RU2847375C2 - Device for generating aerosol and method for controlling such a device - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: tobacco industry.

SUBSTANCE: aerosol generating device comprises a heater configured to heat at least a portion of the aerosol generating device. A temperature sensor is configured to measure the temperature of the heater. A processor is designed to control the power supply to the heater in accordance with a first preheating profile or a second preheating profile. Each of the preheating profiles defines a predetermined preheating time and a predetermined preheating temperature. The processor is designed to control the power supply to the heater in accordance with the first preheating profile if the heater temperature is below the reference temperature. The processor is additionally designed to control the power supply to the heater in accordance with the second preheating profile, which differs from the first preheating profile, if the heater temperature exceeds or equals the reference temperature. A method is claimed for controlling an aerosol generating device in accordance with the first preheating profile or the second preheating profile.

EFFECT: faster rise in temperature to the same target temperature during sequential use, even during the same preheating period including the rise, hold and fall phases, thereby providing a longer hold and fall phase.

15 cl, 16 dwg

Description

[Field of technology]

[1] One or more embodiments of the invention relate to an aerosol generating device and a method for controlling such a device.

[Prior Art]

[2] Recently, there has been a growing need for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing need for a system for generating an aerosol by heating cigarettes or aerosol-generating material using an aerosol-generating device instead of burning cigarettes.

[3] The aerosol generating device may have a predetermined heating temperature of the aerosol generating article. Before heating the aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating device may preheat the heater for a certain period of time, which can increase the temperature of the heater to a predetermined temperature. Patent CN 112353016 A discloses a temperature control method for an infrared heating smoking kit, which sets a temperature curve and divides a plurality of temperature steps according to the temperature of the heating element of the smoking kit when the smoking kit is started, so that the smoking sequence from puff to puff is ensured, and the smoke temperature during continuous smoking is reduced.

[Essence of the invention]

[Technical challenge]

[4] The conditions under which the user uses the aerosol generating device may include, for example, smoking in an extremely hot or cold environment, smoking in summer or winter, smoking indoors or outdoors, or smoking immediately after previously smoking.

[5] In particular, when the user finishes using the aerosol generating device after a predetermined number of puffs, the heater of the aerosol generating device may be heated to a high temperature when the user inserts a new aerosol generating device into the aerosol generating device to continue smoking. In this case, the heater of the aerosol generating device may be preheated to a high temperature again. If the heater of the aerosol generating device is heated according to the same temperature profile during the start and continuation of smoking, then during the continuation of smoking, a high-temperature aerosol may be generated from the aerosol generating device, which causes inconvenience to the user.

[6] The technical problems of the invention are not limited to the above description, and a person skilled in the art can clearly understand other technical problems not mentioned based on the embodiments of the invention disclosed below and the accompanying drawings.

[Technical solution]

[7] In one or more embodiments of the invention, an aerosol generating device is provided that is capable of distinguishing between the onset and continuation of smoking and controlling the temperature of the heater in accordance with preheating profiles corresponding to the onset and continuation of smoking.

[8] An aerosol generating device comprises a heater configured to heat at least a portion of an aerosol generating article, a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the heater, and a processor configured to control the supply of power to the heater in accordance with a first preheating profile defining a specified time and a specified preheating temperature, wherein the processor is further configured to control the supply of power to the heater in accordance with a second preheating profile different from the first preheating profile if the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to a reference temperature.

[9] A method for controlling an aerosol generating device comprises measuring the temperature of a heater configured to heat at least a portion of an aerosol generating article, determining whether the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to a reference temperature, and, if the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to the reference temperature, controlling the supply of power to the heater in accordance with a second preheating profile different from the first preheating profile.

[Beneficial effects of the invention]

[10] In one or more embodiments of the invention, because the heater is preheated according to different preheating profiles corresponding to the start and continuation of smoking, it is possible to reduce the amount of heat from the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article during the continuation of smoking and to reduce the inconvenience to the user caused by the high temperature of the aerosol.

[11] Furthermore, in one or more embodiments of the invention, by using a preheating temperature profile corresponding to continued smoking, the temperature reduction period is increased and the amount of current consumed by the heater may be reduced while the user continues smoking.

[12] The effects of the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the effects disclosed above, and the effects not disclosed will be clearly understood by one skilled in the art from the present description and the accompanying drawings.

[Description of drawings]

[13] FIGS. 1-3 respectively show examples in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[14] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate examples of cigarettes according to one embodiment of the invention.

[15] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[16] FIG. 7 is an exemplary graph illustrating the temperature profile across the entire heating section of the aerosol generating device.

[17] FIG. 8 is an exemplary graph illustrating an example of a preheating portion of the temperature profile of FIG. 7.

[18] FIG. 9 is an exemplary graph illustrating another example of a preheating portion of the temperature profile of FIG. 7.

[19] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[20] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the invention.

[21] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the invention.

[22] FIGS. 13-16 illustrate a preheating mode of the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 12.

Principle of the invention

[23] The general terms used to describe various embodiments of the invention and which are widely used at present are selected taking into account the function of the structural elements used in the various embodiments of the present invention. However, the meanings of the terms may be changed in accordance with the intention, legal precedent, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in some cases, a term that is not commonly used may be applied. In such a case, the meaning of the term will be explained in detail in the corresponding part of the description of the present invention. Therefore, the terms used to describe various embodiments of the present invention should be understood in accordance with the meanings and explanations given in the description of the present invention.

[24] In this regard, unless expressly stated to the contrary, the word "comprise" and its forms such as "comprises" or "comprising" will be understood as implying the inclusion of the specified elements in the composition of something, but not as the exclusion of any other elements. In addition, the terms denoting "block", "part" and "module" presented in the description of the invention mean units for performing at least one function and operation and can be implemented by hardware or software components, as well as combinations thereof.

[25] The present invention will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown in such a way that one skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the invention may be implemented in many different forms and should not be considered as limited to the embodiments of the invention set forth herein.

[26] Some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[27] FIGS. 1-3 schematically illustrate examples in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[28] As shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 1 may comprise a battery 11, a controller 12, and a heater 13. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the aerosol generating device 1 may further comprise an evaporator 14. In addition, a cigarette 2 may be inserted into the interior space of the aerosol generating device 1.

[29] In FIGS. 1-3, only those components of the aerosol generating device 1 that relate to the present embodiment of the invention are shown. Thus, it will be obvious to one skilled in the art that other general-purpose components may be included in the composition of the aerosol generating device 1 in addition to the components shown in FIGS. 1-3.

[30] Furthermore, FIGS. 2 and 3 show an aerosol generating device 1 comprising a heater 13. However, the heater 13 can be omitted if necessary.

