KR102857535B1 - Aerosol generating device - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol generating device of the present disclosure comprises: a body; a first container including a wick, a heater, and a memory; a second container storing a liquid; a cartridge detection sensor detecting a coupling between the first container and the second container; and a control unit, wherein the body and the first container are detachably coupled to each other, the first container and the second container are detachably coupled to each other, and the control unit acquires data stored in the memory when the body and the first container are coupled, determines whether to supply initial power corresponding to the coupling to the heater based on the acquired data when the first container and the second container are coupled in a separated state, and controls the supply of the initial power to the heater based on the determination of supplying the initial power to the heater.

Description

Aerosol generating device

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

An aerosol generator is designed to extract a specific component from a medium or substance through an aerosol. The medium may contain various components. The components contained in the medium may be flavoring substances of various components. For example, the components contained in the medium may include nicotine, herbal ingredients, and/or coffee ingredients. Recently, extensive research has been conducted on such aerosol generators.

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

Another object may be to provide an aerosol generating device in which the components for storing the liquid and the components including the wick can be independently replaced.

Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device capable of efficiently managing and using a composition including a wick.

Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device that can more smoothly move a liquid to a wick for generating an aerosol.

Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device that can notify the user that the liquid has sufficiently flowed into the wick.

Another purpose may be to provide an aerosol generating device that can reduce unnecessary power consumption.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described object, an aerosol generating device comprises: a body; a first container including a wick, a heater, and a memory; a second container storing a liquid; a cartridge detection sensor detecting a coupling between the first container and the second container; and a control unit, wherein the body and the first container are detachably coupled to each other, the first container and the second container are detachably coupled to each other, and the control unit acquires data stored in the memory when the body and the first container are coupled, determines whether to supply initial power corresponding to the coupling to the heater based on the acquired data when the first container and the second container are coupled in a detached state, and controls the supply of the initial power to the heater based on the determination of supplying the initial power to the heater.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the configuration for storing the liquid and the configuration including the wick can be independently replaced.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a configuration including a wick can be efficiently managed and used.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the liquid can be more smoothly moved to the wick for the generation of an aerosol.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to notify a user that liquid has sufficiently flowed into the wick.

According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, unnecessary power consumption can be reduced.

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

Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figures 2 to 7 are drawings for reference in the description of an aerosol generating device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 8 to 10 are flowcharts illustrating an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are drawings for reference in explaining the operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

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

In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of 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 understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concepts 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 within 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, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

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

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

Figure 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 (100) may include a communication interface (110), an input/output interface (120), an aerosol generating module (130), a memory (140), a sensor module (150), a battery (160), and/or a control unit (170).

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

The communication interface (110) may include at least one communication module for communication with an external device and/or a network. For example, the communication interface (110) may include a communication module for wired communication such as a universal serial bus (USB). For example, the communication interface (110) 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 (120) may include an input device that receives commands 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 buzzer, a motor that outputs tactile information such as a haptic effect, etc.

The input/output interface (120) can transmit data corresponding to a command input from a user through an input device to other component(s) of the aerosol generator (100). The input/output interface (120) can output information corresponding to data received from other component(s) of the aerosol generator (100) through an output device.

The aerosol generating module (130) can generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. Here, the aerosol generating material may refer to any one material or a combination of two or more materials in various states, such as a liquid state, a solid state, or a gel state, capable of generating an aerosol.

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

The solid aerosol-generating material may include a solid material based on tobacco raw materials, such as a sheet of leaf, a tobacco peel, 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, which contain flavoring ingredients.

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

The aerosol generating module (130) may include at least one heater.

The aerosol generating module (130) may include an electrically resistive heater. For example, the electrically resistive heater may include at least one electrically conductive track. The electrically resistive heater may be heated by a current flowing through the electrically conductive track. In this case, the aerosol generating material may be heated by the heated electrically 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 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 (130) may include a heater utilizing 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 periodically changes by controlling the current flowing through the electrically conductive coil. 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 thermal energy, an aerosol generating material adjacent to the magnetic body may be heated. Here, an object that generates heat due to a magnetic field may be referred to as a susceptor.

Meanwhile, the aerosol generating module (130) can generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material by generating ultrasonic vibration.

The aerosol generating module (130) may be named a cartomizer, an atomizer, a vaporizer, etc.

The memory (140) can store programs for signal processing and control within the control unit (170). The memory (140) can store data processed by the control unit (170) and data to be processed.

For example, the memory (140) may store application programs designed for the purpose of performing various tasks that can be processed by the control unit (170). The memory (140) may selectively provide some of the stored application programs upon request from the control unit (170).

For example, the memory (140) may store the operating time of the aerosol generator (100), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, the number of times the battery (160) has been charged, the number of times the battery (160) has been discharged, at least one temperature profile, data on the user's inhalation pattern, data on charging/discharging, etc. Here, a puff may refer to a user's inhalation. Inhalation may refer to a situation in which the user draws air into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs through the mouth or nose.

The memory (140) may include at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.) or non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), etc.).

The sensor module (150) may include at least one sensor.

For example, the sensor module (150) 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 (150) may include a sensor (hereinafter, temperature sensor) that detects the temperature of the heater included in the aerosol generating module (130), the temperature of the aerosol generating material, etc. In this case, the heater included in the aerosol generating module (130) 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 (150) 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 (100), the sensor module (150) may include a sensor that detects the insertion of the stick (hereinafter, a stick detection sensor).

For example, if the aerosol generator (100) includes a cartridge, the sensor module (150) may include a sensor (hereinafter, cartridge detection sensor) that detects the mounting/removal, 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 (150) may include a voltage sensor that detects voltage applied to a component (e.g., battery (160)) provided in the aerosol generator (100) and/or a current sensor that detects current.

The battery (160) can supply power used for the operation of the aerosol generator (100) under the control of the control unit (170). The battery (160) can supply power to other components provided in the aerosol generator (100). For example, the battery (160) can supply power to a communication module included in the communication interface (110), an output device included in the input/output interface (120), a heater included in the aerosol generator module (130), etc.

