KR102786275B1 - Aerosol generating device and method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof are disclosed. The aerosol generating device of the present disclosure includes: a display; a timer that counts time; a communication interface that performs communication with an external device; and a control unit, wherein the control unit can output a screen based on data received through the communication interface through the display based on execution of a first convenient function using the communication, and can output a screen based on time counted through the timer through the display based on execution of a second convenient function using the timer.

Description

Aerosol generating device and its operating method {AEROSOL GENERATING DEVICE AND METHOD THEREOF}

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device and an operating method thereof.

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 and an operating method thereof that can provide a variety of convenient functions to a user in addition to the function of generating an aerosol.

Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device and its operating method that can provide convenience functions to a user by utilizing communication with an external device.

Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device and its operating method that can provide a convenient function to a user by using a timer that counts time.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, an aerosol generating device comprises: a display; a timer that counts time; a communication interface that performs communication with an external device; and a control unit, wherein the control unit can output a screen based on data received through the communication interface through the display based on execution of a first convenient function using the communication, and can output a screen based on time counted through the timer through the display based on execution of a second convenient function using the timer.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, a method for operating an aerosol generating device may include: a first output operation for outputting a screen based on data received through a communication interface of the aerosol generating device through a display of the aerosol generating device based on execution of a first convenient function using communication; and a second output operation for outputting a screen based on time counted through a timer of the aerosol generating device through the display based on execution of a second convenient function using a timer of the aerosol generating device.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, various convenient functions can be provided to the user in addition to the function of generating an aerosol.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a convenient function can be provided to a user by utilizing communication with an external device.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a convenient function can be provided to a user by using a timer that counts time.

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 become apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as the 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 and 6 are drawings for reference in the description of a stick according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 7A and 7B are flowcharts illustrating an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 8A to 20D are drawings for reference in explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to embodiments 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. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device (10) may be located in the main body. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device (10) may be composed of a cartridge containing an aerosol generating material and the main body. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device (10) may be located in at least one of the main body and the cartridge.

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 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 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.

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 ingredient.

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.

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.

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), 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, a puff sensor). At this time, the puff sensor 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. The sensor module (15) may sense the temperature of the heater by measuring the resistance of the heater that 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, if the aerosol generator (10) includes a cartridge, the sensor module (15) may include a sensor (hereinafter, cartridge detection sensor) that detects mounting/detaching, position, etc. of the cartridge with respect to the main body.

At this time, the stick detection sensor and/or cartridge detection sensor can be implemented by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC) using the Hall effect, etc.

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.

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 overvoltage is applied to the battery (16), when 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, the 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 the 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 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's 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 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. 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.

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 is separated, when the number of puffs reaches the 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 (hereinafter, “remaining power amount”) 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 value obtained by integrating the difference value over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference value over time.

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.

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 into which 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.

The control unit (17) may include a timer (175). The timer (175) may count the elapsed time. The timer (175) may be implemented by hardware or software. The timer (175) may count the time using an externally input clock and/or an internally generated clock. Meanwhile, in this drawing, the timer (175) is illustrated as being included in the control unit (17), but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the timer (175) may be implemented in a configuration separate from the control unit (17).

FIGS. 2 to 6 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 the outside 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 an electrically conductive track in the shape of a needle, 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 (100) 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 detachably attached to 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 the aerosol generating material. For example, a liquid delivery means impregnated with (containing) the 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 (100) 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 (100) 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 (100) may include a first heater for heating an aerosol generating substance stored in a cartridge (200) and a second heater for heating a stick (20) inserted into the main body (100), respectively. For example, the aerosol generating device (100) may generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating substance stored in the cartridge (200) and the stick (20), respectively, through the first heater and the second heater.

FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are drawings for reference in the description of a stick according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed descriptions of overlapping contents in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 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 within a range of 88 g/m2 to 96 g/m2. For example, the weight of the fourth wrapper (244) may be within a range of 90 g/m2 to 94 g/m2. In addition, the thickness of the fourth wrapper (244) may be within 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 by 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 adopted as an 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 multiple channels extending longitudinally. 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 a 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, but is not limited to, menthol. 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 (100) 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 overall length of the stick (30) may correspond to the diameter and overall 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, but is not limited to, 24000 CU. 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.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are flowcharts illustrating an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the aerosol generator (10) can check whether, in operation S710, a convenience function utilizing communication (hereinafter, a first convenience function) is executed. Here, the first convenience function may mean a convenience function utilizing data received from the outside through a communication interface (11). For example, the first convenience function may include a schedule function providing information regarding a schedule, a weather function providing information regarding weather, a message function providing information regarding a message, an advertisement function providing information regarding an advertisement, etc.

