KR20250025115A - Aerosol generating device comprising an aerosol controlling unit and processing method of the same - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol generating device comprises a housing including an intake port and an air inlet port, a chamber for accommodating an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating unit for generating an aerosol from the aerosol generating material accommodated inside the chamber, an aerosol path for delivering the aerosol from the chamber to the intake port, and an aerosol control unit for controlling the atomization state of the aerosol. The aerosol control unit may include an air path communicated with the air inlet port and the aerosol path for delivering air from the outside of the housing to the aerosol path, and an air pump for generating an air flow in the air path.

Description

Aerosol generating device including aerosol control unit and method for controlling the same {AEROSOL GENERATING DEVICE COMPRISING AN AEROSOL CONTROLLING UNIT AND PROCESSING METHOD OF THE SAME}

The following embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device including an aerosol control unit and a method for controlling the same.

Recently, the demand for alternative products that overcome the shortcomings of traditional cigarettes is increasing. For example, the demand for devices that generate aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette stick (e.g., electronic cigarettes in the form of cigarettes) or devices that generate aerosol by vaporizing a liquid-type aerosol-generating product is increasing. Accordingly, research on electronic aerosol-generating devices and aerosol-generating products applied thereto is actively being conducted.

For example, an aerosol generating device that generates an aerosol by atomizing an aerosol-generating article stored in a liquid cartridge provides a variety of inhalation experiences to the user by controlling the atomization state of the aerosol.

The background technology described above is technology that the inventor possessed or acquired in the process of deriving the disclosure content of the present application, and cannot necessarily be said to be a publicly known technology disclosed to the general public prior to the present application.

The aerosol generating device can control various experience factors such as the atomization state of the aerosol inhaled by the user, the concentration or temperature of the aerosol, and the flow rate or velocity of the inhaled air through the aerosol control unit.

For example, the heating state of an aerosol-generating article could be partially controlled by controlling the power of an actuating device (e.g., a heater or a vibrating plate) that atomizes the aerosol-generating article. However, this method may be dependent on the user's breathing level, and may have limitations in providing an inhalation experience when the lung breathing volume does not meet a certain level.

To solve this problem, there has been a demand for an aerosol generating device and a control method thereof that allows an aerosol generating device to actively control the atomization state of the aerosol, and further allows general users to control the atomization state of the aerosol according to their individual preferences.

According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device comprises a housing including an intake port and an air inlet port, a chamber for accommodating an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating unit for generating an aerosol from the aerosol generating material accommodated inside the chamber, an aerosol channel for delivering aerosol from the chamber to the intake port, and an aerosol control unit for controlling an atomization state of the aerosol, wherein the aerosol control unit may include an air channel communicated with the air inlet port and the aerosol channel for delivering air from the outside of the housing to the aerosol channel, and an air pump for generating an air flow in the air channel.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating unit may include a heater that heats the chamber.

In one embodiment, the air path is connected to the heater, so that air injected from the air inlet can be delivered to the aerosol path via the heater.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may include a backflow prevention membrane provided between the chamber and the aerosol path and configured to block airflow from the aerosol path toward the chamber.

In one embodiment, the air inlet may be provided on a surface of the housing opposite to the surface on which the intake port is provided.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating unit may include a vibrator that generates ultrasonic vibrations to atomize the aerosol generating material.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device further includes a processor controlling operation of the aerosol generating device and a memory operatively connected to the processor and storing executable instructions, wherein the processor controls operation of the air pump by executing the instructions stored in the memory, thereby controlling a flow rate of air passing through the air passage.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device further includes a first sensor that detects a flow rate of air discharged through the inlet and provides a detection result to the processor, and the processor can increase power of the air pump by executing the command related to the detection result of the first sensor when the flow rate of air detected by the first sensor is lower than a first reference flow rate that is set in advance.

In one embodiment, the processor may reduce power of the air pump by executing the command regarding the detection result of the first sensor, if the air flow rate detected by the first sensor is higher than a preset second reference flow rate that is higher than the first reference flow rate.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device further comprises a second sensor that detects an environment surrounding the aerosol generating device and provides a detection result to the processor, wherein the processor can adjust the first reference flow rate by executing the command related to the second sensor.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device further includes a communication module capable of transmitting and receiving signals from an external device, and the processor can adjust the first reference flow rate by executing the command related to the communication module.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device further includes an input unit that receives an input signal from the outside and provides the input signal to the processor, and the processor can control the operation of the air pump by executing the command related to the input unit, thereby taking priority over the command related to the detection result of the first sensor.

In addition, a method implemented by a processor according to one embodiment may include an operation of heating a chamber that accommodates an aerosol-generating material, so that aerosol generated in the chamber is delivered to an intake port of a housing through an aerosol path, an operation of driving an air pump connected to an air path communicating with an air inlet of the housing and the aerosol path to deliver air outside the housing to the aerosol path, and an operation of controlling the driving of the air pump to control the flow rate of air passing through the air path.

In one embodiment, the operation of controlling the operation of the air pump may include an operation of detecting a flow rate of air discharged from the intake by a first sensor, an operation of increasing power of the air pump if the flow rate of air detected by the first sensor is lower than a first reference flow rate, and an operation of decreasing power of the air pump if the flow rate of air detected by the first sensor is higher than a second reference flow rate that is higher than the first reference flow rate.

In one embodiment, the operation of controlling the operation of the air pump may include an operation of acquiring environmental information about the surroundings of the aerosol generating device and an operation of adjusting the first reference flow rate or the second reference flow rate based on the environmental information.

An aerosol generating device including an aerosol control unit according to one embodiment and a control method thereof can control the atomization state of aerosol inhaled by a user by supplying external air to an aerosol path, thereby providing an improved inhalation experience to the user.

Alternatively, an aerosol generating device including an aerosol control unit according to one embodiment and a control method thereof can control the atomization state of the aerosol according to the individual preference of the user.