The battery (160) may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery (160) may be a lithium-ion battery or a lithium polymer (Li-Polymer) battery, but is not limited thereto. For example, if the battery (160) is rechargeable, the charge rate (C-rate) of the battery (160) 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 (160) may be manufactured so that 80% or more of the total capacity can be secured even after 2,000 charge/discharge cycles.

The aerosol generator (100) may further include a battery protection module (Protection Circuit Module, PCM), which is a circuit for protecting the battery (160). The battery protection module (PCM) may be positioned adjacent to the upper surface of the battery (160). For example, the battery protection module (PCM) may block the electrical path to the battery (160) when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery (160), when overvoltage is applied to the battery (160), when overcurrent flows to the battery (160), etc., in order to prevent overcharge and overdischarge of the battery (160).

The aerosol generator (100) may further include a charging terminal to which power supplied from an external source is input. For example, the charging terminal may be formed on one side of the main body of the aerosol generator (100). The aerosol generator (100) may charge the battery (160) 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 (100) can also wirelessly receive power supplied from an external source via a communication interface (110). For example, the aerosol generator (100) can wirelessly receive power using an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication. The aerosol generator (100) can charge a battery (160) using the wirelessly supplied power.

The control unit (170) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator (100). The control unit (170) can be connected to each component provided in the aerosol generator (100). The control unit (170) can control the overall operation of each component by transmitting and/or receiving signals between each component.

The control unit (170) may include at least one processor. The control unit (170) may control the overall operation of the aerosol generator (100) using the processor. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or another hardware-based processor.

The control unit (170) can perform any one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generator (100). For example, the control unit (170) can perform any one of the multiple functions of the aerosol generator (100) (e.g., preheating function, heating function, charging function, cleaning function, etc.) according to the status of each component provided in the aerosol generator (100), a user command received through the input/output interface (120), etc.

The control unit (170) can control the operation of each component provided in the aerosol generating device (100) based on data stored in the memory (140). For example, the control unit (170) can control a predetermined power to be supplied from the battery (160) to the aerosol generating module (130) for a predetermined period of time based on data regarding a temperature profile, a user's inhalation pattern, etc. stored in the memory (140).

The control unit (170) can determine whether a puff is present through the puff sensor included in the sensor module (150). For example, the control unit (170) can check temperature changes, flow changes, pressure changes, voltage changes, etc. within the aerosol generating device (100) based on the sensing values of the puff sensor. The control unit (170) can determine whether a puff is present based on the results confirmed based on the sensing values of the puff sensor.

The control unit (170) can control the operation of each component provided in the aerosol generator (100) depending on whether a puff is generated and/or the number of puffs. For example, the control unit (170) can control the temperature of the heater to be changed or maintained based on the temperature profile stored in the memory (140).

The control unit (170) can control the power supply to the heater to be cut off according to predetermined conditions. For example, when the stick is removed, the cartridge is separated, the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs, no puffs are detected for a preset period of time, the remaining capacity of the battery (160) is below a preset value, etc., the control unit (170) can control the power supply to the heater to be cut off.

The control unit (170) can calculate the remaining power capacity (hereinafter, “remaining power”) stored in the battery (160). For example, the control unit (170) can calculate the remaining power amount of the battery (160) based on the sensing values of the voltage sensor and/or current sensor included in the sensor module (150).

The control unit (170) can control power to be supplied to the heater using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

For example, the control unit (170) 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 (170) can control the power supplied to the heater by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

For example, the control unit (170) can determine a target temperature that is the target of control based on a temperature profile. At this time, the control unit (170) can control the power supplied to the heater using the PID method, which is a feedback control method using a difference value between the temperature of the heater and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference value over time, and a 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 (170) can control power to be supplied to the heater according to preset conditions. For example, if a cleaning function for cleaning the heater is selected according to a command input from a user through the input/output interface (120), the control unit (170) can control power to be supplied to the heater at a predetermined level.

Referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device (100) may include a body (10) and a cartridge (20, 30). The cartridge (20, 30) may include a first container (20) and a second container (30). The cartridge (20, 30) may be coupled to the body (10).

The body (10) can accommodate a power source (11) (e.g., a battery (160) of FIG. 1) and a control unit (12) (e.g., a control unit (170) of FIG. 1). The power source (11) can supply power necessary for the configuration to operate. The power source (11) can be referred to as a battery (11). The control unit (12) can control the operation of the configuration.

The first container (20) may provide a first chamber (C1) therein. The first container (20) may be provided with a wick (25). The wick (25) may be placed in the first chamber (C1). The upper end of the wick (25) may protrude from the first chamber (C1) toward the upper side of the first container (20).

The first container (20) may be equipped with a heater (2531). The heater (2531) may be placed in the first chamber (C1). The heater (2531) may heat the wick (25). The heater (2531) may be attached to the wick (25). The first container (20) may be equipped with a terminal (223) therein. The terminal (223) may be exposed to the lower portion of the first container (20). The terminal (223) may be electrically connected to the heater (2531). The first container (20) may be referred to as a lower container (20) or a heating module (20).

The first container (20) may be provided with a first air inlet (241) formed by opening the first chamber (C1). The first container (20) may be provided with a first air outlet (242) formed by opening the first chamber (C1).

The second container (30) may provide a second chamber (C2) therein. The second container (30) may store liquid in the second chamber (C2). The second container (30) may be provided with an air discharge passage (340). Both ends (341, 342) of the air discharge passage (340) may be open. The air discharge passage (340) may be partitioned from the second chamber (C2). The second container (30) may be referred to as an upper container (30) or a liquid storage unit (30).

The mouthpiece (35) can be coupled to the upper side of the second container (30). The mouthpiece (35) can cover the upper part of the second container (30). The mouthpiece (35) can have a second airflow outlet (354) therein. The second airflow outlet (354) can be connected to the other end (342) of the airflow outlet path (340).