The aerosol generator (10) can execute the first convenience function when data regarding the first convenience function is received from the outside through the communication interface (11). For example, when a communication link is formed with an external device through the communication interface (11), the aerosol generator (10) can execute the first convenience function when data regarding the first convenience function is received through the communication link. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can execute the first convenience function when a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) signal including data regarding the first convenience function is received through the communication interface (11).

The aerosol generator (10) can execute the first convenient function when a user input for executing the first convenient function is received through an input device. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can output a screen including at least one object corresponding to the first convenient function through a display. At this time, the aerosol generator (10) can execute the first convenient function corresponding to the selected object when a user input for selecting one of the objects is received.

The reception of user input will be described with reference to FIGS. 8a and 8b.

Referring to FIG. 8a, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an insertion space in which a cigarette (20) is placed may be formed at the top of the housing (201) of the aerosol generating device (10).

The insertion space may be formed by being sunken into the housing (201) to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the cigarette (20) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the region in the cigarette (20) containing the aerosol product. For example, if the aerosol generating device (10) is a device capable of using the cigarette (20) of FIG. 5, the depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the tobacco rod (21) of the cigarette (20).

Inside the housing (201) of the aerosol generator (10), components such as a battery (16), a printed circuit board (810), and a heater can be placed.

Each component provided in the aerosol generating device (10) may be mounted on one side and/or the other side of the printed circuit board (810). The components mounted on the printed circuit board (810) may transmit or receive signals to each other through the wiring layer of the printed circuit board (810). For example, at least one communication module included in the communication interface (11), at least one sensor included in the sensor module (15), a control unit (17), etc. may be mounted on the printed circuit board (810).

The printed circuit board (810) may be positioned adjacent to the battery (16). For example, the printed circuit board (810) may be positioned with one side facing the battery (16).

A temperature sensor may be mounted on one side of the printed circuit board (810). The temperature sensor may be implemented by a thermistor, which is an element that uses the property that resistance changes depending on temperature. For example, the temperature sensor may include a negative temperature coefficient thermistor (NTC thermistor) that has the property that resistance decreases as temperature increases.

The control unit (17) can determine the temperature of the battery (16) based on the detection value of the temperature sensor. For example, the control unit (17) can determine the detection value of the temperature sensor as the temperature of the battery (16). For example, the control unit (17) can determine the result of compensating the detection value of the temperature sensor according to a preset standard as the temperature of the battery (16).

A display (820) may be placed on one side of the housing (201). The display (820) may display a screen according to a signal transmitted from the control unit (17).

A power terminal (830) may be placed on one side of the housing (201) of the aerosol generator (10). The power terminal (830) may be a wired terminal for wired communication such as USB.

A power supply circuit (not shown) may be placed between the battery (16) and the power terminal (830). The power supply circuit may transmit power supplied from the outside through the power terminal (830) to the battery (16).

A power line (835) that supplies power can be connected to the power terminal (830). For example, the power terminal (830) can be coupled with a connector (565) of the power line (835).

The control unit (17) can determine whether a power line (835) is connected to a power terminal (830). For example, the control unit (17) can determine whether a power line (835) is connected to a power terminal (830) based on a signal generated in response to the connection of the power terminal (830) and the power line (835).

The control unit (17) can initiate charging of the battery (16) when the power line (835) is connected to the power terminal (830). The control unit (17) can control the operation of each component provided in the aerosol generator (10) so that power supplied through the power line (835) is transmitted to the battery (16) when the power line (835) is connected to the power terminal (830). For example, when the power line (835) is connected to the power terminal (830) while the cigarette (20) is inserted into the housing (201), the control unit (17) can cut off the power supply to the aerosol generator module (130) and initiate charging of the battery (16).

At least one motor (840) that generates vibration for a haptic effect may be placed inside the housing (101). The motor (840) may be mounted on the other surface of the printed circuit board (810). For example, the motor (840) may be implemented as a linear actuator, but is not limited thereto.

At least one antenna (850) corresponding to a communication module of a communication interface (11) may be placed inside the housing (101). The antenna (850) may be mounted on the other surface of a printed circuit board (810).