The effects of the aerosol generating device including the aerosol control unit according to one embodiment and the control method thereof are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an example of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette) inserted into an aerosol-generating device according to various embodiments.
FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette) inserted into an aerosol-generating device according to various embodiments.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to various embodiments.
Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 5a is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 5b is an enlarged view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.
Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a flow chart of a control method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a part of a control method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a flow chart of a part of a control method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

The terms used in the embodiments are selected from the most widely used general terms possible while considering the functions in the present invention, but this may vary depending on the intention of engineers working in the field, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, the meanings thereof will be described in detail in the description of the relevant invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the overall contents of the present invention, rather than simply the names of the terms.

When a part of the specification is said to "include" a component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but rather that it may include other components, unless otherwise specifically stated. In addition, terms such as "... part", "... module", etc., described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

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

Figures 1 and 2 are drawings illustrating examples of cigarettes inserted into an aerosol generating device.

Referring to FIG. 1, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a battery (11), a control unit (12), and a heater (13), and in one embodiment, may further include a vaporizer (14). In addition, a cigarette (2) may be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device (1).

The aerosol generating device (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrates components related to the present embodiment. Accordingly, a person having ordinary skill in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that, in addition to the components illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, other general-purpose components may be further included in the aerosol generating device (1).

In Fig. 1, the battery (11), the control unit (12), the vaporizer (14), and the heater (13) are illustrated as being arranged in a row. In addition, in Fig. 2, the vaporizer (14) and the heater (13) are illustrated as being arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to that illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2. In other words, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), the arrangement of the battery (11), the control unit (12), the heater (13), and the vaporizer (14) may be changed.

When a cigarette (2) is inserted into an aerosol generating device (1), the aerosol generating device (1) can generate an aerosol by operating a heater (13) and/or a vaporizer (14). The aerosol generated by the heater (13) and/or the vaporizer (14) passes through the cigarette (2) and is delivered to the user.

If necessary, the aerosol generating device (1) can heat the heater (13) even when the cigarette (2) is not inserted into the aerosol generating device (1).

The battery (11) supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the battery (11) can supply power so that the heater (13) or the vaporizer (14) can be heated, and can supply power required for the control unit (12) to operate. In addition, the battery (11) can supply power required for the display, sensor, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device (1) to operate.

The control unit (12) controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). Specifically, the control unit (12) controls the operation of the battery (11), the heater (13), and the vaporizer (14) as well as other components included in the aerosol generating device (1). In addition, the control unit (12) can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device (1) to determine whether the aerosol generating device (1) is in an operable state.

The control unit (12) includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed by the microprocessor. In addition, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present embodiment belongs that the processor may be implemented as other types of hardware.

The heater (13) can be heated by power supplied from the battery (11). For example, when a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), the heater (13) can be located outside the cigarette. Accordingly, the heated heater (13) can increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material inside the cigarette.

The heater (13) may be an electrical resistance heater. For example, the heater (13) may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater (13) may be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track. However, the heater (13) is not limited to the above-described example, and may be applied without limitation as long as it can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device (1), or may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

Meanwhile, as another example, the heater (13) may be an induction heating heater. Specifically, the heater (13) may include an electrically conductive coil for heating the cigarette in an induction heating manner, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heating heater.

For example, the heater (13) may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and may heat the inside or the outside of the cigarette (2) depending on the shape of the heating element.

In addition, a plurality of heaters (13) may be arranged in the aerosol generating device (1). At this time, the plurality of heaters (13) may be arranged to be inserted into the inside of the cigarette (2) or may be arranged on the outside of the cigarette (2). In addition, some of the plurality of heaters (13) may be arranged to be inserted into the inside of the cigarette (2), and the rest may be arranged on the outside of the cigarette (2). In addition, the shape of the heater (13) is not limited to the shape illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, and may be manufactured in various shapes.

The vaporizer (14) can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user through the cigarette (2). In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer (14) can travel along the airflow passage of the aerosol generating device (1), and the airflow passage can be configured so that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer (14) can pass through the cigarette and be delivered to the user.

For example, the vaporizer (14) may include, but is not limited to, a liquid reservoir, a liquid delivery means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid reservoir, the liquid delivery means, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device (1) as independent modules.

The liquid reservoir can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material including a volatile tobacco flavoring component, or can be a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. The liquid reservoir can be constructed to be detachable from/attachable to the vaporizer (14), or can be constructed integrally with the vaporizer (14).

For example, the liquid composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a flavor, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The flavoring agent may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruit-flavored ingredients, and the like. The flavoring agent may include ingredients that can provide a variety of flavors or tastes to the user. The vitamin mixture may include, but is not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. In addition, the liquid composition may include an aerosol forming agent, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition from the liquid storage to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means can be a wick such as, but not limited to, cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramics.

The heating element is an element for heating a liquid composition delivered by a liquid delivery means. For example, the heating element may be, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc. In addition, the heating element may be composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire, and may be arranged in a structure that is wound around the liquid delivery means. The heating element may be heated by supplying current, and may transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated.

For example, the vaporizer (14) may be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery (11), the control unit (12), the heater (13), and the vaporizer (14). For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a display capable of outputting visual information and/or a motor for outputting tactile information. In addition, the aerosol generating device (1) may include at least one sensor (a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, a cigarette insertion detection sensor, etc.). In addition, the aerosol generating device (1) may be manufactured with a structure in which external air may be introduced or internal gas may be discharged even when the cigarette (2) is inserted.

Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device (1) may also be configured as a system with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may be used to charge the battery (11) of the aerosol generating device (1). Alternatively, the heater (13) may be heated while the cradle and the aerosol generating device (1) are combined.

The cigarette (2) may be similar to a typical combustible cigarette. For example, the cigarette (2) may be divided into a first part containing an aerosol generating substance and a second part containing a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second part of the cigarette (2) may also contain an aerosol generating substance. For example, an aerosol generating substance in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second part.