[31] In FIG. 1, it is shown that the battery 11, the controller 12, and the heater 13 are arranged in series. In addition, in FIG. 2, it is shown that the battery 11, the controller 12, the evaporator 14, and the heater 13 are arranged in series. In addition, in FIG. 3, it is shown that the evaporator 14 and the heater 13 are arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to the structures shown in FIGS. 1-3. In other words, the arrangement of the battery 11, the controller 12, the heater 13, and the evaporator 14 may be different depending on the structure of the aerosol generating device 1.

[32] When the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 may activate the heater 13 and/or the evaporator 14 in order to generate an aerosol from the cigarette 2 and/or the evaporator 14. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and/or the evaporator 14 is supplied to the user through the cigarette 2.

[33] If necessary, even if the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 can heat the heater 13.

[34] The battery 11 may supply power for operating the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 11 may supply power for heating the heater 13 or the evaporator 14 and for operating the controller 12. In addition, the battery 11 may supply power necessary for operating the display, sensor, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generating device 1.

[35] The controller 12 may control the operation of the aerosol generating device 1 as a whole. In particular, the controller 12, in addition to the battery 11, the heater 13, and the evaporator 14, may control the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. In addition, the controller 12 may check the state of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operational state.

[36] Controller 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of several logical elements or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory in which a program executed in the microprocessor is stored. One skilled in the art will understand that the processor may be implemented using other types of hardware.

[37] The heater 13 may 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 may be located outside the cigarette. Thus, the heated heater 13 may increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material in the cigarette.

[38] The heater 13 may comprise a resistive heater. For example, the heater 13 may comprise an electrically conductive path, and the heater 13 may be heated when an electric current flows along the electrically conductive path. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the example disclosed above and may be any heater capable of heating to a desired temperature. In this case, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device 1 or set by the user.

[39] In another example, the heater 13 may comprise an induction heater. In particular, the heater 13 may comprise an electrically conductive coil for inductively heating the cigarette, and the cigarette may comprise a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heater.

[40] For example, the heater 13 may comprise a cylindrical heating element, a plate heating element, a needle or rod heating element and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2 according to the shape of the heating element.

[41] In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may comprise multiple heaters 13. In this case, multiple heaters 13 may be inserted inside or located outside the cigarette 2. In addition, some of the heaters 13 may be inserted inside the cigarette 2, while others may be located outside the cigarette 2. In addition, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shape shown in FIGS. 1-3, and may differ.

[42] The vaporizer 14 may generate an aerosol by heating the liquid composition, after which the generated aerosol may be delivered to the user through the cigarette 2. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 may be moved through an air flow channel in the aerosol generating device 1, which may be configured to deliver the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 to the user through the cigarette.

[43] For example, the evaporator 14 may comprise a liquid storage unit, a liquid supply element, and a heating element, as well as other components. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid supply element, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[44] A liquid composition may be stored in the liquid storage unit. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco material that includes a volatile tobacco flavor component or a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. The liquid storage unit may be configured to be detachable from the evaporator 14 or integral with the evaporator 14.

[45] For example, the liquid composition may contain water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, spices, flavoring agents, or a vitamin mixture. Spices may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit flavoring ingredients, as well as other spices. Flavoring agents may be ingredients that provide the user with various aromas or tastes. Vitamin mixtures may include a mixture of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as other vitamins. In addition, the liquid composition may also include an aerosol-forming agent, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[46] The liquid supply element may deliver the liquid composition from the liquid storage to the heating element. For example, the liquid supply element may be a wick, such as, but not limited to, cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[47] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition supplied by the liquid supply element. For example, the heating element may be, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, or another similar device. In addition, the heating element may comprise a conductive thread, such as a nichrome wire, and may be wound around the liquid supply element. The heating element may be heated by the supply of current and may impart heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated.

[48] For example, the evaporator 14 may be a cartomizer or an atomizer, as well as other devices.

[49] The aerosol generating device 1 may also comprise general-purpose components in addition to the battery 11, the controller 12, the heater 13, and the evaporator 14. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may comprise a display configured to output visual information and/or a motor for outputting tactile information. In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may comprise at least one sensor (a puff recognition sensor, a temperature sensor, a cigarette insertion recognition sensor, etc.). In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may be designed such that outside air can be introduced into it or inside air can be expelled from it even when a cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1.

[50] Although not shown in FIGS. 1-3, the aerosol generating device 1 and the additional stand may form a single system. For example, the stand may be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 may be heated when the stand and the aerosol generating device 1 are connected to each other.

[51] Cigarette 2 may be similar to a conventional combustible cigarette. For example, cigarette 2 may be divided into a first portion containing an aerosol-generating material and a second portion containing a filter or other similar element. Alternatively, the second portion of cigarette 2 may also contain an aerosol-generating material. For example, an aerosol-generating material in the form of granules or capsules may be introduced into the second portion.

[52] The first part may be fully inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, and the second part may be exposed. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, only one part of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or the entire first part and part of the second part may be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1. The user may inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in the mouth. In this case, the aerosol is generated by outside air passing through the first part, after which the resulting aerosol passes through the second part and enters the user's mouth.

[53] For example, outside air may be supplied to at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the user may regulate the opening and closing of the air passage and/or the size of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1. Accordingly, the user may regulate the quantity and quality of smoking. In another example, outside air may be supplied to the cigarette 2 through at least one opening formed on the surface of the cigarette 2.

[54] Examples of cigarette 2 are now disclosed with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[55] FIGS. 4 and 5 show examples of a cigarette.

[56] As shown in FIG. 4, the cigarette 2 may comprise a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. The first portion, disclosed above with reference to FIGS. 1-3, may comprise the tobacco rod 21, and the second portion may comprise the filter rod 22.

[57] FIG. 4 shows that the filter rod 22 comprises one segment. However, the design of the filter rod 22 is not limited to this embodiment. In other words, the filter rod 22 may comprise multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may comprise a first segment configured to cool the aerosol and a second segment configured to filter a specific component contained in the aerosol. Furthermore, if necessary, the filter rod 22 may further comprise at least one segment configured to perform other functions.

[58] The diameter of the cigarette 2 may be approximately 5 to 9 mm, and the length of the cigarette 2 may be approximately 48 mm. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 may be approximately 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 may be approximately 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 may be approximately 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 may be approximately 12 mm. However, the invention is not limited thereto.

[59] The cigarette 2 may be wrapped in at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may have at least one opening through which outside air may enter or inside air may exit. For example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped in one wrapper 24. In another example, the cigarette 2 may be wrapped twice in at least two wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped in a first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 may be wrapped in second wrappers 242, 243, and 244. In addition, the entire cigarette 2 may be wrapped in a single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 comprises multiple segments, each segment may be wrapped in a separate second wrapper 242, 243, and 244.

[60] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may comprise general-purpose wrapping paper for filters. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may comprise porous or non-porous wrapping paper. In addition, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may comprise greaseproof paper and/or aluminum laminate packaging material.