The structure of the aerosol generator (10) is not limited to that shown in FIG. 8a, and the arrangement of the battery (16), printed circuit board (810), display (820), power terminal (830), motor (840), antenna (850), etc. may vary depending on the embodiment. For example, the motor (840) may be mounted on a substrate on which the display (820) is arranged.

Referring to FIG. 8b, the display (820) may include a cover glass (821), a display panel (823), and/or a touch panel (825).

The cover glass (821) can form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (10) together with the housing (101). The cover glass (821) can come into contact with a part of the user's body. The cover glass (821) can protect the display panel (823) and/or the touch panel (825) from external impact.

The display panel (823) may be arranged in a direction toward the inside of the housing (201) from the cover glass (821). For example, the display panel (823) may be arranged parallel to the cover glass (821).

The display panel (823) can output an image. The display panel (823) can output an image according to a signal transmitted from the control unit (17). For example, the display panel (823) can be implemented as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panel, an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) panel, etc., but is not limited thereto.

The touch panel (825) may be arranged in a direction toward the inside of the housing (201) from the cover glass (821). For example, the touch panel (825) may be arranged parallel to the cover glass (821) and the display panel (823).

The touch panel (825) can detect a touch corresponding to contact with an object. For example, the touch panel (825) can detect a touch corresponding to contact with a part of the user's body.

The touch panel (825) may include at least one touch sensor that detects touch. For example, the touch sensor may include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc.

A plurality of touch sensors included in the touch panel (825) can receive a driving signal according to a preset cycle. For example, a plurality of touch sensors included in the touch panel (825) can receive a driving signal according to a preset cycle. At this time, each touch sensor can output an electrical signal corresponding to a state (e.g., pressure, magnetic field, electrostatic capacity, light quantity) according to the driving signal.

The control unit (17) can determine whether a touch input is received by monitoring a signal output from the touch panel (825). The control unit (17) can perform a judgment on a touch input based on the signal output from the touch panel (825). For example, the control unit (17) can perform a judgment on coordinates, a touch area, a single touch, a multi-touch, touch intensity, etc. of the touch input. For example, the control unit (17) can perform a judgment on a long touch input in which a touch is detected for a predetermined time or longer, a short touch input in which a touch is detected for less than a predetermined time, a sweeping touch input in which a location of the touch input is continuously changed in a specific direction, etc.

Meanwhile, the display panel (823) and the touch panel (825) may be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel (825) may be inserted (on-cell type or in-cell type) into the display panel (823). For example, the touch panel (825) may be added-on (add-on type) on the display panel (823).

Referring again to FIG. 7a, the aerosol generator (10), in operation S720, when executing the first convenience function, may perform an operation related to receiving data through the communication interface (11).

Referring to FIG. 7b, the aerosol generator (10) can, in operation S721, determine whether the execution of the first convenience function is execution by receiving data through the communication interface (11). If the execution of the first convenience function is execution by receiving data through the communication interface (11), the aerosol generator (10) can process the received data.

The aerosol generator (10), in operation S722, can check whether a communication link is formed with an external device through the communication interface (11) if the execution of the first convenience function is not executed by receiving data through the communication interface (11). For example, the aerosol generator (10), if a user input for executing the first convenience function is received through the touch panel (825), can check whether a communication link is formed with an external device.

The aerosol generator (10), in operation S723, if a communication link is formed with an external device, can request the external device to transmit data corresponding to the first convenience function through the communication link. For example, if the schedule function is executed by user input, the aerosol generator (10) can request the external device to transmit data related to the schedule through the communication link.

The aerosol generator (10) can, in operation S724, receive data corresponding to the first convenience function from an external device through a communication link.

Referring again to FIG. 7a, the aerosol generator (10) can determine, in operation S730, whether to execute a convenience function (hereinafter, a second convenience function) using a timer (175) if the first convenience function is not executed. For example, the second convenience function may include a clock function that provides information about the current time, an alarm function that provides information about the elapsed time, etc.

The aerosol generator (10) can check the time counted through the timer (175) when executing the second convenience function in operation S740.

The aerosol generator (10) can output a screen corresponding to the executed convenience function through the display (820) in operation S750.

The aerosol generator (10) can output a screen based on data received through the communication interface (11) through the display (820) based on the execution of the first convenience function. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can output a screen including an object corresponding to the result of processing data received through the communication interface (11) through the display (820).

