KR102756690B1 - Aerosol generating device - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol generating device of the present disclosure includes: a main body; a cartridge coupled to the main body and having an elongated insertion space formed therein; an impedance sensor disposed inside the insertion space and extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space; wherein the impedance sensor is inserted into the interior of the stick through an upstream end of the stick as the stick is inserted into the insertion space, and can come into contact with the liquid aerosol generating substance inside the stick.

Description

Aerosol generating device {AEROSOL GENERATING DEVICE}

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

An aerosol generating device is intended to extract a certain component from a medium or substance through an aerosol. The medium may contain substances of various components. The substances contained in the medium may be flavoring substances of various components. For example, the substances contained in the medium may contain nicotine components, herbal components, and/or coffee components. Recently, much research has been conducted on such aerosol generating devices.

The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned and other problems.

Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device that can accurately determine whether an inserted stick has been used.

Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device that can prevent reuse of used sticks.

Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device that can determine the extent of use of a previously used stick.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, an aerosol generating device comprises: a main body; a cartridge coupled to the main body and having an elongated insertion space formed therein; an impedance sensor disposed inside the insertion space and extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space; wherein the impedance sensor is inserted into the interior of the stick through an upstream end of the stick as the stick is inserted into the insertion space, and can come into contact with the liquid aerosol generating substance inside the stick.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to accurately determine whether an inserted stick is in use.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, reuse of a previously used stick can be prevented.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree of use of a previously used stick can be determined.

Further scope of the applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description below. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of example only.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 2 to 4 are drawings for reference in the description of an aerosol generating device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 5 to 7 are drawings for reference in the description of a stick according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the structure of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 9 and 10 are drawings for reference in the description of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 12 is a drawing for reference in explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description may be given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing the specification. "Module" and "part" do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

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

Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components. However, the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

When it is said that a component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, although it should be understood that there may be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is said that a component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (10) may include a communication interface (11), an input/output interface (12), an aerosol generating module (13), a memory (14), a sensor module (15), a battery (16), and/or a control unit (17).

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (10) may be composed of only the main body (100). In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device (10) may be located in the main body (100). In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device (10) may be composed of a cartridge (200) containing an aerosol generating material and the main body (100). In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device (10) may be located in at least one of the main body (100) and the cartridge (200).

The communication interface (11) may include at least one communication module for communication with an external device and/or a network. For example, the communication interface (11) may include a communication module for wired communication such as a universal serial bus (USB). For example, the communication interface (11) may include a communication module for wireless communication such as wireless fidelity (WiFi), Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy (BLE), Zigbee, and near field communication (NFC).

The input/output interface (12) may include an input device that receives a command from a user and/or an output device (122) that outputs information to the user. For example, the input device may include a touch panel, a physical button, a microphone, etc. For example, the output device (122) may include a display device that outputs visual information such as a display or a light emitting diode (LED), an audio device that outputs auditory information such as a speaker or a buzzer, a motor that outputs tactile information such as a haptic effect, etc.

The input/output interface (12) can transmit data corresponding to a command input from a user through an input device to other component(s) of the aerosol generator (10). The input/output interface (12) can output information corresponding to data received from other component(s) of the aerosol generator (10) through an output device (122).

The aerosol generating module (13) can generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. Here, the aerosol generating material can mean one material or a combination of two or more materials in various states such as a liquid state, a solid state, and a gel state that can generate an aerosol.

The liquid aerosol generating material may be a liquid comprising a tobacco-containing material including volatile tobacco flavor components according to one embodiment. The liquid aerosol generating material may be a liquid comprising a non-tobacco material according to another embodiment. For example, the liquid aerosol generating material may comprise water, a solvent, nicotine, plant extracts, flavorings, flavoring agents, a vitamin mixture, and the like.

The solid aerosol generating material may include a solid material based on tobacco raw materials such as a leaf sheet, a tobacco stick, or a granule. In addition, the solid aerosol generating material may include a solid material containing a taste modifier, a flavoring agent, or the like. For example, the taste modifier may include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium oxide, or the like. For example, the flavoring agent may include a natural material such as herbal granules, or silica, zeolite, dextrin, or the like containing a flavoring component.

Additionally, the aerosol generating material may further comprise an aerosol forming agent, such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

The aerosol generating module (13) may include at least one heater.

The aerosol generating module (13) may include an electrical resistive heater. For example, the electrical resistive heater may include at least one electrically conductive track. The electrical resistive heater may be heated by a current flowing through the electrically conductive track. At this time, the aerosol generating material may be heated by the heated electrical resistive heater.

The electrically conductive track may include an electrically resistive material. As an example, the electrically conductive track may be formed of a metallic material. As another example, the electrically conductive track may be formed of a ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite material of a ceramic material and a metal.

The electrical resistive heater may include electrically conductive tracks formed in various shapes. For example, the electrically conductive tracks may be formed in any one of a tubular shape, a plate shape, a needle shape, a rod shape, and a coil shape.

The aerosol generating module (13) may include a heater that uses an induction heating method. For example, the induction heating heater may include an electrically conductive coil. The induction heating heater may generate an alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically by controlling a current flowing in the electrically conductive coil. At this time, when the alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic body, energy loss may occur in the magnetic body due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss. In addition, as the lost energy is released as heat energy, an aerosol generating material adjacent to the magnetic body may be heated. Here, an object that generates heat by a magnetic field may be named a susceptor.

Meanwhile, the aerosol generating module (13) can generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material by generating ultrasonic vibration.

The aerosol generating module (13) may be named a cartomizer, an atomizer, a vaporizer, etc.

When the aerosol generating device (10) is composed of a cartridge (200) containing an aerosol generating material and a main body (100), the aerosol generating module (13) can be located in at least one of the main body (100) and the cartridge (200).

The memory (14) can store programs for each signal processing and control within the control unit (17). The memory (14) can store data processed in the control unit (17) and data to be processed.

For example, the memory (14) can store application programs designed for the purpose of performing various tasks that can be processed by the control unit (17). The memory (14) can selectively provide some of the stored application programs upon request from the control unit (17).

For example, the memory (14) may store the operating time of the aerosol generator (10), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, the number of times the battery (16) has been charged, the number of times the battery (16) has been discharged, at least one temperature profile, data on the user's inhalation pattern, data on charging/discharging, etc. Here, a puff may mean an inhalation by the user. Inhalation may mean a situation in which the user draws air into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs through the mouth or nose.

For example, the memory (14) can store information on the size of the impedance between a plurality of sensing electrodes of the impedance sensor and the amount of liquid aerosol generating material in the stick.

Memory (14) may include at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.) or nonvolatile memory (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD).

The memory (14) may be arranged in at least one of the main body (100) and the cartridge (200). The memory (14) may be arranged in each of the main body (100) and the cartridge (200). For example, the memory of the main body (100) may store information about a configuration arranged inside the main body (100), for example, information about the total capacity of the battery (190). For example, the memory of the main body (100) may store cartridge information received from a cartridge (200) previously or currently coupled with the main body (100), and the memory of the cartridge (200) may store cartridge information including identification information (ID information) of the cartridge, type information of the cartridge, etc.

The sensor module (15) may include at least one sensor.

For example, the sensor module (15) may include a sensor that detects a puff (hereinafter, puff sensor, 151). At this time, the puff sensor (151) may be implemented by a proximity sensor such as an IR sensor, a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, etc.

For example, the sensor module (15) may include a sensor (hereinafter, temperature sensor) that detects the temperature of the heater included in the aerosol generating module (13), the temperature of the aerosol generating material, etc.