The first container (20) can be coupled to the body (10). The first container (20) can be inserted into the interior of the body (10). When the first container (20) is coupled to the body, the heater (2531) can be electrically connected to a power source (11) via a terminal (223). The heater (2531) can be supplied with power from the power source (11) and generate heat. The heater (2531) can be a resistive heater.

The second container (30) may be coupled to the upper side of the first container (20). The coupling of the second container (30) to the first container (20) may include the second container (30) being directly coupled to the first container (20) and the second container (30) being indirectly coupled to the first container (20) by being coupled to the body (10).

When the second container (30) is coupled to the first container (20), the second container (30) can supply the stored liquid to the wick (25). The wick (25) can receive and absorb the liquid from the second container (30). The heater (2531) can heat the wick that has absorbed the liquid to generate an aerosol in the first chamber (C1).

The body (10) may be provided with a second airflow inlet (141) by having one side open. When the first container (20) is coupled to the body (10), the first airflow inlet (241) may be connected to the second airflow inlet (141). When the second container (30) is coupled to the first container (20), one end (341) of the airflow discharge path (340) and the first airflow discharge path (242) may be connected. Accordingly, a path through which air flows may be formed. The user may hold the mouthpiece (35) in his/her mouth and inhale air. When a user inhales air, the external air can be sequentially provided to the user by passing through the second air inlet (141), the first air inlet (241), the first chamber (C1), the first air outlet (242), the air outlet path (340), and the second air outlet (354). The air can flow together with the aerosol generated in the first chamber (C1).

The puff sensor (461) can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor (461) can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator (100). Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator (100) can correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor (461) can be positioned at a position corresponding to the airflow path through which the air flows in the aerosol generator (100). For example, the puff sensor (461) can be positioned inside the body (10) adjacent to the first airflow inlet (241).

The first container (20) and the second container (30) can be replaced independently of each other. For example, the consumption cycle of the liquid stored in the second container (30) and the appropriate replacement cycle of the first container (20) may be different. The user may replace only the second container (30) separately or replace only the first container (20) separately. For example, the consumption cycle of the liquid stored in the second container (30) may be shorter than the appropriate replacement cycle of the first container (20), and when the second container (30) is replaced multiple times, the first container (20) may be replaced only once. Accordingly, the first container (20) can be used for a longer period of time, and the cost of replacing the cartridge can be reduced.

Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the first container (20) can be detachably coupled to the body (10). The first coupler (151) can detachably couple the first container (20) and the body (10). For example, the first coupler (151) can include a hook groove (225) and a hook (125) detachably fastened to the hook groove (225). The hook (125) can be formed of a material such as rubber or silicone to seal between the body around the second airflow inlet (141) and the first container (20). As another example, the first coupler (151) can couple the first container (20) and the body (10) through magnetic force.

The second container (30) can be detachably coupled to the first container (20). The second container (30) can be coupled to the upper side of the first container (20). The second container (30) can be coupled to the body (10) and indirectly coupled to the first container (20). The second coupler (152) can detachably couple the second container (30) and the body (10). For example, the second coupler (152) can include a hook groove (325) and a hook (135) detachably fastened to the hook groove (325). As another example, the second coupler (152) can couple the second container (30) and the body (10) through magnetic force.

The first container (20) can be detachably coupled to the body (10). The first coupler (151) can detachably couple the first container (20) and the body (10). The second container (30) can be detachably coupled to the first container (20). The second container (30) can be indirectly coupled to the first container (20) by being coupled to the body (10) via the second coupler (152). The second container (30) can be coupled to the upper side of the first container (20).

When the second container (30) is combined with the first container (20), the second container (30) can supply liquid to the wick (25). The liquid stored in the second chamber (C2) can pass through the liquid discharge port (314) and be absorbed by the absorption unit (316). The absorption unit (316) that has absorbed the liquid can contact the second wick part (252) to transfer the liquid. The liquid absorbed by the second wick part (252) can diffuse to the first wick part (251). The heater (3531) can heat the first wick part (251) that has absorbed the liquid to generate an aerosol.

In one embodiment, a film may be detachably attached to the absorbent portion (316). The film may be attached to the lower portion of the absorbent portion (316). The edge of the film may be attached to the lower surface of the bracket (317). The film may be formed of a waterproof material. The film may prevent liquid from leaking from the absorbent portion (316). Before attaching the second container (30) to the first container (20), the user may detach the film from the absorbent portion (316).

The sealer (26) can seal the periphery of the liquid inlet (235) where the wick (25) is exposed from the first chamber (C1). When the second container (30) is coupled to the upper side of the first container (20), the sealer (26) can seal between the first container (20) and the second container (30). The sealing walls (266, 267) can protrude toward the second container (30). The sealing walls (266, 267) can be in close contact with the second container (30). The sealing walls (266, 267) can surround the periphery of the liquid inlet (235). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the liquid discharged from the second container (30) from leaking into the gap between the first container (20) and the second container (30).

The sealer (26) may include an airflow sealing portion (268). The airflow sealing portion (268) may surround the periphery of the first airflow outlet (242). The second sealing wall (267) may protrude higher than the airflow sealing portion (268). The airflow sealing portion (268) may be formed on the outer side of the sealing walls (266, 267).

The cartridge detection sensor (471) may be installed inside the body (10). The cartridge detection sensor (471) can sense whether the second container (30) is coupled to the first container (20). The control unit (12) can control operations of various components by utilizing the sensing of the cartridge detection sensor (471). For example, the cartridge detection sensor (471) may be a contact sensor. The cartridge detection sensor (471) can detect whether the second container (30) is coupled to the first container (20) through physical contact. When the second container (30) is coupled to the first container (20), physical contact may occur with the cartridge detection sensor (471). The cartridge detection sensor (471) can detect the physical contact that occurs with the cartridge detection sensor (471). For example, physical contact may occur when the cartridge detection sensor (471) is in direct contact with the second container (30). For example, physical contact may occur through an intermediary configuration between the cartridge detection sensor (471) and the second container (30).