Meanwhile, the aerosol generator (10) can output notification information related to the communication link through the display (820) if a communication link with an external device is not formed. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can output a message instructing the formation of a communication link for the first convenience function through the display (820) if a communication link with an external device is not formed.

The aerosol generator (10) can output a screen based on the time counted by the timer (175) through the display (820) based on the execution of the second convenience function. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can output a screen in which an object corresponding to a number is continuously updated through the display (820) in response to the time counted by the timer (175).

Referring to FIG. 9, the aerosol generating device (10) can output a home screen (900) through the display (820). For example, when the display (820) is turned on from an off state, the home screen (900) can be displayed through the display (820).

The home screen (900) may include at least one indicator. For example, the home screen (900) may include an indicator (910) indicating an operation mode of the aerosol generator (10), an indicator (920) indicating a communication status, an indicator (930) indicating the remaining power of the battery (16), an indicator (940) indicating the current time, etc.

Meanwhile, the aerosol generator (10) can count time through a timer (175) while executing the clock function. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can execute the clock function from the time when the power of the aerosol generator (10) is first turned on. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can execute the clock function from the time when the entire settings of the aerosol generator (10) are initialized.

The aerosol generator (10) can update an indicator (940) indicating the current time included in the home screen (900) based on the time counted through the timer (175). The aerosol generator (10) can determine the time counted from the reference time, which is the basis for calculation of the current time, as the current time.

Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, when a sweeping touch input (1001) directed to the left is received while the home screen (900) is displayed on the display (820), the aerosol generating device (10) can switch the home screen (900) displayed on the display (820) to an application screen (1010).

According to one embodiment, when a short touch input (1002) touching the right corner area of the home screen (900) is received while the home screen (900) is displayed, the aerosol generating device (10) may switch the home screen (900) displayed through the display (820) to the application screen (1010).

The application screen (1010) may include at least one object corresponding to an application installed in the aerosol generating device (10). At this time, when a user selects one of the objects included in the application screen (1010) through a touch input, the aerosol generating device (10) may execute an application corresponding to the selected object.

Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 11A to 11C, when a sweeping touch input (1101) directed toward the right is received while the home screen (900) is displayed, the aerosol generating device (10) can switch the home screen (900) displayed through the display (820) to the setting screen (1110).

According to one embodiment, when a short touch input (1102) touching a left corner area of the home screen (900) is received while the home screen (900) is displayed, the aerosol generating device (10) may switch the home screen (900) displayed through the display (820) to a settings screen (1110).

The settings screen (1110) may include at least one object (hereinafter, “setting object”) corresponding to settings related to the operation, function, status, etc. of the aerosol generating device (10).

Meanwhile, when there are multiple setting objects, the screen displayed through the display (820) may not include all of the multiple objects. At this time, when the aerosol generating device (10) receives a sweeping touch input (1103) facing upward while the setting screen (1110) is displayed, the setting objects included in the setting screen (1110) may be changed according to the order among the setting objects.

Referring to FIGS. 12A to 12C, when a touch input (1205) for selecting a calendar object (1201) among objects included in an application screen (1010) is received, the aerosol generating device (10) can execute an application (hereinafter, calendar application) corresponding to the calendar object (1201).

At this time, the calendar application may be an application corresponding to the schedule function, which is the first convenience function. For example, the aerosol generator (10) may execute the schedule function based on the execution of the calendar application.

The aerosol generator (10) can check whether a communication link is formed with an external device when executing a schedule function. At this time, if a communication link is not formed with an external device, the aerosol generator (10) can output a message instructing the formation of a communication link through the display (820).

Meanwhile, the aerosol generator (10) can request the external device to transmit data corresponding to the schedule function through the communication link when a communication link is formed with the external device. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can request the external device to transmit data for a one-month schedule corresponding to the current date through the communication link.

The aerosol generating device (10) can output a screen (1210) corresponding to a calendar application through a display (820) based on data corresponding to a schedule function received from an external device through a communication link.

A screen (1210) corresponding to a calendar application may include an object (1211) representing a specific year and month, an object (1213) representing a calendar for a specific year and month, etc.