At this time, the heater included in the aerosol generating module (13) may also function as a temperature sensor. For example, the electrically resistive material of the heater may be a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). The sensor module (15) may sense the temperature of the heater by measuring the resistance of the heater, which varies depending on the temperature.

For example, if a stick can be inserted into the main body of the aerosol generating device (10), the sensor module (15) may include a sensor that detects the insertion of the stick (hereinafter, “stick detection sensor”).

For example, when the aerosol generator (10) includes a cartridge (200), the sensor module (15) may include a sensor (hereinafter, cartridge detection sensor) that detects mounting/detaching, position, etc. of the cartridge (200) with respect to the main body (100).

At this time, the stick detection sensor and/or the cartridge detection sensor may be implemented by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance-type sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC) using the Hall effect, etc. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge detection sensor may include a connection terminal. The connection terminal is provided in the main body (100) and can be electrically connected to electrodes provided in the cartridge (200) as the cartridge (200) is coupled to the main body (100).

For example, the sensor module (15) may include a voltage sensor for detecting voltage applied to a component (e.g., battery (16)) provided in the aerosol generating device (10) and/or a current sensor for detecting current.

For example, the sensor module (15) may include at least one sensor (hereinafter, motion sensor) that detects movement of the main body (100) and/or cartridge (200) of the aerosol generating device (10). At this time, the motion sensor may be implemented by at least one of a gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor. The motion sensor may be placed in at least one of the main body (100) and the cartridge (200).

For example, the sensor module (15) may include a sensor for measuring the humidity of the outside air (hereinafter, humidity sensor, 156). At this time, the humidity sensor (156) may be implemented by a capacitive sensor, etc. The humidity sensor (156) may be placed outside the housing of the main body (100) or located on a path through which outside air is introduced, and may measure the humidity around the aerosol generating device (10).

For example, the sensor module (15) may include a sensor (hereinafter, impedance sensor, 155) that detects the amount of a liquid aerosol generating substance present in a stick (40) inserted into an aerosol generating device (10). At this time, the impedance sensor (155) may include a plurality of sensing electrodes that are positioned spaced apart from each other on an insulating substrate. The plurality of sensing electrodes may come into contact with the liquid aerosol generating substance present in the stick (40). The magnitude of the impedance between the plurality of sensing electrodes of the impedance sensor (155) may have a different value depending on the amount of the liquid aerosol generating substance present in the stick (40).

The battery (16) can supply power used for the operation of the aerosol generator (10) under the control of the control unit (17). The battery (16) can supply power to other components provided in the aerosol generator (10). For example, the battery (16) can supply power to a communication module included in the communication interface (11), an output device included in the input/output interface (12), a heater included in the aerosol generator module (13), etc.

The battery (16) may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery (16) may be a lithium-ion battery or a lithium polymer (Li-Polymer) battery, but is not limited thereto. For example, if the battery (16) is rechargeable, the charge rate (C-rate) of the battery (16) may be 10C, and the discharge rate (C-rate) may be 10C to 20C, but is not limited thereto. In addition, for stable use, the battery (16) may be manufactured so that 80% or more of the total capacity can be secured even when charging/discharging is performed 2000 times.

The aerosol generator (10) may further include a battery protection module (Protection Circuit Module, PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery (16). The battery protection module (PCM) may be arranged adjacent to the upper surface of the battery (16). For example, the battery protection module (PCM) may block the electric path to the battery (16) when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery (16), when an overvoltage is applied to the battery (16), when an overcurrent flows to the battery (16), etc., in order to prevent overcharge and overdischarge of the battery (16).

The aerosol generator (10) may further include a charging terminal into which power supplied from the outside is input. For example, a charging terminal may be formed on one side of the main body of the aerosol generator (10). The aerosol generator (10) may charge the battery (16) using power supplied through the charging terminal. At this time, the charging terminal may be configured as a wired terminal for USB communication, a pogo pin, or the like.

The aerosol generator (10) can also wirelessly receive power supplied from the outside through a communication interface (11). For example, the aerosol generator (10) can wirelessly receive power using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication. The aerosol generator (10) can charge a battery (16) using the power supplied wirelessly.

The control unit (17) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (10). The control unit (17) can be connected to each component provided in the aerosol generating device (10). The control unit (17) can control the overall operation of each component by transmitting and/or receiving signals between each component.

The control unit (17) may include at least one processor. The control unit (17) may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (10) using the processor. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a CPU (central processing unit). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or another hardware-based processor.

The control unit (17) can control voltage to be applied to a plurality of sensing electrodes of the impedance sensor (155) and measure impedance between the plurality of sensing electrodes. At this time, an AC voltage can be applied between the plurality of sensing electrodes. The control unit (17) can calculate the amount of liquid aerosol generating material within the stick (40) based on the size of the measured impedance.

The control unit (17) can perform any one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generator (10). For example, the control unit (17) can perform any one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generator (10) (e.g., preheating function, heating function, charging function, cleaning function, etc.) according to the status of each component provided in the aerosol generator (10), a user command received through the input/output interface (12), etc.

The control unit (17) can control the operation of each component provided in the aerosol generating device (10) based on the data stored in the memory (14). For example, the control unit (17) can control a predetermined power to be supplied from the battery (16) to the aerosol generating module (13) for a predetermined period of time based on data on the temperature profile, the user's inhalation pattern, etc. stored in the memory (14).

The control unit (17) can determine whether a puff is present through the puff sensor (151) included in the sensor module (15). For example, the control unit (17) can check temperature changes, flow changes, pressure changes, voltage changes, etc. within the aerosol generating device (10) based on the sensing values of the puff sensor (151). The control unit (17) can determine whether a puff is present based on the results checked based on the sensing values of the puff sensor (151).

The control unit (17) can control the operation of each component provided in the aerosol generating device (10) depending on whether a puff is generated and/or the number of puffs. For example, the control unit (17) can control the temperature of the heater to be changed or maintained based on the temperature profile stored in the memory (14).

The control unit (17) can control power supply to the heater to be cut off according to predetermined conditions. For example, when the stick is removed, when the cartridge (200) is separated, when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs, when no puffs are detected for a preset time or longer, when the remaining capacity of the battery (16) is less than a preset value, etc., the control unit (17) can control power supply to the heater to be cut off.

The control unit (17) can calculate the remaining power capacity stored in the battery (16). For example, the control unit (17) can calculate the remaining power amount of the battery (16) based on the sensing values of the voltage sensor and/or current sensor included in the sensor module (15).

The control unit (17) can control power to be supplied to the heater by using at least one of the pulse width modulation (PWM) method and the proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

For example, the control unit (17) can control a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the heater using the PWM method. At this time, the control unit (17) can control the power supplied to the heater by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

For example, the control unit (17) can determine the target temperature that is the target of control based on the temperature profile. At this time, the control unit (17) can control the power supplied to the heater by using the PID method, which is a feedback control method using the difference value between the temperature of the heater and the target temperature, the integrated value of the difference value over time, and the differentiated value of the difference value over time.

For example, the control unit (17) can control the power supplied to the heater based on the temperature profile. The control unit (17) can control the length of the heating section that heats the heater, the amount of power supplied to the heater during the heating section, etc. The control unit (17) can control the power supplied to the heater based on the target temperature of the heater.

Meanwhile, the PWM method and the PID method have been described as examples of control methods for supplying power to the heater, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various control methods such as the Proportional-Integral (PI) method and the Proportional-Differential (PD) method can be used.

