WO2025018721A1 - Aerosol generating device and method for controlling aerosol generating device - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment comprises: a detachable cartridge that includes a liquid storage part for storing an aerosol generating substance and a heater for vaporizing the aerosol generating substance; a battery that supplies power to the heater; an electrode member that is disposed on one surface of a main body so as to face one surface of the cartridge; a capacitive sensor that applies a certain measurement signal to an electrode member and receives a sensing signal received from the electrode member; and a processor that calculates a capacitance value on the basis of the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor and calculates the remaining amount of aerosol generating material stored in the liquid storage part on the basis of the calculated capacitance value and a temperature compensation value dependent on usage conditions of the aerosol generating device.

Description

Aerosol generating device and method for controlling the aerosol generating device

Various embodiments according to the present disclosure relate to an aerosol generating device and a method for controlling the aerosol generating device.

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods that overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for systems that generate aerosols by heating cigarettes or aerosol generating materials using an aerosol generating device, rather than by burning cigarettes to generate aerosols.

An aerosol generating device can generate an aerosol by heating a liquid aerosol generating substance stored in a cartridge. In order for the aerosol generating device to operate normally, it may be required that the amount of the aerosol generating substance remaining in the cartridge be accurately detected.

If the residual amount of the aerosol generating material is not detected, it may cause inconvenience to the user because it is not possible to confirm whether the aerosol generating device is usable. In addition, since the degree to which the aerosol generating material is heated may be required differently depending on the residual amount, if the residual amount is not detected, the aerosol provision may be non-homogeneous.

Therefore, a technique is required to accurately measure the residual amount of aerosol generating material to ensure more homogeneous provision of the aerosol.

One embodiment of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device capable of accurately measuring the remaining amount of a liquid cartridge mounted on the aerosol generating device and a control method thereof.

The problems to be solved through the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the problems described above, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

In one embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes: a detachable cartridge including a liquid storage portion storing an aerosol generating substance and a heater vaporizing the aerosol generating substance; a battery supplying power to the heater; an electrode member arranged on one side of a main body so as to face one side of the cartridge; a capacitive sensor applying a predetermined measurement signal to the electrode member and receiving a sensing signal received from the electrode member; and a processor calculating a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor, and calculating a remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance stored in the liquid storage portion based on the calculated capacitance value and a temperature compensation value according to a usage condition of the aerosol generating device.

The above processor can calculate the capacitance value based on the charging and discharging time for the electrode member.

The temperature compensation value according to the above conditions of use may be a first temperature compensation value according to the heating operation of the cigarette heater that heats the aerosol generating article or a second temperature compensation value according to the charging of the battery.

The above processor can calculate the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance based on a capacitance value obtained by subtracting the first temperature compensation value or the second temperature compensation value from the calculated capacitance value when the capacitance of the electrode member has a characteristic proportional to the temperature.

The aerosol generating device further includes a first temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the cigarette heater; and a second temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the battery, and the processor can calculate the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance based on a capacitance value obtained by subtracting the first temperature value measured by the first temperature sensor and the second temperature value measured by the second temperature sensor from the calculated capacitance value.

The device includes a first coefficient multiplied by the first temperature value, and a second coefficient multiplied by the second temperature value, wherein the first coefficient reflects a temperature change of the cigarette heater, and the second coefficient reflects a temperature change of the battery, and the first coefficient may be smaller than the second coefficient.

The above processor can set a difference between the levels of the residual amount of the aerosol generating substance by a predetermined value by reflecting noise caused by external interference and a hysteresis effect caused by changes in the water level of the liquid storage unit.

The aerosol generating device further includes a puff sensor for detecting inhalation of the vaporized aerosol, and the processor can count the number of puffs detected by the puff sensor and calculate a puff-based residual amount corresponding to a cumulative sum of the counted number of puffs.

The processor may compare the calculated residual amount of the aerosol generating substance with the puff-based residual amount, and may not output the calculated residual amount of the aerosol generating substance if the difference between them is greater than or equal to a threshold value.

The aerosol generating device further includes a display that outputs an icon corresponding to the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance, and the processor can control, when the cartridge is mounted on the main body, to calculate the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance and output an icon corresponding to the calculated remaining amount on the display.

The above display can output at least four icons corresponding to high/medium/low/none remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance.

The above electrode member may have an area corresponding to the area of the liquid storage portion of the cartridge.

The electrode member may be spaced from the liquid storage portion of the cartridge by 0.55 mm to 1.55 mm.

The above electrode member and the capacitive sensor can be connected by a connector including a C-clip.