The aerosol generator (10) may include at least one indicator corresponding to the schedule of a specific year and month on a screen (1210) corresponding to a calendar application when the data received from an external device via a communication link includes a schedule of a specific year and month. For example, the indicator corresponding to the schedule of a specific year and month may include an indicator (1220) indicating the number of schedules registered in a specific year and month, an indicator (1221, 1223) indicating the date on which the schedule was registered, etc.

Meanwhile, when a user selects one of the dates included in an object (1213) representing a calendar for a specific year and month through a touch input, the aerosol generator (10) may output a screen including a schedule registered on the selected date through the display (820). For example, the aerosol generator (10) may switch the screen (1210) corresponding to the calendar application to a screen including a schedule registered on the selected date. For example, the aerosol generator (10) may output a screen including a schedule registered on the selected date as a pop-up screen while the screen (1210) corresponding to the calendar application is output.

Referring to FIGS. 13a to 13c, when a touch input (1305) for selecting a weather object (1301) among objects included in an application screen (1010) is received, the aerosol generating device (10) can execute an application (hereinafter, “weather application”) corresponding to the weather object (1301).

At this time, the weather application may be an application corresponding to the first convenience function, the weather function. For example, the aerosol generator (10) may execute the weather function based on the execution of the weather application.

The aerosol generator (10) can check whether a communication link is formed with an external device when executing a weather function. At this time, if a communication link is not formed with an external device, the aerosol generator (10) can output a message instructing the formation of a communication link through the display (820).

Meanwhile, the aerosol generator (10) can request transmission of data corresponding to a weather function to the external device through the communication link when a communication link is formed with the external device. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can request transmission of data on the current weather through the communication link. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can request transmission of data on the weather for a predetermined period corresponding to the current time through the communication link.

The aerosol generating device (10) can output a screen (1310) corresponding to a weather application through a display (820) based on data corresponding to a weather function received from an external device through a communication link.

A screen (1310) corresponding to a weather application may include an object (1320) indicating the current weather, an object (1330) indicating the weather for a certain period of time, etc.

When a user selects an object (1330) indicating weather for a given period of time through a touch input (1315), a screen (1340) including detailed information about the weather for the given period of time can be output through the display (820). Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (10) can also output a screen (1340) including detailed information about the weather for the given period of time as a pop-up screen while the screen (1310) corresponding to the weather application is output.

Referring to FIGS. 14a to 14e, when a touch input (1405) for selecting an alarm object (1401) among objects included in an application screen (1010) is received, the aerosol generating device (10) can execute an application (hereinafter, “alarm application”) corresponding to the alarm object (1401).

At this time, the alarm application may be an application corresponding to the second convenience function, the alarm function. For example, the aerosol generating device (10) may execute the alarm function based on the execution of the alarm application.

The aerosol generating device (10) can output a screen (1410) corresponding to the alarm application through the display (820). The screen (1410) corresponding to the alarm application can include at least one object corresponding to a preset time. For example, the preset time can be a time set in various units of minutes.

When a user selects an object corresponding to a specific time through a touch input (1415), the aerosol generator (10) can output a screen (1420) that outputs the elapsed time of the selected time through the display (820). At this time, the aerosol generator (10) can initiate the operation of the timer (175) based on the selection of the object corresponding to the specific time. For example, the aerosol generator (10) can count the elapsed time from the time when the touch input (1415) for selecting the object corresponding to the specific time is received through the timer (175).

A screen (1420) that outputs the passage of time may include an object (1421) that indicates the passage of time, an object (1422) that initializes a count for a specific time, an object (1423) that stops a count for a specific time, etc. In this case, the object (1421) that indicates the passage of time may be continuously updated as time passes.

When the user selects an object (1423) that stops counting for a specific time through a touch input (1424), the aerosol generator (10) can stop the operation of the timer (175). At this time, the object (1421) indicating the elapsed time can be maintained as the time displayed at the time when the user's touch input (1424) was received.

A screen (1420) that outputs the passage of time may include an object (1422) that initializes a count for a specific time while the count for a specific time is stopped, an object (1425) that resumes a count for a specific time, etc.

When a user selects an object (1422) that initializes a count for a specific time through a touch input (1426), the aerosol generator (10) can initialize the count for a specific time. At this time, an object (1421) indicating the elapsed time can be initialized to 0 and displayed.

