KR102899424B1 - Aerosol-generating device recognizing tilt motion and its control method - Google Patents

Abstract

The embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device such as an electronic cigarette, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device that recognizes a tilt motion and a method for controlling the same.
In an embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes a main body, a cartridge receiving portion formed on one side of a case and having a concave surface curved in a longitudinal direction, a substrate cartridge including a consumable aerosol-forming substrate therein and engaging the concave surface of the cartridge receiving portion to slide in a longitudinal direction, and a state recognition sensor formed on the main body and capable of recognizing a position or a change in position according to the slide movement of the substrate cartridge, wherein the substrate cartridge tilts with respect to the main body according to the slide movement, and a control portion receives a detection signal of the state recognition sensor and recognizes it as a user input.

Description

Aerosol generating device recognizing tilt motion and its control method {AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICE RECOGNIZING TILT MOTION AND ITS CONTROL METHOD}

The embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device such as an electronic cigarette, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device that recognizes a tilt motion and a method for controlling the same.

Aerosol-generating devices, such as e-cigarettes, are rapidly evolving into an innovative field that offers a more advanced experience than simply replacing traditional cigarettes. In particular, the market has expanded recently with the emergence of various types of aerosol-generating devices and cartridges, offering a variety of flavors and user experiences. However, existing aerosol-generating devices still have room for improvement.

The cartridge is inserted and mounted within an aerosol generating device as a consumable. A hollow aerosol inlet is formed on one side of the cartridge, allowing aerosol inhalation through a mouthpiece or by direct contact with the mouth.

Since the aerosol generated by an aerosol generating device is inhaled orally by the user, hygiene management of the device can be a concern. Specifically, during storage, transport, or placement of the aerosol generating device, the aerosol inlet must be protected from dust, contaminants, and other foreign substances. Conversely, liquid droplets or solids remaining within the device must not leak out through the aerosol inlet. To this end, it is necessary to protect the aerosol inlet when the device is not in use, and to expose it again when in use.

In conventional technology, the primary method for protecting the aerosol inlet was to attach a cap or cover to the cartridge or device body. However, this method carries the risk of users losing the cap or cover, and the process of removing and replacing it is cumbersome and time-consuming.

Furthermore, conventional aerosol generators have limitations in their design and functionality. Most aerosol generators have only two control states: on and off, and lack any input devices, making it impossible for users to send control commands. This has prevented users from experiencing anything beyond simply using the aerosol generator.

Additionally, while some advanced aerosol generators have been able to control some functions via button input, these buttons can affect the appearance of the aerosol generator, limiting its aesthetic appeal. The size, location, and number of buttons can impact the overall design of the aerosol generator, leading to negative reactions from many users.

As a result, conventional aerosol generators have limited functionality and designs that fail to fully satisfy user needs and preferences. The need to overcome these issues and provide users with a richer experience and greater convenience has emerged.

The embodiments aim to provide an aerosol generating device and a control method thereof that can increase the design and aesthetic freedom of the device by introducing a method for transmitting various control commands without using a traditional button input device.

In addition, the embodiments aim to provide an aerosol generating device that can completely hide the suction port when not in use through a tilt structure, protect it from external contaminants, and prevent the leakage of droplets, thereby ensuring a hygienic use environment.

In addition, the embodiments aim to provide an aerosol generating device and a control method thereof that enable users to easily use various functions of the device without separate learning through an intuitive operation method utilizing a tilt structure.

An aerosol generating device of one embodiment comprises a case extending vertically, a main body including a control unit for applying energy to an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol and a battery therein, a cartridge receiving portion formed on one side of the case and including a concave surface curved in the longitudinal direction, a substrate cartridge including a consumable aerosol-forming substrate therein and engaging the concave surface of the cartridge receiving portion so as to slide in the longitudinal direction, and a state recognition sensor formed on the main body capable of recognizing a position or a change in position according to the slide movement of the substrate cartridge, wherein the substrate cartridge tilts with respect to the main body according to the slide movement, and the control portion receives a detection signal of the state recognition sensor and recognizes it as a user input.

In addition, an aerosol generating device of one embodiment includes a substrate cartridge including a front and a rear surface, and is coupled to a cartridge receiving portion so that the concave surface and the rear surface face each other, and further, the substrate cartridge includes an inlet on the rear surface through which a generated aerosol is discharged, and according to a slide movement, the state can be changed into a receiving state in which the concave surface and the rear surface overlap and the inlet is covered, and an exposure state in which the overlap is at least partially resolved and the inlet is exposed, and the control unit can recognize the current state of the substrate cartridge based on a detection signal received from a state recognition sensor.

Additionally, in one embodiment, the aerosol generating device comprises a control unit that recognizes as a user input a state transition pattern, which is a set of single detection signals of a state recognition sensor related to a state transition of a substrate cartridge.

Additionally, the aerosol generating device of one embodiment includes a state transition pattern including a state element related to the current state or state transition of the substrate cartridge and a time element formed by the duration of a state.

Additionally, in one embodiment of the aerosol generating device, the control unit controls the amount of power applied for aerosol generation according to user input.

In addition, in one embodiment, the aerosol generating device comprises a control unit that performs an aerosol generating process for controlling the generation of an aerosol, and a temperature profile determining process for determining a temperature profile to be used in the aerosol generating process, wherein the control unit performs the temperature profile determining process before the aerosol generating process, and when a user input detected through a state recognition sensor occurs in the temperature profile determining process, the control unit sequentially switches and selects a plurality of preset temperature profiles.

In addition, the aerosol generating device of one embodiment further includes a notification unit for notifying a user of a current control state of the aerosol generating device by generating at least one of a haptic effect, a visual effect, or an audio effect.

In addition, the aerosol generating device of one embodiment further includes a memory unit formed on a main body and storing a user password formed through a user input, and the control unit can change the state of the aerosol generating device between a locked state in which aerosol generation is restricted and an unlocked state in which the restriction is lifted, and if a user password is stored in the memory unit in the locked state, an unlocking process is performed, and the control unit determines whether a user password input detected through a state recognition sensor matches a user password stored in the memory unit during the unlocking process, and if they match, changes the state to the unlocked state.

In addition, in one embodiment of the aerosol generating device, the control unit controls the aerosol to be generated only when the aerosol is in an unlocked state.

In addition, an aerosol generating device of one embodiment includes a substrate cartridge formed on the rear surface and having a convex surface having the same curvature as a concave surface that is bent in the longitudinal direction, and the convex surface and the concave surface remain in contact with each other during sliding movement.

In addition, the aerosol generating device of one embodiment is such that the substrate cartridge, in a receiving state, extends with its front surface parallel to the extension direction of the case, and in an exposed state, tilts at an angle selected from the range of 15 degrees to 35 degrees with respect to the extension direction of the case.

In addition, an aerosol generating device of one embodiment further includes a substrate cartridge, a substrate storage portion for storing an aerosol-forming substrate, an aerosol generating portion which is a space for generating an aerosol by heating, a cartridge terminal portion for applying power to the aerosol generating portion, and an outside air passage extending to the aerosol generating portion for introducing outside air into the aerosol generating portion, and a cartridge receiving portion further includes a main body terminal portion for transmitting power by contacting the cartridge terminal portion, and the cartridge terminal portion is electrically connected by contacting the main body terminal portion in an exposed state of the substrate cartridge.

In addition, the aerosol generating device of one embodiment further includes a substrate cartridge including a cartridge magnet, and the state recognition sensor is a magnetic sensor, and recognizes a magnetic field of the cartridge magnet to recognize a position or change in position according to a slide movement of the substrate cartridge.

In addition, in an aerosol generating device of one embodiment, the state recognition sensor is a circuit detection sensor, and detects whether the main body terminal part and the cartridge terminal part are electrically connected to each other, thereby recognizing a position or position change according to the slide movement of the substrate cartridge.

In addition, the aerosol generating device of one embodiment comprises a state recognition sensor which is a pressure sensor, the cartridge receiving portion further comprises a connection passage which is connected to at least the pressure sensor, the external air passage is connected to the connection passage so as to be in communication with the substrate cartridge in an exposed state, and the state recognition sensor detects whether the connection passage and the external air passage are connected so as to be in communication with each other, thereby recognizing a position or position change according to a slide movement of the substrate cartridge.

In addition, the aerosol generating device of one embodiment further includes a back cover coupled to the rear of the case, the back cover including at least one magnet, and the body including at least one magnet or magnetic body that exerts an attractive force on the magnet, and the back cover is coupled to the rear of the case by the attractive force.

In addition, the aerosol generating device of one embodiment further includes a magnetic sensor capable of recognizing a magnetic field of a magnet of a combined back cover, and the control unit controls the aerosol generating device based on a detection signal of the magnetic sensor.