The pusher (40) may be placed between the cartridge detection sensor (471) and the second container (30). The pusher (40) may be inserted into the pusher movement path (44). The pusher (40) may include a first pusher part (41) and a second pusher part (42). The first pusher part (41) and the second pusher part (42) may be vertically coupled to each other. The pusher (40) may be extended between the cartridge detection sensor (471) and the second container (30). The pusher (40) may be moved between the cartridge detection sensor (471) and the second container (30). One end of the pusher (40) may be adjacent to the second container (30). One end of the pusher (40) may be exposed toward the second container (30) through one end of the pusher movement path (44). The other end of the pusher (40) may be adjacent to the cartridge detection sensor (471). The other end of the pusher (40) may be exposed toward the cartridge detection sensor (471) through the other end of the pusher movement path (44).

For example, the pusher (40) and the pusher movement path (44) may have a shape that is elongated vertically. The pusher (40) may be movable vertically. When the second container (30) is coupled to the upper side of the first container (20), the lower part (312) of the second container (30) may contact the upper side of the pusher (40) and push the pusher (40) downward, so that the lower part of the pusher (40) may contact the cartridge detection sensor (471).

The cartridge detection sensor (471) can transmit a detection signal corresponding to physical contact to the control unit (12). The control unit (12) can determine whether the second container (30) is coupled to the first container (20) based on the detection signal received from the cartridge detection sensor (471).

Accordingly, whether the second container (30) is coupled can be determined by the cartridge detection sensor (471) even without a separate terminal configuration for electrical connection to the second container (30). Accordingly, the configuration of the second container (30) for sensing can be simplified, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. In addition, when determining whether the second container (30) is coupled using a physical contact method, the accuracy of the sensing can be improved because the influence of external noise is less.

The actuator (472) can be pressed by the pusher (40) to transmit physical contact to the cartridge detection sensor (471). The actuator (472) can be formed integrally with the cartridge detection sensor (471). The actuator (472) can protrude from the cartridge detection sensor (471) toward the pusher (40). The actuator (472) can provide a repulsive force to the pusher (40) in a direction away from the cartridge detection sensor (471). The actuator (472) can provide a repulsive force to the pusher (40) from the other end toward one end of the pusher movement path (44). For example, the actuator (472) can provide a repulsive force that pushes the pusher (40) upward.

When the second container (30) is coupled to the first container (20), the pusher (40) can press the actuator (472) toward the cartridge detection sensor (471). When the pusher (40) presses the actuator (472) toward the cartridge detection sensor (471), the cartridge detection sensor (471) can detect physical contact. When the second container (30) is separated from the first container (20), the pusher (40) can move away from the cartridge detection sensor (471) by the repulsive force of the actuator (472). At this time, the pusher (40) can return to the position before the second container (30) was coupled to the first container (20).

A sealing film (48) may be formed between the cartridge detection sensor (471) and the pusher movement path (44). The sealing film (48) may be formed between the actuator (472) and the pusher movement path (44). The sealing film (48) may be formed of an elastic material and may be capable of changing shape. For example, the sealing film may be formed of rubber or silicone.

When the actuator (472) pushes the sealing film (48), the sealing film (48) may have a convex shape toward the pusher (40). When the pusher (40) presses the cartridge detection sensor (471), the curvature of the sealing film (48) may be reduced or may be convexly deformed toward the cartridge detection sensor (471). Accordingly, the sealing film (48) can prevent foreign substances such as liquid from leaking around the cartridge detection sensor (471) through the pusher movement path (44).

In the present disclosure, the cartridge detection sensor (471) is described as being a contact sensor, but is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the cartridge detection sensor (471) may be a non-contact sensor. For example, the cartridge detection sensor (471) may be one of a magnetic proximity sensor, an optical proximity sensor, an ultrasonic proximity sensor, an inductive proximity sensor, a capacitive proximity sensor, and an eddy current proximity sensor.

According to one embodiment, whether the first container (20) is coupled to the body (10) can be detected by a separate sensor or by an electrical connection between the second terminal (223) and the power source (11).

Referring to Fig. 6, the wick (25) may be formed of a porous rigid body that absorbs liquid. For example, the wick (25) may be formed of porous ceramic. The wick (25) may have greater rigidity and heat resistance than a cotton wick.

Accordingly, the wick (25) can be implemented in various shapes without or with little deformation. In addition, the durability of the wick (25) is improved, and the replacement cycle of the first container (20) equipped with the wick (25) can be increased.

The first wick part (251) may be extended in a horizontal direction. The first wick part (251) may have a hexahedral shape. The second wick part (252) may protrude upward from the first wick part (251). The second wick part (252) may be extended in a horizontal direction. The second wick part (252) may have a hexahedral shape.

The first wick part (251) may be larger than the second wick part (252). The circumference corresponding to the side surface (2512) of the first wick part (251) may be larger than the circumference corresponding to the side surface (2522) of the second wick part (252).

The heater (2531) can be attached to the first wick part (251). The heater (2531) can form a pattern on the lower surface (2513) of the first wick part (251). The heater (2531) can form various patterns along the longitudinal direction of the first wick part (251). Both ends of the heater (2531) can be adjacent to both ends of the first wick part (251).

A pair of first terminals (2533) may be formed at both ends of the heater (2531). The first terminals (2533) may be coupled to the lower surface of the first wick part (251). The pair of first terminals (2533) may be adjacent to both ends of the first wick part (251). The first terminals (2533) may protrude downward from the first wick part (251).

The first terminal (2533) can be in contact with the second terminal (223) to electrically connect the heater (2531) and the second terminal (223). The second terminal (223) can support the first terminal (2533) and the lower surface (2513) of the first wick part (251).

Referring to FIG. 7, the body (10) may include a control unit (12), a memory (715) and/or a temperature sensor (730).

The first container (20) may include a heater (2531) and a memory (725).

The memory (715) of the body (10) can store data corresponding to the configuration included in the body (10). For example, the memory (715) of the body (10) can store data on the total capacity of the battery (160), data on the manufacturing date of the body (10), etc.