In another embodiment, a method for controlling an aerosol generating device includes the steps of: applying a predetermined measurement signal to an electrode member arranged on one side of a main body so as to be opposite to one side of a detachable cartridge; receiving a sensing signal received from the electrode member; calculating a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor; and calculating a residual amount of an aerosol generating substance stored in a liquid storage portion of the cartridge based on the calculated capacitance value and a temperature compensation value according to a usage condition of the aerosol generating device.

In one embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes: a detachable cartridge including a liquid storage portion storing an aerosol generating substance and a heater vaporizing the aerosol generating substance; an electrode member arranged on one side of a main body so as to face one side of the cartridge; a capacitive sensor applying a predetermined measurement signal to the electrode member and receiving a sensing signal received from the electrode member; and a processor calculating a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor, and calculating a remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance stored in the liquid storage portion based on the calculated capacitance value and a compensation value according to a degree of deterioration of the electrode member.

The above processor can calculate the capacitance value based on the charging and discharging time for the electrode member.

The compensation value according to the above deterioration degree can be determined based on the maximum capacitance value measured when a full cartridge is mounted during the manufacture of the aerosol generating device and the minimum capacitance value measured when the cartridge is not mounted.

The processor may compare the calculated capacitance value with the pre-stored maximum capacitance value when a new cartridge full of the aerosol generating substance is loaded, and if the calculated capacitance value is greater than the maximum capacitance value, determine a difference between the calculated capacitance value and the maximum capacitance value or a capacitance value corresponding to a predetermined ratio of the calculated capacitance value as the compensation value, and calculate the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance based on a capacitance value obtained by subtracting the determined compensation value from the calculated capacitance value.

The processor may compare the calculated capacitance value with the pre-stored minimum capacitance value when the cartridge is detached from the main body, and, when the calculated capacitance value is smaller than the minimum capacitance value, determine a difference between the calculated capacitance value and the minimum capacitance value or a capacitance value corresponding to a predetermined ratio of the calculated capacitance value as the compensation value, and calculate the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance based on a capacitance value obtained by adding the determined compensation value to the calculated capacitance value.

The aerosol generating device may further include a memory storing at least one of the maximum capacitance value and the minimum capacitance value.

The above processor can set a difference between the levels of the residual amount of the aerosol generating substance by a predetermined value by reflecting noise caused by external interference and a hysteresis effect caused by changes in the water level of the liquid storage unit.

The aerosol generating device further includes a puff sensor for detecting inhalation of the vaporized aerosol, and the processor can count the number of puffs detected by the puff sensor and calculate a puff-based residual amount corresponding to a cumulative sum of the counted number of puffs.

The processor may compare the calculated residual amount of the aerosol generating substance with the puff-based residual amount, and may not output the calculated residual amount of the aerosol generating substance if the difference between them is greater than or equal to a threshold value.

The aerosol generating device further includes a display that outputs an icon corresponding to the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance, and the processor can control, when the cartridge is mounted on the main body, to calculate the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance and output an icon corresponding to the calculated remaining amount on the display.

The above display can output at least four icons corresponding to high/medium/low/none remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance.

The above electrode member may have an area corresponding to the area of the liquid storage portion of the cartridge.

The electrode member may be spaced from the liquid storage portion of the cartridge by 0.55 mm to 1.55 mm.

The above electrode member and the capacitive sensor can be connected by a connector including a C-clip.

In another embodiment, a method for controlling an aerosol generating device includes the steps of: applying a predetermined measurement signal to an electrode member arranged on one side of a main body so as to face one side of a detachable cartridge; receiving a sensing signal received from the electrode member; calculating a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor; and calculating a residual amount of an aerosol generating substance stored in a liquid storage portion of the cartridge based on the calculated capacitance value and a compensation value according to a degree of deterioration of the electrode member.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the remaining amount of a liquid cartridge mounted on an aerosol generating device can be accurately measured.

In addition, in capacitance-based residual quantity measurement, the capacitance value can be accurately calculated to measure the residual quantity by reflecting the temperature characteristics that inevitably occur in the aerosol generating device.

In addition, the capacitance value can be compensated by considering the temperatures of various heat-generating components according to various usage conditions that affect the electrode absence for capacitance measurement.

In addition, in capacitance-based residual quantity measurement, the capacitance value can be accurately calculated and the residual quantity can be measured by reflecting a compensation value according to the degree of deterioration of the electrode member of the aerosol generating device.

In addition, by judging the degree of deterioration of the current electrode member based on the capacitance values stored in advance through calibration work during the manufacturing of the aerosol generating device, it is possible to determine deterioration optimized for each aerosol generating device rather than judging by a uniform threshold value.

However, the effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the body, cartridge, and cap of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the body, cartridge, and cap of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Figures 11a to 11c are cross-sectional views of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

Figures 12a and 12b are block diagrams of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining a control method of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart for explaining a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

Figure 16 is an example diagram for measuring the remaining amount of a cartridge according to one embodiment.