According to embodiments, the tilt structure allows the cartridge and aerosol inlet to be exposed or hidden again with a simple operation, making the device convenient to use and improving hygiene as the airflow path is completely hidden when storing or moving the device.

In addition, since the tilt motion can be recognized as a control command in the embodiments, a separate operating device such as a button can be omitted, thereby improving the aesthetics of the device and increasing the degree of design freedom.

Additionally, operation through tilt motion is intuitive, and users can control the product through various movements rather than simply pressing buttons, providing a new user experience.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 is a plan view and a perspective view of a substrate cartridge (20) of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is a plan view showing the front of the main body (10) of the aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a plan view showing the rear side of the main body (10) of the aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the main body (10) of the aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the separation and connection relationship between components of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the connection relationship between functional elements included in an aerosol generating device (1) of one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 9 is a flowchart showing a control method that can be performed by the control unit (200) of the aerosol generating device (1) of one embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the control method of Fig. 9 in more detail;
Fig. 11 is a table summarizing the operation and temperature profile change of an exemplary notification LED (470) by the control method of the control unit (200) of Fig. 10.
Figure 12 is a block diagram showing the connection relationship between functional elements included in an aerosol generating device (1) of another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 13 is a diagram showing several examples of user passwords formed by state transition patterns, represented as data in list format.
Figure 14 is a flowchart for explaining a user authentication method that can be performed by an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a user authentication method that can be performed by an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. In Fig. 1, two different states of the aerosol generating device (1) are respectively illustrated in (a) and (b) of Fig. 1. The aerosol generating device (1) includes, in this embodiment, a main body (10) for supplying power for aerosol generation and a substrate cartridge (20) for supplying an aerosol-forming substrate. In a general usage mode of the aerosol generating device (1), the substrate cartridge (20) is maintained in a state coupled to the main body (10) as shown in this drawing, but can also be easily separated from the main body (10) again by a user applying an external force.

The main body (10) includes a case (100) that substantially forms the outer appearance and accommodates and protects at least one or more other components therein. The case (100) is formed of a rigid material and may be formed of, for example, metal or heat-resistant plastic. On one side of the case (100), particularly on the upper portion, a concave surface (110A) that is bent in the longitudinal direction as if sunken is formed, and this concave surface (110A) substantially forms a cartridge receiving portion (110). A substrate cartridge (20) is accommodated and coupled to the cartridge receiving portion (110) having the concave shape.

The case (100) has a shape that extends vertically, and this shape allows the user to easily use the aerosol generating device (1) by holding the lower part of the case (100) with their hand. In other words, the lower part of the case (100) can function as a gripping part.

In the description of the specification, “top”, “upper side” and “bottom”, “lower side” are determined based on the user’s grip direction in the state of use based on the general usage pattern of the aerosol generating device, and the attached drawing is also illustrated to be consistent therewith. In other words, the general usage pattern of the aerosol generating device can be regarded as a mode in which the upstream side, which is the side where the aerosol is generated within the aerosol generating device, faces downward, and the downstream side, which is the side where the aerosol is discharged, that is, the side that comes into contact with the user’s mouth, faces upward. In the description of the specification, the upstream side is also referred to as “bottom”, “lower side”, and the downstream side is also referred to as “top”, “upper side”.

The substrate cartridge (20) includes a consumable aerosol-forming substrate, and is coupled to and accommodated in the main body (10). In addition, the substrate cartridge (20) can be separated from the main body (10) conversely. When the substrate cartridge (20) is coupled to the main body (10), the main body (10) applies energy to the substrate cartridge, and this energy is transferred to the aerosol-forming substrate stored in the substrate cartridge (20), so that an aerosol can be generated. The aerosol-forming substrate included in the substrate cartridge (20) may be in a liquid, gel, or solid state at room temperature, and may be, for example, a mixture containing at least one of nicotine, VG (vegetable glycerin), PG (propylene glycol), a flavoring agent, and a drug. Since the aerosol-forming substrate is consumed by the use of the aerosol generating device (1), the substrate cartridge (20) may be a consumable, and thus is coupled to the main body (10) so as to be easily mounted and detached by an external force. The stored aerosol-forming substrate can be converted into an aerosol by energy application, for example by heating by a heater that may be included in the substrate cartridge (20).

The substrate cartridge (20) is coupled to the cartridge receiving portion (110) so as to be able to slide. In particular, the substrate cartridge (20) is coupled so as to slide along a concave surface (110A) in the longitudinal direction of the case (100) that extends vertically. As the substrate cartridge (20) slides along the concave surface (110A) that is bent in the longitudinal direction, it tilts with respect to the main body (10).

In the embodiments, the substrate cartridge (20) includes at least a rear surface (20A) facing the concave surface (110A) of the cartridge receiving portion (110) when coupled with the main body (10) and a front surface (20B) on the other side thereof. Preferably, the substrate cartridge (20) maintains its rear surface (20A) in continuous contact with the concave surface (110A) of the cartridge receiving portion (110) during sliding movement.

In (a) of Fig. 1, the extension direction (B) of the front surface (20B) of the substrate cartridge (20) is arranged parallel to the extension direction (A) of the case (100). In (b) of Fig. 1, as the substrate cartridge (20) slides along the curved path of the concave surface (110A), the front surface (20B) is tilted at a predetermined angle (K) with respect to the extension direction of the case (100). Accordingly, the extension direction (B’) of the tilted front surface (20B) is no longer parallel to the extension direction (A) of the case (100), but forms a predetermined angle (K). Preferably, the maximum angle at which the substrate cartridge (20) is tilted with respect to the main body (10) according to the sliding movement of the substrate cartridge (20) can be determined within a range of 15 degrees to 35 degrees. More preferably, the substrate cartridge (20) is tilted at any angle selected from the range of 15 degrees to 35 degrees with respect to the extension direction (A) of the case (100), particularly in the exposed state described later.

The substrate cartridge (20) includes an inlet (21) on its rear surface (20A) through which the generated aerosol is discharged. In addition, the inlet (21) is preferably positioned adjacent to the upper portion of the substrate cartridge (20) among the rear surfaces (20A). This makes it easy for a user to make contact with the inlet (21) with their mouth, especially when the substrate cartridge (20) is tilted as shown in (b) of FIG. 1. The inlet (21) is a type of airflow passage, and serves as a passage through which the aerosol generated within the substrate cartridge (20) moves to the user's mouth by the user's puffing action.

In Fig. 1 (a), the concave surface (110A) of the cartridge receiving portion (110) and the rear surface (20A) of the substrate cartridge (20) overlap to cover the suction port (21). In this state, contaminants flowing into the suction port (21) are blocked, and conversely, liquid droplets, other foreign substances, or residues that may flow out from the suction port (21) can be blocked. The state in which the concave surface (110A) and the rear surface (20A) overlap to cover the suction port (21) as shown in Fig. 1 (a) can be referred to as a receiving state. In addition, in Fig. 1 (b), the substrate cartridge (20) slides upward, so that the overlap between the concave surface (110A) and the rear surface (20A) is partially resolved, and thus the suction port (21) is exposed to the outside. In this state, the user can inhale the aerosol by touching the exposed suction port (21) with the mouth and puffing. This state, such as (b) in Fig. 1, can be referred to as an exposure state.

As described above, preferably, the substrate cartridge (20) extends in a receiving state with the front surface (20B) parallel to the extension direction of the case (100), and is tilted at an angle selected from the range of 15 to 35 degrees with respect to the extension direction of the case in the exposed state. Accordingly, in an exposed state such as (b) of FIG. 1, the angle (K) formed by the extension direction (A) of the case (100) and the extension direction (B’) of the front surface (20B) of the tilted substrate cartridge (20) can be selected within the range of 15 to 35 degrees. This is because the angle between the case (100) and the suction port (21) has a substantial influence on the usability. That is, according to the experiments conducted by the inventors, when the direction in which the case (100) extends and the direction in which the suction port (21) extends are tilted in the range of 15 to 35 degrees, which is the preferred angle mentioned above, the height of the hand and the angle of the wrist when inhaling the aerosol can be made particularly comfortable.

Since the substrate cartridge (20) can slide over the concave surface (110A), the substrate cartridge (20) can be changed into a state of acceptance and an exposed state by the user applying an external force to slide the substrate cartridge (20).

The aerosol generating device (1) further includes a back cover (500) coupled to the back of the case (100) in this embodiment. For example, the back of the case (100) may refer to the other side of the surface where the concave cartridge receiving portion (110) is formed. The back cover (500) is coupled to the case (100) to surround and protect a portion of the case (100). In addition, the back cover (500) may be coupled for aesthetic purposes. Alternatively, a control method of the aerosol generating device (1) may be determined by recognizing a magnetic field emitted by the back cover (500) through a magnetic sensor described below.

