerosol generating article (2') shown in FIG. 9 can be heated by the short heater (182a). Also, if only the long heater (182b) generates heat, or if the long heater (182b) and the short heater (182a) generate heat together, the long length first segment (2a) shown in FIG. 8 can be heated. In FIG. 8 and 9, the parts that perform the heating operation of the first lower heating units (182a, 182b) are indicated by hatching.

[0185] The statement that ‘the first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) are partitioned to correspond to a part of the aerosol generating article (2, 2')’ may mean that the length along the extension direction of each part of the first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) of the aerosol generating article (2, 2') is set differently as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, and / or that each part of the first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) is positioned at a different location along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2, 2').

[0186] The embodiments are not limited by the configuration of the first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. For example, each part of the first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) may have the same length or different lengths and may be positioned at different locations along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2, 2').

[0187] The second heater (183) may include second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) partitioned to correspond to different parts of the aerosol generating article (2, 2'). The phrase “the second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) are partitioned to correspond to different parts of the aerosol generating article (2, 2')” may mean that the respective positions of the second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) are determined differently in one part of the aerosol generating article (2, 2') and another part of the aerosol generating article (2, 2') where the first heater (182) is positioned along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2, 2'). However, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, parts of the second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) may be positioned to overlap with a part of the first heater (182) along the extending direction of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0188] For example, the second heater (183) may be partitioned along the extension direction (Z-axis direction) in which the aerosol generating article (2, 2') extends. The second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) may be arranged sequentially along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2, 2'). The second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) may include an upstream heater (183a), an intermediate heater (183b), and a downstream heater (183c) arranged sequentially along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2, 2').

[0189] The embodiments are not limited by the number and configuration of the second lower heating units (183a, 183b, 183c). For example, the number of the second lower heating units (183a, 183b, 183c) may be two or four or more.

[0190] The lengths of each of the second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) in the direction along the aerosol generating article (2, 2') may differ from each other. As another example, at least some of the second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) may have the same length from each other.

[0191] The control unit (12) can independently control each part of the second lower heating units (183a, 183b, 183c). To heat the second segment (2b) having a short length of the aerosol generating article (2) shown in FIG. 8, the intermediate heater (183b) can be controlled by the control unit (12) to generate heat. Additionally, to heat the second segment (2b) having a long length of the aerosol generating article (2') shown in FIG. 9, all of the upstream heater (183a), the intermediate heater (183b), and the downstream heater (183c) can be controlled by the control unit (12) to generate heat. In FIG. 8 and 9, the parts executing the heating operation of the second lower heating units (183a, 183b, 183c) are indicated by hatching.

[0192] The sensor (130) can generate a signal by detecting that an aerosol generating article (2, 2') is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) and / or that an aerosol generating article (2, 2') is removed from the aerosol generating device (1). For example, as the aerosol generating article (2, 2') is inserted into or removed from the aerosol generating device (1), the sensor (130) can generate a signal by detecting a change in the dielectric constant around the sensor (130). As another example, the sensor (130) can generate a signal indicating the type of aerosol generating article (2) by detecting a different change in dielectric constant depending on the type of aerosol generating article (2, 2') inserted into the aerosol generating device (1).

[0193] The length of the first segment (2a) of the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8 and the length of the first segment (2a) of the aerosol generating article (2') inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIG. 9 are different from each other. Accordingly, the sensor (130) can generate a signal indicating the type of aerosol generating article (2, 2') inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) by detecting the difference in dielectric constant caused by the difference in the length of the first segment (2a).

[0194] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of operation of an aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiments shown in FIG. 1 to 9.

[0195] The flowchart illustrated in FIG. 10 may illustrate an example of the operation of an aerosol generating device (1) to respond to a situation in which different types of aerosol generating articles (2, 2') are inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), as illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, for example.

[0196] The steps illustrated in the flowchart of FIG. 10 can be executed by the control unit (12), the sensor (130), the first heater (182), and the second heater (183).

[0197] In the sensor detection step (S100), the sensor (130) can generate a signal by detecting that an aerosol generating article (2, 2') has been inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) and that an aerosol generating article (2, 2') has been removed from the aerosol generating device (1).

[0198] When the sensor (130) detects that an aerosol generating item (2, 2') is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) and generates a signal, the sensor (130) can generate a signal based on the type of the aerosol generating item (2, 2').

[0199] In the step of identifying the type of aerosol-generating item (S110), the control unit (12) can identify the type of aerosol-generating item (2, 2') based on the signal generated by the sensor (130).