The entire first part may be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device (1), and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a part of the first part may be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device (1), or the entire first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. The user may inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in his mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated by the outside air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol passes through the second part and is delivered to the user's mouth.

As an example, outside air may be introduced through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device (1) and/or the size of the air passage may be controlled by the user. Accordingly, the amount of vapor, the smoking sensation, etc. may be controlled by the user. As another example, outside air may be introduced into the interior of the cigarette (2) through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette (2).

Figure 3 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2) may include at least some of a control unit (110), a sensing unit (120), an output unit (130), a battery (140), a heater (150), a user input unit (160), a memory (170), a communication unit (180), and an aerosol control unit (190).

However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device (100) is not limited to that illustrated in FIG. 1. That is, a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to the present embodiment will understand that some of the components illustrated in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (100).

In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) can detect the state of the aerosol generating device (100) or the state around the aerosol generating device (100) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (110) (or processor). The control unit (110) can control the operation of other components of the aerosol generating device (100) based on the detected information.

For example, the control unit (110) may perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater (150) based on the detection result of the sensing unit (120), determining whether a stick (e.g., cigarette (2) of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2), capsule, cartridge, cigarette, etc., is inserted and controlling the aerosol control unit (190), or displaying a notification with the output unit (130).

In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a temperature sensor (122), an insertion detection sensor (124), and a puff sensor (126).

In one embodiment, the temperature sensor (122) can detect the temperature at which the heater (150) is heated. The aerosol generating device (100) may include a separate temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heater (150), or the heater (150) itself may act as the temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor (122) may be placed around the battery (140) to monitor the temperature of the battery (140).

In one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor (124) can detect insertion and/or removal of a stick or capsule. For example, the insertion detection sensor (124) can include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can detect a signal change as the stick or capsule is inserted and/or removed.

In one embodiment, the puff sensor (126) can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in an airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor (126) can detect a user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) may further include, in addition to the above-described sensors, at least one of a temperature/humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred from its name by a person skilled in the art, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

In one embodiment, the output unit (130) can output information on the status of the aerosol generating device (100) and provide it to the user. The output unit (130) can include at least one of the display unit (132), the haptic unit (134), and the sound output unit (136), but is not limited thereto. When the display unit (132) and the touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit (132) can be used as an input device in addition to the output device.

In one embodiment, the display unit (132) can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device (100) to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device (100) can include at least some of various information, such as the charge/discharge status of the battery (140) of the aerosol generating device (100), the preheating status of the heater (150), the insertion/removal status of a stick or capsule, or the status in which the use of the aerosol generating device (100) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the operating status of the aerosol control unit (190), and the display unit (132) can output such information to the outside. The display unit (132) can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. In addition, the display unit (132) can also be in the form of an LED light-emitting element.

In one embodiment, the haptic component (134) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus to provide tactile information about the aerosol generating device (100) to the user. For example, the haptic component (134) can include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

In one embodiment, the acoustic output unit (136) can provide information about the aerosol generating device (100) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit (136) can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it externally.

In one embodiment, the battery (140) can supply power used to operate the aerosol generating device (100). The battery (140) can supply power to enable the heater (150) to be heated.

In one embodiment, the battery (140) may supply power required for the operation of other components (e.g., a sensing unit (120), an output unit (130), a user input unit (160), a memory (170), a communication unit (180), or an aerosol control unit (190)) provided in the aerosol generating device (100). The battery (140) may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery (140) may be, but is not limited to, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery.

In one embodiment, the heater (150) may receive power from the battery (140) to heat the aerosol generating material. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (100) may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC/DC converter) that converts power from the battery (140) and supplies it to the heater (150). In addition, when the aerosol generating device (100) generates the aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating device (100) may further include a DC/AC converter that converts direct current power from the battery (140) into alternating current power.

In one embodiment, the control unit (110), the sensing unit (120), the output unit (130), the user input unit (160), the memory (170), the communication unit (180), and the aerosol control unit (190) may receive power from the battery (140) to perform functions. Although not shown in FIG. 1, a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, may be further included to convert the power of the battery (140) and supply it to each component.

In one embodiment, the heater (150) may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, and the like. In addition, the heater (150) may be implemented as, but not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate having electrically conductive tracks arranged thereon, a ceramic heating element, and the like.

In one embodiment, the heater (150) may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater (150) may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by the coil.

In one embodiment, the heater (150) may include a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater (150) may include a first heater for heating the aerosol-generating article and a second heater for heating the liquid.

In one embodiment, the user input unit (160) may receive information input by a user, or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit (160) may include, but is not limited to, a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (contact electrostatic capacitance type, pressure resistive film type, infrared detection type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezo effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. In addition, although not illustrated in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (100) further includes a connection interface, such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and may transmit and receive information or charge a battery (140) by connecting to another external device through a connection interface, such as a USB interface.

In one embodiment, the memory (170) is a hardware that stores various data processed in the aerosol generating device (100), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (110). The memory (170) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (for example, an SD or xD memory, etc.), a RAM (random access memory), a SRAM (static random access memory), a ROM (read-only memory), an EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), a PROM (programmable read-only memory), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk.

In one embodiment, the memory (170) may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device (100), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data about the user's smoking pattern.

In one embodiment, the communication unit (180) may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit (180) may include a short-range communication unit (182) and a wireless communication unit (184).

In one embodiment, the short-range wireless communication unit (182) may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a zigbee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra-wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

In one embodiment, the wireless communication unit (184) may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit (184) may also identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device (100) within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI).

In one embodiment, the aerosol control unit (190) can control the atomization state of the aerosol inhaled by the user. Alternatively, the aerosol control unit (190) can assist the inhalation of the aerosol generating device (100) by the user.

For example, the aerosol control unit (190) may include an air pump (191). The air pump (191) may supply air to a cartridge of the aerosol generating device (100) or a passage through which the aerosol passes. The aerosol control unit (190) may control the operating state of the air pump (191) to control the atomization state of the aerosol.