FIG. 2 illustrates a substrate cartridge (20) of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention in a plan view ((a) of FIG. 2) and a perspective view ((b) of FIG. 2), respectively. As described above, the substrate cartridge (20) includes at least a rear surface (20A) and a front surface (20B), and an inlet (21) is formed at the upper end of the rear surface (20A) so that a user can easily contact the mouth.

In addition to the inlet (21), the substrate cartridge (20) may include a substrate storage portion for storing an aerosol-forming substrate, a heater for absorbing and heating the aerosol-forming substrate, and an aerosol generating portion including an atomizing space for discharging the aerosol generated by the heating. The substrate storage portion and the aerosol generating portion are formed inside the substrate cartridge (20), and are omitted from FIG. 2 because a person skilled in the art can easily derive their configuration based on conventional techniques.

For example, the substrate storage unit has a cavity of a predetermined volume to store an aerosol-forming substrate that is in a liquid, gel, or solid state at room temperature. The heater included in the aerosol generating unit may be, for example, a combination of a hygroscopic body and a heating wire, and can absorb the aerosol-forming substrate stored in the substrate storage unit through the hygroscopic body, heat it with a heating wire that generates heat through resistance heating, and thereby generate an aerosol and discharge it into the atomizing space of the aerosol generating unit. At this time, the atomizing space is also connected to the aforementioned inlet (21), through which the aerosol can ultimately be inhaled by the user.

The substrate cartridge (20) further includes a cartridge terminal portion (22) for applying power to a heater of an aerosol generating portion, an outside air passage (23) for introducing outside air into a particularly atomizing space of the aerosol generating portion, a cartridge magnet (24) forming a magnet-magnetic pair or a magnet-magnet pair that exerts an attractive force on each other between the substrate cartridge (20) and the cartridge receiving portion (110), a side rail (25) for allowing the substrate cartridge (20) to slide along a concave surface (110A) of the cartridge receiving portion (110), and a guide rail (26) for guiding the slide movement or limiting the movement range thereof.

The cartridge terminal portion (22) supplies power by being connected to, for example, the heating wire of the heater of the aerosol generating portion described above. The power may be supplied from the battery (300) in the main body (10), and at this time, may be supplied by the control of the control portion (200). To this end, a main body terminal portion may be formed at a position corresponding to the cartridge terminal portion (22) of the cartridge receiving portion (110) to which the substrate cartridge (20) is coupled, to transmit power by contacting the cartridge terminal portion (22). Preferably, when the substrate cartridge (20) is coupled to the cartridge receiving portion (110) and is in an exposed state, the cartridge terminal portion (22) is electrically connected by contacting the main body terminal portion without additional manipulation. In addition, when the substrate cartridge (20) is in a receiving state or separated from the main body (10), the contact is automatically released. To this end, the cartridge terminal portion (22) or the main body terminal portion may be formed as a pogo pin or C-clip-shaped terminal, which has been used in the prior art to implement easy electrical connection. In the present embodiment, the cartridge terminal portion (22) is formed as a female terminal to facilitate connection with the main body terminal portion formed as a pogo pin.

The external air passage (23) is an air passage that connects the inside and outside of the substrate cartridge (20), and particularly, when the substrate cartridge (20) is in an exposed state, external air is introduced into the aerosol generating unit within the substrate cartridge (20) according to the user's inhalation action. The external air passage (23) can be connected to the outside directly in an exposed state, or can be connected to the outside only by being connected to a connecting passage that can be formed in the cartridge receiving portion (110).

The cartridge magnet (24) uses the attractive force between magnetic bodies to fix the substrate cartridge (20) coupled to the cartridge receiving portion (110) to a certain position. For example, the cartridge magnet (24) can fix the substrate cartridge (20) in a receiving state, an exposed state, or both by exerting an attractive force on a magnet or magnetic body that can be formed in the cartridge receiving portion (110).

The side rail (25) forms part of a sliding member for slidably connecting the substrate cartridge (20) to the cartridge receiving portion (110). In addition, a moving body (not shown) that moves in conjunction with the side rail (25) may be formed as a sliding member in the cartridge receiving portion (110). The sliding members for slidably connecting the substrate cartridge (20) to the cartridge receiving portion (110), such as the side rail (25) and the moving body, are exemplary, and those skilled in the art will be able to imagine various modified embodiments of the sliding members used in the prior art to relatively slide two objects in addition to the present embodiment.

The guide rail (26) can be driven by accommodating a protruding structure (not shown) that can be formed, for example, on a concave surface (110A), and the protruding structure can limit the range of movement of the substrate cartridge (20) when it slides by contacting the end of the guide rail (26). For example, one limit of the range of limited slide movement can define the state of accommodation of the substrate cartridge (20), and the other limit can define the state of exposure of the substrate cartridge (20).

Preferably, the rear surface (20A) of the substrate cartridge (20) includes a convex surface that is curved in the longitudinal direction, i.e., in the vertical extension direction of the case (100). In particular, in the present embodiment, the entire rear surface (20A) substantially forms a convex surface. In addition, when the substrate cartridge (20) slides, at least a portion of the convex rear surface (20A) and the concave surface (110A) maintain contact. Due to the contact between these two surfaces, the substrate cartridge (20) is firmly supported and does not shake when it slides, and can be firmly fixed in the exposed state and the contained state. In addition, when the rear surface (20A) of the substrate cartridge (20) includes a convex surface, the internal volume of the substrate cartridge (20) can be increased, thereby increasing the amount of aerosol-forming substrate stored in the substrate storage unit therein. At the same time, the substrate cartridge (20) has a shape that becomes narrower toward the end, particularly toward the suction port (21), so that it is easy for a user to bite the suction port (21).

In a preferred embodiment, the concave surface (110A) and the convex rear surface (20A) are curved in the longitudinal direction, i.e., in the vertical extension direction of the case (100). For example, they may have a predetermined curvature that is curved in the longitudinal direction. Accordingly, the substrate cartridge (20) slides along the concave surface (110A) in the direction of the curvature, and the substrate cartridge (20) can naturally tilt at a predetermined angle with respect to the main body (10) according to the movement along this curved path. In this case, it is also preferable that the concave surface (110A) and the convex rear surface (20A) have the same curvature. Of course, the curvature of the concave surface (110A) and the convex rear surface (20A) may be any constant curvature or any varying curvature. When the concave surface (110A) and the convex rear surface (20A) have the same curvature, the concave surface (110A) and the convex rear surface (20A) can come into contact over a large area throughout the entire slide movement section of the substrate cartridge (20), and the suction port (21) can be effectively covered in the receiving state due to the overlapping of the concave surface (110A) and the convex rear surface (20A).

Fig. 3 is a plan view showing the front of the main body (10) of the aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The case (100) is shown as translucent to illustrate the internal components. The main body (10) includes, within the case (100) forming its exterior, a control unit (200) and a battery (300) for applying energy to an aerosol-forming substrate included in a substrate cartridge (20) to generate an aerosol.

The control unit (200) may include a Micro-Controller Unit (MCU) for controlling the generation of aerosol or for controlling the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). In addition, the control unit (200), particularly the MCU, may receive a detection signal from a state recognition sensor described below, regard this as a user input, and perform control of the aerosol generating device (1) according to preset rules.

The control unit (200) may be implemented, for example, in the form of a PCB or FPCB. The control unit (200) further includes elements for applying energy from the battery (300) to the substrate cartridge (20) housed in the main body (10). For example, the control unit may include a power IC for amplifying or converting power or a switching element for controlling power application. In addition, the control unit may include a protection circuit for circuit protection.

According to an embodiment, the control unit (200) may control the heating temperature of a heater (e.g., included in a substrate cartridge) to follow a temperature profile, which is a temperature change scenario over time that is preset and stored in advance. At this time, multiple temperature profiles may be preset and stored in the control unit (200), and the control unit (200) may select one of the temperature profiles according to a user's instruction or automatic control, and control the heater to follow the corresponding temperature profile. Feedback control and configuration using a temperature sensor or the like may be used for the control of the heater, and since this is a known technology and can be easily implemented, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The battery (300) is configured to supply direct current power preferably through the control unit (200), and can be charged by being connected to an external power source through a charging terminal.

Elements for interaction with the substrate cartridge (20) to be accommodated may be formed in or near the cartridge receiving portion (110). In this embodiment, the cartridge receiving portion (110) is formed with a main body terminal portion (410) formed to be exposed on a concave surface (110A), a connection passage (420), a pressure sensor (430), a UV LED (440), a status recognition sensor (450), and a main body magnet or magnetic body (460).