The control unit (17) can determine the temperature of the heater and adjust the power supplied to the heater according to the temperature of the heater. For example, the control unit (17) can determine the temperature of the heater by checking the resistance value of the heater, the current flowing to the heater, and/or the voltage applied to the heater.

Meanwhile, the control unit (17) can control power to be supplied to the heater according to preset conditions. For example, if a cleaning function for cleaning the space where the stick is inserted is selected according to a command input from the user through the input/output interface (12), the control unit (17) can control power to be supplied to the heater.

FIGS. 2 to 4 are drawings for reference in the description of an aerosol generating device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

According to various embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device (10) may include a main body (100) and/or a cartridge (200).

Referring to FIG. 2, an aerosol generating device (10) according to one embodiment may include a main body (100) configured such that a stick (20) can be inserted into a space formed by a housing (101).

The stick (20) may be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the stick (20) may be divided into a first portion containing an aerosol generating substance and a second portion containing a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second portion of the stick (20) may also contain an aerosol generating substance. For example, an aerosol generating substance in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

The entire first part may be inserted into the inside of the aerosol generating device (10), and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first part may be inserted into the inside of the aerosol generating device (10), or parts of the first part and the second part may be inserted. The user may inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in his mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol may be delivered to the user's mouth by passing through the second part.

The main body (100) may be formed in a structure in which external air can flow into the interior of the main body (100) when the stick (20) is inserted. At this time, the external air that flows into the main body (100) can flow through the stick (20) to the user's mouth.

The heater may be placed in a position within the body (100) corresponding to the position of the stick (20) when the stick (20) is inserted into the body (100). In this drawing, the heater is illustrated as an electrically conductive heater (110) including a needle-shaped electrically conductive track, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

The heater can heat the inside and/or outside of the stick (20) using power supplied from the battery (16). At this time, an aerosol can be generated from the heated stick (20). At this time, the user can inhale the aerosol containing tobacco flavor by inhaling one end of the stick (20) with the mouth.

Meanwhile, the control unit (17) can control power to be supplied to the heater even when the stick (20) is not inserted, according to preset conditions. For example, when a cleaning function for cleaning the space where the stick (20) is inserted is selected according to a command input from a user through the input/output interface (12), the control unit (17) can control power to be supplied to the heater.

The control unit (17) can monitor the number of puffs based on the sensing value of the puff sensor from the time the stick (20) is inserted.

The control unit (17) can initialize the current number of puffs stored in the memory (14) when the inserted stick (20) is removed.

Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device (10) according to one embodiment may include a main body (100) supporting a cartridge (200) and a cartridge (200) containing an aerosol generating material.

The cartridge (200) may be configured to be detachable from the main body (100) according to one embodiment. The cartridge (200) may be configured integrally with the main body (100) according to another embodiment. For example, at least a portion of the cartridge (200) may be inserted into an internal space formed by the housing (101) of the main body (100), so that the cartridge (200) may be mounted on the main body (100).

The main body (100) may be formed in a structure in which external air can flow into the interior of the main body (100) while the cartridge (200) is inserted. At this time, the external air that flows into the main body (100) can pass through the cartridge (200) and flow into the user's mouth.

The control unit (17) can determine whether the cartridge (200) is mounted/removed through the cartridge detection sensor included in the sensor module (15). For example, the cartridge detection sensor can transmit a pulse current through one terminal connected to the cartridge (200). At this time, the cartridge detection sensor can detect whether the cartridge (200) is connected based on whether a pulse current is received through another terminal.

The cartridge (200) may include a heater (210) for heating an aerosol generating material and/or a storage (220) for holding an aerosol generating material. For example, a liquid delivery means impregnated (containing) with an aerosol generating material may be placed inside the storage (220). The electrically conductive track of the heater (210) may be formed in a structure that winds the liquid delivery means. At this time, as the liquid delivery means is heated by the heater (210), an aerosol may be generated. Here, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

The cartridge (200) may include an insertion space (230) configured to allow the stick (20) to be inserted. For example, the cartridge (200) may include an insertion space formed by an inner wall (not shown) extending circumferentially along the direction in which the stick (20) is inserted. At this time, the insertion space may be formed by the inner side of the inner wall being open upward and downward. The stick (20) may be inserted into the insertion space (230) formed by the inner wall.

The insertion space into which the stick (20) is inserted can be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of a portion of the stick (20) inserted into the insertion space. For example, when the stick (20) is formed in a cylindrical shape, the insertion space can be formed in a cylindrical shape.

When the stick (20) is inserted into the insertion space, the outer surface of the stick (20) is surrounded by the inner wall and can come into contact with the inner wall.

A portion of the stick (20) can be inserted into the insertion space (230) of the cartridge (200), and the remaining portion can be exposed to the outside.

The user can inhale the aerosol by holding one end of the stick (20) in his mouth. The aerosol generated by the heater (210) can pass through the stick (20) and be delivered to the user's mouth. At this time, while the aerosol passes through the stick (20), a substance contained in the stick (20) can be added to the aerosol, and the aerosol added with the substance can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick (20).

Referring to FIG. 4, an aerosol generating device (10) according to one embodiment may include a main body (100) that supports a cartridge (200) and a cartridge (200) that holds an aerosol generating material. The main body (100) may be configured such that a stick (20) can be inserted into an insertion space (130).

*The aerosol generating device (10) may include a first heater that heats an aerosol generating material stored in a cartridge (200). For example, when a user inhales one end of the stick (20) with his/her mouth, the aerosol generated by the first heater may pass through the stick (20). At this time, while the aerosol passes through the stick (20), a flavor may be added to the aerosol. The flavored aerosol may be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick (20).

Meanwhile, according to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device (10) may include a heater for heating an aerosol generating substance stored in a cartridge (200) and a heater for heating a stick (20) inserted into a main body (100), respectively. For example, the aerosol generating device (10) may generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating substance stored in the cartridge (200) and the stick (20), respectively, through a plurality of heaters.

FIGS. 5 to 7 are drawings that are referenced in the description of a stick according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed descriptions of overlapping contents in FIGS. 5 to 7 will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 5, a cigarette (20) according to one embodiment may include a tobacco rod (21) and a filter rod (22). The first part described above with reference to FIG. 2 may include the tobacco rod (21). The second part described above with reference to FIG. 2 may include the filter rod (22).

In Fig. 5, the filter load (22) is illustrated as a single segment, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter load (22) may be composed of a plurality of segments. For example, the filter load (22) may include a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering a predetermined component contained in the aerosol. In addition, if necessary, the filter load (22) may further include at least one segment for performing another function.

The diameter of the stick (20) is within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length may be about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod (21) may be about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod (22) may be about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod (22) may be about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod (22) may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

*The stick (20) may be wrapped by at least one wrapper (24). The wrapper (24) may have at least one hole formed through which outside air is introduced or internal gas is discharged. As an example, the stick (20) may be wrapped by one wrapper (24). As another example, the stick (20) may be wrapped by two or more wrappers (24) in an overlapping manner. For example, the tobacco rod (21) may be wrapped by the first wrapper (241). For example, the filter rod (22) may be wrapped by the wrappers (242, 243, 244). The tobacco rod (21) and the filter rod (22) wrapped by individual wrappers may be combined. The entire stick (20) may be repackaged by the third wrapper (245). If each filter load (22) is composed of multiple segments, each segment can be wrapped by an individual wrapper (242, 243, 244). The entire stick (20) in which the segments wrapped by the individual wrappers are combined can be repackaged by another wrapper.