The memory (725) of the first container (20) can store data corresponding to the configuration included in the first container (20). For example, the memory (725) of the first container (20) can store data on the resistance of the heater (2531), data on the wick (25), data on the usage history, etc.

The body (10) and the first container (20) may each include at least one connection terminal (710, 720). When the body (10) and the first container (20) are combined, the connection terminal (710) of the body (10) and the connection terminal (720) of the first container (20) may be electrically connected.

The control unit (12) of the body (10) and the memory (725) of the first container (20) can communicate with each other. For example, the control unit (12) of the body (10) and the memory (725) of the first container (20) can communicate according to a preset protocol using a single-wire communication interface (1-wire interface). At this time, a signal can be transmitted between the control unit (12) of the body (10) and the memory (725) of the first container (20) through the connection terminals (710, 720) of the body (10) and the first container (20).

The control unit (12) can obtain data from the memory (725) of the first container (20). For example, the control unit (12) can receive at least a portion of the data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) from the memory (725) of the first container (20).

The control unit (12) can check the data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20). For example, the control unit (12) can check the resistance value of the heater (2531) corresponding to the reference temperature, the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of the heater (2531), etc. based on the data on the heater (2531) among the data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20). For example, the control unit (12) can check the current number of puffs, the maximum number of puffs, the total time that the heater (2531) has been heated, the total amount of power supplied to the heater (2531), the time of connection to the body (10), the time of separation from the second container (30), whether the liquid has been exhausted, etc. based on the data on the usage history among the data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20).

The control unit (12) can process data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20). The control unit (12) can add new data to the data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20). The control unit (12) can change or delete data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20).

The control unit (12) can determine whether the data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) is valid. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the data for the heater (2531) is valid based on whether the resistance value of the heater (2531) included in the data for the heater (2531) is within a preset resistance range. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the data for the heater (2531) is valid based on whether the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of the heater (2531) included in the data for the heater (2531) is within a preset TCR range. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the data for the wick (25) is valid based on whether the type of the wick (25) included in the data for the wick (25) corresponds to a preset type.

According to one embodiment, the data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) may be encrypted data. The control unit (12) may decrypt the data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) according to preset criteria. For example, the control unit (12) may decrypt the data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) based on an encryption key stored in the memory (715) of the body (10). At this time, the control unit (12) may determine that the first container (20) is an authenticated configuration when decryption of the data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) is completed.

The control unit (12) can add encrypted data according to preset criteria to the memory (725) of the first container (20). For example, the control unit (12) can transmit data on the number of times a puff is detected through the puff sensor (461), encrypted based on an encryption key stored in the memory (715) of the body (10), to the memory (725) of the first container (20).

In the present disclosure, a symmetric key cryptography (SKC) method is used in which the encryption key used for encryption and the encryption key used for decryption are the same, but is not limited thereto.

The temperature sensor (730) can detect the current flowing through the heater (2531), the voltage applied to the heater (2531), and/or the current resistance value of the heater (2531). The control unit (12) can determine the temperature of the heater (2531) based on data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20). For example, the control unit (12) can determine the resistance value of the heater (2531) and the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of the heater (2531) based on data about the heater (2531) stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20). At this time, the control unit (12) can calculate the current temperature of the heater (2531) based on a calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the heater (2531). Here, the calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the heater (2531) can correspond to the following mathematical formula 1.

In the above mathematical expression 1, TCR may be the resistance temperature coefficient of the heater (2531), T1 may be the current temperature of the heater (2531), R1 may be the current resistance value of the heater (2531), T0 may be the reference temperature, and R0 may be the resistance value of the heater (2531) corresponding to the reference temperature.

FIGS. 8 to 10 are flowcharts illustrating an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 8, the aerosol generator (100) can determine whether the first container (20) is coupled to the body (10) in operation S801. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine whether the body (10) and the first container (20) are coupled based on whether the power source (11) included in the body (10) and the second terminal (223) included in the first container (20) are electrically connected to each other.

The aerosol generator (100) can deactivate the operation of at least one component provided in the body (10), etc., when the body (10) and the first container (20) are separated. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can cut off the power supply to the heater (2531), the puff sensor (461), the cartridge detection sensor (471), etc.

In operation S802, the aerosol generator (100) can obtain data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) based on the fact that the body (10) and the first container (20) are coupled in a separated state. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can obtain the current number of puffs, the maximum number of puffs, the time of coupling to the body (10), the time of separation from the second container (30), whether the liquid is exhausted, etc. stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) based on the fact that the body (10) and the first container (20) are coupled in a separated state. Meanwhile, the aerosol generator (100) can store data about the time at which the first container (20) is coupled to the body (10) in the memory (725) of the first container (20).

The aerosol generator (100) can determine whether the first container (20) coupled to the body (10) is usable in operation S803. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the first container (20) is unusable if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs based on data acquired from the memory (725) of the first container (20). For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the first container (20) is unusable if the total time for which the heater (2531) has been heated is greater than or equal to a preset maximum time based on data acquired from the memory (725) of the first container (20). For example, the aerosol generator (100) may determine that the first container (20) cannot be used if the total power supplied to the heater (2531) is greater than or equal to a preset maximum power based on data obtained from the memory (725) of the first container (20). For example, the aerosol generator (100) may determine that the first container (20) cannot be used if the first container (20) is not an authenticated configuration based on data obtained from the memory (725) of the first container (20).

The aerosol generator (100), in operation S804, can determine whether the first container (20) and the second container (30) are coupled when the first container (20) is usable. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated while a detection signal corresponding to physical contact is not output from the cartridge detection sensor (471). At this time, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the first container (20) and the second container (30) are coupled in a separated state based on the output of a detection signal corresponding to physical contact from the cartridge detection sensor (471). When the first container (20) and the second container (30) are coupled, the body (10) and the second container (30) can also be coupled.

The aerosol generator (100) can deactivate the operation of at least one component provided in the body (10), etc., while the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated from each other. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can cut off the supply of power to the heater (2531), the puff sensor (461), etc.