The main body terminal portion (410) is preferably formed at a position corresponding to the cartridge terminal portion (22) when the substrate cartridge (20) is exposed, so that the substrate cartridge (20) can be positioned in the exposed state, and can automatically contact the cartridge terminal portion (22) to transmit power without additional manipulation. In the present embodiment, the main body terminal portion (410) is formed as a male terminal in the form of a pogo pin in order to easily and firmly connect with the cartridge terminal portion (22) formed as a female terminal. In this embodiment, the main body terminal portion (410) is connected to the substrate cartridge (20) in the exposed state, thereby enabling power to be supplied to the aerosol generator, and conversely, in the received state, the connection is released, so that power supply to the aerosol generator can be blocked from the beginning.

The connection passage (420), like the main body terminal portion (410) described above, is preferably formed at a position corresponding to the external air passage (23) when the substrate cartridge (20) is in an exposed state, so that the substrate cartridge (20) slides to be positioned in an exposed state, and is automatically connected to the external air passage (23) without any additional manipulation. The connection passage (420) is a type of airflow passage, and one end is connected to the external air passage (23) when in an exposed state, and the other end is connected to a pressure sensor (430) to be described later. Accordingly, when a user puffs, the pressure sensor (430) can detect a pressure change caused by the user's puffing action. When the substrate cartridge (20) is in a receiving state, the connection passage (420) can be closed by the overlapping of the concave surface (110A) and the rear surface (20A), thereby preventing foreign substances from entering the pressure sensor (430).

The pressure sensor (430) may be a sensor capable of detecting a user's puff (inhalation) action by detecting pressure changes within a space. The pressure sensor itself is a component commonly employed in conventional aerosol generating devices, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

In order for the pressure sensor (430) to detect pressure changes due to the puffing action, it must be connected to a space where suction flow occurs due to the user's puffing action. To this end, as described above, the pressure sensor (430) is connected to communicate with the connection passage (420), and furthermore, the connection passage (420) is connected to communicate with the external air passage (23), particularly when the substrate cartridge (20) is in an exposed state. Therefore, ultimately, the pressure sensor (430) and the suction port (21) are spatially connected through the connection passage (420), and accordingly, the pressure sensor (430) can detect pressure changes due to the user's puffing action.

The UV LED (440) emits UV-C light, and is formed to emit UV-C light toward the suction port (21) of the substrate cartridge (20), particularly when the substrate cartridge (20) is in a receiving state. Accordingly, the suction port (21) and its surroundings can be disinfected by the UV LED (440) in the receiving state. The UV LED (440) is electrically connected to the control unit (200) so that its operation can be controlled by the control unit (200). The UV LED (440) is preferably embedded directly below the concave surface (110A), and can be formed at a position corresponding to the suction port (21) in the receiving state so that UV-C light can be emitted toward the suction port (21) in the receiving state. At this time, even though the UV LED (440) is embedded under the concave surface (110A), a light-transmitting window (not shown) that allows UV-C light to reach the intake port (21) can be formed at a corresponding position of the concave surface (110A).

Additionally, the cartridge receiving portion (110) may include a state recognition sensor (450) that can recognize a state change of the substrate cartridge (20) according to the slide movement of the substrate cartridge (20). For example, the state recognition sensor (450) may be a sensor that detects a position or position change according to the slide movement of the substrate cartridge (20).

In an embodiment in which the substrate cartridge (20) includes a cartridge magnet (24) as in the present embodiment, it is preferable that the state recognition sensor (450) be a magnetic sensor such as a Hall sensor. This is because the movement or position of the cartridge magnet (24) according to the sliding movement of the substrate cartridge (20) can be easily detected by the magnetic sensor. However, the state recognition sensor (450) is not limited to a magnetic sensor, and for example, the state recognition sensor (450) may be selected from an optical sensor, a capacitance sensor, an inductive sensor, a proximity sensor, a circuit detection sensor, a pressure sensor, or a physical switch.

For example, the state recognition sensor (450) is an optical sensor and may be formed so that light is transmitted through one side of the cartridge receiving portion (110). Therefore, at this time, the optical sensor can recognize the color, pattern, or code displayed on the outside of the substrate cartridge (20) to recognize the movement or position of the substrate cartridge (20). Alternatively, the state recognition sensor (450) is an electrostatic capacity sensor and detects a change in electrostatic capacity between the substrate cartridge (20) and the state recognition sensor (450) according to the movement of the substrate cartridge (20), thereby recognizing the movement or position of the substrate cartridge (20). Alternatively, the state recognition sensor (450) is an inductive sensor and detects a change in a magnetic field according to the movement of the substrate cartridge (20) including metal, thereby recognizing the movement or position of the substrate cartridge (20). Alternatively, the state recognition sensor (450) is an infrared or ultrasonic proximity sensor and detects the proximity of the substrate cartridge (20), thereby recognizing the movement or position of the substrate cartridge (20). Alternatively, the status recognition sensor (450) may be a switch that is activated when the substrate cartridge (20) reaches a specific position, and through this, the movement or position of the substrate cartridge (20) can be recognized.

Alternatively, the state recognition sensor (450) may be a circuit detection sensor, such as a current sensor or voltage sensor, that is electrically connected to the main body terminal portion (410) and detects whether the main body terminal portion (410) and the cartridge terminal portion (22) are electrically connected to each other. In this case, when the substrate cartridge (20) is converted to an exposed state by sliding movement, an electrical connection is established between the main body terminal portion (410) and the cartridge terminal portion (22), and when it is converted to a received state by sliding movement, the electrical connection is released. Therefore, the state recognition sensor (450) detects the connection and disconnection between these circuits, thereby recognizing the state change of the substrate cartridge (20).

Alternatively, the state recognition sensor (450) may be a pressure sensor. For example, the pressure sensor (430) described above may function as the state recognition sensor (450). As described above, when the substrate cartridge (20) is in a receiving state, the connection passage (420) may be closed by the overlapping of the concave surface (110A) and the rear surface (20A), and further, when the substrate cartridge (20) is in an exposed state, the connection passage (420) may be connected to communicate with the external air passage (23). At this time, the pressure sensor (430) detects minute pressure changes according to the closing and opening of the connection passage (420), thereby recognizing the state change of the substrate cartridge (20).

The state recognition sensor (450) may include two or more of the sensors described above as examples. In this case, the control unit (200) may recognize the position or positional changes of the substrate cartridge (20) based on detection signals received from the two or more sensors. In addition, the state or position of the substrate cartridge (20) detected by the state recognition sensor (450) is not limited to the exposure state and the acceptance state, and may detect more positions and states depending on the embodiment.

In this embodiment, the state recognition sensor (450) is a magnetic sensor and is embedded directly below the concave surface (110A) of the cartridge receiving portion (110). In addition, at a position where the substrate cartridge (20) has slid to an exposed state, the cartridge magnet (24) is formed at a position where it can approach and face the state recognition sensor (450). In this case, particularly when the substrate cartridge (20) has slid to an exposed state, the state recognition sensor (450), which is a magnetic sensor, can detect the proximity of the cartridge magnet (24), and the control unit (200) receiving this detection signal can recognize that the current state of the substrate cartridge (20) is an exposed state. Conversely, when the substrate cartridge (20) has slid to a received state, the state recognition sensor (450) can no longer detect the proximity of the cartridge magnet (24), and the control unit (200) receiving this detection signal can recognize that the current state of the substrate cartridge (20) is an received state or separated from the main body (10). In addition, at this time, the control unit (200) can regard the result of recognizing the status of the substrate cartridge (20) as a user input and perform a predefined automatic control that matches the regarded user input.

For example, in the present embodiment, the control unit (200) can recognize whether the current state of the substrate cartridge (20) is at least an exposed state based on a detection signal of the state recognition sensor (450), which is a magnetic sensor. In addition, assuming another embodiment, another magnetic sensor may be formed at a position adjacent to the cartridge magnet (24) at a position where the substrate cartridge (20) has slid into the received state. In this case, the control unit may recognize both the exposed state and the received state of the substrate cartridge (20) since the two magnetic sensors each recognize the proximity of the cartridge magnet (24). In addition, in this case, if neither magnetic sensor detects the proximity of the cartridge magnet (24), the control unit (200) may determine that the substrate cartridge (20) has been separated from the main body (10).