Figure 17 is an example diagram displaying the remaining amount of a cartridge according to one embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

When it is said that a component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is said that a component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

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

Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an aerosol generating device (1) according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (1) may include at least one of a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), a heater (18), and a cartridge (19). At least one of the power source (11), the control unit (12), the sensor (13), and the heater (18) may be disposed inside a body (10) of the aerosol generating device. The body (10) may provide a space opened upwardly so that a stick (S), which is an aerosol generating article, may be inserted. The space opened upwardly may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by being sunken toward the inside of the body (10) to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick (S) may be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of a region of the stick (S) containing an aerosol generating material and/or a medium. The lower end of the stick (S) may be inserted into the inside of the body (10), and the upper end of the stick (S) may protrude outside the body (10). The user can inhale air by placing the top of the stick (S) exposed to the outside in their mouth.

The heater (18) can heat the stick (S). The heater (18) can be extended upwardly around the space where the stick (S) is inserted. For example, the heater (18) can be in the form of a tube having a hollow portion therein. The heater (18) can be arranged around the periphery of the insertion space. The heater (18) can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The heater (18) can heat the insertion space or the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space. The heater (18) can include an electrical resistance heater and/or an induction heating heater.

For example, the heater (18) may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater (18) may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater (18) may be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track. The heater (18) may be electrically connected to a power source (11). The heater (18) may be directly heated by receiving current from the power source (11).

For example, the aerosol generator (1) may include an induction coil surrounding a heater (18). The induction coil may heat the heater (18). The heater (18) may be a susceptor, and the heater (18) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field may pass through the heater (18) and generate an eddy current within the heater (18). The current may generate heat in the heater (18).

Meanwhile, a susceptor may be included inside the stick (S), and the susceptor inside the stick (S) may be heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil.

The cartridge (19) may contain an aerosol generating material having any one of a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state therein. The aerosol generating material may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid including a tobacco-containing material including a volatile tobacco flavoring component, or may be a liquid including a non-tobacco material.

The cartridge (19) may be formed integrally with the body (10) or may be detachably coupled to the body (10).

For example, referring to FIG. 1, the cartridge (19) is formed integrally with the body (10) and can communicate with the insertion space through an airflow channel (CN).

For example, referring to FIG. 2, a space is formed on one side of the body (10), and at least a portion of the cartridge (19) is inserted into the space formed on one side of the body (10) so that the cartridge (19) can be mounted on the body (10). The airflow channel (CN) can be defined by a portion of the cartridge and/or a portion of the body (10), and the cartridge (19) can communicate with the insertion space through the airflow channel (CN).

The body (10) can be formed in a structure in which outside air can flow into the interior of the body (10) while the cartridge (19) is inserted. At this time, the outside air that flows into the body (10) can pass through the cartridge (19) and flow into the user's oral cavity.

The cartridge (19) may include a storage portion (C0) containing an aerosol generating material and/or a heater (24) for heating the aerosol generating material in the storage portion (C0). A liquid delivery means impregnating (containing) the aerosol generating material may be disposed inside the storage portion (C0). Here, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, porous ceramic, etc. The electrically conductive track of the heater (24) may be formed as a coil-shaped structure that winds the liquid delivery means or a structure that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means. The heater (24) may be referred to as a cartridge heater (24).

The cartridge (19) can generate an aerosol. As the liquid delivery means is heated by the cartridge heater (24), the aerosol can be generated. The aerosol can be generated by heating the stick (S) by the heater (18). While the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater (24) and the heater (18) passes through the stick (S), tobacco material can be added to the aerosol, and the aerosol added with the tobacco material can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick (S).

The aerosol generator (1) may be equipped with only a cartridge heater (24) and the body (10) may not be equipped with a heater (18). At this time, the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater (24) may pass through the stick (S) and be inhaled into the user's mouth with tobacco material added thereto.

The aerosol generator (1) may include a cap (not shown). The cap may be detachably coupled to the body (10) so as to cover at least a portion of a cartridge (19) coupled to the body (10). A stick (S) may be inserted into the body (10) through the cap.

The power source (11) can supply power to operate components of the aerosol generator. The power source (11) can be referred to as a battery. The power source (11) can supply power to at least one of the control unit (12), the sensor (13), the cartridge heater (24), and the heater (18). When the aerosol generator (1) includes an induction coil, the power source (11) can supply power to the induction coil.

The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator. The control unit can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit (12) can control the operation of at least one of the power supply (11), the sensor (13), the heater (18), and the cartridge (19). The control unit (12) can control the operation of a display, a motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generator. The control unit (12) can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator to determine whether the aerosol generator is in an operable state.