The aerosol generator (100) can determine, in operation S805, whether preheating (hereinafter, initial preheating) corresponding to the combination of the first container (20) and the second container (30) is required based on the combination of the first container (20) and the second container (30).

According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator (100) can determine whether initial preheating is necessary based on whether liquid is absorbed into the wick (25). Determining whether initial preheating is necessary will be described with reference to FIG. 9.

Referring to FIG. 9, the aerosol generator (100) can determine whether the first container (20) is used for the first time in operation S901. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the first container (20) has been used if data regarding the time of separation from the second container (30) is stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20). For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the first container (20) has been used if the current number of puffs stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) is 1 or more.

In operation S902, the aerosol generator (100) can determine whether the time elapsed from the time the first container (20) is separated to the time it is combined with the second container (30) when the first container (20) has been used exceeds a preset reference time. Here, the preset reference time may correspond to the time at which the liquid absorbed in the wick (25) evaporates to a certain level or more as the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated and the wick (25) is exposed to the outside through the liquid inlet (235). For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine whether the time elapsed from the time at which the first container (20) is separated from the second container (30) stored in the memory (725) to the time at which the first container (20) and the second container (30) are combined with each other exceeds a preset reference time.

The aerosol generator (100) can determine, in operation S903, whether the liquid has been exhausted before the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine whether the liquid has been exhausted before the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated based on whether there is a history of determining that the liquid has been exhausted in the memory (725) of the first container (20). According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the liquid stored in the second chamber (C2) has been exhausted when the temperature of the heater (2531) is higher than a limited temperature while heating power is supplied to the heater (2531). In addition, the aerosol generator (10) can store a history of determining that the liquid has been exhausted in the memory (725) of the first container (20) based on the determination that the liquid has been exhausted.

The aerosol generator (100) may determine that initial preheating is unnecessary when, in operation S904, the first container (20) is already used, the time elapsed between the separation of the first container (20) and the second container (30) and the reconnection is less than or equal to a preset reference time, and the liquid is not exhausted before the separation of the first container (20) and the second container (30).

Meanwhile, the aerosol generator (100) may determine that initial preheating is necessary in operation S905, when the first container (20) is used for the first time, when the time elapsed from the separation of the first container (20) to the separation of the second container (30) exceeds a preset reference time, and/or when the liquid is exhausted before the separation of the first container (20) and the second container (30).

Referring again to FIG. 8, the aerosol generator (100) may perform initial preheating in operation S806. For example, the aerosol generator (100) may supply power corresponding to the initial preheating (hereinafter, initial power) to the heater (2531). At this time, the initial power may be lower than the power supplied to the heater (2531) for aerosol generation.

According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator (100) may supply initial power to the heater (2531) for a time corresponding to the initial power (hereinafter, referred to as the initial time). The aerosol generator (100) may cut off the supply of power to the heater (2531) when the time for which the initial power is supplied to the heater (2531) passes a preset initial time. Here, the preset initial time may be set according to the time required for the liquid to flow from one surface of the second wick part (252) adjacent to the absorption part (316) to one surface of the first wick part (251) adjacent to the heater (2531).

When the first container (20) and the second container (30) are combined, the liquid stored in the second chamber (C2) can flow to the wick (25) through the absorption portion (316). When the liquid is not absorbed into the wick (25), it may take a considerable amount of time for the wick (25) to sufficiently absorb the liquid for aerosol generation. At this time, when the temperature of the heater (2531) rises due to the initial power supplied to the heater (2531), the temperature of the liquid flowing in the wick (25) may rise. In addition, when the temperature of the liquid flowing in the wick (25) rises, the viscosity of the liquid decreases, allowing the liquid to flow more smoothly in the wick (25). Therefore, the time required for the wick (25) to sufficiently absorb the liquid can be shortened.

The aerosol generator (100) may, in operation S807, output a notification regarding the completion of the initial preheating based on the completion of the initial preheating. For example, the aerosol generator (100) may output light corresponding to the completion of the initial preheating through a light-emitting diode (LED) when the initial power has been supplied to the heater (2531) for a preset initial time. For example, the aerosol generator (100) may generate vibration corresponding to the completion of the initial preheating through a motor when the initial power has been supplied to the heater (2531) for a preset initial time.

The aerosol generator (100) can perform an operation according to a puff in operation S808, while the first container (20) and the second container (30) are combined. The performance of the operation according to a puff will be described with reference to FIG. 10.

Referring to FIG. 10, the aerosol generating device (100) can determine whether a puff is detected through the puff sensor (461) in operation S1001. For example, the aerosol generating device (100) can determine that a puff has been generated based on the fact that the internal pressure value of the aerosol generating device (100) is less than a reference pressure value. For example, the aerosol generating device (100) can determine that a puff has been generated based on the fact that the amount of change in the internal pressure value of the aerosol generating device (100) is greater than or equal to a minimum amount of change.

The aerosol generator (100) may heat the heater (2531) for generating aerosol based on the detection of a puff in operation S1002. For example, the aerosol generator (100) may supply power corresponding to the generation of aerosol (hereinafter, heating power) to the heater (2531) based on a temperature profile. At this time, the temperature profile may be stored in at least one of the memory (715) of the body (10) and the memory (725) of the first container (20).

The aerosol generator (100) can determine whether the puff is terminated in operation S1003. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the puff is terminated based on the internal pressure value of the aerosol generator (100) being less than a reference pressure value. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the puff is terminated based on the slope corresponding to the change in the internal pressure value of the aerosol generator (100) being greater than 0.

The aerosol generator (100) can, in operation S1004, update data stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) based on the termination of the puff. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can increase the current number of puffs stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20), the total time that the heater (2531) has been heated, the total amount of power supplied to the heater (2531), etc. based on the termination of the puff.

The aerosol generator (100) can determine, in operation S1005, whether the first container (20) cannot be used. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the first container (20) cannot be used if the current number of puffs stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20).