[61] The third wrapper 243 may comprise a hard wrapping paper. For example, the density of the third wrapper 243 may be approximately 88 to 96 g/ ^m2 , in particular 90 to 94 g/ ^m2 . Furthermore, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be approximately 120 to 130 μm, in particular 125 μm.

[62] The fourth wrapper 244 may be made of greaseproof rigid wrapping paper. For example, the density of the fourth wrapper 244 may be approximately 88 to 96 g/ ^m2 , in particular 90 to 94 g/ ^m2 . Furthermore, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be approximately 120 to 130 μm, in particular 125 μm.

[63] The fifth wrapper 245 may comprise sterile paper (MFW). In this case, sterile paper (MFW) is understood to mean paper specially prepared for the purpose of further increasing tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness and other properties compared to ordinary paper. For example, the density of the fifth wrapper 245 may be approximately 57 to 63 g/ ^m2 , in particular 60 g/ ^m2 . In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be approximately 64 to 70 μm, in particular 67 μm.

[64] A certain material may be added to the fifth wrapper 245. In this case, an example of a certain material may be silicon, but other materials are also possible. For example, silicon may have properties such as heat resistance with little change under the influence of temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water-repellent properties, or dielectric properties. However, even if the certain material is not silicon, any material having the characteristics disclosed above may be applied to the fifth wrapper 245 (including in the form of a coating) without limitation.

[65] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the cigarette 2 from burning. For example, when the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater 13, there is a possibility that the cigarette 2 will ignite. In particular, when the temperature rises to a level exceeding the ignition temperature of any of the materials included in the tobacco rod 21, the cigarette 2 may ignite. Even in this case, the cigarette 2 can be prevented from burning because the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-combustible material.

[66] Furthermore, the fifth wrapper 245 may prevent the holder 1 from being contaminated by substances generated in the cigarette 2. During a user's puff, liquid substances may be generated in the cigarette 2. For example, as the aerosol generated in the cigarette 2 cools, liquid substances (e.g., moisture, etc.) may be generated by the outside air. The fifth wrapper 245 wrapped around the cigarette 2 may prevent the liquid materials generated in the cigarette 2 from leaking out of the cigarette 2.

[67] The tobacco rod 21 contains an aerosol generating material. For example, the aerosol generating material may contain at least one of the following components: glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol and oleyl alcohol, as well as other components. In addition, the tobacco rod 210 may contain other additives, in particular, flavoring additives, a wetting agent and/or an organic acid. Also, the tobacco rod 210 may contain a flavored liquid, in particular, menthol or a humectant, injected into the tobacco rod 210.

[68] The tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be formed in the form of a sheet or a strand. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 may be formed in the form of pipe tobacco, consisting of tiny pieces cut from a tobacco leaf. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 may be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material may be, among other things, a metal foil, such as, for example, aluminum foil. For example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 may evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21, which makes it possible to increase the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod 21 and improve the taste of the tobacco. In addition, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 may serve as a current collector heated by an induction heater. In this case, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may comprise an additional current collector along with the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21.

[69] The filter rod 22 may comprise a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod 22 may have any shape. For example, the filter rod 22 may have the shape of a hollow cylinder or a hollow tube. In addition, the filter rod 22 may comprise a rod with a recess. If the filter rod 22 comprises multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may have a different shape.

[70] The first segment of the filter rod 22 may comprise a filter made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be formed in the form of a hollow tube. If the heater 13 is inserted by means of the first segment, it is possible to prevent the internal material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed aside and to cause cooling of the aerosol. The diameter of the cavity of the first segment may be suitably determined in the range of approximately 2 to 4.5 mm, but other variations are also possible.

[71] The length of the first segment can be suitably determined in the range of approximately 4 to 30 mm, but other variations are also possible. In particular, the length of the first segment can be 10 mm, but other variations are also possible.

[72] The rigidity of the first segment can be adjusted by adjusting the content of the plasticizer during the manufacture of the first segment. Furthermore, the first segment can be manufactured by introducing a structure, in particular a film or tube, containing the same or a different material, into the interior of the first segment (i.e., into the cavity).

[73] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the generated aerosol while the heater 13 heats the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to a suitable temperature.

[74] The length or diameter of the second segment may vary depending on the shape of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the second segment may be suitably determined in the range of approximately 7 to 20 mm. In particular, the length of the second segment may be approximately 14 mm, but other variations are also possible.

[75] The second segment may be made by weaving a polymer fiber. In this case, the flavored liquid may be applied to the fibers made of polymers. Alternatively, the second segment may be made by weaving a fiber onto which the flavored liquid is applied and a polymer fiber. Alternatively, the second segment may be made from a corrugated polymer sheet.

[76] For example, the polymer may comprise one of the following materials: polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactide (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[77] Since the second segment is formed from a woven polymer fiber or a corrugated polymer sheet, the second segment may contain one or more channels oriented in its longitudinal direction. In this case, a channel is understood to be a channel through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) flows.

[78] For example, the second segment made from a corrugated polymer sheet may be formed from a material having a thickness of about 5 to 300 μm, such as about 10 to 250 μm. Furthermore, the total surface area of the second segment may be about 300 to 1000 ^mm2 /mm. Furthermore, the aerosol cooling element may be formed from a material having a specific surface area of about 10 to 100 ^mm2 /mg.

[79] The second segment may comprise a thread containing a volatile flavoring ingredient. In this case, the volatile flavoring ingredient may be menthol or another substance. For example, the thread may be impregnated with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide a menthol content of 1.5 mg or more in the second segment.

[80] The third segment of the filter rod 22 may comprise a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be suitably determined in the range of approximately 4 to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be approximately 12 mm, but other variations are also possible.

[81] The third segment may be manufactured to produce flavor and aroma by spraying a flavored liquid onto the third segment during the manufacturing process of the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber may be inserted into the third segment and coated with a flavored liquid. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 is cooled by passing the aerosol through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is delivered to the user through the third segment. Accordingly, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the duration of the flavor and aroma delivered to the user can be increased.

[82] Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may comprise at least one capsule 23. In this case, the capsule 23 may generate a flavor and aroma or an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring material is wrapped in a film. For example, the capsule 23 may have the shape of a sphere or a cylinder, but other options are also possible.

[83] As shown in FIG. 5, the cigarette 2 may further comprise a front filter 33 that is a front plug. The front filter 33 may be located on the side of the tobacco rod 21 facing the filter rod 22. The front filter 33 may prevent the tobacco rod 31 from falling out and prevent liquefied aerosol from entering the aerosol generating device 1 (FIGS. 1-3) from the tobacco rod 21 during smoking.

[84] The filter rod 32 may comprise a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. In this case, the first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4, and the second segment 322 may correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4.

[85] The diameter and overall length of the cigarette 3 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the cigarette 2 in FIG. 4. For example, the length of the front filter 33 may be approximately 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be approximately 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be approximately 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be approximately 14 mm, but other variations are also possible.