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (100). In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can include at least one processor. The processor can be implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates, or can be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed by the microprocessor. In addition, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present embodiment belongs that the processor can be implemented as other types of hardware.

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the temperature of the heater (150) by controlling the supply of power from the battery (140) to the heater (150). For example, the control unit (110) can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery (140) and the heater (150). In another example, the heating direct circuit can control the power supply to the heater (150) according to the control command of the control unit (110).

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may analyze the results detected by the sensing unit (120) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (110) may control the power supplied to the heater (150) or the aerosol control unit (190) so that the operation of the heater (150) or the aerosol control unit (190) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensing unit (120).

For example, the control unit (110) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (150) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (150) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature based on the result detected by the sensing unit (120).

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may control the output unit (130) based on the result detected by the sensing unit (120). For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor (126) reaches a preset number, the control unit (110) may notify the user that the aerosol generating device (100) will soon be terminated through at least one of the display unit (132), the haptic unit (134), and the sound output unit (136). Or, for example, the puff sensor (126) may detect the user's inhalation state, and the control unit (110) may control the operation of the aerosol control unit (190) based on this.

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the power supply time and/or power supply amount to the heater (150) depending on the state of the stick or capsule detected by the sensing unit (120).

An embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by a computer. Computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Additionally, computer-readable media can include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically includes computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data in a modulated data signal, or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media.

Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 4, an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 or the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 3) may include a housing (205) and a cartridge (220).

A housing (205) according to one embodiment may be a housing assembly comprising a plurality of components, for example, including a body (210) and a cap (230), and the body (210) and the cap (230) may be detachably coupled to each other.

For example, the body (210) may be the main housing of the aerosol generating device (200) and may accommodate the entire body of the aerosol generating device (200) therein. The cap (230) may be a cover detachably coupled to the body (210).

In one embodiment, the body (210) can include an elongated cavity (212) that can accommodate a stick (e.g., a cigarette (2) of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2). The stick can be inserted longitudinally (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) into the elongated cavity (212).

In one embodiment, the body (210) can include at least a portion of a first opening (214), a second opening (215), and an aerosol passage (216). The first opening (214) and the second opening (215) can each be in communication with a cartridge (220). The aerosol passage (216) can be in communication with the first opening (214) and the elongated cavity (212). The aerosol passage (216) can receive aerosol from the cartridge (220) through the first opening (214).

In one embodiment, the cap (230) can cover at least a portion of an outer surface of the body (210). The cap (230) can be removably coupled to the body (210), and a cartridge (220) can be accommodated between the cap (230) and the body (210).

In one embodiment, the cap (230) may include an intake port (232) provided at a position corresponding to the elongated cavity (212) of the body (210). The intake port (232) may be formed to be open on one side (e.g., the upper side or the side in the +Z direction) of the cap (230). When the cap (230) is coupled to the body (210), the intake port (232) and the elongated cavity (212) may be communicated.

In one embodiment, a cartridge (220) (e.g., a vaporizer (14) of FIGS. 1 and 2) may be coupled with a housing (205). For example, the cartridge (220) may be coupled to the body (210) with the cap (230) separated, and the cap (230) may be coupled to the body (210) to cover the cartridge (220).

In one embodiment, the cartridge (220) can accommodate an aerosol generating material having at least some of a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, and a gel state. The cartridge (220) can be operated by an electric signal or a wireless signal transmitted from the main body, and can convert a phase of an aerosol generating material accommodated therein into a gaseous phase to generate an aerosol.

In one embodiment, an aerosol generated from an aerosol generating material in the cartridge (220) can pass through the first opening (214) and travel along an aerosol path (216). The aerosol path (216) can deliver the aerosol to an elongated cavity (212), and the aerosol can pass through a stick inserted into the elongated cavity (212) and be delivered to a user.

FIG. 5a is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 5b is an enlarged view of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 5a and 5b, an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment may include an aerosol generating unit (211), a chamber (222), and an aerosol control unit (250).

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating unit (211) can generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating unit (211) can generate the aerosol in various ways, for example, the aerosol generating unit (211) can adopt a heating method including a heater (218).

In one embodiment, a chamber (222) may be provided in the cartridge (220). The chamber (222) may contain and store an aerosol generating material therein. For example, the aerosol generating material may comprise a liquid composition. The liquid composition may be a liquid comprising a tobacco-containing material including a volatile tobacco flavoring component, or may be a liquid comprising a non-tobacco-containing material.

In one embodiment, the liquid composition contained inside the chamber (222) may be heated by the heater (218) to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol may be delivered to the user through a stick (e.g., the cigarette (2) of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2).

In one embodiment, the first opening (214) may be provided on a surface of the body (210) facing the cartridge (220) (e.g., a surface in the -Z direction or the +Y direction). When the cartridge (220) is coupled with the body (210), the first opening (214) may communicate with the chamber (222). The first opening (214) may be an aerosol intake port of the aerosol path (216).

In one embodiment, the aerosol path (216) can be in communication with the elongated cavity (212) and the inlet (232) of the body (210). The aerosol path (216) can transfer aerosol from the chamber (222) to the inlet (232). For example, aerosol generated in the chamber (222) by the aerosol generating unit (211) can pass through the first opening (214), the aerosol path (216), and the elongated cavity (212) to the inlet (232).

In one embodiment, the aerosol control unit (250) (e.g., the aerosol control unit (190) of FIG. 3) may be a component of the aerosol generating device (200) for controlling the atomization state of the aerosol. For example, the aerosol control unit (250) may control the atomization state of the aerosol by injecting air into the chamber (222) or the aerosol path (216). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the aerosol control unit (250) may control the atomization state of the aerosol in various ways. For example, the aerosol control unit (250) may control at least some of the driving cycle, heat generation amount, and power consumption of the heater (218).