Referring back to FIG. 8, the aerosol generator (100) can determine, in operation S809, whether the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated from each other. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated from each other while in a coupled state based on the fact that a detection signal corresponding to physical contact is not output from the cartridge detection sensor (471). At this time, the aerosol generator (100) can store the point in time when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated in the memory (725) of the first container (20).

The aerosol generator (100) can perform a puff-based operation while the first container (20) and the second container (30) are maintained in a state of being coupled to each other.

The aerosol generator (100) can determine, in operation S810, whether the body (10) and the first container (20) are separated from each other while the second container (30) is separated. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the body (10) and the first container (20) are separated from each other based on the electrical disconnection of the power source (11) included in the body (10) and the second terminal (223) included in the first container (20). The aerosol generator (100) can monitor whether the second container (30) is coupled while the body (10) and the first container (20) are maintained in a coupled state.

According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator (100) can determine whether a predetermined input is received within a predetermined time period when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated from each other while the body (10) and the first container (20) are coupled. Here, the predetermined time period may be a preset time limit corresponding to a cleaning function. Here, the preset input may correspond to a user input preset to execute the cleaning function. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the predetermined input is received when an input of pressing a physical button a preset number of times is received. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the predetermined input is received when a tap input of tapping the aerosol generator (100) a preset number of times is received based on a signal from an acceleration sensor and/or a gyro sensor.

The aerosol generator (100) can determine whether a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function is satisfied when a predetermined input is received within a predetermined time. Here, the predetermined condition may correspond to the degree to which the first container (20) has been used. For example, the aerosol generator (100) can determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the accumulated number of puffs related to the cleaning function stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) is greater than or equal to a predetermined number (e.g., 1000 times). When the cleaning function is executed, the aerosol generator (100) can initialize the accumulated number of puffs related to the cleaning function stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20). Meanwhile, the predetermined number may be determined according to the number of times the cleaning function has been executed. For example, the predetermined number may decrease in response to an increase in the number of times the cleaning function has been executed.

The aerosol generator (100) may perform a cleaning operation based on satisfying a predetermined condition related to the cleaning function. Here, the cleaning operation may refer to an operation of removing impurities generated by the generation of aerosol and accumulated in the wick (25). For example, the aerosol generator (100) may supply power to the heater (2531) according to a temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function. At this time, the maximum value of the target temperature for the heater (2531) determined according to the temperature profile corresponding to the cleaning function (e.g., 300°C) may exceed the maximum value of the target temperature for aerosol generation (e.g., 220°C). Meanwhile, when the cleaning operation is performed, the aerosol generator (100) may update data regarding the number of cleaning operations stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20). For example, the aerosol generator (100) can increase the number of cleaning cycles stored in the memory (725) of the first container (20) when a cleaning operation is performed.

Meanwhile, the aerosol generator (100) may output a notification regarding replacement of the first container (20) in operation S811. For example, the aerosol generator (100) may output light corresponding to the requirement for replacement of the first container (20) through a light-emitting diode (LED) based on the determination that the first container (20) is unusable.

Referring to drawing symbol 1101 of FIG. 11, when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated, the power supply to the heater (2531) can be cut off.

When the first container (20) and the second container (30) are combined at time t1, the aerosol generator (100) can supply initial power (P0) to the heater (2531). The aerosol generator (100) can supply initial power (P0) to the heater (2531) from time t1 until time t2 when a preset initial time has elapsed.

When a puff is detected at time t2 when the initial preheating is completed, the aerosol generator (100) can supply heating power (P1) to the heater (2531). The aerosol generator (100) can supply heating power (P1) to the heater (2531) from time t2 when the puff is detected to time t3 when the puff ends.

The aerosol generator (100) can supply preheating power (P2) to the heater (2531) from the time point t3 when the puff ends.

Meanwhile, referring to drawing symbol 1102 of FIG. 11, the aerosol generator (100) can supply initial power (P0) to the heater (2531) from the time point t1 when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are combined to the time point t2 when a preset initial time has elapsed.

The aerosol generator (100) can cut off the power supply to the heater (2531) from the time point t2 when the initial preheating is completed. At this time, the aerosol generator (100) can monitor whether a puff is detected while the power supply to the heater (2531) is cut off.

The aerosol generator (100) can supply heating power (P1) to the heater (2531) at time t3 when a puff is detected. The aerosol generator (100) can supply preheating power (P2) to the heater (2531) from time t4 when the puff ends.

Referring to Fig. 12, when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are combined, the power supply to the heater (2531) can be cut off. The aerosol generator (100) can monitor whether a puff is detected when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are combined and the power supply to the heater (2531) is cut off.

The aerosol generator (100) can supply heating power (P1) to the heater (2531) at a time point t1 when a puff is detected. The aerosol generator (100) can supply heating power (P1) to the heater (2531) from a time point t1 when a puff is detected to a time point t2 when the puff ends.

The aerosol generator (100) can supply preheating power (P2) to the heater (2531) from the time point t2 when the puff ends.

As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the configuration for storing the liquid and the configuration including the wick (25) can be independently replaced with each other.

Additionally, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a configuration including a wick (25) can be efficiently managed and used.

Additionally, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the liquid can be more smoothly moved to the wick (25) for the generation of an aerosol.

Additionally, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to notify the user that the liquid has sufficiently flowed to the wick (25).