[86] The cigarette 3 may be wrapped in at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one opening through which outside air may enter or inside air may exit. For example, the front filter 33 may be wrapped in a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 in a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 in a third wrapper 353, the second segment 322 in a fourth wrapper 354. In addition, the entire cigarette 3 as a whole may be wrapped in a fifth wrapper 355.

[87] In addition, the fifth wrapper 355 may have at least one through hole 36. For example, the through hole 36 may be formed in a portion of the fifth wrapper 355 surrounding the tobacco rod 31. The through hole 36 may serve to transfer heat generated by the heater 31 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 into the tobacco rod 31.

[88] The second segment 322 may also comprise at least one capsule 34. In this case, the capsule 34 may perform a fragrance generating function or another aerosol generating function. For example, the capsule 34 may have a configuration in which the liquid containing the fragrance material is wrapped in a film. For example, the capsule 34 may have the shape of a sphere or a cylinder, but other options are also possible.

[89] The first wrapper 351 may comprise a general-purpose wrapping paper for filters to which a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, is attached. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be approximately 45 to 55 μm, in particular 50.3 μm. Furthermore, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be approximately 6 to 7 μm, in particular 6.3 μm. Furthermore, the density of the first wrapper 351 may be approximately 50 to 55 g/ ^m2 , in particular 53 g/ ^m2 .

[90] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may comprise general-purpose wrapping paper for filters. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may comprise porous or non-porous wrapping paper.

[91] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be 35,000 AU, but other variations are also possible. In addition, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be approximately 70 to 80 μm, in particular 78 μm. In addition, the density of the second wrapper 352 may be approximately 20 to 25 g/m ² , in particular 23.5 g/m ² .

[92] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be 24,000 CU, but other variations are also possible. In addition, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be approximately 60 to 70 μm, in particular 68 μm. In addition, the density of the third wrapper 353 may be approximately 20 to 25 g/m ² , in particular 21 g/m ² .

[93] The fourth wrapper 354 may comprise polylactide-laminated paper. In this case, polylactide-laminated paper is understood to mean a three-layer paper comprising a paper layer, a polylactide layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be approximately 100 to 120 μm, in particular 110 μm. Furthermore, the density of the fourth wrapper 354 may be approximately 80 to 100 g/ ^m2 , in particular 88 g/ ^m2 .

[94] The fifth wrapper 355 may comprise sterile paper (MFW). In this case, sterile paper (MFW) is understood to mean paper specially prepared for the purpose of further increasing tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness and other properties compared to ordinary paper. For example, the density of the fifth wrapper 355 may be approximately 57 to 63 g/ ^m2 , in particular 60 g/ ^m2 . In addition, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be approximately 64 to 70 μm, in particular 67 μm.

[95] A certain material may be added to the fifth wrapper 355. In this case, an example of a certain material may be silicon, but other materials are also possible. For example, silicon may have properties such as heat resistance with little change under the influence of temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water-repellent properties, or dielectric properties. However, even if the certain material is not silicon, any material having the characteristics disclosed above may be applied to the fifth wrapper 355 (including in the form of a coating) without limitation.

[96] The shear plug 33 may comprise cellulose acetate. For example, the front filter 33 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate fiber. The monodenier of the cellulose acetate fiber thread may be approximately 1.0 to 10.0, in particular approximately 4.0 to 6.0. In particular, the monodenier of the thread of the front filter 33 may be 5.0. In addition, the cross-section of the thread of the front filter 33 may have a Y-shape. The total denier of the front filter 33 may be approximately 20,000 to 30,000, preferably approximately 25,000 to 30,000. In particular, the total denier of the front filter 33 may be 28,000.

[97] In addition, if necessary, the front filter 33 may contain at least one channel of different cross-sectional shape.

[98] The tobacco rod 31 may correspond to the tobacco rod 21 disclosed above with reference to FIG. 4. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[99] The first segment 321 may comprise cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be formed in the form of a hollow tube. The first segment 321 may be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate fiber. For example, the monodenier and total denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the monodenier and total denier of the front filter 33.

[100] The second segment 322 may be made of cellulose acetate. The monodenier of the thread of the second segment 322 may be from about 1.0 to 10.0, in particular from about 8.0 to 10.0. In particular, the monodenier of the thread of the second segment 322 may be 9.0. In addition, the cross-section of the thread of the second segment 322 may have a Y-shape. The total denier of the second segment 322 may be from about 20,000 to 30,000, in particular 25,000.

[101] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[102] As shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device comprises a controller 610, a temperature sensor 620, and a heater 630. The components of the aerosol generating device are not limited to this embodiment, and in one or more embodiments of the invention, other components may be added, or at least one component may be omitted.

[103] If the temperature of the heater 630 is lower than the reference temperature, the aerosol generating device may control the supply of power to the heater 630 in accordance with a predetermined first preheating profile. If the temperature of the heater 630 is higher than or equal to the reference temperature, the aerosol generating device controls the supply of power to the heater 630 in accordance with a second preheating profile that differs from the first preheating profile. The aerosol generating device supplies power to the heater in accordance with a predetermined preheating profile under general conditions, for example, at room temperature, and in accordance with another preheating profile under certain conditions, for example, at a high heater temperature. By "preheating profile" is meant a profile that defines a predetermined preheating time and a predetermined preheating temperature. The first preheating profile and the second preheating profile are disclosed below with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

[104] A temperature of the heater 630 that is greater than or equal to the reference temperature may indicate, for example, continuous use of the device or continuous smoking. For example, a second smoking session begins within a short period of time after the first smoking session has ceased.

[105] In one embodiment of the invention, a case is disclosed in which the temperature of the heater 630 is greater than or equal to the reference temperature, but other preheating profiles may be applied even in the case where the temperature of the heater 630 is less than the reference temperature or another reference temperature that differs from the general conditions.

[106] Temperature sensor 620 may determine the temperature of heater 630. For example, temperature sensor 620 may be a contact temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of heater 630 in contact with the heater, or a non-contact temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of heater 630 without contact with the heater. The contact temperature sensor may be a thermocouple, a resistance temperature detector (RTD), a thermistor, or a temperature marker, and the non-contact temperature sensor may be an infrared temperature sensor. In one embodiment of the invention, temperature sensor 620 measures the temperature of heater 630, but one or more embodiments of the invention are not limited to this. Temperature sensor 620 may measure the temperature of heater 630 around heater 630 or near it.

[107] The heater 630 may heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article. The heater 630 may be a heater of the various types disclosed above with reference to FIGS. 1-3. The heater 630 may heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article while power is supplied to the heater 630 under the control of the controller 610. At least a portion of the aerosol-generating article may be a tobacco rod containing an aerosol-generating material and/or tobacco material. In one embodiment of the invention, the heater 630 may be supplied with power through the controller 610 in accordance with temperature profiles corresponding to a preheating section and a heating section.