In one embodiment, the aerosol control unit (250) may include an air path (251) and an air pump (255) (e.g., the air pump (191) of FIG. 3). The air path (251) may be in communication with the air inlet (235) and the aerosol path (216). For example, the air path (251) may be an air passageway that communicates from the air inlet (235) of the housing (205) to the second opening (215).

In one embodiment, the air inlet (235) may be provided on one side (e.g., the side in the -Z direction) of the body (210) of the housing (205). Alternatively, the air inlet (235) may be provided on a side opposite to one side (e.g., the side in the +Z direction) of the housing (205) on which the suction inlet (232) is provided. Since the suction inlet (232) and the air inlet (235) are provided on opposite sides, when the user inhales the aerosol through the suction inlet (232), the air inlet (235) can be opened to the outside, and can be prevented from being blocked by the user's hand or other external elements, and the air inlet (235) can smoothly inhale air.

In one embodiment, the air pump (255) can generate an air flow in the air path (251). The air pump (255) can generate an air flow from the air inlet (235) toward the second opening (215).

In one embodiment, the aerosol control unit (250) can control the atomization state of aerosol passing through the aerosol path (216) by supplying air outside the housing (205) to the aerosol path (216).

For example, the atomization state of the aerosol may include the concentration of the aerosol passing through the aerosol path (216), the temperature of the aerosol, and/or the flow rate of the aerosol. In addition, the atomization state of the aerosol is not limited thereto and may include various factors depending on the user's preference.

In one embodiment, the aerosol control unit (250) can control the flow of air containing aerosol through the aerosol path (216) and discharged through the inlet (232). The aerosol generating device (200) may need to control the speed of air discharged through the inlet (232) based on environmental factors such as the user's breathing volume per puff, ambient temperature, humidity, weather, or the user's preference.

In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol control unit (250) can provide an individualized smoking experience tailored to various users and usage environments by controlling the flow of air containing aerosol discharged through the inlet (232) and the atomization state of the aerosol.

In one embodiment, the air path (251) may be connected to the heater (218). Air injected from the air inlet (235) may be delivered to the aerosol path (216) via the heater (218). By providing external air to the heater (218) by the aerosol control unit (250), aerosol generated adjacent to the heater (218) may be rapidly diffused into the aerosol path (216).

In one embodiment, a backflow prevention membrane (261) may be provided between the chamber (222) and the aerosol path (216). For example, the backflow prevention membrane (261) may be provided in one opening (214). The backflow prevention membrane (261) may block air flow from the aerosol path (216) toward the chamber (222). The backflow prevention membrane (261) may allow air flow from the chamber (222) toward the aerosol path (216), and may prevent air backflow from the aerosol path (216) toward the chamber (222) in the backflow direction.

In one embodiment, the filter (263) may be provided in the aerosol path (216). For example, the filter (263) may be provided in the first opening (214), or the filter (263) may be placed on the path of the aerosol path (216). The filter (263) may remove (filter) odor, foreign substances, etc. of the aerosol generated inside the chamber (222).

In one embodiment, the aerosol filtered by the filter (263) can travel through the aerosol path (216) to the elongated cavity (212). The filter (263) can include at least one of an activated carbon filter, a HEPA filter, and an acetate filter.

In one embodiment, the filter (263) may include an activated carbon filter. The activated carbon filter may physically/chemically adsorb substances contained in the aerosol. Since the activated carbon becomes more active when heat is applied, the activated carbon filter may become more active as the aerosol heated by the heater (218) passes through the activated carbon filter, and the filter (263) may filter out unnecessary substances in the aerosol.

In one embodiment, a heater (218) may be disposed in the cartridge (220), for example, within the chamber (222) or opposite the chamber (222). The heater (218) may heat a liquid (liquid composition) contained within the chamber (222) to generate an aerosol. The heater (218) may include a wick and a coil. The coil may be rolled around the wick to generate heat.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (200) may further include at least some of a processor (240) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the control unit (110) of FIG. 3), a memory (245) (e.g., the memory (170) of FIG. 3), and a battery (247) (e.g., the battery (11) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the battery (140) of FIG. 3).

In one embodiment, the processor (240) can control the operation of the aerosol generating device (200). For example, the processor (240) can control the operation status of the heater (218) and the air pump (255). The memory (245) is operatively connected to the processor (240) and can store executable instructions. The battery (247) can store power for operating the aerosol generating device (200) and provide it to the components of the aerosol generating device (200).

In one embodiment, the processor (240) can control the operation of the air pump (255) by executing instructions stored in the memory (245) and control the flow rate of air passing through the air passage (251).

Hereinafter, embodiments in which the processor (240) controls the operation of the aerosol generating device (200) by executing instructions stored in the memory (245) are described. These embodiments are provided as examples and may be changed, omitted, replaced or expanded, and each embodiment may be implemented independently or in conjunction with each other.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (200) may further include a first sensor (not shown) (e.g., the sensor unit (120) or the puff sensor (126) of FIG. 3). The first sensor (not shown) may detect the flow rate of air discharged through the inlet (232) and provide the detection result to the processor (240).

In one embodiment, the processor (240) may increase the power of the air pump (255) by executing a command regarding the detection result of the first sensor (not shown) when the air flow rate detected by the first sensor (not shown) is lower than a preset first reference flow rate. By increasing the power of the air pump (255), the aerosol control unit (250) may increase the air flow rate or flow rate of the aerosol passing through the aerosol path (216).

In one embodiment, the processor (240) may reduce the power of the air pump (255) by executing a command regarding the detection result of the first sensor (not shown) if the air flow rate detected by the first sensor (not shown) is higher than or lower than a preset second reference flow rate that is equal to or greater than the first reference flow rate. By reducing the power of the air pump (255), the aerosol control unit (250) may reduce the air flow rate or flow rate of the aerosol passing through the aerosol path (216).