Additionally, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, unnecessary power consumption can be reduced.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 12, an aerosol generating device (100) according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a body (10); a first container (20) including a wick (25), a heater (2531), and a memory (725); a second container (30) storing liquid; a cartridge detection sensor (471) detecting a connection between the first container (20) and the second container (30); And the control unit (170) is included, and the body (10) and the first container (20) are detachably coupled to each other, the first container (20) and the second container (30) are detachably coupled to each other, and the control unit (170) obtains data stored in the memory (725) when the body (10) and the first container (20) are coupled, and when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are coupled in a separated state, determines whether to supply initial power corresponding to the coupling to the heater (2531) based on the obtained data, and controls the initial power to be supplied to the heater (2531) based on the determination to supply the initial power to the heater (2531).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (170) can control the initial power to be supplied to the heater (2531) for an initial time corresponding to the initial power, and control the supply of power to the heater (2531) to be cut off based on the elapse of the initial time.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit (170) can store data on the point in time when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated from each other in the memory (725) based on the first container (20) and the second container (30) being separated from each other while they are combined.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the memory (725) stores data for a first point in time when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated from each other in a combined state, and the control unit (170) calculates, based on the acquired data, the elapsed time from the first point in time to the second point in time when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated from each other and combined, and controls the initial power to be supplied to the heater (2531) based on the elapsed time exceeding a preset reference time, and controls the supply of power to the heater (2531) to be cut off based on the elapsed time being equal to or less than the reference time.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device further includes a puff sensor (461) for detecting a puff; and a temperature sensor (730) for detecting the temperature of the heater (2531), and the control unit (170) can determine whether the liquid contained in the second container (30) is exhausted based on at least one of the temperature of the heater (2531) and the number of times the puff is detected, and based on determining that the liquid is exhausted, store a history of determining that the liquid is exhausted in the memory (725).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the memory (725) stores data on exhaustion of the liquid, and the control unit (170) determines whether the liquid is exhausted before the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated based on the acquired data, and if it is determined that the liquid is exhausted, it controls the initial power to be supplied to the heater (2531), and if it is determined that the liquid is not exhausted, it controls the supply of power to the heater (2531) to be cut off.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the device further includes an interface (120) for outputting a notification, and the memory (725) stores data on exhaustion of the liquid, and the control unit (170) determines whether the liquid has been exhausted before the first container (20) and the second container (30) are separated based on the acquired data, and if it is determined that the liquid has been exhausted, it can output a notification corresponding to the initial power for a first time period through the interface (120), and if it is determined that the liquid has not been exhausted based on the acquired data, it can output a notification corresponding to the initial power for a second time period shorter than the first time period through the interface (120).

Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first time may correspond to the initial time.

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the wick (25) includes a first wick part (251) disposed inside the first container (20); and a second wick part (252) disposed to be exposed to the outside of the first container (20) through a liquid inlet formed in the first container (20), and the heater (2531) can be disposed to be in contact with the first wick part (251).

In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second container (30) includes a chamber (C2) for storing the liquid; and an absorption portion (316) for absorbing the liquid, wherein the absorption portion (316) is arranged to be exposed to the outside of the second container (30), and when the first container (20) and the second container (30) are combined, the liquid absorbed in the absorption portion (316) can be supplied to the first container (20).

Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the wick (25) may be formed of ceramic.

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

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 any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims (11)

body;
A first container comprising a wick, a heater and a memory;
A second container for storing liquid;
A cartridge detection sensor that detects a connection between the first container and the second container; and
Including a control unit,
The above body and the first container are detachably coupled to each other,
The first container and the second container are detachably coupled to each other,
The above control unit,
When the body and the first container are combined, data about the time at which the first container and the second container stored in the memory are separated from each other is obtained,
When the first container and the second container are combined while being separated from each other, the time elapsed from the first point in time when the first container and the second container are separated from each other to the second point in time when the first container and the second container are combined is calculated based on the acquired data,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that, based on the above-described calculated time exceeding a preset reference time, initial power corresponding to the coupling between the first container and the second container is controlled to be supplied to the heater. In the first paragraph,
The above control unit,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the supply of the initial power to the heater is controlled to be cut off based on the calculated time being less than or equal to the reference time. In the first paragraph,
The above control unit,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the third point in time is stored in the memory based on the first container and the second container being separated from each other while being combined at the third point in time. body;
A first container comprising a wick, a heater and a memory;
A second container for storing liquid;
A cartridge detection sensor that detects a connection between the first container and the second container; and
Including a control unit,
The above body and the first container are detachably coupled to each other,
The first container and the second container are detachably coupled to each other,
The above control unit,
When the above body and the above first container are combined, data on the history in which the liquid stored in the above memory is judged to be exhausted is obtained,
When the first container and the second container are combined while being separated from each other, it is determined based on the acquired data whether the liquid is exhausted before the first container and the second container are separated,
When it is determined that the liquid is exhausted, initial power corresponding to the connection between the first container and the second container is controlled to be supplied to the heater,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that, when it is determined that the liquid is not exhausted, the supply of the initial power to the heater is controlled to be cut off. In paragraph 4,
a puff sensor that detects puffs; and
Further comprising a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the above heater,
The above control unit,
Based on at least one of the temperature of the heater and the number of times the puff is detected, it is determined whether the liquid contained in the second container is exhausted,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that, based on the determination that the liquid has been exhausted, a history of the determination that the liquid has been exhausted is stored in the memory. In paragraph 1 or 4,
The above control unit,
Controlling so that the initial power is supplied to the heater for an initial time corresponding to the initial power;
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the supply of the initial power to the heater is controlled to be cut off based on the elapse of the initial time. In paragraph 1 or 4,
It further includes an interface that outputs a notification,
The above control unit,
When the initial power is supplied to the heater, a notification corresponding to the initial power is output for a first time through the interface,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that, when the supply of the initial power to the heater is cut off, a notification corresponding to the initial power is output through the interface for a second time shorter than the first time. In paragraph 7,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the first time corresponds to an initial time, which is preset as the time at which the initial power is supplied to the heater. In paragraph 1 or 4,
The above wick is,
A first wick part disposed inside the first container; and
It includes a second wick part that is positioned to be exposed to the outside of the first container through a liquid inlet formed in the first container,
An aerosol generating device, characterized in that the heater is arranged to be in contact with the first wick part. In paragraph 1 or 4,
The above second container,
a chamber for storing the liquid; and
It includes an absorbent part that absorbs the liquid,
The above absorption portion is positioned so as to be exposed to the outside of the second container,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that when the first container and the second container are combined, the liquid absorbed in the absorption section is supplied to the first container. In paragraph 1 or 4,
An aerosol generating device, characterized in that the wick is formed of ceramic.