The first wrapper (241) and the second wrapper (242) can be made of general filter paper. For example, the first wrapper (241) and the second wrapper (242) can be porous paper or non-porous paper. In addition, the first wrapper (241) and the second wrapper (242) can be made of oil-resistant paper and/or aluminum composite packaging material.

The third wrapper (243) may be made of hard paper. For example, the weight of the third wrapper (243) may be within a range of 88 g/m2 to 96 g/m2. For example, the weight of the third wrapper (243) may be within a range of 90 g/m2 to 94 g/m2. In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper (243) may be within a range of 120 um to 130 um. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper (243) may be 125 um.

The fourth wrapper (244) may be made of a hard paper having a high oil resistance. For example, the weight of the fourth wrapper (244) may be included in a range of 88 g/m2 to 96 g/m2. For example, the weight of the fourth wrapper (244) may be included in a range of 90 g/m2 to 94 g/m2. In addition, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (244) may be included in a range of 120 um to 130 um. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (244) may be 125 um.

The fifth wrapper (245) may be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) may mean paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (245) may be within a range of 57 g/m2 to 63 g/m2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (245) may be 60 g/m2. In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper (245) may be within a range of 64 um to 70 um. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper (245) may be 67 um.

The fifth wrapper (245) may have a predetermined material added thereto. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be silicon, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicon may have properties such as heat resistance that is less affected by temperature, oxidation resistance that does not oxidize, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any material having the above-described properties may be applied or coated on the fifth wrapper (245) without limitation.

The fifth wrapper (245) can prevent the stick (20) from burning. For example, if the tobacco rod (21) is heated by the heater (110), there is a possibility that the stick (20) will burn. Specifically, if the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the materials included in the tobacco rod (21), the stick (20) may burn. Even in this case, since the fifth wrapper (245) includes a non-combustible material, the stick (20) can be prevented from burning.

In addition, the fifth wrapper (245) can prevent the main body (100) from being contaminated by substances generated from the stick (20). Liquid substances can be generated within the stick (20) by the user's puff. For example, liquid substances (e.g., moisture, etc.) can be generated by cooling the aerosol generated from the stick (20) by external air. As the fifth wrapper (245) wraps the stick (20), liquid substances generated within the stick (20) can be prevented from leaking out of the stick (20).

The tobacco rod (21) may include an aerosol generating material. For example, the aerosol generating material may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. In addition, the tobacco rod (21) may contain other additives such as a flavoring agent, a humectant, and/or an organic acid. In addition, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the tobacco rod (21) by spraying it onto the tobacco rod (21).

The tobacco rod (21) can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod (21) can be manufactured as a sheet. For example, the tobacco rod (21) can be manufactured as a strand. For example, the tobacco rod (21) can be manufactured as a tobacco sheet cut into small pieces. For example, the tobacco rod (21) can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. For example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod (21) can evenly distribute heat transferred to the tobacco rod (21) to improve the heat conductivity applied to the tobacco rod. This can improve the taste of the tobacco. The heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod (21) can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater. At this time, although not shown in the drawing, the tobacco rod (21) may further include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat-conducting material surrounding the outside.

The filter rod (22) may be a cellulose acetate filter. Meanwhile, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod (22). For example, the filter rod (22) may be a cylindrical rod. For example, the filter rod (22) may be a tube rod having a hollow portion therein. For example, the filter rod (22) may be a recessed rod. When the filter rod (22) is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

The first segment of the filter rod (22) may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure having a hollow space therein. When the heater (110) is inserted through the first segment, the phenomenon of the internal material of the tobacco rod (21) being pushed back may be prevented, and a cooling effect of the aerosol may also be generated. The diameter of the hollow space included in the first segment may be adopted as an appropriate diameter within a range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The length of the first segment may be any appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the first segment may be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The second segment of the filter rod (22) cools the aerosol generated by the heater (110) heating the tobacco rod (21). Accordingly, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined variously depending on the shape of the stick (20). For example, the length of the second segment can be appropriately employed within a range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment can be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The second segment can be made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a flavoring agent can be applied to the fibers made of the polymer. Alternatively, a separate fiber to which a flavoring agent has been applied and a fiber made of the polymer can be woven together to make the second segment. Alternatively, the second segment can be formed by a crimped polymer sheet.

For example, the polymer can be made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

As the second segment is formed by a woven polymer fiber or a crimped polymer sheet, the second segment may include a single or a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. Here, a channel may mean a passage through which a gas (e.g., air or an aerosol) passes.

For example, the second segment comprised of the compressed polymer sheet can be formed from a material having a thickness of between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, for example between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. Furthermore, the total surface area of the second segment can be between about 300 mm2/mm and about 1000 mm2/mm. Additionally, the aerosol-cooling element can be formed from a material having a specific surface area of between about 10 mm2/mg and about 100 mm2/mg.

Meanwhile, the second segment may include a thread containing a volatile flavor component. Here, the volatile flavor component may be menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

The third segment of the filter load (22) may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be appropriately adopted within a range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The filter rod (22) may be manufactured to generate a flavor. As an example, a flavoring agent may be sprayed onto the filter rod (22). As an example, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring agent may be inserted into the interior of the filter rod (22).

In addition, the filter load (22) may include at least one capsule (23). Here, the capsule (23) may perform a function of generating a flavor. The capsule (23) may also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule (23) may have a structure in which a liquid including a flavor is wrapped with a film. The capsule (23) may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIG. 6, the stick (30) according to one embodiment may further include a shear plug (33). The shear plug (33) is located on one side of the tobacco rod (31) facing the filter rod (32). The shear plug (33) can prevent the tobacco rod (31) from escaping to the outside. The shear plug (33) can prevent liquefied aerosol from the tobacco rod (31) from flowing into the aerosol generating device (10) during smoking.

The filter load (32) may include a first segment (321) and a second segment (322). The first segment (321) may correspond to the first segment of the filter load (22) of Fig. 5. The second segment (322) may correspond to the third segment of the filter load (22) of Fig. 5.

The diameter and total length of the stick (30) may correspond to the diameter and total length of the stick (20) of Fig. 5. For example, the length of the shear plug (33) may be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod (31) may be about 15 mm, the length of the first segment (321) may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment (322) may be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The stick (30) may be wrapped by at least one wrapper (35). The wrapper (35) may have at least one hole formed through which outside air is introduced or internal gas is discharged. For example, the shear plug (33) may be wrapped by the first wrapper (351), the tobacco rod (31) may be wrapped by the second wrapper (352), the first segment (321) may be wrapped by the third wrapper (353), and the second segment (322) may be wrapped by the fourth wrapper (354). Then, the entire stick (30) may be repackaged by the fifth wrapper (355).

In addition, at least one perforation (36) may be formed in the fifth wrapper (355). For example, the perforation (36) may be formed in an area surrounding the tobacco rod (31), but is not limited thereto. For example, the perforation (36) may serve to transfer heat formed by the heater (210) illustrated in FIG. 3 to the interior of the tobacco rod (31).

In addition, the second segment (322) may include at least one capsule (34). Here, the capsule (34) may perform a function of generating a flavor. The capsule (34) may also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule (34) may be a structure in which a liquid including a flavor is wrapped with a film. The capsule (34) may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

The first wrapper (351) may be a general filter paper combined with a metal foil such as aluminum foil. For example, the overall thickness of the first wrapper (351) may be included in a range of 45 um to 55 um. For example, the overall thickness of the first wrapper (351) may be 50.3 um. In addition, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper (351) may be included in a range of 6 um to 7 um. For example, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper (351) may be 6.3 um. In addition, the basis weight of the first wrapper (351) may be included in a range of 50 g/m2 to 55 g/m2. For example, the basis weight of the first wrapper (351) may be 53 g/m2.