In various embodiments of this document, the aerosol control unit (250) can control the atomization state of the aerosol inhaled by the user by controlling the operation of the air pump (255), and can assist the user's aerosol inhalation.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (200) may further include a second sensor (not shown) (e.g., the sensor unit (120) of FIG. 3). The second sensor (not shown) may detect the environment surrounding the aerosol generating device (200) and provide the detection result to the processor (240).

For example, the second sensor (not shown) may detect the temperature and/or humidity surrounding the aerosol generating device (200). Alternatively, the second sensor (not shown) may detect various external factors, such as the location of the aerosol generating device (200), whether it is indoors or outdoors, the height of the aerosol generating device (200) from a reference surface (e.g., the ground surface), the tilt angle of the aerosol generating device (200), the user's grip strength, and/or the operating time.

In one embodiment, the processor (240) can adjust the first reference flow rate and/or the second reference flow rate by executing a command related to the second sensor (not shown). The aerosol control unit (250) can control the atomization state of the aerosol inhaled by the user more precisely and can also control it in a customized manner individually for the user by compensating the control variable of the operation of the air pump (255) considering the surrounding environment.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (200) may further include a communication module (not shown) (e.g., communication unit (180) of FIG. 3) capable of transmitting and receiving signals from an external device. The communication module (not shown) may receive information about the operation of the aerosol generating device (200), environmental information surrounding the aerosol generating device, or modifications or additions to commands from the external device.

In one embodiment, the processor (240) can adjust the first reference flow rate and/or the second reference flow rate by executing a command regarding the communication module (not shown). The aerosol control unit (250) can control the atomization state of the aerosol inhaled by the user more precisely and can also control it in a customized manner individually for the user by correcting the control variable of the operation of the air pump (255) considering the surrounding environment.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (200) may further include an input unit (not shown) (e.g., a user input unit (160) of FIG. 3) that receives an input signal from the outside and provides the input signal to the processor. For example, the input unit (not shown) may be a button, an input panel, or a control wheel provided in the housing and operable by a user.

In one embodiment, the processor (240) can control the operation of the air pump (255) by executing a command regarding an input unit (not shown) to take priority over a command regarding a detection result of the first sensor (not shown) or the second sensor (not shown). Through the input unit (not shown), the user can immediately control the operation of the air pump (255). The aerosol control unit (250) is controlled preferentially by the user, so that the atomization state of the aerosol inhaled by the user can be controlled according to the individual's preference and situation.

Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device (300) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 6, an aerosol generating device (300) according to one embodiment (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 3, or the aerosol generating device (200) of FIG. 4 or FIGS. 5A and 5B) may include a housing (305) (e.g., the housing (205) of FIGS. 4, 5A and 5B), an aerosol generating unit (311) (e.g., the aerosol generating unit (211) of FIGS. 5A and 5B), a chamber (322) (e.g., the chamber (222) of FIGS. 5A and 5B), and an aerosol control unit (350) (e.g., the aerosol control unit (250) of FIG. 5A).

In one embodiment, the housing (305) can house components of the aerosol generating device (300) therein. The housing (305) can include at least a portion of an aerosol path (327) (e.g., aerosol path (216) of FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5B), an inlet (332) (e.g., inlet (232) of FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5B), and an air inlet (335) (e.g., air inlet (235) of FIG. 5A).

In one embodiment, the aerosol conduit (327) can be connected to the chamber (322) or the aerosol generating unit (311) and can receive the aerosol and provide it to the inlet (332).

In one embodiment, the intake port (332) may be formed to be open on one side of the housing (305) (e.g., the upper side or the side in the +Z direction), and the air inlet port (335) may be formed to be open on a side of the housing (305) (e.g., the side in the X-Y plane direction) or another side (e.g., the rear side or the side in the -Z direction).

In one embodiment, a cartridge (320) (e.g., the vaporizer (14) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the cartridge (220) of FIGS. 4, 5A and 5B) may be coupled with a housing (305). For example, the cartridge (320) may be detachably coupled to the housing (305). A chamber (322) may be provided inside the cartridge (320).

In one embodiment, a chamber (322) may be provided in the cartridge (320). The chamber (322) may accommodate an aerosol generating material having at least some of a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, and a gel state.

For example, the aerosol generating material may comprise a liquid composition. The liquid composition may be a liquid comprising a tobacco-containing material including volatile tobacco flavor components, or may be a liquid comprising a non-tobacco-containing material.

In one embodiment, an aerosol generated from an aerosol generating material in a cartridge (320) can travel along an aerosol path (327). The aerosol path (327) can deliver the aerosol to an inlet (332), and the aerosol can pass through the inlet (332) and be delivered to a user.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating unit (311) can generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material in the chamber (322). The aerosol generating unit (311) can be operated by an electric signal, a wireless signal, or the like, and can generate an aerosol by converting a phase of an aerosol generating material accommodated in the chamber (322) into a gaseous phase.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating unit (311) can generate the aerosol in various ways, for example, the aerosol generating unit (311) can adopt a heating method including a transmission member (315), a vibrator (316) and a cartridge substrate (318).

In one embodiment, the delivery member (315) can receive the aerosol generating material from the chamber (322). The delivery member (315) can be directly or indirectly connected to the chamber (322), and at least a portion of the delivery member can face the aerosol path (327).

In one embodiment, the transfer member (315) may comprise at least a portion of a cotton, ceramic, glass, or porous material, or may structurally comprise a conduit through which the aerosol generating material flows. For example, the transfer member (315) may be a wick made of an absorbent or porous material.

In one embodiment, the vibrator (316) is positioned inside the housing (305) and can generate vibrations toward the transmitting member (315). The cartridge substrate (318) can control the driving of the vibrator (316). The cartridge substrate (318) can be electrically or communicatively connected to a processor (340) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the control unit (110) of FIG. 3, or the processor (240) of FIG. 5A) and/or a battery (347) (e.g., the battery (11) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the battery (140) of FIG. 3, or the battery (247) of FIG. 5A)) to receive data and/or power.