[108] The controller 610 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device. In one embodiment of the invention, the controller 610 may recognize the user's smoking activity. In this case, the expressions "first smoking series," "second smoking series," or "user smoking activity" may indicate that the user takes a predetermined number of puffs (e.g., 14 puffs) from one aerosol generating article. For example, the controller 610 may recognize the user's continuous smoking based on the temperature of the heater 630 measured by the temperature sensor 620. In another example, the controller 610 may recognize the user's continuous smoking based on the time measured by a timer (not shown in the figure). That is, if the second smoking series continues for a certain period of time, for example, 3 seconds, after the first series is completed, continuous smoking may be recognized.

[109] When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device, the controller 610 may measure the temperature of the heater 630 and determine whether the temperature of the heater 630 is greater than or equal to a reference temperature. In one embodiment of the invention, the controller 610 may determine whether the user intends to start smoking by determining whether the aerosol generating article is inserted using a cigarette insertion recognition sensor. In another embodiment of the invention, after receiving a user command to start the aerosol generating device, such as pressing an operation initiation button or a power button, the controller 610 may measure the temperature of the heater 630 and determine whether the temperature of the heater 630 is greater than or equal to a reference temperature.

[110] The controller 610 may control the supply of power to the heater 630 depending on the user's smoking actions. For example, the controller 610 may determine whether the user's smoking actions are the start of smoking or continuous smoking performed after the start of smoking, and control the supply of power to the heater 630 in accordance with the result of the determination.

[111] FIG. 7 is an exemplary graph illustrating the temperature profile across the entire heating section of the aerosol generating device.

[112] FIG. 7 shows a temperature profile over the entire heating section, including a preheating section between times t0 and t1 and a heating section between times t1 and t2. When smoking is started in the aerosol generating device, power is supplied to the heater in accordance with temperature profiles that determine temperature values taking into account time, as shown in FIG. 7. The preheating section and the heating section may be divided into parts.

[113] The preheating section may comprise a first preheating section in which the temperature of the heater is increased to a first predetermined temperature T1, a second preheating section in which the first predetermined temperature T1 is maintained, and a third preheating section in which the temperature of the heater is reduced to a second predetermined temperature T2. The heating section may comprise a first heating section in which the temperature of the heater is reduced to a third predetermined temperature T3, a second heating section in which the temperature of the heater is reduced to a fourth predetermined temperature T4, and a third heating section in which the fourth predetermined temperature T4 is maintained. As stated above, the preheating section comprises a first preheating section, a second preheating section, and a third preheating section. However, one or more embodiments of the invention are not limited to this embodiment, and various modifications are possible according to the shape or type of the article for generating an aerosol or a heater.

[114] The preheating section or preheating profile of FIG. 7 is disclosed in detail with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

[115] FIG. 8 is an exemplary graph illustrating an example of a preheating portion of the temperature profile of FIG. 7. FIG. 8 shows a first preheating profile 800 and a second preheating profile 810.

[116] The first preheating profile 800 determines the preheating time and temperature during a predetermined preheating time t1. The aerosol generating device controls the supply of power to the heater in accordance with the first preheating profile 800. As shown in FIG. 8, in accordance with the first preheating profile 800, the temperature is increased until a first predetermined temperature T1 is reached at a time t0, the first predetermined temperature T1 is maintained until a time t2, and the temperature is decreased until a second predetermined temperature T2 is reached at a time t1. For example, if the preheating time is set to about 37 seconds, the temperature is increased to about 270°C in about 19 seconds, then maintained at 270°C for 11 seconds, and decreased to 225°C in 7 seconds. The preheating time and the predetermined temperature are given for example only and do not limit one or more embodiments of the invention.

[117] According to the second preheating profile 810, the temperature is increased until the first preset temperature T1 is reached at the time ta, the first preset temperature T1 is maintained until the time tb, and the temperature is decreased until the second preset temperature T2 is reached at the time t2. The initial temperature Ta in the second preheating profile 810 is higher than the initial temperature in the first preheating profile 800, which corresponds to room temperature (that is, approximately 15°C). Thus, the second preheating profile 810 reaches the first preset temperature T1 faster than the first preheating profile 800. In this case, the temperature of the aerosol generating device is maintained high at an early stage, and the user may experience discomfort due to the feeling of heat.

[118] In one embodiment of the invention, the preheating time of the second preheating profile 810 after reaching the first predetermined temperature T1 exceeds the preheating time of the first preheating profile 800, which makes it possible to reduce the initial heating.

[119] As shown in FIG. 8, the preheating time of the second preheating profile 810 after reaching the first preset temperature T1 is t1-ta, and the preheating time of the first preheating profile 800 after reaching the first preset temperature T1 is t1-t0. In this case, the preheating time t1-ta is longer than the preheating time t1-t0. In addition, the time period tb-ta of the second preheating profile 810, at which the first preset temperature T1 is maintained, may be shorter than the time period t2-t0 of the first preheating profile 800, at which the first preset temperature T1 is maintained. In addition, the time period t1-tb of the second preheating profile 810, at which the temperature is reduced to the second preset temperature T2, may be longer than the time period t1-t2 of the first preheating profile 800.

[120] The duration of the period of time of the second preheating profile 810, in which the first predetermined temperature T1 is maintained and then reduced to the second predetermined temperature T2, may depend on the value of the initial temperature Ta. For example, if the initial temperature Ta is high, the duration of the period of time increases. On the other hand, if the initial temperature Ta is low, the duration of the period of time decreases. In addition, the ratio of the period of time in which the first predetermined temperature T1 is maintained to the period of time in which the temperature is reduced to the second predetermined temperature T2 can be adjusted in accordance with the value of the initial temperature Ta.

[121] In one embodiment of the invention, when the current temperature of the heater is lower than the reference temperature, that is, when the aerosol generating device is operating under normal conditions, the aerosol generating device supplies power to the heater in accordance with the first preheating profile 800. If the temperature of the heater is higher than or equal to the reference temperature, that is, when the aerosol generating device is operating under high-temperature conditions, the aerosol generating device supplies power to the heater in accordance with the second preheating profile. High-temperature conditions include high ambient temperatures, continuous use of the aerosol generating device, etc. Thus, since the preheating profile is adaptively selected in accordance with the current temperature of the heater, the aerosol generating device can prevent the user from feeling warm during the initial puff and provide a sufficient amount of aerosol.

[122] FIG. 9 is an exemplary diagram illustrating another example of a preheating portion of the temperature profile of FIG. 7.

[123] FIG. 9 shows another second preheating profile 910 that is different from the second preheating profile 810 of FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 9, if the initial temperature Ta is higher than the room temperature, the second preheating profile 900 is designed to increase the temperature until the first set temperature T1 is reached at the time te after the delay time td has elapsed, maintain the first set temperature T1 until the time tf, and decrease the temperature until the second set temperature T2 is reached at the time t1.