The second wrapper (352) and the third wrapper (353) can be made of general filter paper. For example, the second wrapper (352) and the third wrapper (353) can be porous paper or non-porous paper.

For example, the porosity of the second wrapper (352) may be 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the second wrapper (352) may be included in a range of 70 um to 80 um. For example, the thickness of the second wrapper (352) may be 78 um. In addition, the basis weight of the second wrapper (352) may be included in a range of 20 g/m2 to 25 g/m2. For example, the basis weight of the second wrapper (352) may be 23.5 g/m2.

For example, the porosity of the third wrapper (353) may be 24000 CU, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper (353) may be included in a range of 60 um to 70 um. For example, the thickness of the third wrapper (353) may be 68 um. In addition, the basis weight of the third wrapper (353) may be included in a range of 20 g/m2 to 25 g/m2. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper (353) may be 21 g/m2.

The fourth wrapper (354) may be made of PLA laminate. Here, the PLA laminate may mean three-ply paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (354) may be included in a range of 100 um to 120 um. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (354) may be 110 um. In addition, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper (354) may be included in a range of 80 g/m2 to 100 g/m2. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper (354) may be 88 g/m2.

The fifth wrapper (355) may be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) may mean paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (355) may be within a range of 57 g/m2 to 63 g/m2. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper (355) may be 60 g/m2. In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper (355) may be within a range of 64 um to 70 um. For example, the thickness of the fifth wrapper (355) may be 67 um.

The fifth wrapper (355) may have a predetermined material added thereto. Here, an example of the predetermined material may be silicon, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance that is less affected by temperature, oxidation resistance that does not oxidize, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any material having the above-described properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper (355) without limitation.

The shear plug (33) can be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the shear plug (33) can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow can be included in a range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow can be included in a range of 4.0 to 6.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the shear plug (33) can be 5.0. In addition, the cross section of the filaments constituting the shear plug (33) can be Y-shaped. The total denier of the shear plug (33) can be included in a range of 20,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the shear plug (33) may be within a range of 25,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the shear plug (33) may be 28,000.

Additionally, if necessary, the shear plug (33) may include at least one channel. The cross-sectional shape of the channel of the shear plug (330) may be manufactured in various ways.

The tobacco rod (31) may correspond to the tobacco rod (21) described above with reference to Fig. 5. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco rod (31) will be omitted below.

The first segment (321) can be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment can be a tube-shaped structure including a hollow space therein. The first segment (321) can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the mono denier and total denier of the first segment (321) can be the same as the mono denier and total denier of the shear plug (33).

The second segment (322) may be made of cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the second segment (322) may be included in a range of 1.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment (322) may be included in a range of 8.0 to 10.0. For example, the mono denier of the filaments of the second segment (322) may be 9.0. In addition, the cross section of the filaments of the second segment (322) may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment (322) may be included in a range of 20,000 to 30,000. For example, the total denier of the second segment (322) may be 25,000.

Referring to FIG. 7, the stick (40) may include a medium portion (410). The stick (40) may include a cooling portion (420). The stick (40) may include a filter portion (430). The cooling portion (420) may be arranged between the medium portion (410) and the filter portion (430). The stick (40) may include a wrapper (440). The wrapper (440) may wrap the medium portion (410). The wrapper (440) may wrap the cooling portion (420). The wrapper (440) may wrap the filter portion (430). The stick (40) may have a cylindrical shape.

The medium portion (410) may include a medium (411). The medium portion (410) may include a first medium cover (413). The medium portion (410) may include a second medium cover (415). The medium (411) may be arranged between the first medium cover (413) and the second medium cover (415). The first medium cover (413) may be arranged at one end of the stick (40). The length of the medium portion (410) may be 24 mm.

The medium (411) may include a variety of ingredients. The materials included in the medium may be flavoring materials of various ingredients. The medium (411) may be composed of a plurality of granules. Each of the plurality of granules may have a size of 0.4 mm to 1.12 mm. The medium (411) may be filled with granules to about 70% of its interior. The length (L2) of the medium (411) may be 10 mm. The first medium cover (413) may be composed of an acetate material. The second medium cover (415) may be composed of an acetate material. The first medium cover (413) may be composed of a paper material. The second medium cover (415) may be composed of a paper material. At least one of the first medium cover (413) and the second medium cover (415) may be made of paper material and may be folded into a wrinkled shape to form a plurality of gaps therebetween for air to flow. The gaps may be smaller than the size of each granule of the medium (411). The length (L1) of the first medium cover (413) may be shorter than the length (L2) of the medium (411). The length (L3) of the second medium cover (413) may be shorter than the length (L2) of the medium (411). The length (L1) of the first medium cover (413) may be 7 mm. The length (L2) of the second medium cover (413) may be 7 mm.

Accordingly, each granule of the medium (411) may not be separated from the medium portion (410) and the stick (40).

The cooling unit (420) may have a cylindrical shape. The cooling unit (420) may have a hollow shape. The cooling unit (420) may be arranged between the medium unit (410) and the filter unit (430). The cooling unit (420) may be arranged between the second medium cover (415) and the filter unit (430). The cooling unit (420) may be formed in a tube shape surrounding the cooling pass (424) inside. The cooling unit (420) may be thicker than the wrapper (440). The cooling unit (420) may be made of a paper material that is thicker than the wrapper (440). The length (L4) of the cooling unit (420) may be the same as or similar to the length (L2) of the medium (411). The length (L4) of the cooling unit (420) and the cooling pass (424) may be 10 mm. When the stick (40) is inserted into the interior of the aerosol generator (10), at least a portion of the cooling unit (420) may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator (10).

Accordingly, the cooling unit (420) can support the medium unit (410) and the filter unit (430) and secure the rigidity of the stick (40). In addition, the cooling unit (420) can support the wrapper (440) between the medium unit (410) and the filter unit (430) and secure a portion to which the wrapper (440) can be adhered. In addition, the heated air and aerosol can be cooled while passing through the cooling pass (424) inside the cooling unit (420).

The filter part (430) may be composed of an acetate material filter. The filter part (430) may be placed at the other end of the stick (40). When the stick (40) is inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device (10), the filter part (430) may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device (10). The user may hold the filter part (430) in his/her mouth and inhale air. The length (L5) of the filter part (430) may be 14 mm.

The wrapper (440) can wrap or surround the medium portion (410), the cooling portion (420), and the filter portion (430). The wrapper (440) can form the outer shape of the stick (40). The wrapper (440) can be made of paper material. The adhesive portion (441) can be formed on one edge of the wrapper (440). The wrapper (440) wraps the medium portion (410), the cooling portion (420), and the filter portion (430), and the adhesive portion (441) formed on one edge and the other edge can be adhered to each other. The wrapper (440) wrapping the medium portion (410), the cooling portion (420), and the filter portion (430) may not cover one end and the other end of the stick (40).

Accordingly, the wrapper (440) can fix the medium section (410), the cooling section (420), and the filter section (430) and prevent them from being separated from the stick (40).