In one embodiment, the vibrator (316) can generate relatively short-period vibrations, or can generate ultrasonic vibrations. For example, the frequency of the ultrasonic vibrations can be about 100 kHz to 3.5 MHz. The vibration of the vibrator (316) can cause the aerosol generating material transferred from the chamber (322) to the transfer member (315) to be vaporized and/or atomized into an aerosol.

In one embodiment, the aerosol path (327) can be in communication with the inlet (332) and the chamber (322). The aerosol path (327) can transfer aerosol from the chamber (322) to the inlet (332). For example, aerosol generated in the chamber (322) by the aerosol generating unit (311) can pass through the aerosol path (327) and move to the inlet (332).

In one embodiment, the aerosol control unit (350) (e.g., the aerosol control unit (190) of FIG. 3 or the aerosol control unit (250) of FIG. 5a) may be a component of the aerosol generating device (300) for controlling the atomization state of the aerosol. For example, the aerosol control unit (350) may control the atomization state of the aerosol by injecting air into the chamber (322) or the aerosol path (327). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the aerosol control unit (350) may control the atomization state of the aerosol in various ways. For example, the aerosol control unit (350) may control at least some of the driving cycle, driving strength, and power consumption of the vibrator (316).

In one embodiment, the aerosol control unit (350) may include an air path (351) (e.g., air path (251) of FIGS. 5A and 5B) and an air pump (355) (e.g., air pump (191) of FIG. 3 or air pump (255) of FIG. 5A). The air path (351) may be in communication with the air inlet (335) and the aerosol path (327). For example, the air path (351) may refer to a passage for air to flow from the air inlet (335) to the aerosol path (327).

In one embodiment, the air pump (355) can generate an air flow in the air path (351). The air pump (355) can generate an air flow from the air inlet (335) toward the aerosol path (327).

In one embodiment, the aerosol control unit (350) can control the atomization state of aerosol passing through the aerosol path (327) by supplying air outside the housing (305) to the aerosol path (327).

For example, the atomization state of the aerosol may include the concentration of the aerosol passing through the aerosol path (327), the temperature of the aerosol, and/or the flow rate of the aerosol. In addition, the atomization state of the aerosol is not limited thereto and may include various factors depending on the user's preference.

In one embodiment, the aerosol control unit (350) can control the flow of air containing aerosol through the aerosol path (327) and discharged through the inlet (332). The aerosol generating device (300) may need to control the speed of air discharged through the inlet (332) based on environmental factors such as the user's breathing volume per puff, ambient temperature, humidity, weather, or the user's preference.

In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol control unit (350) can provide an individualized smoking experience tailored to different users and usage environments by controlling the flow of air containing aerosol discharged through the inlet (332).

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (300) may further include at least some of a processor (340), a memory (345) (e.g., memory (170) of FIG. 3 or memory (245) of FIG. 5A), and a battery (347).

In one embodiment, the processor (340) can control the operation of the aerosol generating device (300). For example, the processor (340) can control the operation status of the aerosol generating unit (311) and the air pump (355). The memory (345) is operatively connected to the processor (340) and can store executable instructions. The battery (347) can store power for operating the aerosol generating device (300) and provide it to components of the aerosol generating device (300).

In one embodiment, the processor (340) can control the operation of the air pump (355) by executing instructions stored in the memory (345) and control the flow rate of air passing through the air path (351).

In various embodiments of this document, the control method and operation of the aerosol generating device (300) by the processor (340) can be applied with reference to the operation of the aerosol generating device (200) by the processor (240) described above in the description of FIGS. 5A and 5B or the control method (500) of the aerosol generating device of FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 described below.

Figure 7 is a flow chart of a control method (500) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 7, a control method (500) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include at least some of an operation of heating a chamber (510), an operation of driving an air pump (520), and an operation of controlling the flow rate of an air path (530).

Hereinafter, a control method (500) of an aerosol generating device according to various embodiments will be described, and the aerosol generating device to be controlled may be the aerosol generating device described above (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 3, the aerosol generating device (200) of FIG. 4 or FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, or the aerosol generating device (300) of FIG. 6). Or, without being limited thereto, the control method (500) of the aerosol generating device may be a control method of an aerosol generating device different from the aerosol generating devices (1, 100, 200, 300) described above.

In one embodiment, the act of heating the chamber (510) may heat a chamber containing an aerosol generating material. When the chamber is heated, aerosol generated in the chamber may be delivered to an intake port of the housing through the aerosol path.

In one embodiment, the driving operation (520) of the air pump may drive an air pump connected to an air path to deliver air outside the housing to the aerosol path through an air path communicating with the air inlet of the housing and the aerosol path.

In one embodiment, the air flow control operation (530) of the air path can control the flow rate of air passing through the air path by controlling the operation of the air pump. For example, the air pump can control the atomization state of the aerosol by receiving air from outside the housing and injecting the air into the chamber or the aerosol path.

For example, the atomization state of the aerosol may include the concentration of the aerosol passing through the aerosol path, the temperature of the aerosol, and/or the flow rate of the aerosol. In addition, the atomization state of the aerosol is not limited thereto and may include various factors depending on the user's preference.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart of a part of a control method (530) of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 8, the air flow rate control operation (530) according to one embodiment may further include at least some of the air flow rate detection operation (541) of the intake port, the air flow rate and the reference flow rate comparison operation (543, 547), and the air pump control operation (545, 549).

In one embodiment, the air flow rate detection operation (541) of the intake port may detect the flow rate of air discharged from the intake port by the first sensor. The air flow rate control operation (530) of the air path may control the operation of the air pump based on the result detected by the first sensor.

In one embodiment, the operation (543) of comparing the first air velocity and the reference velocity may compare whether the air velocity detected by the first sensor is lower than the preset first reference velocity. If the air velocity detected by the first sensor is lower than the preset first reference velocity, the operation (530) of controlling the velocity of the air path may perform an air pump power increase operation (545) of increasing the power of the air pump. If the air velocity detected by the first sensor is higher than the preset first reference velocity, the operation (530) of controlling the velocity of the air path may perform a comparison operation (547) of the second air velocity and the reference velocity.