In this way, the state recognition sensor (450) can recognize whether the substrate cartridge (20) is in an exposed state or a received state according to an embodiment, and additionally, can recognize whether the substrate cartridge (20) is coupled to the main body (10) or separated. In this case, for example, the control unit (200) can control the aerosol generating device (1) to operate normally only when the substrate cartridge (20) is coupled to the main body (10). For example, the control unit (200) can control the UV LED (440) to emit UV-C light only when it detects through the state recognition sensor (450) that the substrate cartridge (20) is in a received state. In addition, when the control unit (200) detects through the state recognition sensor (450) that the substrate cartridge (20) is in a received state, it can automatically control the UV LED (440) to emit UV-C light. The acceptance state may be a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is completed, so that, for example, when the control unit (200) detects a transition from the exposure state of the substrate cartridge (20) to the acceptance state, it may consider that the use of the aerosol generating device is completed and automatically cause UV-C light to be emitted from the UV LED (440) to sterilize the substrate cartridge (20) or the suction port (21). In addition, for example, when the control unit (200) receives a detection signal from the state recognition sensor (450) and detects a transition from the acceptance state to the exposure state, it may automatically start supplying power to the aerosol generating unit of the substrate cartridge (20) to control the generation of aerosol. Since the exposure state is a state suitable for a user to inhale aerosol, such control is meaningful. Conversely, when the control unit (200) detects that the substrate cartridge (20) is not in the exposure state, it may automatically control the generation of aerosol to be stopped by blocking the supply of power to the aerosol generating unit. As mentioned above, the acceptance state is a state suitable for the user to store and transport the aerosol generating device, so this control is also meaningful.

The main body magnet or magnetic body (460) is an element corresponding to the cartridge magnet (24) of the substrate cartridge (20), and is formed to exert an attractive force on each other. That is, the main body magnet or magnetic body (460) forms a magnet-magnetic body pair or magnet-magnet pair that exerts an attractive force on the cartridge magnet (24) of the substrate cartridge (20), so that the substrate cartridge (20), which slides when combined with the cartridge receiving portion (110), can be fixed in any state or position. For example, in the present embodiment, the main body magnet or magnetic body (460) is embedded in the lower portion of the concave surface (110A) of the cartridge receiving portion (110). Considering the position of the cartridge magnet (24) of the substrate cartridge (20) in the embodiment of FIG. 2, the position of the main body magnet or magnetic body (460) in the present embodiment is a position that fixes the substrate cartridge (20) so as to maintain the receiving state. Therefore, even though the receiving state can be maintained by the attractive force of the magnet-magnetic body pair or magnet-magnet pair, the user can easily slide the substrate cartridge (20) to the exposed state by applying an external force greater than the attractive force. In the present embodiment, only one main body magnet or magnetic body (460) is formed, but in other embodiments, the number of main body magnets or magnetic bodies (460) may be further increased. In this case, the state or position of the substrate cartridge (20) that can be maintained by the attractive force of the magnet-magnetic body pair or magnet-magnet pair may also increase. For example, two main body magnets or magnetic bodies (460) are formed in the cartridge receiving portion (110), one of which is formed at a position corresponding to the cartridge magnet (24) when the substrate cartridge (20) is in the exposed state, and the other is formed at a position corresponding to the cartridge magnet (24) when the substrate cartridge (20) is in the receiving state, so that the substrate cartridge (20) can maintain the exposed state and the receiving state, respectively.

The LED window (480) is a transparent or semi-transparent window formed on the outer surface of the case (100), and is formed so that the light of the LED formed as a notification unit to inform the user of the current control status of the aerosol generating device (1) can be transmitted to the outside.

Among the elements formed in or near the cartridge receiving portion (110) described above, elements that require connection to the control portion (200), such as the main body terminal portion (410), the pressure sensor (430), the UV LED (440), and the status recognition sensor (450), are connected to the control portion (200) via an FPC cable (210) extending from the control portion (200) within the main body (10).

As described above, the cartridge receiving portion (110) may also be formed with a sliding member (not shown) that engages the substrate cartridge (20) so that it can slide in the longitudinal direction. For example, a driving body (not shown) that engages and moves with the side rail (25) of the substrate cartridge (20) may be formed as a sliding member, and a protruding structure (not shown) that engages and moves with the guide rail (26) of the substrate cartridge (20) may be formed as a sliding member.

Fig. 4 is a plan view illustrating the rear surface of the main body (10) of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Again, the case (100) is depicted as translucent to illustrate internal components. Furthermore, as described above, the surface of the main body (10) on which the cartridge receiving portion (110) is formed may be referred to as the front surface, and the other side thereof as the rear surface.

The case (100), the control unit (200), the FPC cable (210), and the pressure sensor (430) referenced in Fig. 4 are elements that have already been sufficiently described. In addition, the main body (10) further includes a rear magnet or magnetic body (150) that provides an attractive force for coupling the back cover (500) described in relation to Fig. 1, and a rear magnetic sensor (220) that can recognize the magnetic field of the magnet included in the coupled back cover (500).

The rear magnet or magnetic body (150) exerts an attractive force on the magnet included in the back cover (500) so that the back cover (500) can be coupled to the rear of the case (100). The rear magnetic sensor (220), for example, is a Hall sensor, detects the magnetic field of the magnet included in the back cover (500), and applies the detection signal to the control unit (200). The rear magnet or magnetic body (150) and the rear magnetic sensor (220) can be disposed embedded near the rear of the case (100) of the main body (10).

Fig. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the main body (10) of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The case (100) is depicted translucently to illustrate internal components. In particular, the back cover (500) coupled to the rear of the case (100) and the cover magnets (520a, 520b, 520c) included in the back cover (500) are depicted.

First, the control unit (200) and the battery (300) included inside the main body (10), and in particular, the main body terminal unit (410), the connection passage (420), the pressure sensor (430), the UV LED (440), the status recognition sensor (450), the main body magnet or magnetic body (460), the light-transmitting window (W), and the FPC cable (210) formed in or near the cartridge receiving unit (110) are shown. In addition, in this embodiment, a total of three rear magnets or magnetic bodies (150a, 150b, 150c) are formed near the rear of the case (100). In addition, the notification LED (470) formed inside the main body (10) and the LED window (480) for transmitting the light of the notification LED (470) to the outside are shown.

The back cover (500) includes a cover plate (510) and a total of three cover magnets (520a, 520b, 520c) that are coupled or attached to the cover plate (510). These three cover magnets (520a, 520b, 520c) correspond to the three rear magnets or magnetic bodies (150a, 150b, 150c), respectively, to form respective magnet-magnetic body pairs or magnet-magnet pairs that exert an attractive force on each other. The back cover (500) can be coupled to the rear of the case (100) by the attractive force, and can also be easily separated by an external force.

The notification LED (470) is formed within the main body (10) as an example of the notification unit described below, and an LED window (480) is formed on the outer surface of the case (100) to transmit the light of the notification LED (470) to the outside.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing the separation and combination relationship between components of an aerosol generating device (1) of the same embodiment as Fig. 5. A substrate cartridge (20) is combined with a cartridge receiving portion (110) of a main body (10) so as to be able to slide, and in particular, the concave surface of the cartridge receiving portion (110) and the convex surface (rear surface) of the substrate cartridge (20) are combined so as to face each other.

A back cover (500) including a cover plate (510) and cover magnets (520a, 520b, 520c) is coupled to the back of the case (100) of the main body (10). In particular, the back cover (500) is coupled by an attractive force between the cover magnets (520a, 520b, 520c) and rear magnets or magnetic bodies (150a, 150b, 150c) at positions corresponding to each cover magnet. In addition, according to an embodiment, the back cover (500) may further include a control magnet (530), and a rear magnetic sensor (220) formed near the rear of the case (100) recognizes the magnetic field of the control magnet (530) and applies a detection signal accordingly to the control unit (200). At this time, the control magnet (530) and the rear magnetic sensor (220) are formed in corresponding positions so as to be adjacent to each other while the back cover (500) is coupled to the rear of the case (100).

For example, in a plurality of back covers (500), the control magnets (530) included in each back cover may have different magnetic field strengths or polarities, and the different control magnets (530) may be distinguished by the rear magnetic sensor (220). In this case, the control unit (200) may control the aerosol generating device (1) based on a detection signal applied from the rear magnetic sensor (220).

For example, the control unit (200) can control to select one of several temperature profiles stored in advance in the control unit (200) based on the detection signal of the rear magnetic sensor (220) and follow it. In addition, for example, the several temperature profiles may be defined according to the aerosol generation intensity. Accordingly, the user can change the aerosol generation intensity of the aerosol generating device (1) by replacing the back cover (500), thereby enabling the use of the device suitable for the user's preference.

Fig. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, illustrating a portion thereof in an enlarged manner. In this drawing, a cross-section of a substrate cartridge (20) coupled with a cartridge receiving portion (100) and in a receiving state is illustrated. Accordingly, a suction port (21) and a substrate storage portion (27), which were not clearly illustrated previously, are illustrated. The main body terminal portion (410) and the connection passage (420) are not connected to other elements in the receiving state as shown in Fig. 7. The connection passage (420) is connected to communicate with a pressure sensor (430). In addition, the concave surface (110A) of the cartridge receiving portion (110) and the rear surface (20A) of the substrate cartridge (20) overlap each other, thereby covering the suction port (21).

As described above, the UV LED (440) is configured to emit UV-C light toward the suction port (21) of the substrate cartridge (20) when the substrate cartridge (20) is in a receiving state. The exemplary direction of emission of UV-C light is indicated by an arrow in the drawing. At this time, even though the UV LED (440) is embedded under the concave surface (110A) through the light-transmitting window (W), the UV-C light can reach the suction port (21).