The first thin film (443) may be placed at a position corresponding to the first medium cover (413). The first thin film (443) may be placed between the wrapper (440) and the first medium cover (413), or may be placed on the outside of the wrapper (440). The first thin film (443) may surround the first medium cover (413). The first thin film (443) may be made of a metal material. The first thin film (443) may be made of an aluminum material. The first thin film (443) may be in close contact with or coated on the wrapper (440).

The second thin film (445) may be placed at a position corresponding to the second medium cover (415). The second thin film (445) may be placed between the wrapper (440) and the second medium cover (415), or may be placed on the outside of the wrapper (440). The second thin film (445) may be made of a metal material. The second thin film (445) may be made of an aluminum material. The second thin film (445) may be in close contact with or coated on the wrapper (440).

FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the structure of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIGS. 9 and 10 are drawings for reference in the description of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Throughout this specification, “upstream” and “downstream” may be determined based on the direction of airflow in which the generated aerosol flows so as to be inhaled into the user’s mouth or lungs when the user inhales using the stick. For example, in FIGS. 4 and 5 , since the aerosol generated from the tobacco rod (21, 31) is directed toward the filter rod (22, 32), the tobacco rod (21, 31) is located upstream of the filter rod (22, 32), and the filter rod (22, 32) is located downstream of the tobacco rod (21, 31). “Upstream” and “downstream” may be determined relatively between components.

Throughout this specification, the direction of the aerosol generator (10) can be defined based on the orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generator (10). At this time, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +x can mean the right direction, and the direction toward -x can mean the left direction. The y-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generator (10). At this time, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +y can mean the upward direction, and the direction toward -y can mean the downward direction. The z-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generator (10). With respect to the origin, the direction toward +z can mean the forward direction, and the direction toward -z can mean the rearward direction.

Referring to FIG. 8, the aerosol generating device (10) may include a main body (100) and a cartridge (200). The aerosol generating device (10) may include a heater (210), an impedance sensor (155), a humidity sensor (156), a battery (16), and/or a control unit (17).

The cartridge (200) may be detachable from the main body (100). A chamber (C1) may be formed inside the cartridge (200).

The cartridge (200) may include an outer wall and an inner wall. The chamber (C1) may be configured by a space between the outer wall and the inner wall. The chamber (C1) may store a liquid aerosol generating substance therein. The liquid aerosol generating substance within the chamber (C1) may be heated by a heater (210).

The cartridge (200) may include a wick (not shown). The wick may be connected to a chamber (C1). The wick may be supplied with a liquid aerosol generating substance stored in the chamber (C1). The liquid aerosol generating substance stored in the chamber (C1) may be impregnated into the wick. When the wick is heated by a heater (210), an aerosol may be generated.

The heater (210) may be electrically connected to the battery (16) and/or the control unit (17). The heater (210) may be positioned adjacent to the chamber (C1) and may heat a wick impregnated with a liquid aerosol generating substance within the chamber (C1). The heater (210) may heat the liquid aerosol generating substance within the wick.

The cartridge (200) may have an insertion space (230). One end of the insertion space (230) may be opened to form an opening. The insertion space (230) may be exposed to the outside through the opening. The opening may be defined as one end of the insertion space (230). The insertion space (230) may be formed to be elongated in the vertical direction. The insertion space (230) may be configured as a space surrounded by an inner wall formed to be elongated in the vertical direction. The stick (40) may be inserted into the insertion space (230).

The cartridge (200) may be positioned so as to be in contact with the main body (100). The cartridge (200) may be coupled to the main body (100) or separated from the main body (100). The lower wall and one side wall of the outer wall of the cartridge (200) may be in contact with the main body (100). The insertion space (230) may be formed adjacent to one side wall of the outer wall of the cartridge (200) that is in contact with the main body (100).

A connection terminal (154) may be provided on the surface of the main body (100) that comes into contact with the cartridge (200). The connection terminal (154) may be positioned so as to protrude from the outside of the main body (100). When the cartridge (200) is coupled to the main body (100), the connection terminal (154) may come into contact with a plurality of terminals of the impedance sensor (155) and be electrically connected thereto.

The impedance sensor (155) may be placed inside the insertion space (230). At least some of the plurality of sensing electrodes of the impedance sensor (155) may be placed inside the insertion space (230). At least some of the plurality of sensing electrodes may come into contact with the liquid aerosol generating substance of the stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (230). As the stick (40) is inserted into the insertion space (230), the impedance sensor (155) may be inserted into the interior of the stick (40) through the upstream end of the stick (40) and come into contact with the liquid aerosol generating substance in the stick (40).

Referring to FIG. 9, the impedance sensor (155) may include an insulating substrate (1551), a plurality of sensing electrodes (1552, 1553), a plurality of terminals (1554, 1555), and a connection pattern (1556, 1557).

The insulating substrate (1551) may extend in the length direction of the insertion space (230). The insulating substrate (1551) may have a cylindrical shape or a plate shape having an elongated shape. The upper end of the insulating substrate (1551) may be formed in a pointed shape. The insulating substrate (1551) may be formed of an insulator.

The plurality of sensing electrodes (1552, 1553) may be formed as conductors extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (230). The plurality of sensing electrodes (1552, 1553) may be positioned spaced apart from each other in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction on the insulating substrate (1551). For example, the plurality of sensing electrodes (1552, 1553) may be positioned spaced apart from each other at equal intervals in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (230) (left-right direction) on the insulating substrate (1551). At least a portion of the plurality of sensing electrodes (1552, 1553) may come into contact with a liquid aerosol generating substance within a stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (230).

The plurality of sensing electrodes (1552, 1553) may include a first electrode (1552) and a second electrode (1553). The first electrode (1552) may include at least one electrode extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (230). The second electrode (1553) may include at least one electrode extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (230) and positioned spaced apart from at least one first electrode (1552). In FIG. 9, a structure in which the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) are each formed by two electrodes is illustrated, but the number of the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) is not limited thereto.

The first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) may be arranged alternately in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (230). For example, on the insulating substrate (1551), the electrodes may be arranged alternately in the following order: first electrode (1552), second electrode (1553), first electrode (1552), second electrode (1553).

At least one first electrode (1552) and at least one second electrode (1553) are alternately arranged so that at least one second electrode (1553) is arranged adjacent to the first electrode (1552), and at least one first electrode (1552) is arranged adjacent to the second electrode (1553). Compared to a case where the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) are not alternately arranged or where only one first electrode (1552) and one second electrode (1553) exist, the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) can be measured more accurately.

The plurality of terminals (1554, 1555) may include a first terminal (1554) and a second terminal (1555). The first terminal (1554) may be electrically connected to the first electrode (1552). The second terminal (1555) may be electrically connected to the second electrode (1553). For example, the first terminal (1554) may be connected to the first electrode (1552) through the first connection pattern (1556), and the second terminal (1555) may be connected to the second electrode (1553) through the second connection pattern (1557).

The first terminal (1554) and the second terminal (1555) may be arranged spaced apart from each other. The first terminal (1554) and the second terminal (1555) may be arranged spaced apart from each other at the bottom of the insulating substrate (1551).

Referring to FIG. 10, the impedance sensor (155) may be included in the cartridge (200). The impedance sensor (155) may be fixed to the lower surface of the insertion space (230) of the cartridge (200) and may extend in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (230) from the lower surface.

The first terminal (1554) and the second terminal (1555) of the impedance sensor (155) may be positioned so as to be exposed on one side of the lower wall of the cartridge (200). The first terminal (1554) and the second terminal (1555) may be electrically connected to each terminal included in the connection terminal (154) by coming into contact with the connection terminal (154) of the main body (100) when the cartridge (200) is coupled to the main body (100).