In one embodiment, the operation of comparing the second air flow rate and the reference flow rate (547) may compare whether the air flow rate detected by the first sensor is higher than a preset second reference flow rate that is equal to or higher than the first reference flow rate. If the air flow rate detected by the first sensor is higher than the preset second reference flow rate, the operation of controlling the air flow rate (530) may perform an air pump power reduction operation (549) that reduces the power of the air pump. If the air flow rate detected by the first sensor is higher than the preset second reference flow rate, the operation of controlling the air flow rate (530) may not change the power of the air pump or may maintain a normal operating state of the air pump.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart of a part of a control method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 9, the air flow control operation (530) according to one embodiment may include at least one of a surrounding environment information acquisition operation (551) and a reference flow rate adjustment operation (553).

In one embodiment, the operation of acquiring environmental information (551) may acquire environmental information surrounding the aerosol generating device. For example, the aerosol generating device may detect environmental information through the second sensor. Alternatively, the aerosol generating device may receive environmental information through the communication module.

For example, the ambient environment may be the ambient temperature and/or humidity of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, the ambient environment may be various external factors, such as the location of the aerosol generating device, whether it is indoors or outdoors, its height from the floor or reference surface (e.g., the ground), the angle of inclination, the grip strength of the user, and/or the time of day.

In one embodiment, the reference flow rate adjustment operation (553) can adjust the first reference flow rate or the second reference flow rate based on the acquired environmental information. By compensating the control variables of the operation of the air pump by considering the surrounding environment, the aerosol generating device can more precisely control the atomization state of the aerosol inhaled by the user, and can also control it in a customized manner individually for the user.

Although the embodiments have been described with limited drawings as described above, those skilled in the art can apply various technical modifications and variations based on the above. For example, appropriate results can be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order from the described method, and/or components of the described system, structure, device, circuit, etc. are combined or combined in a different form from the described method, or are replaced or substituted by other components or equivalents. Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims described below.

Claims (15)

In an aerosol generating device,
A housing including an intake port and an air inlet port;
A chamber for receiving an aerosol generating material;
An aerosol generating unit that generates an aerosol from the aerosol generating material accommodated inside the chamber;
an aerosol path for delivering aerosol from the chamber to the suction port; and
Including an aerosol control unit that controls the atomization state of the aerosol,
The above aerosol control unit,
An air path that is connected to the air inlet and the aerosol path and transmits air from the outside of the housing to the aerosol path, and
An aerosol generating device comprising an air pump for generating an air flow in the air path. In the first paragraph,
The above aerosol generating unit,
An aerosol generating device comprising a heater for heating the chamber. In the second paragraph,
An aerosol generating device, wherein the air path is connected toward the heater, and air injected from the air inlet is delivered to the aerosol path via the heater. In the third paragraph,
An aerosol generating device comprising a backflow prevention membrane provided between the chamber and the aerosol path and blocking air flow from the aerosol path toward the chamber. In the first paragraph,
The above air inlet is,
An aerosol generating device provided on one side of the housing opposite to the side on which the suction port is provided. In the first paragraph,
The above aerosol generating unit,
An aerosol generating device comprising a vibrator that generates ultrasonic vibrations to atomize the aerosol generating material. In the first paragraph,
A processor controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device; and
Further comprising a memory operatively connected to said processor and storing executable instructions,
The above processor executes the instructions stored in the above memory,
An aerosol generating device that controls the flow rate of air passing through the air passage by controlling the operation of the air pump. In Article 7,
Further comprising a first sensor that detects the flow rate of air discharged through the above intake port and provides the detection result to the processor;
The above processor executes the command regarding the detection result of the first sensor,
An aerosol generating device that increases the power of the air pump when the air flow rate detected by the first sensor is lower than a preset first reference flow rate. In Article 8,
The above processor executes the command regarding the detection result of the first sensor,
An aerosol generating device that reduces the power of the air pump when the air flow rate detected by the first sensor is higher than a preset second reference flow rate that is higher than the first reference flow rate. In Article 8,
Further comprising a second sensor for detecting the surrounding environment of the aerosol generating device and providing the detection result to the processor;
An aerosol generating device wherein the processor adjusts the first reference flow rate by executing the command relating to the second sensor. In Article 8,
It further includes a communication module capable of transmitting and receiving signals from an external device,
An aerosol generating device, wherein the processor adjusts the first reference flow rate by executing the command relating to the communication module. In Article 8,
Further comprising an input unit that receives an input signal from the outside and provides the input signal to the processor,
The above processor, by executing the above instruction with respect to the input unit,
An aerosol generating device that controls the operation of the air pump with priority over the command regarding the detection result of the first sensor. In a method implemented by a processor,
An operation of heating a chamber containing an aerosol-generating material so that the aerosol generated in the chamber is transmitted to the intake of the housing through an aerosol path;
An operation of driving an air pump connected to an air path to deliver air outside the housing to the aerosol path through an air inlet of the housing and an air path communicating with the aerosol path; and
A method for controlling an aerosol generating device, comprising: controlling the operation of the air pump to control the flow rate of air passing through the air passage. In Article 13,
The operation of controlling the operation of the above air pump is as follows:
The operation of the first sensor detecting the flow rate of air discharged through the intake port;
If the air flow rate detected by the first sensor is lower than the preset first reference flow rate, an operation of increasing the power of the air pump; and
A method for controlling an aerosol generating device, comprising an operation of reducing power of the air pump when the air flow rate detected by the first sensor is higher than a preset second reference flow rate that is equal to or higher than the first reference flow rate. In Article 14,
The operation of controlling the operation of the above air pump is as follows:
An operation for obtaining environmental information surrounding the aerosol generating device; and
A method for controlling an aerosol generating device, comprising an operation of adjusting the first reference flow rate or the second reference flow rate based on the environmental information.

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