A detection signal for a position or position change of the substrate cartridge (20) due to slide movement, which is detected by the state recognition sensor (450), may be applied to the MCU included in the control unit (200). In this case, the MCU may recognize this as a user input or control command and perform control according to a rule stored in advance. For example, the control command recognized by the control unit (200) based on the detection signal of the state recognition sensor (450) may be a command for controlling the aerosol generating unit of the substrate cartridge (20) for aerosol generation. For example, the control unit (200) may automatically initiate operation of a heater included in the aerosol generating unit or perform control to cut off power supply to the heater according to a detection signal for a position or position change of the substrate cartridge (20) due to slide movement, which is detected by the state recognition sensor (450). Alternatively, the command recognized by the control unit (200) may be a command to select one of several temperature profiles stored in the control unit (200) in advance and control to follow it.

For example, the above-described multiple temperature profiles may be defined according to the aerosol generation intensity. For example, the first stage intensity may mean the weakest aerosol generation intensity, and a larger stage may mean a stronger intensity. Alternatively, the control unit (200) may control the amount of power applied to the aerosol generating unit of the substrate cartridge (20) for aerosol generation according to user input, which substantially produces the same effect as the change in the temperature profile according to the aerosol generation intensity described above.

By the exemplary method described above, the control unit (200) can recognize whether the current state of the substrate cartridge (20) is an exposure state or an acceptance state, or recognize a transition between the two states, based on the detection signal of the state recognition sensor (450). At this time, the control unit (200) can interpret the user input as a unit of a single detection signal (state transition signal) related to the state transition of the substrate cartridge (20), or can interpret the user input as a unit of a state transition pattern, which is a collection of a plurality of single detection signals.

For example, a state transition pattern may include at least one element among a state element, such as a detection signal for the current state of the current substrate cartridge (20) or a detection signal for a transition between states, and a time element formed by the duration of any of the states.

For example, if the control unit (200) recognizes a state change signal, such as a state change from a receiving state to an exposed state or a state change from an exposed state to a receiving state, based on the detection signal of the state recognition sensor (450), it can regard this as a user input and perform control according to a predefined rule. Alternatively, the control unit (200) can recognize a state change signal that goes back and forth as a user input in units. For example, assuming that the operation of the aerosol generating device (1) has started, the substrate cartridge (20) can be positioned in the exposed state through slide movement. At this time, if the user slides the substrate cartridge (20) downward to the receiving state and then slides it upward again to the exposed state within a predetermined time, the state recognition sensor (450) can recognize the state change signal from the exposed state to the receiving state, the holding time in the receiving state, and the state change signal from the receiving state to the exposed state again. The control unit (200) can regard the state change that goes back and forth within a predetermined time as a single user input.

In this way, the state transition pattern includes state elements such as whether the current state of the substrate cartridge (20) is an acceptance state or an exposure state or whether a state transition occurs, and a time element formed by the duration of any of the states, and multiple elements can form one state transition pattern together.

In the above example, when the user lowers the substrate cartridge (20) in the exposed state to the receiving state and then raises it back to the exposed state, the state recognition sensor (450) can transmit a total of three elements, namely, a state change signal from the exposed state to the receiving state, a holding time in the receiving state, and a state change signal from the receiving state to the exposed state again, as detection signals to the control unit (200), and the control unit (200) can recognize this as one state change pattern. Hereinafter, the state change pattern of the above example is referred to by an arbitrary name of snap. In particular, in this example, the holding time in the receiving state can be regarded as different user inputs when it is maintained for a predetermined reference time (e.g., 500 ms) or longer (long snap) and when it is maintained for less than that (short snap), for example.

A state transition pattern may be composed of a number of elements detected by a state recognition sensor (450) within a predetermined time limit (input window). In this case, the predetermined time limit may be calculated from the time the first state transition signal is detected or from the time the last state transition signal is detected.

For example, in the case of an embodiment where the calculation is made from the time when the first state change signal is detected, if the user continuously slides the substrate cartridge (20) to perform a reciprocal state change within a predetermined time limit (e.g., 3 seconds) from the first state change, the state change pattern generated by the continuous reciprocal state change can be recognized as a single user input. That is, state elements and time elements are collected within the time limit, and when the time limit expires, a state change pattern is formed with the elements collected so far.

For example, in the case of an embodiment in which the counting starts from the time when the last state transition signal is detected, if the next state transition occurs within a predetermined time limit (for example, 1 second) after the round-trip state transition of the substrate cartridge (20), this is recognized as a continuous round-trip state transition, and the state transition pattern generated through this can be recognized as a single user input. That is, if a state transition signal is detected again within the time limit after the last state transition signal is detected, this can be added to form a state transition pattern. Conversely, if a state transition signal is not detected again within the time limit after the last state transition signal is detected, the input window ends and the control unit (200) forms a state transition pattern using the state elements and time elements collected so far.

When the aerosol generating device (1) is in use and a single user input as described above is detected, the control unit (200) can increase the amount of power applied to the aerosol generating unit of the substrate cartridge (20) or change the temperature profile for controlling the aerosol generating unit to increase the aerosol generation intensity. For example, the intensity can be increased from the first stage to the second stage. In addition, when the second stage is selected and the control unit (200) detects another user input, the temperature profile can be changed again, for example, the aerosol generation intensity can be increased from the second stage to the third stage. In this way, the control unit (200) can determine the temperature profile for heating the aerosol-forming substrate according to the user input recognized through the state recognition sensor (450).

Additionally, according to an embodiment, the control unit (200) may perform user authentication based on a detection signal from a state recognition sensor (450). Here, a user input including the state transition signal or state transition pattern may form a user password for unlocking (user authentication). In this case, the user password has an advantage as a user password in that it can be input by the user sliding the substrate cartridge (20), making the input intuitive and allowing for the creation of various combinations, and being difficult to recognize as a password even when observed by others.

For example, the aforementioned state transition pattern may be stored as a user password, and the control unit (200) may perform user authentication by determining whether a user input pattern identical to the stored user password is detected by the state recognition sensor (450) prior to starting use of the aerosol generating device (1). In this case, the control unit (200) may prevent unauthorized use by an unauthorized user by allowing the aerosol generating unit of the substrate cartridge (20) to operate only when user authentication is successful.

Fig. 8 is a block diagram illustrating the connection relationship between functional elements included in an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The aerosol generating device (1) may include, as functional elements, the aforementioned status recognition sensor (450), a control unit (200), a battery (300), a heater (28), and an LED (470) for notification to inform a user of the control status of the aerosol generating device.

In embodiments, the aerosol generating device may include a notification unit for notifying a user of the current control status by generating at least one of a haptic effect, a visual effect, or an acoustic effect. For example, the notification unit may be a microspeaker, a vibration actuator, an LED element, or an LCD element. In the present embodiment, the notification unit is implemented as a notification LED (470). In this case, in the control method described above, the current aerosol generation intensity or the current temperature profile may be notified to the user by, for example, changing the color of the notification LED (470) in stages. In addition, the notification LED (470) may notify the user of the status elements and time elements detected by the status recognition sensor (450) by blinking or changing color, thereby providing feedback on the user's input.

The heater (28) is a heater that can be included in the aerosol generating unit of the substrate cartridge (20) as described above, and applies thermal energy to the aerosol forming substrate under the control of the control unit (200) to substantially generate an aerosol. At this time, the heat generation of the heater (28) can be controlled by the control unit (200) to follow a predetermined temperature profile.

Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a control method that can be performed by the control unit (200) of the aerosol generating device (1) of one embodiment of the present invention. The control method includes a temperature profile determination process (s100) and an aerosol generation process (s200). The temperature profile determination process (s100) may be initiated, for example, by a user pressing a power button of the aerosol generating device, or by sliding the substrate cartridge (20) from a receiving state to an exposed state in lieu of pressing the power button, or by automatic control of the control unit (200) upon satisfaction of other predetermined conditions.

In the temperature profile determination process (s100), the control unit (200) receives a state change signal or a state change pattern from the state recognition sensor (450) and recognizes it as a user input. When a valid user input is recognized, the control unit (200) sequentially switches and selects a plurality of preset temperature profiles. At this time, the notification unit may display a notification to inform the user of the temperature profile selected by the control unit (200). In the notification LED (470) of the present embodiment, the control unit (200) may display a color associated with the currently selected temperature profile, which may be defined in advance, to the user through the notification LED (470), thereby helping the user select the desired temperature profile. Through the temperature profile determination process (s100), the control unit (200) may finally determine a temperature profile to be applied to, for example, the heater (28) of the substrate cartridge (20) for aerosol generation. In the aerosol generation process (s200), the control unit (200) feedback-controls the heater (28) to follow the determined temperature profile, thereby enabling the user to inhale an aerosol of a desired intensity. Preferably, as indicated by the arrow in the drawing, the control unit (200) performs the temperature profile determination process (s100) before the aerosol generation process (s200). This is because the aerosol generation process can be performed only after the temperature profile is determined.