[124] In one embodiment of the invention, since the second preheating profile 900 is started at a temperature Ta higher than room temperature, the temperature may be increased to the first predetermined temperature T1 after a certain delay time td has elapsed. In this case, the duration of the delay time td may depend on the measured temperature (i.e., the initial temperature Ta) of the heater. For example, at a high initial temperature Ta, the duration of the delay time td may be increased, and at a low initial temperature Ta, the duration of the delay time td may be decreased. Furthermore, the duration of the period of time during which the first predetermined temperature T1 is maintained or the duration of the period of time during which the temperature is reduced to the second predetermined temperature T2 may be adjusted in accordance with the duration of the delay time td.

[125] In one embodiment of the invention, the time period tf-te of the second preheating profile 900, in which the first set temperature T1 is maintained, may be longer than the time period t2-t0 of the first preheating profile 800 in FIG. 8, in which the first set temperature T1 is maintained. Furthermore, the time period t1-tf of the second preheating profile 900, in which the temperature of the heater is reduced to the second set temperature T2, may be longer than the time period t1-t2 of the first preheating profile 800 in FIG. 8, in which the temperature of the heater is reduced to the second set temperature T2. Thus, despite the high initial temperature of the heater, the initial heat that can be felt by the user can be reduced.

[126] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[127] As shown in FIG. 10, in step 1000, the temperature of the heater is measured.

[128] In step 1002, the measured temperature of the heater is compared with a reference temperature. If the temperature of the heater is lower than the reference temperature in step 1002, a first preheating profile is selected in step 1004. In this case, the reference temperature is understood to be a temperature that can be set arbitrarily. For example, the reference temperature can be set to approximately 17°C, which corresponds to room temperature. In addition, the temperature of the heater can be compared with a certain temperature range instead of a certain temperature value. The first preheating profile can be used under normal conditions and can define a set temperature associated with a set time.

[129] If the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to the reference temperature in step 1002, a second preheating profile is selected in step 1006. If the currently measured temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to the reference temperature, a second preheating profile is selected that is different from the first preheating profile. The period of time during which the set temperature is maintained and/or the period of time during which the temperature of the heater is reduced to a lower temperature may be longer in the second preheating profile than in the first preheating profile.

[130] At step 1008, power is supplied to the heater in accordance with the preheating profile selected at step 1004 or 1006.

[131] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[132] As shown in FIG. 11, at step 1100, insertion of a cigarette into the aerosol generating device is detected. Recognizing the inserted cigarette allows one to predict that the aerosol generating device will be used. In one embodiment of the invention, upon detection of the inserted cigarette, the power of the aerosol generating device may be turned on or the heating of the heater may be turned on. After inserting the cigarette, at step 1102 it may be determined whether the aerosol generating device is in continuous use. Continuous use may mean that the cigarette is reinserted within a certain period of time after the cessation of the previous smoking series. Continuous use may be detected when the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to a reference temperature. In addition, continuous use may be detected when the cigarette is reinserted within a certain period of time after the cessation of the previous smoking series.

[133] If continuous use is not recognized at step 1102, a first preheating profile is selected at step 1104.

[134] If continuous use is recognized at step 1102, a second preheating profile is selected at step 1106.

[135] At step 1108, power is supplied to the heater in accordance with the preheating profile selected at step 1104 or 1106.

[136] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 1200 according to another embodiment of the invention.

[137] As shown in FIG. 12, the aerosol generating device 1200 may include a controller 1210, a sensor unit 1220, an output unit 1230, a battery 1240, a heater 1050, a user input unit 1260, a memory 1270, and a communication unit 1280. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1200 is not limited to the structure shown in FIG. 12. That is, it is obvious to one skilled in the art that some of the components shown in FIG. 12 may be omitted, or new components may be added in accordance with the structure of the aerosol generating device 1200.

[138] The sensor unit 1220 may recognize the state of the aerosol generating device 1200 and the state of the environment around the aerosol generating device 1200, and transmit the information from the sensors to the controller 1210. Based on the information from the sensors, the controller 1210 may send commands to the aerosol generating device 1200 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater 1250, restricting smoking, recognizing the insertion of an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a cartridge, etc.), displaying a notification, etc.

[139] The sensor unit 1220 may comprise a temperature sensor 1222 and/or an insertion recognition sensor 1224 and/or a puff sensor 1226, as well as other sensors.

[140] Temperature sensor 1222 may detect the temperature to which heater 1250 (or aerosol generating material) is heated. Aerosol generating device 1200 may comprise a separate temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of heater 1250, or heater 1250 itself may serve as the temperature sensor. Alternatively, temperature sensor 1222 may be located around battery 1240 to monitor the temperature of battery 1240. In one embodiment of the invention, temperature sensor 1222 may measure the temperature of heater 1250 before heating.

[141] The insertion recognition sensor 1224 may recognize the insertion and/or removal of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the insertion recognition sensor 1224 may be a film sensor and/or a pressure sensor and/or a light sensor and/or a resistive sensor and/or a capacitive sensor and/or an inductive sensor and/or an infrared sensor, and may recognize a change in a signal upon insertion and/or removal of the aerosol-generating article. In one embodiment of the invention, the insertion recognition sensor 1224 may recognize continuous use when, after sensing the insertion of the aerosol-generating article, it detects repeated insertion of the aerosol-generating article within a predetermined period of time after the completion of a smoking series.

[142] The puff sensor 1226 may detect a puff taken by a user based on various physical changes in the air flow path or in the air flow channel. For example, the puff sensor 1226 may detect a puff taken by a user based on a change in any of the following parameters: temperature, flow, voltage, and pressure.

[143] The sensor unit 1220 may comprise, in addition to the above-mentioned temperature sensor 1222, the input recognition sensor 1224 and the puff sensor 1226, a temperature/humidity sensor and/or an atmospheric pressure sensor and/or a magnetic sensor and/or an acceleration sensor and/or a gyroscope and/or a position sensor (for example, a global positioning system (GPS)) and/or a proximity sensor and/or a red, green, blue (RGB) color sensor (light sensor). Since the purpose of each sensor may be intuitively clear from its name to a person skilled in the art, a detailed disclosure of this purpose may be omitted in this document.

[144] The output unit 1230 may output information about the state of the aerosol generating device 1200 and provide it to the user. The output unit 1230 may comprise a display device 1232 and/or a tactile device 1234 and/or an audio output device 1236, as well as other devices. If the display device 1232 and the touch panel are formed as a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display device 1232 can be used as an input device in addition to the output device.

[145] The display device 1232 may visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1200. The information about the aerosol generating device 1200 may include, for example, a charge/discharge state of the battery 1240 of the aerosol generating device 1200, a preheating state of the heater 1250, a state of inserting/removing the aerosol generating article, a state of limited use (for example, an abnormal object has been detected) of the aerosol generating device 1200, and the like, and the display device 1232 may output the information to the outside. The display device 1232 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, and the like. In addition, the display device 1232 may be implemented as a light-emitting diode (LED) device.