The screen (1420) for outputting the passage of time may include an object (1427) for starting the count for a specific time when the count for a specific time is initialized, and an object (1428) for ending the count for a specific time. For example, the aerosol generator (10) may start the operation of the timer (175) when an input for selecting the object (1427) for starting the count for a specific time is received. For example, the aerosol generator (10) may end the output of the screen (1420) for outputting the passage of time when an input for selecting the object (1428) for ending the count for a specific time is received.

Referring to FIGS. 15A to 15D, when a touch input (1505) for selecting a stopwatch object (1501) among the objects included in the application screen (1010) is received, the aerosol generating device (10) can execute an application (hereinafter, “stopwatch application”) corresponding to the stopwatch object (1401).

At this time, the stopwatch application may be an application corresponding to the second convenience function, the alarm function. For example, the aerosol generator (10) may execute the alarm function based on the execution of the stopwatch application.

The aerosol generator (10) can output a screen (1510) corresponding to a stopwatch application through the display (820). The screen (1510) corresponding to the stopwatch application can include an object (1511) indicating elapsed time, an object (1512) starting a count for time, etc.

When a user selects an object (1512) that initiates a countdown of time through a touch input (1513), the aerosol generator (10) can initiate the operation of a timer (175). For example, the aerosol generator (10) can count the elapsed time from the time point at which a touch input (1513) for selecting an object (1512) that initiates a countdown of time is received through the timer (175). At this time, the timer (175) can initiate the countdown of time from the initial time of 0.

A screen (1510) corresponding to a stopwatch application may include an object (1514) that initializes a count for time while counting for time is being performed, an object (1515) that stops the count for time, etc. At this time, an object (1511) indicating the elapsed time may be continuously updated as time passes.

When the user selects an object (1515) that stops the counting of time through a touch input (1516), the aerosol generator (10) can stop the operation of the timer (175). At this time, the object (1511) indicating the elapsed time can be maintained as the time displayed at the time when the user's touch input (1516) was received.

A screen (1510) corresponding to a stopwatch application may include an object (1514) that initializes the counted time while the count for time is stopped, an object (1517) that resumes the count for time, etc.

Referring to FIGS. 16a and 16b, when a touch input (1605) for selecting a setting object (1601) corresponding to a clock function is received while a setting screen (1110) is displayed, the aerosol generating device (10) can output a setting screen (1610) related to the clock function through the display (820).

The settings screen (1610) related to the clock function may include a user interface for changing settings related to the clock function. For example, the settings screen (1610) related to the clock function may include an object (1611) related to setting a reference date, an object (1613) related to setting a reference time, an object (1615) related to setting a method of displaying a clock, etc. In this case, the user may change the reference date, reference time, etc. by using the user interface for changing settings related to the clock function.

Referring to FIGS. 17a and 17b, when a touch input (1705) for selecting a setting object (1701) corresponding to a service center is received while a setting screen (1110) is displayed, the aerosol generating device (10) can output a screen (1710) providing information about the service center through the display (820).

Referring to FIGS. 18a and 18b, when a touch input (1805) for selecting a setting object (1801) corresponding to device information of the aerosol generator (10) is received while the setting screen (1110) is displayed, the aerosol generator (10) can output a screen (1710) providing device information of the aerosol generator (10) through the display (820).

Referring to FIGS. 19a and 19d, when a touch input (1901) for selecting an indicator (930) indicating the remaining power amount of the battery (16) is received while the home screen (900) is displayed, the aerosol generator (10) can output a screen (1910) related to the remaining power amount of the battery (16).

A screen (1910) related to the remaining power amount of the battery (16) may include an indicator (1911, 1913) indicating the current remaining power amount of the battery (16).

Meanwhile, the aerosol generator (10) may change an indicator included in a screen (1910) related to the remaining power of the battery (16) in response to the current remaining power of the battery (16). For example, when the current remaining power of the battery (16) is 30% or less, which is a preset standard, the aerosol generator (10) may include an indicator (1915) indicating the number of sticks (20) corresponding to the current remaining power of the battery (16) in the screen (1910) related to the remaining power of the battery (16).

As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, various convenient functions can be provided to the user in addition to the function of generating an aerosol.

Additionally, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a convenient function can be provided to a user by utilizing communication with an external device.