Meanwhile, the impedance sensor (155) may be included in the main body (100). The main body (100) may include a lower body (101) facing the lower side of the cartridge (200) and an upper body (102) positioned on the upper side of the lower body (101) and facing the side of the cartridge (200). The impedance sensor (155) may be installed in the lower body (101). The impedance sensor (155) may be positioned inside the insertion space (230) when the cartridge (200) is coupled to the main body (100).

The humidity sensor (156) can measure the humidity of the outside air around the aerosol generating device (10) and output a signal corresponding to the measured information. The humidity sensor (156) can be implemented by a capacitive sensor, etc. The humidity sensor (156) can be placed in at least one of the main body (100) and the cartridge (200).

The control unit (17) can measure the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) of the impedance sensor (155). The control unit (17) can calculate the amount of the liquid aerosol generating substance in the stick (40) based on the size of the measured impedance. The control unit (17) can determine whether the stick (40) is inserted into the insertion space (230) and/or whether the stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (230) is a previously used stick based on the size of the measured impedance.

The battery (16) can supply power to the heater (210) based on the control of the control unit (17).

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 12 is a drawing for reference in the description of the operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which is an enlarged drawing of an impedance sensor inserted into the interior of a stick accommodated in an insertion space.

Referring to FIG. 11, the aerosol generator (10) can measure impedance in operation S1110. The aerosol generator (10) can control power to be supplied to the impedance sensor (155) and measure impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) of the impedance sensor (155). For example, the aerosol generator (10) can apply an AC voltage between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) through the first terminal (1555) and the second terminal (1556) and measure current flowing to the first terminal (1555) and the second terminal (1556). The aerosol generator (10) can calculate the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) based on the applied voltage and the measured current. Meanwhile, the aerosol generator (10) can calculate the impedance by applying a direct current voltage between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) through the first terminal (1555) and the second terminal (1556) and measuring the current flowing to the first terminal (1555) and the second terminal (1556).

The aerosol generator (10) can compare the size of the calculated impedance with the first reference size in operation S1120. The aerosol generator (10) can determine whether the size of the calculated impedance is less than or equal to the first reference size.

The aerosol generator (10) can determine that a stick (40) is inserted into the insertion space (230) in operation S1130 if the size of the calculated impedance is less than or equal to the first reference size. If the stick (40) is inserted, the size of the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) can be relatively smaller than a state in which the stick (40) is not inserted into the insertion space (230). The first reference size can be preset to a value that is equal to or greater than a certain level of the size of the impedance measured when a new stick is inserted into the insertion space (230).

If the size of the calculated impedance exceeds the first reference size, the aerosol generator (10) determines that the stick (40) is not inserted into the insertion space (230) and can measure the impedance again (operation S1110).

The aerosol generator (10) can determine, in operation S1140, whether the calculated impedance is less than or equal to a second reference size when the calculated impedance is less than or equal to a first reference size. Here, the second reference size may be a value smaller than the first reference size.

The aerosol generator (10) can determine that the stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (230) is a previously used stick if the size of the calculated impedance is less than or equal to the second reference size.

The aerosol generator (10) can calculate the amount of liquid aerosol generating material in the inserted stick (40) based on the size of the calculated impedance when the size of the calculated impedance is less than or equal to the second reference size.

Referring to FIG. 12, when voltage is applied between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553), current can flow through the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553). Since the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) are spaced apart from each other on the insulating substrate (1551), when no liquid aerosol product exists or a very small amount exists in the stick (40), the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) can have a very large value. When the liquid aerosol product exists in the stick (40), a portion of the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) is inserted into the liquid aerosol product in the stick (40). In this case, a relatively larger current may flow through the portion of the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) that is inserted into the liquid aerosol generating material than through the portion that is not inserted. Since a portion between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) is inserted into the liquid aerosol generating material, the size of the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) may have a relatively smaller value compared to a case where the liquid aerosol generating material does not exist in the stick (40).

The size of the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) may decrease in proportion to the height of the portion of the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) that is inserted into the liquid aerosol generating material. When the height of the portion of the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) that is inserted into the liquid aerosol generating material is high (d1 in FIG. 12), the size of the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) may have a smaller value than when the height is low (d2 in FIG. 12).

The amount of liquid aerosol generating material within the stick (40) may be proportional to the height of the portion where the liquid aerosol generating material is distributed. Accordingly, the size of the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) may be reduced in proportion to the amount of liquid aerosol generating material within the stick (40).

The aerosol generator (10) can calculate the amount of a liquid aerosol generating substance in the stick (40) based on the matching information stored in the memory (14). The memory (14) can store information on the size of the impedance between a plurality of detection electrodes (1552, 1553) of the impedance sensor (155) and the amount of the liquid aerosol generating substance in the stick (40) in a matching manner. The aerosol generator (10) can compare the size of the impedance with the matching information stored in the memory (14) and calculate information on the amount of the liquid aerosol generating substance that matches the size of the impedance.

Compared to a new stick (an unused stick), a used stick may contain more liquid aerosol product. Compared to a new stick, a used stick may have a relatively smaller impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553). The second reference size may be preset to a value that is equal to or greater than a certain level of the impedance measured when the used stick is inserted into the insertion space (230). For example, the second reference size may be preset to a value that is equal to or greater than a certain level of the impedance measured when the used stick is inserted into the insertion space (230) by performing the maximum number of puffs (e.g., 14 puffs) per stick.

When a puff occurs, a portion of the liquid aerosol generating material in the chamber (C1) of the cartridge (200) may be vaporized by the heater (210), and an aerosol may be generated. The generated aerosol may flow through the interior of the stick (40) in the insertion space (230). In this process, a portion of the aerosol may not be released through the downstream of the stick (40) and may be liquefied again within the stick (40). The amount of the liquefied aerosol generating material within the stick (40) may increase as the number of puffs increases. The liquefied aerosol generating material within the stick (40) may be distributed from the upstream end of the stick (40) to a certain height within the stick (40). The height at which the liquefied aerosol generating material is distributed within the stick (40) may increase as the number of puffs increases.

Accordingly, the used stick may have a higher content of liquefied aerosol generating material inside compared to a new stick. In the case of the used stick, the size of the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) may be relatively smaller compared to a new stick due to the liquefied aerosol generating material inside.

The aerosol generator (10) can control the power supply to the heater (210) to be cut off when the inserted stick is a previously used stick. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can control the power supply to the heater (210) to be cut off until the inserted stick (40) is removed from the insertion space (230).

The aerosol generating device (10) can output information related to whether the stick (40) is in use or not through the output device (122). For example, the aerosol generating device (10) can display information indicating that the inserted stick is an unusable stick.

The aerosol generator (10) can determine, in operation S1160, that the stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (230) is a new stick if the size of the calculated impedance exceeds the second reference size.

The aerosol generator (10) can control power to be supplied to the heater (210) based on whether the inserted stick (40) is a new stick. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can supply power to the heater (210) to preheat and/or heat the heater (210). For example, the aerosol generator (10) can supply power to the heater (210) based on a preset temperature profile.

Meanwhile, the aerosol generator (10) can determine whether the outside humidity is below the reference humidity before or after measuring the impedance. The aerosol generator (10) can determine whether the outside humidity is below the reference humidity based on a signal received from the humidity sensor (156).

The aerosol generating device (10) can determine whether a stick (40) is inserted into the insertion space (230) and/or whether the stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (230) is a previously used stick based on the size of the measured impedance when the outside humidity is lower than the reference humidity.