Fig. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the control method of Fig. 9 in more detail. The temperature profile determination process (s100) described above may include a step of selecting a first temperature profile (s110), a step of determining whether a user input has been recognized within a predetermined time (s120), a step of sequentially switching the selection of temperature profiles (s130), and a step of determining the currently selected temperature profile (s140). In addition, the aerosol generation process (s200) may include a step of controlling a heater (28) to follow the determined temperature profile (s210).

When the temperature profile determination process (s100) starts, the control unit (200) selects a first temperature profile (s110). The first temperature profile may be any temperature profile that is preset and stored in the control unit (200). The first temperature profile may be considered a basic temperature profile since it is selected simultaneously with the start of the temperature profile determination process (s100). Next, the control unit (200) recognizes a user input through the state recognition sensor (450) (s120). In particular, in this step, the control unit (200) determines whether a predefined valid state transition signal or state transition pattern is recognized within a predetermined period of time. For example, it may determine whether a state transition pattern generated by a predetermined number of consecutive round-trip state transitions for the substrate cartridge (20) described above is recognized. In addition, the predetermined period of time may be calculated from the start of the temperature profile determination process (s100) or from the last time a valid user input is detected.

If the judgment result is ‘Yes’, the control unit (200) switches the currently selected temperature profile to the next temperature profile and selects it (s130). If the judgment result is ‘No’, the currently selected temperature profile is determined as the temperature profile to be used for control (s140). Next, the aerosol generation process (s200) is performed, and at this time, the control unit (200) controls the heater (28) by feedback control to follow the temperature profile determined in the above process (s210).

In this temperature profile determination process, valid inputs can be predefined and stored in the control unit (200). For example, if a state transition pattern resulting from two consecutive round-trip state transitions is defined as a valid input, the control unit (200) can ignore state transition signals or patterns other than these valid inputs to simplify the control method.

Preferably, the temperature profile stored in advance in the control unit (200) is defined according to the aerosol generation intensity or the magnitude of the applied power. For example, a 1-stage temperature profile may mean a temperature profile having the weakest aerosol generation intensity or the smallest magnitude of the applied power, and may be a temperature profile in which the aerosol generation intensity or the magnitude of the applied power increases as the stage increases. In addition, as described above, the predetermined time may be calculated from the start of the temperature profile determination process (s100) or from the detection of the last valid user input.

In addition, in the control method of the control unit (200) as shown in FIG. 10, the notification unit can notify the user about each control state. For example, in the notification LED (470), the user can be notified about the current control state or the currently selected temperature profile through changes in the color, blinking, blinking speed, etc. of the LED.

FIG. 11 is a table summarizing the operation of an exemplary notification LED (470) and temperature profile changes by the control method of the control unit (200) of FIG. 10. In the control method of FIG. 10, when the temperature profile determination process (s100) begins, the control unit (200) selects a 1-step temperature profile (s110). At this time, the notification LED (470) can display a pre-arranged “Green” color. If a valid user input is recognized within a predetermined time in the next step (s120), the control unit (200) selects a 2-step temperature profile (s130). At this time, the notification LED (470) can display a pre-arranged “White” color. If this is repeated, the control unit (200) sequentially selects a 3-step temperature profile and a 4-step temperature profile, which is the last step, and then returns to the 1-step temperature profile, which is the first step, and this selection process can be repeated as long as a valid user input continues. At this time, the notification LED (470) can continuously display a color associated with a preset, selected temperature profile to inform the user of the stage of the currently selected temperature profile.

Fig. 12 is a block diagram illustrating the connection relationship between functional elements included in an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1), compared to the embodiment of Fig. 8, may further include a memory unit (230) for storing a user password.

In this embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) can be set to a locked state and an unlocked state by the control unit (200). For example, the locked state is a state in which the generation of aerosol is restricted, and may be a state in which, for example, the heater (28) of the aerosol generating unit of the substrate cartridge (20) does not operate despite a user's operation. In addition, the unlocked state is a state in which such restriction is lifted, and may be a state in which, for example, the heater (28) operates normally by a user's operation to generate aerosol. In addition, the control unit (200) can perform user authentication by requesting a user password input in the locked state and set the aerosol generating device (1) to an unlocked state based on the result. In addition, the control unit (200) can set the aerosol generating device (1) back to the locked state by automatic control or a user's operation or input in the unlocked state.

A user password formed by user input may be stored in the memory unit (230) to be used in the unlocking process. The memory unit (230) is an element in which data that can be recognized by a computer is stored, and may be, for example, a non-volatile memory device such as a solid state disk (SSD) or a flash drive, in which data can continue to be stored even when power is interrupted. In addition, the control unit (200) and the memory unit (230) may be physically one and the same component in that the MCU that may be included in the control unit (200) also generally includes a storage device.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing several examples of user passwords formed by state transition patterns, expressed as data in a list format. In Example 1, a state transition pattern generated by three consecutive round-trip state transitions for a substrate cartridge (20) is expressed as exemplary data. If the state recognition sensor (450) detects a round-trip movement of the substrate cartridge (20) from an exposed state to an accepted state and then back to an exposed state, it can recognize a state transition signal from the exposed state to the accepted state and a state transition signal from the accepted state back to the exposed state. If three consecutive round-trip state transitions occur within a predetermined time limit, the control unit (200) will recognize at least three pairs of “state transition signals from the exposed state to the accepted state - state transition signals from the accepted state to the exposed state”, and if the pairs of state transition signals are recorded as data called “Snap”, a state transition pattern of “Snap, Snap, Snap” as in Example 1 can be recognized as a user input.

Example 2 is an embodiment in which a state transition pattern includes a time element. In particular, in a round-trip state transition, a case in which a state transition is performed after a predetermined reference time (e.g., 500 ms) after the first state transition (long snap) and a case in which a state transition is performed after a shorter time (short snap) are considered as different state transition signals. Accordingly, Example 2 represents a state transition pattern recognized when a long snap, a long snap, a short snap, a short snap, and a long snap are applied in sequence.

Example 3 is another embodiment, showing an example in which a user password is composed of two or more state transition patterns. Each state transition pattern is again enclosed in curly brackets within the list data. Considering the description of Example 1, Example 3 constitutes a single user password by a state transition pattern consisting of two consecutive round-trip state transitions and a state transition pattern consisting of four consecutive round-trip state transitions. The two state transition patterns may be input with a predetermined delay time. For example, after a preceding state transition pattern is input, a state transition pattern input after a predetermined time period from the last input can be recognized by the control unit (200) as a succeeding state transition pattern.

Example 4 is another embodiment, wherein the state transition pattern includes a time element, and furthermore, the user password is composed of two or more state transition patterns. Considering the description of Example 2, Example 4 has a user password composed of a state transition pattern when a short snap, a short snap, and a long snap are input, and then a state transition pattern when a short snap, a short snap is input.

In this way, the control unit (200) can detect user input input through the slide movement of the substrate cartridge (20) through the state recognition sensor (450), and store it in the memory unit (230) through a password setting process to be described later, or perform a process of comparing it with a user password already stored during the user authentication or unlocking process to be described later.

Fig. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a user authentication method that an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention can perform. For example, the use of the aerosol generating device (1) can be initiated by a user pressing a power button of the aerosol generating device, or by sliding the substrate cartridge (20) from a receiving state to an exposed state in lieu of pressing the power button, or by automatic control of the control unit (200) upon satisfaction of other predetermined conditions. At this time, the control unit (200) determines whether a user password is stored in the memory unit (230) (s300). If the user password is not stored in the memory unit (230), the control unit (200) performs a password setting process (s410 to s440). Alternatively, the user can enter the password setting process by inputting a state transition pattern defined in advance for entering the password setting process by sliding the substrate cartridge (20).

In the password setting process, as described above, the control unit (200) first detects the user's input according to the slide movement of the user's substrate cartridge (20) through the state recognition sensor (450) and generates a user password input (s410). In addition, the control unit (200) can store this as a temporary user password in the memory unit (230). Thereafter, in order to verify the user password, the control unit (200) detects and generates the user password input once again through the state recognition sensor (450) (s420). The control unit (200) compares this with the stored temporary user password (s430), and if it determines that they match, it considers the user password to have been entered correctly, and stores the stored temporary user password in the memory unit (230) as a user password for user authentication or unlocking (s440). If the user password input detected by the control unit (200) in the above step (s430) is judged to not match the temporary user password stored in the memory unit (230), the process returns to the first step (s410) and repeats the step of receiving user input through the status recognition sensor (450).