[0200] The control unit (12) can execute a first heater operation control step (S120) and a second heater operation control step (S130) based on the type of identified aerosol generating item (2, 2'). The first heater operation control step (S120) and the second heater operation control step (S130) may be executed simultaneously or proceed sequentially at different times. For example, the control unit (12) may select a temperature profile corresponding to the type of identified aerosol generating item (2, 2') from among predetermined temperature profiles. The control unit (12) may apply the selected temperature profile to each of the first heater operation control step (S120) and the second heater operation control step (S130). The temperature profile applied to the first heater (182) in the first heater operation control step (S120) and the temperature profile applied to the second heater (183) in the second heater operation control step (S130) may be different from each other.

[0201] The aerosol generating device (1) according to the above-described embodiments includes a first heater (182) inserted into a part of the aerosol generating article (2) to heat the interior of the aerosol generating article (2) and a second heater (183) located outside another part of the aerosol generating article (2) to heat the exterior of the aerosol generating article (2), so that various zones of the aerosol generating article (2) can be effectively heated.

[0202] In addition, based on the signal of the sensor (130), the control unit (12) can control the heating operation of the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) in correspondence with the type of aerosol generating article (2), so that various types of aerosol generating articles (2) can be effectively heated.

[0203] The aerosol generating device (1) according to the embodiments is an aerosol generating device (1) for generating aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article (2), and includes a first heater (182) for generating heat inside the aerosol generating article (2), a second heater (183) for generating heat in the aerosol generating article (2), and a sensor (130) for detecting the aerosol generating article (2) and generating a signal, which is positioned outside the aerosol generating article (2) in a different area from the area where the second heater (183) is positioned, corresponding to the first heater (182).

[0204] According to one embodiment, at least one of the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) can generate heat when electricity is applied.

[0205] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include an induction coil (181) that generates an alternating magnetic field when electricity is applied. At least one of the first heater (182) and the second heater (183) may generate heat by the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil (181).

[0206] According to another embodiment, the second heater (183) may have a tubular shape for receiving an aerosol-generating article (2). The first heater (182) may be inserted into one end of the aerosol-generating article (2) received in the second heater (183).

[0207] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a first support (25) that supports a first heater (182). Additionally, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a second support (22) that supports one end of a second heater (183). Additionally, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include an air supply port (22p) formed between the first support and the second support. Air introduced from the outside may be supplied to one end of the aerosol generating article (2) through the air supply port (22p).

[0208] According to another embodiment, the second support (22) may extend along the circumferential direction of one end of the second heater (183) to surround the first support (25). An air supply port (22p) may be formed by the inner wall of the second support (22) facing the first support (25) and the outer wall of the first support (25).

[0209] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include an inlet pipe (31) that allows external air to flow into the interior of the aerosol generating device (1). Additionally, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a sealing part (23) disposed between the inlet pipe (31) and the air supply port (22p) to allow air from the inlet pipe (31) to flow into the air supply port (22p). At least one of the first support (25) and the second support (22) may be sealed by the sealing part (23).

[0210] According to another embodiment, the second heater (183) may extend along one direction. Additionally, the inlet tube (31) may extend along one direction. External air introduced into the interior of the aerosol generating device (1) by the inlet tube (31) may flow along the flow path (31f) inside the inlet tube (31), which is separated from the outer surface of the second heater (183).

[0211] According to another embodiment, the air supply port (22p) may include an extension (22e). The extension (22e) may be formed by extending the size of at least a portion of the air supply port (22p) toward one end of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0212] According to another embodiment, the second heater (183) may accommodate an aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generating device (1) may further include a heat transfer tube (183s) for transferring heat to the aerosol generating article (2). Additionally, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a film heater (183h) surrounding the heat transfer tube (183s) and generating heat when electricity is applied.

[0213] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include an insulating tube (41) for blocking heat discharged outward from the film heater (183h). The insulating tube (41) may be positioned to be spaced apart from the outer surface of the film heater (183h) and to surround the second heater (183).

[0214] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating article (2) may include a first segment (2a) and a second segment (2b) positioned sequentially from one end of the aerosol generating article (2) toward the other end. A first heater (182) may be inserted into a part of the first segment (2a). A second heater (183) may extend from another part of the first segment (2a) to at least a part of the second segment (2b).

[0215] According to another embodiment, the sensor (130) may be located outside a portion of the first segment (2a). The sensor (130) and the second heater (183) may be arranged sequentially along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0216] According to another embodiment, the first heater (182) may include first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) partitioned to correspond to a portion of the aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generating device (1) may further include a control unit (12) for independently controlling the first lower heating sections (182a, 182b). Based on a signal generated from a sensor (130) according to the characteristics of the aerosol generating article (2), at least a portion of the first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) may be controlled to generate heat by the control unit (12).

[0217] According to another embodiment, the second heater (183) may include second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) partitioned to correspond to different parts of the aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generating device (1) may further include a control unit (12) for independently controlling the second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c). Based on a signal generated from a sensor (130) according to the characteristics of the aerosol generating article (2), at least a portion of the second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) may be controlled by the control unit (12) to generate heat.