[146] The haptic device 1234 may provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1200 in a tactile manner by converting an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus. The haptic device 1234 may be, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[147] The sound output device 1236 may provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1200 in sound form. For example, the sound output device 1236 may convert an electrical signal into an audio signal and output the audio signal to the outside.

[148] Battery 1240 may supply power used to control aerosol generating device 1200. For example, battery 1240 may supply power to heat heater 1250. In addition, battery 1240 may supply power necessary to operate other components (e.g., sensor unit 1220, output unit 1230, user input unit 1260, memory 1270, and communication unit 1280) included in aerosol generating device 1200. Battery 1240 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, battery 1240 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery; other options are also possible.

[149] The heater 1250 may be powered by the battery 1240 for heating the material for generating the aerosol. Although not shown in FIG. 12, the aerosol generating device 1200 may further comprise a power conversion circuit (e.g., a direct current to direct current (DC/DC) converter) that converts the power of the battery 1240 and supplies said power to the heater 1250. In addition, when the aerosol generating device 1200 generates the aerosol by the induction heating method, the aerosol generating device 1200 may further comprise a DC/AC converter that converts the direct current of the battery 1240 into alternating current (AC).

[150] The controller 1210, the sensor unit 1220, the output unit 1230, the user input unit 1260, the memory 1270, and the communication unit 1280 may receive the power necessary to perform their functions from the battery 1240. Although not shown in FIG. 12, the aerosol generating device 1200 may further comprise a power conversion circuit, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power from the battery 1240 to supply power to the corresponding components.

[151] In one embodiment of the invention, the heater 1250 may be made of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, a suitable electrically resistive material may be a metal or metal alloy, including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc., as well as other metals or alloys. In addition, the heater 1250 may be made in the form of a metal wire, a metal plate on which an electrically conductive track is placed, or a ceramic heating element, as well as in other embodiments.

[152] In another embodiment of the invention, the heater 1250 may be an induction type heater. For example, the heater 1250 may comprise a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field induced by the coil.

[153] In one embodiment of the invention, the heater 1250 may comprise multiple heaters. For example, the heater 1250 may comprise a first heater for heating a cigarette and a second heater for heating a liquid.

[154] The user input unit 1260 may receive information from the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 1260 may comprise a keyboard, a dome switch, a touch panel (e.g., a contact-capacitive type, a resistive film type, an infrared sensor type, a surface ultrasonic conductivity type, an integral voltage measurement type, a piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a switch wheel, a switch, and the like. In addition, although not shown in FIG. 12, the aerosol generating device 1200 may further comprise a connection interface, such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to another external device via a connection interface, such as a USB interface, for transmitting and receiving information or for charging the battery 1240.

[155] Memory 1270 is a hardware component that stores various types of data processed in the aerosol generating device 1200 and may store data to be processed and data processed by the controller 1210. Memory 1270 may be at least one of the following types of storage media: flash memory, a hard disk, a multimedia micro-card, a card (e.g., SD or XD), random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, or an optical disk. Memory 1270 may store the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1200, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, data on the user's smoking habits, and the like. In one embodiment of the invention, memory 1270 may store multiple temperature profiles. In addition, memory 1270 may store multiple preheating profiles that define preheating regions in the temperature profiles. Memory 1270 may store multiple preheating profiles, as disclosed with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

[156] The communication unit 1280 may comprise at least one component for communicating with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit 1280 may comprise a short-range wireless communication unit 1282 and a wireless communication unit 1284.

[157] The short-range wireless communication unit 1282 may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a near-field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) wireless communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, and an Ant+ communication unit, as well as other similar devices.

[158] The wireless communication unit 1284 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communicator, an Internet communicator, a computer network communicator (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)), and other similar devices. The wireless communication unit 1284 may use subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) to identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 1200 in the communication network.

[159] Controller 1210 may control the operation of aerosol generating device 1200 as a whole. In one embodiment of the invention, controller 1210 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic elements or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory in which a program executable in the microprocessor is stored. One skilled in the art will understand that the processor may be implemented using other types of hardware.

[160] Controller 1210 may control the temperature of heater 1250 by controlling the supply of power from battery 1240 to heater 1250. For example, controller 1210 may control the supply of power by controlling the switching of a switching element between battery 1240 and heater 1250. In another example, a direct heating circuit may control the supply of power to heater 1250 in accordance with a control command from controller 1210.

[161] Once the aerosol generating device 1200 has started to operate, the controller 1210 controls the supply of power to the heater 1250 in accordance with a predetermined temperature profile or a predetermined preheating profile.

[162] In one embodiment of the invention, at the start of operation of the aerosol generating device 1200 or the introduction of an aerosol generating article, the controller 1210 measures the current temperature of the heater 1250 using the temperature sensor 1222. If the temperature of the heater 1250 is greater than or equal to the reference temperature, the controller 1210 can load from the memory 1270 a predetermined preheating profile, that is, a second preheating profile that is different from the first preheating profile, and can control the supply of power to the heater 1250 in accordance with the second preheating profile.

[163] In one embodiment of the invention, the controller 1210 may control the supply of power to the heater 1250 in accordance with a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control. That is, the controller 1210 may control the supply of power to the heater 1250 in accordance with the PID control such that the temperature of the heater 1250 corresponds to a predetermined temperature profile. For example, the controller 1210 may supply power by adjusting the parameter Kp with respect to proportional control, the parameter Ki with respect to integral control, and the parameter Kd with respect to derivative control, or by adjusting at least one of the aforementioned parameters to increase the temperature of the heater 1250 to a predetermined level during a time corresponding to a portion of the temperature increase in accordance with the temperature profile.

[164] The controller 1210 may analyze the result measured by the sensor 1220 and control subsequent processes. For example, the controller 1210 may control the supply of power to the heater 1250 such that the operation of the heater 1250 is started or stopped based on the result measured by the sensor 1220. Furthermore, based on the result measured by the sensor 1220, the controller 1210 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater 1250 and the time of supply of power such that the heater 1250 is heated to a predetermined temperature and/or its temperature is maintained at an appropriate level.

[165] The controller 1210 may control the output unit 1230 based on the results measured by the sensor 1220. For example, if the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 1226 reaches a predetermined number, the controller 1210 may notify the user that the operation of the aerosol generating device 1232 will soon cease via the display device 1234 and/or the tactile device 1236 and/or the sound output device 1200.

[166] In one embodiment of the invention, the controller 1210 may control the timing of the power supply and/or the amount of power supplied depending on the state of the aerosol generating article detected by the sensor 1220. For example, if the aerosol generating article is in an over-moistened state, the controller 1210 may control the timing of the power supply to the inductor and thereby increase the preheating time compared to the case when the aerosol generating article is in a normal state.