After use is initiated, if it is determined that a user password is stored in the memory unit (230) at step s100, the control unit (200) performs an unlocking process (s310 to s360). In the unlocking process, the control unit (200) first determines whether the current state is locked (s310). If the state is locked, the unlocking process proceeds to the next step (s320 to s360). If the state is already unlocked, the unlocking process can be terminated immediately.

Next, the user's input according to the slide movement of the substrate cartridge (20) is detected through the state recognition sensor (450), and a user password input is generated (s320). The control unit (200) then determines whether the generated user password input matches the user password stored in the memory unit (230) (s330). If they match, the control unit (200) changes the current state to an unlocked state (s340). This can end the unlocking process, and thereafter, for example, the control unit (200) can automatically operate the heater (28) of the aerosol generating unit of the substrate cartridge (20) to control aerosol generation.

In the above step (s330), if the control unit (200) determines that the user password input by the user does not match the user password stored in the memory unit (230), it is considered an authentication failure, and it is determined again whether the number of authentication failures has reached a predetermined number (n times) (s350). If the number of authentication failures does not reach the predetermined number (n times), it returns to the initial step (s320) and the unlocking process is performed again. On the other hand, if the number of authentication failures reaches the predetermined number, it is considered a complete authentication failure, and the control unit (200) can consider the user as an unauthorized user and take measures against him. For example, in order to prevent an attempt to unlock the password by an unauthorized user, the control unit (200) can forcibly cut off the power supplied from the battery (300) for a predetermined period of time, or set a predetermined authentication delay time, and take measures so that the above unlocking process is not performed again despite the user's input within that time (s360).

In each step described above, the control unit (200) can notify the user of the current control status, for example, whether it is a password setting process or an unlocking process, or a state waiting for input through slide movement of the substrate cartridge (20), whether input is complete, whether the entered user password matches the stored user password, and what input is detected by the status recognition sensor (450), through a notification unit, for example, a notification LED (470).

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a user authentication method that can be performed by an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. This control method can be performed on the assumption that a user password is already stored in the memory unit (230) and that the aerosol generating device (1) is currently in a locked state. Under the above assumption, the control unit (200) always maintains an input standby state. That is, it constantly determines whether a state change signal is generated through the state recognition sensor (450) by the user sliding the substrate cartridge (20), and if the state change signal is detected, it detects the user input input through the state recognition sensor (450) and generates a user password input (s510). Next, the control unit (200) determines whether the generated user password input matches the user password stored in the memory unit (230) (s520). If they match, the control unit (200) converts the current state to an unlocked state (s530). This can terminate the unlocking process, and thereafter, for example, the control unit (200) can automatically operate the heater (28) to generate aerosol. This embodiment further simplifies the unlocking process by assuming that a user password already exists and is in a locked state. In particular, this authentication method can further prevent unauthorized password theft, as it is difficult to detect when the user password is entered even when observed from the outside.

In the embodiments, after the aerosol generating device (1) is unlocked, if a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control unit (200) can change the state back to the locked state. For example, the control unit (200) can calculate the usage time or usage amount of the aerosol generating device (1) after the unlocking, and change it back to the locked state when a predetermined usage time or usage amount has elapsed, or change it back to the locked state when a predetermined number of uses has elapsed.

As described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific preferred embodiments described above, and anyone having ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains can make various modifications without departing from the gist of the present invention claimed in the claims, and such modifications are within the scope of the claims.

1: Aerosol generating device 10: Main body
20: Substrate cartridge 21: Intake
22: Cartridge terminal section 23: External air passage
24: Cartridge magnet 25: Side rail
26: Guide rail 28: Heater
100: Case 110: Cartridge Receptacle
200: Control unit 230: Memory unit
300: Battery 410: Body terminal
420: Connection passage 430: Puff sensor
440: UV LED 450: Status recognition sensor
500: Back cover

Claims (17)

A body including a case extending vertically and a control unit for generating an aerosol by applying energy to an aerosol-forming substrate and a battery inside the case;
A cartridge receiving portion including a concave surface formed on one side of the case and curved in the longitudinal direction;
A substrate cartridge containing a consumable aerosol-forming substrate therein and engaging a concave surface of a cartridge receiving portion so as to slide longitudinally; and
Includes a state recognition sensor that can recognize the position or position change according to the slide movement of the substrate cartridge formed on the main body;
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the substrate cartridge tilts relative to the main body according to the movement of the slide, and the control unit receives a detection signal from a state recognition sensor and recognizes it as a user input. In the first paragraph,
The substrate cartridge includes a front and a back, and is joined to the cartridge receiving portion so that the concave surface and the back face each other,
In addition, the substrate cartridge includes an inlet at the rear through which the generated aerosol is discharged, and as the slide moves, the state can be changed into a receiving state in which the concave surface and the rear overlap and the inlet is covered, and an exposed state in which the overlap is at least partially resolved and the inlet is exposed.
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the control unit can recognize the current state of the substrate cartridge based on a detection signal received from a state recognition sensor. In the second paragraph,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the control unit recognizes as a user input a state transition pattern, which is a set of single detection signals of a state recognition sensor related to a state transition of a substrate cartridge. In the third paragraph,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the state transition pattern includes a state element related to the current state or state transition of the substrate cartridge and a time element formed by the duration of a state. In the first paragraph,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the control unit controls the amount of power applied for aerosol generation according to user input. In the first paragraph,
The control unit performs an aerosol generation process that controls the generation of an aerosol, and a temperature profile determination process that determines a temperature profile to be used in the aerosol generation process.
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the control unit performs a temperature profile determination process before the aerosol generation process, and sequentially switches and selects a plurality of preset temperature profiles when a user input detected through a state recognition sensor occurs during the temperature profile determination process. In the first paragraph,
An aerosol generating device, characterized in that it further comprises a notification unit for notifying a user of the current control status of the aerosol generating device by generating at least one of a haptic effect, a visual effect, or an acoustic effect. In the first paragraph,
It further includes a memory section in which a user password formed through user input is stored, formed on the main body;
The control unit can change the state of the aerosol generating device between a locked state in which the generation of aerosol is restricted and an unlocked state in which the restriction is lifted, and performs an unlocking process when a user password is stored in the memory in the locked state.
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the control unit determines whether the user password input detected through the state recognition sensor matches the user password stored in the memory during the unlocking process, and if they match, changes the state to the unlocked state. In paragraph 8,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the control unit controls the generation of aerosol only when the device is in an unlocked state. In the first paragraph,
The substrate cartridge comprises a convex surface having the same curvature as the concave surface formed on the back and curved in the longitudinal direction,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the convex surface and the concave surface remain in contact with each other during sliding movement. In the second paragraph,
An aerosol generating device, wherein the substrate cartridge extends with its front surface parallel to the extension direction of the case in a receiving state and is tilted at an angle selected from the range of 15 degrees to 35 degrees with respect to the extension direction of the case in an exposed state. In the second paragraph,
The substrate cartridge further includes a substrate storage unit for storing an aerosol-forming substrate, an aerosol generating unit which is a space for generating aerosol by heating, a cartridge terminal unit for applying power to the aerosol generating unit, and an outside air passage extending to the aerosol generating unit for introducing outside air into the aerosol generating unit.
The cartridge receiving portion further includes a body terminal portion for transmitting power by contacting the cartridge terminal portion,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the cartridge terminal portion is electrically connected to the main body terminal portion by contacting it in an exposed state of the substrate cartridge. In the first paragraph,
The substrate cartridge further includes a cartridge magnet,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the state recognition sensor is a magnetic sensor and recognizes the magnetic field of the cartridge magnet to recognize the position or position change according to the slide movement of the substrate cartridge. In Article 12,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the state recognition sensor is a circuit detection sensor and detects whether the main body terminal part and the cartridge terminal part are electrically connected to each other, thereby recognizing the position or position change according to the slide movement of the substrate cartridge. In Article 12,
The state recognition sensor is a pressure sensor,
The cartridge receiving portion further includes a connecting passage, which is connected to communicate with at least the pressure sensor, and the external passage is connected to communicate with the connecting passage in an exposed state of the substrate cartridge,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the state recognition sensor detects whether the connection passage and the external air passage are connected to each other, and recognizes the position or position change according to the slide movement of the substrate cartridge. In the first paragraph,
It further includes a back cover that attaches to the back of the case,
The back cover contains at least one magnet,
The body includes at least one magnet or magnetic body that exerts an attractive force on the magnet,
An aerosol generating device characterized in that the back cover is joined to the rear of the case by the above-mentioned force. In Article 16,
The main body further includes a magnetic sensor capable of recognizing the magnetic field of the magnet of the combined back cover,
An aerosol generating device, characterized in that the control unit controls the aerosol generating device based on a detection signal from a magnetic sensor.