Additionally, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a timer (175) for counting time can be used to provide a convenient function to the user.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 19d, an aerosol generating device (10) according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a display (820); a timer (175) for counting time; a communication interface (11) for performing communication with an external device; and a control unit (17). The control unit (17) can output a screen based on data received through the communication interface (11) through the display (820) based on execution of a first convenient function using the communication, and can output a screen based on time counted through the timer (175) through the display (820) based on execution of a second convenient function using the timer (175).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the display (820) includes a touch panel for receiving a user input, and the control unit (17) can request transmission of data corresponding to the first convenience function to the external device through the communication interface (11) based on reception of a user input for executing the first convenience function.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the display (820) includes a touch panel for receiving a user input, and the control unit (17) determines whether a communication link is formed with the external device through the communication interface (11) based on the reception of a user input for executing the first convenient function, and if the communication link is formed, requests the external device to transmit data corresponding to the first convenient function through the communication interface (11), and if the communication link is not formed, outputs notification information related to the communication link through the display (820).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (17) can execute the first convenience function based on the reception of data for the first convenience function through the communication interface (11).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (17) can output a screen regarding the current time corresponding to the time counted from the reference time through the timer (175) through the display (820) based on the execution of the second convenience function.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the display (820) includes a touch panel that receives a user input, and the control unit (17) can output a screen including at least one object corresponding to a preset time through the display (820) based on execution of the second convenience function, and can output a screen based on a time counted up to a time corresponding to the selected object through the display (820) based on a user input for selecting the object.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the display (820) includes a touch panel that receives a user input, and the control unit (17) can output a screen including at least one object related to the operation of the timer (175) through the display (820) based on the execution of the second convenience function, and can output a screen for a time counted from an initial time according to a user input for selecting the object through the display (820).

Meanwhile, the operating method of the aerosol generator (10) according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a first output operation of outputting a screen based on data received through a communication interface (11) of the aerosol generator through a display (820) of the aerosol generator based on execution of a first convenient function using communication; and a second output operation of outputting a screen based on time counted through the timer (175) through the display (820) based on execution of a second convenient function using a timer (175) of the aerosol generator.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, based on receipt of a user input for executing the first convenience function, the method may further include an operation of requesting transmission of data corresponding to the first convenience function to an external device through the communication interface (11).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, based on reception of a user input for executing the first convenience function, the method may further include: an operation of determining whether a communication link is formed with an external device through the communication interface (11); if the communication link is formed, an operation of requesting transmission of data corresponding to the first convenience function to the external device through the communication interface (11); and if the communication link is not formed, an operation of outputting notification information related to the communication link through the display (820).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the method may further include an operation of executing the first convenience function based on reception of data for the first convenience function through the communication interface (11).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second output operation may include an operation of outputting a screen regarding the current time corresponding to the time counted from the reference time through the timer (175) through the display (820) based on the execution of the clock function, which is the second convenience function.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second output operation may include an operation of outputting, through the display (820), a screen including at least one object related to the operation of the timer (175), based on execution of the timer (175) function, which is the second convenience function; and an operation of outputting, through the display (820), a screen based on a time counted up to a time corresponding to the selected object, based on a user input selecting the object.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second output operation may include an operation of outputting a screen including at least one object related to the operation of the timer (175) through the display (820) based on the execution of the second convenience function; and an operation of outputting a screen, through the display (820), of a time counted from an initial time according to a user input selecting the object.

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 limiting 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 (14)