[0218] According to another embodiment, the first heater (182) may include first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) partitioned to correspond to a part of the aerosol generating article (2), and the second heater (183) may include second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c) partitioned to correspond to another part of the aerosol generating article (2), and the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a control section (12) for independently controlling the first lower heating sections (182a, 182b) and the second lower heating sections (183a, 183b, 183c). Based on a signal generated from a sensor (130) according to the characteristics of the aerosol generating article (2), at least a portion of the first lower heating portions (182a, 182b) and at least a portion of the second lower heating portions (183a, 183b, 183c) can be controlled by the control unit (12) to generate heat.

[0219] Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinct 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.

[0220] 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 in cases where it is described that combination is impossible.

[0221] 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.

[0222] The embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device capable of effectively heating multiple zones of an aerosol generating article.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article: A first heater for generating heat inside the above aerosol generating article; A second heater for generating heat from the outside of the above aerosol generating article; and An aerosol generating device comprising: a sensor for detecting the aerosol generating article and generating a signal, the sensor being positioned outside the aerosol generating article in an area different from the area where the second heater is positioned, corresponding to the first heater.

2. In Paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device in which at least one of the first heater and the second heater generates heat when electricity is applied.

3. In Paragraph 1, It further includes an induction coil that generates an alternating magnetic field when electricity is applied, and An aerosol generating device in which at least one of the first heater and the second heater generates heat by the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil.

4. In Paragraph 1, The second heater has a tubular shape for receiving the aerosol generating article, and the first heater can be inserted into one end of the aerosol generating article received in the second heater. The apparatus further includes a first support member supporting the first heater, a second support member supporting one end of the second heater, and an air supply port formed between the first support member and the second support member. An aerosol generating device in which air introduced from the outside is supplied to one end of the aerosol generating article through the air supply port.

5. In Paragraph 4, An aerosol generating device, wherein the second support extends along the circumferential direction of the first end of the second heater to surround the first support, and the air supply port is formed by the inner wall of the second support facing the first support and the outer wall of the first support.

6. In Paragraph 4, An inlet pipe that allows external air to flow into the interior of the aerosol generating device; and It further includes a sealing part disposed between the inlet pipe and the air supply port to allow air from the inlet pipe to flow into the air supply port; An aerosol generating device in which at least one of the first support and the second support is sealed by the sealing portion.

7. In Paragraph 6, An aerosol generating device, wherein the second heater extends along one direction, the inlet tube extends along the one direction, and external air introduced into the interior of the aerosol generating device by the inlet tube flows along a flow path inside the inlet tube separated from the outer surface of the second heater.

8. In Paragraph 4, An aerosol generating device, wherein the air supply port comprises an extension portion in which the size of at least a portion of the air supply port extends toward one end of the aerosol generating article.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above second heater is, A heat transfer tube capable of accommodating the aerosol-generating article and transferring heat to the aerosol-generating article; and An aerosol generating device comprising: a film heater surrounding the heat transfer tube and generating heat when electricity is applied.

10. In Paragraph 9, An aerosol generating device further comprising an insulating tube spaced apart from the outer surface of the film heater and arranged to surround the second heater to block heat discharged from the film heater toward the outside.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above aerosol generating article includes a first segment and a second segment positioned sequentially from one end of the aerosol generating article toward the other end, and The first heater can be inserted into a part of the first segment, and The above-mentioned second heater is an aerosol generating device extending from another part of the first segment to at least a part of the second segment.

12. In Paragraph 11, An aerosol generating device in which the sensor is located outside of the portion of the first segment, and the sensor and the second heater are arranged sequentially along the extension direction of the aerosol generating article.

13. In Paragraph 1, The first heater includes first lower heating sections partitioned to correspond to a portion of the aerosol generating article, and It further includes a control unit for independently controlling the first lower heating units, and An aerosol generating device in which at least some of the first lower heating units are controlled to generate heat by the control unit based on a signal generated from the sensor according to the characteristics of the aerosol generating article.

14. In Paragraph 1, The second heater includes second lower heating sections partitioned to correspond to other parts of the aerosol generating article, and It further includes a control unit for independently controlling the above-mentioned second lower heating units, and An aerosol generating device in which at least some of the second lower heating units are controlled to generate heat by the control unit based on a signal generated from the sensor according to the characteristics of the aerosol generating article.

15. In Paragraph 1, The first heater includes first lower heating sections partitioned to correspond to a portion of the aerosol generating article, and The second heater includes second lower heating sections partitioned to correspond to other parts of the aerosol generating article, and It further includes a control unit for independently controlling the first lower heating units and the second lower heating units, and An aerosol generating device in which, based on a signal generated from the sensor according to the characteristics of the aerosol generating article, at least a portion of the first lower heating portions and at least a portion of the second lower heating portions are controlled by the control unit to generate heat.

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