When the outside humidity is above a certain level, a certain amount of moisture may be contained within the stick (40). Due to the moisture contained within the stick (40), the size of the impedance between the first electrode (1552) and the second electrode (1553) may be measured to be relatively small. In this case, even if the stick (40) is a new stick, the aerosol generator (10) may incorrectly determine that the stick (40) is a previously used stick due to the moisture contained within the stick (40).

The aerosol generator (10) determines whether the stick (40) is inserted into the insertion space (230) and/or whether the stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (230) is a previously used stick based on the size of the impedance only when the outside humidity is lower than or equal to the reference humidity, thereby accurately determining whether the stick (40) is inserted into the insertion space (230) and/or whether the stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (230) is a previously used stick.

Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (10) can determine the extent to which the inserted stick (40) has been used based on the amount of liquid aerosol generating material within the stick (40).

The aerosol generating device (10) can determine the extent to which the stick (40) has been used in proportion to the amount of liquid aerosol generating material within the stick (40).

The aerosol generator (10) may supply power to the heater (210) even if it is determined that the inserted stick (40) is a previously used stick, if it is determined that the amount of the liquid aerosol generator in the stick (40) is less than the amount of the liquid aerosol generator in the stick used by performing the maximum number of puffs (e.g., 14 times) per allowable number of puffs per stick. The aerosol generator (10) may calculate the amount of the liquid aerosol generator in the inserted stick (40) each time a puff is generated. The aerosol generator (10) may compare the amount of the liquid aerosol generator in the inserted stick (40) with the amount of the liquid aerosol generator in the stick used for the maximum number of puffs. The aerosol generator (10) can be controlled to supply power to the heater (210) until the amount of liquid aerosol generator in the inserted stick (40) becomes equal to or similar to the amount of liquid aerosol generator in the stick used for the maximum number of puffs.

As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to accurately determine whether an inserted stick is in use.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, reuse of a previously used stick can be prevented.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the degree of use of a previously used stick can be determined.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 12, an aerosol generating device (10) according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a main body (100); a cartridge (200) coupled to the main body (100) and having an elongated insertion space (230) formed therein; an impedance sensor (155) disposed inside the insertion space (230) and extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (230); and the impedance sensor (155) is inserted into the interior of the stick (40) through an upstream end of the stick (40) as the stick (40) is inserted into the insertion space (230) and can come into contact with a liquid aerosol generating substance inside the stick (40).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the impedance sensor (155) includes an insulating substrate (1551) extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (230); and a plurality of sensing electrodes (1552, 1553) formed of conductors extending in the longitudinal direction and positioned spaced apart from each other in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction on the insulating substrate (1552); and at least a portion of the plurality of sensing electrodes (1552, 1553) can come into contact with the liquid aerosol generating material within the stick (40).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the impedance sensor (155) may be fixed to the lower surface of the insertion space (230) and may extend in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (230) from the lower surface.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the main body (100) includes a lower body (101) facing the lower side of the cartridge (200); and an upper body (102) disposed on the upper side of the lower body (101) and facing the side of the cartridge (200), and the impedance sensor (155) may be installed in the lower body (101) and disposed inside the insertion space (230) while the cartridge (200) is coupled to the main body (100).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of sensing electrodes (1552, 1553) include at least one first electrode (1552) extending in the longitudinal direction; and at least one second electrode (1553) extending in the longitudinal direction and arranged spaced apart from the at least one first electrode (1552); and the at least one first electrode (1552) and the at least one second electrode (1553) can be arranged alternately in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a control unit (17) is included, wherein the control unit (17) measures an impedance between the at least one first electrode (1552) and the at least one second electrode (1553), and based on the magnitude of the measured impedance, determines whether the stick (40) is inserted into the insertion space (230) and/or whether the stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (230) is a previously used stick.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (17) may compare the size of the measured impedance with a first impedance value, and if the size of the measured impedance is less than or equal to the first impedance value, determine that the stick (40) is inserted into the insertion space (230).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (17) may compare the size of the measured impedance with a second impedance value, and if the size of the measured impedance is less than or equal to the second impedance value, the stick (40) may be determined to be a previously used stick.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a humidity sensor (156) is further included, and the control unit (17) determines whether the outside humidity is lower than or equal to a reference humidity based on a signal received from the humidity sensor (156), and if the outside humidity is lower than or equal to the reference humidity, determines whether the stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (230) is a previously used stick based on the size of the measured impedance.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a heater (210); and an output device (122); are included, and the control unit (17) can, if the stick (40) inserted into the insertion space (330) is a previously used stick, cut off the supply of power to the heater (210) and output information related to whether the stick (40) has been previously used through the output device (122).

Any of the embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any of the embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and/or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and/or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

The above detailed description should not be construed as restrictive in all respects but should be considered as illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes coming within the equivalent scope of the invention are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention.

Claims (10)

entity;
An insertion space formed adjacent to the above main body;
Including an impedance sensor extending in the longitudinal direction of the above insertion space;
The above impedance sensor,
An aerosol generating device that is inserted into the interior of the stick through the upstream end of the stick as the stick is inserted into the insertion space and comes into contact with the liquid aerosol generating substance within the stick. In the first paragraph,
The above impedance sensor,
An insulating substrate extending in the longitudinal direction of the above insertion space; and
It comprises a plurality of sensing electrodes formed as conductors extending in the longitudinal direction and positioned spaced apart from each other in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction on the insulating substrate;
At least a portion of said plurality of sensing electrodes,
An aerosol generating device in contact with the liquid aerosol generating substance within the stick. In the first paragraph,
The above impedance sensor,
An aerosol generating device fixed to the lower surface of the insertion space and extending in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space from the lower surface. In the first paragraph,
The above body,
A lower body facing the lower part of the above insertion space; and
An upper body is disposed on the upper side of the lower body and includes an upper body facing the side of the insertion space,
The above impedance sensor,
An aerosol generating device installed in the above lower body and positioned inside the insertion space. In the second paragraph,
The above plurality of sensing electrodes are,
At least one first electrode extending in the longitudinal direction; and
At least one second electrode extending in the longitudinal direction and arranged spaced apart from the at least one first electrode;
An aerosol generating device in which at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode are arranged alternately in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction. In paragraph 5,
including a control unit;
The above control unit,
Measuring the impedance between at least one first electrode and at least one second electrode,
An aerosol generating device that determines whether the stick is inserted into the insertion space and/or whether the stick inserted into the insertion space is a previously used stick based on the magnitude of the measured impedance. In Article 6,
The above control unit,
Compare the size of the measured impedance with the first impedance value,
An aerosol generating device that determines that the stick is inserted into the insertion space when the size of the measured impedance is less than or equal to the first impedance value. In Article 6,
The above control unit,
Compare the size of the measured impedance with the second impedance value,
An aerosol generating device that determines that the stick is a previously used stick when the measured impedance is less than or equal to the second impedance value. In Article 8,
further comprising a humidity sensor;
The above control unit,
Based on the signal received from the above humidity sensor, it is determined whether the outside humidity is below the standard humidity,
An aerosol generating device that determines whether a stick inserted into the insertion space is a previously used stick based on the size of the measured impedance when the above-mentioned outside humidity is lower than or equal to the above-mentioned standard humidity. In Article 6,
heater; and
including an output device;
The above control unit,
If the stick inserted into the above insertion space is a previously used stick, the power supply to the heater is cut off,
An aerosol generating device that outputs information related to whether the stick has been used through the output device.