A display including a touch panel;
A timer that counts down time;
A communication interface for communicating with an external device; and
Including a control unit,
The above control unit,
When forming a communication link using Bluetooth with the above external device, the reference date and reference time are automatically set,
In a state where a screen for setting the reference date and the reference time is output through the display, at least one of the reference date and the reference time is changed based on a user input received through the touch panel,
Based on the execution of the first convenience function using the above communication, a screen based on data received through the above communication interface is output through the above display,
Based on the execution of the second convenience function using the above timer, a screen based on the time counted based on at least one of the above reference date and the above reference time is output through the display,
In response to the execution of the schedule function among the above first convenience functions, a request is made to the external device through the communication interface for transmission of data for a schedule for a predetermined period corresponding to the current date calculated from the reference date,
Based on the data for the schedule for the given period received from the external device, a given screen including an object representing a calendar of a specific year and month corresponding to the current date is output through the display,
In response to a user input for selecting a specific date for which a schedule is registered among multiple dates included in the specific year and month, a pop-up screen including the schedule registered on the specific date is output through the display,
The above screen is,
A first indicator indicating the number of schedules registered in the above specific year and month; and
An aerosol generating device characterized in that it includes a second indicator that is displayed adjacent to a date on which a schedule is registered among the above plural dates, thereby indicating the presence of a registered schedule. In the first paragraph,
The above control unit,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that, based on receipt of a user input for executing the first convenience function, it requests transmission of data corresponding to the first convenience function to the external device through the communication interface. In the first paragraph,
The above control unit,
Based on the reception of a user input for executing the above first convenience function, it is determined whether a communication link is formed through the external device and the communication interface,
When the above communication link is formed, requesting transmission of data corresponding to the first convenience function to the external device through the communication interface,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that, when the above communication link is not formed, notification information related to the above communication link is output through the display. In the first paragraph,
The above control unit,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that it executes the first convenience function based on the reception of data for the first convenience function through the communication interface. In the first paragraph,
The above control unit,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that, based on the execution of the second convenience function, a screen regarding the current time corresponding to the time counted from the reference time through the timer is output through the display. In the first paragraph,
The above control unit,
Based on the execution of the above second convenience function, a screen including at least one object corresponding to a preset time is output through the display,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that it outputs a screen based on a time counted up to a time corresponding to the selected object through the display based on a user input selecting the object. In the first paragraph,
The above control unit,
Based on the execution of the second convenience function, a screen including at least one object related to the operation of the timer is output through the display,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that it outputs a time counted from an initial time through the display according to a user input selecting the above object. In the operating method of the aerosol generating device,
When forming a communication link with an external device using Bluetooth through the communication interface of the above aerosol generator, an operation for automatically setting a reference date and reference time;
An operation of changing at least one of the reference date and the reference time based on a user input while the screen for setting the reference date and the reference time is displayed through the display of the aerosol generating device;
A first output operation for outputting a screen based on data received through the communication interface of the aerosol generator through the display based on the execution of the first convenience function using communication; and
Based on the execution of the second convenience function using the timer of the aerosol generating device, a second output operation is included for outputting a screen based on the time counted based on at least one of the reference date and the reference time through the timer through the display.
The above first output operation is,
An operation of requesting transmission of data for a schedule for a predetermined period corresponding to a current date calculated from the reference date to the external device through the communication interface in response to execution of the schedule function among the first convenience functions;
An operation of outputting a predetermined screen including an object representing a calendar of a specific year and month corresponding to the current date through the display based on data regarding the schedule for the predetermined period received from the external device; and
In response to a user input of selecting a predetermined date for which a schedule is registered among multiple dates included in the above specific year and month, an action is included in outputting a pop-up screen including a schedule registered on the above predetermined date through the display.
The above screen is,
A first indicator indicating the number of schedules registered in the above specific year and month; and
An operating method of an aerosol generating device including a second indicator that is displayed adjacent to a date on which a schedule is registered among the above plural dates, thereby indicating the presence of a registered schedule. In Article 8,
An operating method of an aerosol generating device, characterized in that it further includes an action of requesting transmission of data corresponding to the first convenience function to an external device through the communication interface based on reception of a user input for executing the first convenience function. In Article 8,
An operation of determining whether a communication link is formed through the communication interface with an external device based on reception of a user input executing the first convenience function;
When the above communication link is formed, an operation of requesting transmission of data corresponding to the first convenience function to the external device through the communication interface; and
An operating method of an aerosol generating device, characterized in that it further includes an action of outputting notification information related to the communication link through the display when the communication link is not formed. In Article 8,
An operating method of an aerosol generating device, characterized in that it further includes an operation of executing the first convenience function based on the reception of data for the first convenience function through the communication interface. In Article 8,
The above second output operation is,
An operating method of an aerosol generating device, characterized in that it includes an operation of outputting a screen regarding the current time corresponding to the time counted from the reference time through the timer through the display based on the execution of the clock function, which is the second convenience function. In Article 8,
The above second output operation is,
An operation of outputting a screen including at least one object related to the operation of the timer through the display based on the execution of the timer function, which is the second convenience function; and
An operating method of an aerosol generating device, characterized in that it includes an action of outputting a screen based on a time counted up to a time corresponding to the selected object through the display based on a user input selecting the object. In Article 8,
The above second output operation is,
An operation of outputting a screen including at least one object related to the operation of the timer through the display based on the execution of the second convenience function; and
An operating method of an aerosol generating device, characterized in that it includes an action of outputting a time counted from an initial time through the display according to a user input selecting the object.

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