[167] FIGS. 13-16 illustrate a preheating mode of the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 12.

[168] As shown in FIG. 13, the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the receiving portion of the aerosol generating device 100. A case is disclosed in which the aerosol generating article such as a cigarette is inserted vertically, but it does not limit one or more embodiments of the invention. In addition, the display 1232 may display information or an indicator, such as a state, conditions, user information, and the like, of the aerosol generating device 100. The information or indicator may be an icon or text. In addition, as shown in FIG. 13, before the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 100, the display 1232 may be turned off.

[169] As shown in FIG. 14, when the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted into the receiving portion of the aerosol generating device 100, the aerosol generating device 100 may determine that the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted and thus switch the display 1232 from the off state to the on state. In this case, the aerosol generating device 100 may be turned on or the heating step may be initiated. After this, the power supply to the heater may be started.

[170] In one embodiment of the invention, the temperature of the heater is measured when the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted. If the temperature of the heater is below the reference temperature, the aerosol generating device 100 loads a first preheating profile from memory 1270 and supplies power to the heater 1250 in accordance with the first preheating profile. The first preheating profile determines the preheating time and temperature to which the heater is heated under normal conditions.

[171] As shown in FIG. 15, the aerosol generating device 100 may output information 1500 to the display 1232 indicating preheating of the heater 1250 in accordance with the first preheating profile. Upon completion of preheating of the heater in accordance with the first preheating profile (for example, upon reaching the preheating time determined in the first preheating profile), the aerosol generating device 100 may output information to the display 1232 indicating completion of preheating, or output a notification, in particular by vibration or the like, through the tactile device 1234.

[172] In one embodiment of the invention, when the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to the reference temperature, the aerosol generating device 100 loads a second preheating profile from the memory 1270 and supplies power to the heater 1250 in accordance with the second preheating profile. The second preheating profile determines the preheating time and temperature to which the heater is heated. For example, during continuous use of the device, the initial temperature of the heater is high. That is, if the aerosol generating article 200 is inserted within a few seconds after the previous aerosol generating article 200 is removed from the aerosol generating article 200, the temperature of the heater 1250 may be higher than when the aerosol generating article 200 was turned on, due to residual heat of the heater 1250 from previous smoking. In this case, the aerosol generator 100 loads a second preheating profile from memory 1270, which differs from the first preheating profile, and supplies power to the heater 1250 in accordance with the second preheating profile. Thus, at the beginning of the second smoking session, the heat generated by the high temperature can be reduced, and the user can be provided with a sufficient amount of aerosol.

[173] As shown in FIG. 16, the aerosol generating device 100 may output information 1600 to the display 1232 indicating preheating of the heater 1250 in accordance with the second preheating profile. Upon completion of preheating of the heater 1250 in accordance with the second preheating profile (for example, upon reaching the preheating time determined in the second preheating profile), the aerosol generating device 100 may output information to the display 1232 indicating completion of preheating, or output a notification, in particular by vibration, etc., through the tactile device 1234.

[174] One embodiment of the invention may also be implemented in the form of a storage medium that contains computer-executable instructions, such as computer-executable program modules. A computer-readable storage medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer and includes both non-retentive and power-off-retentive media, and removable and non-removable media. Furthermore, a computer-readable medium may include both a computer storage medium and a communication medium. A computer storage medium includes all of non-retentive and power-off-retentive media, and removable and non-removable media implemented in any information storage method or technology, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. A communication medium typically includes computer-readable instructions, data structures, other data in modulated data signals such as program modules, or other transfer mechanisms, and includes any information transfer media.

[175] The descriptions of the above embodiments of the invention are merely examples, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and equivalents may be made. Therefore, the protected scope of the invention should be defined by the appended claims, and all differences in the protected scope that are equivalent to those disclosed in the claims will be interpreted as being included within the protected scope defined by the claims.

Claims (28)

1. An aerosol generating device comprising: a heater configured to heat at least a portion of the article to generate an aerosol; a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the heater; and a processor configured to control the supply of power to the heater in accordance with a first preheating profile or a second preheating profile, wherein each of the preheating profiles determines a preheating time and a preheating temperature, wherein the processor is configured to control the supply of power to the heater in accordance with the first preheating profile if the temperature of the heater is below the reference temperature, and wherein the processor is further configured to control the supply of power to the heater in accordance with a second preheating profile that differs from the first preheating profile if the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to the reference temperature. 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to recognize continuous smoking if the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to the reference temperature. 3. The aerosol generating device of claim 2, wherein the processor is further configured to measure the temperature of the heater and determine whether the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to a reference temperature upon detection of the inserted aerosol generating article. 4. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the period of time at which the set temperature is reached in the second preheating profile is shorter than in the first preheating profile. 5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the period of time during which the set temperature is maintained in the second preheating profile is longer than in the first preheating profile. 6. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the period of time during which the temperature of the heater is reduced in the second preheating profile is longer than in the first preheating profile. 7. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to control the supply of power to the heater in accordance with the second preheating profile after a certain delay time has elapsed, when the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to the reference temperature. 8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein the processor is further configured to determine the duration of the delay time depending on the temperature of the heater. 9. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, further comprising a display configured to display a preheating mode of the aerosol generating device, wherein the processor is further configured to control the display to display the preheating mode in accordance with the first preheating profile or the second preheating profile. 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 9, wherein the processor is further configured to control the display to display a notification of completion of preheating upon reaching the preheating time in accordance with the first preheating profile or the second preheating profile. 11. A method for controlling an aerosol generating device, comprising: measuring the temperature of a heater configured to heat at least a portion of the article to generate an aerosol; controlling the supply of power to the heater in accordance with a first preheating profile or a second preheating profile, wherein each preheating profile defines a preheating set time and a preheating set temperature; determining whether the heater temperature is greater than or equal to the reference temperature; controlling the supply of power to the heater in accordance with the first preheating profile if the temperature of the heater is below the reference temperature; controlling the supply of power to the heater in accordance with a second preheating profile that differs from the first preheating profile if the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to the reference temperature. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the determining comprises recognizing continuous smoking if the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to the reference temperature. 13. The method of claim 11, further comprising recognizing the introduction of an aerosol generating article, wherein, upon detection of the introduction of the aerosol generating article, the temperature of the heater is measured and it is determined whether the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to a reference temperature. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the period of time during which the temperature of the heater is increased to the set temperature in the second preheating profile is shorter than the period of time of the first preheating profile, the period of time for which the set temperature is maintained in the second preheating profile is longer than in the first preheating profile, or the period of time during which the temperature of the heater is reduced to a level below the set temperature is longer in the second preheating profile than in the first preheating profile. 15. The method of claim 11, wherein the supply of power to the heater is controlled in accordance with the second preheating profile after a specified delay time has elapsed if the temperature of the heater is greater than or equal to the reference temperature.