The control unit (12) can analyze the results detected by the sensor (13) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) so that the operation of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensor (13). For example, the control unit (12) can control the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the sensor (13).

The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a cap detection sensor. For example, the sensor (13) may sense at least one of the temperature of the heater (18), the temperature of the power source (11), and the temperature inside and outside the body (10). For example, the sensor (13) may sense a puff of a user. For example, the sensor (13) may sense whether a stick (S) is inserted into an insertion space. For example, the sensor (13) may sense whether a cartridge is mounted. For example, the sensor (13) may sense whether a cap is mounted.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 4 is a combined perspective view of a body, a cartridge, and a cap of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device (A100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a body (A3). The aerosol generating device (A100) may include a cap (A30). The aerosol generating device (A100) may include a cartridge (A40). The cartridge (A40) may be detachably coupled to one side of the body (A3). The cap (A30) may be detachably coupled to the body (A3) to cover the cartridge (A40). The stick (S) may be inserted into the body (A3) by penetrating the cap (A30).

Referring to FIG. 4, the body (A3) may include a lower body (A1) and an upper body (A2). Components of an aerosol generating device (A100), such as a battery and a control unit, may be installed inside the lower body (A1). The upper body (A2) may be coupled to the upper side of the lower body (A1).

The upper body (A2) may include a column (A10) and a mounting portion (A20). The column (A10) may be extended in a vertical direction. The column (A10) may have an outer wall (A11), an inner wall (A12), and an upper wall (A13).

The mounting portion (A20) may protrude from the lower portion of the inner wall (A12) of the column (A10). The mounting portion (A20) may face the upper side. The cartridge area (A24) may be formed between the inner wall (A12) of the column (A10) and the mounting portion (A20). The cartridge area (A24) may be located on one side of the inner wall (A12) of the column (A10) and may be located on the upper side of the mounting portion (A20).

The column (A10) may have an insertion space (A142). The insertion space (A142) may extend vertically within the interior of the column (A10) and may be opened upward so that the upper wall (A13) is open.

The body inlet (A141) may be formed on one side of the column (A10). The body inlet (A141) may be formed by opening the inner wall (A12). The body inlet (A141) may be opened to the outside of the column (A10). The body inlet (A141) may be communicated with the insertion space (A142). The body inlet (A141) may be arranged to face the cartridge area (A24). The body inlet (A141) may be communicated with the cartridge area (A24).

The cartridge (A40) can be detachably coupled to the upper body (A2) in the cartridge area (A24). The cartridge (A40) is coupled to the inner wall (A12) of the column (A10) and can be supported on the bottom by being mounted on the mounting portion (A20). The cartridge (A40) can have a first container (A41) and a second container (A42). The first container (A41) can be arranged on the upper side of the second container (A42). The first container (A41) can store a liquid.

The cap (A30) covers the upper body (A2) and can be detachably coupled to the body (A3). The cap (A30) can cover the upper body (A2) and the cartridge (A40) coupled to the upper body (A2). The cap (A30) can have a space formed therein into which the upper body (A2) and the cartridge (A40) are inserted. The space inside the cap (A30) can be opened downward. The side wall (A31) of the cap (A30) can surround a side of the space inside the cap (A30). The upper wall (A33) of the cap (A30) can cover an upper portion of the space inside the cap (A30). The insertion port (A34) can be formed by opening the upper wall (A33). When the cap (A30) is coupled to the body (A3), the insertion port (A34) can be communicated with the insertion space (A142) from the upper side of the insertion space (A142). The cover (A35) can be movably installed on the upper wall (A33). The cover (A35) can slide on the upper wall (A33). The cover (A35) can open and close the insertion port (A34).

Referring to FIG. 5, the first chamber (C1) may be formed inside the first container (A41). Liquid may be stored in the first chamber (AC1). The second chamber (AC2) may be formed inside the second container (A42).

The cartridge inlet (A441) may be formed by opening the cartridge (A40). The cartridge outlet (A442) may be formed by opening the cartridge (A40). The cartridge path (A443) may connect the cartridge inlet (A441) and the second chamber (AC2). The cartridge outlet (A442) may be communicated with the second chamber (AC2).

The cartridge discharge port (A442) may be formed by opening one side of the second container (A42). The discharge port (A422) may surround the cartridge discharge port (A442). The discharge port (A422) may protrude from one side of the second container (A42). When the cartridge (A40) is coupled to the upper body (A2), the discharge port (A422) is inserted into the body inlet (A141), and the cartridge discharge port (A442) and the body inlet (A141) may be communicated.

The wick (A45) may be installed in the second chamber (AC2). The wick (A45) may be connected to the first chamber (AC1). The wick (A45) may be supplied with liquid from the first chamber (AC1). The heater (A46) may be heated to heat the wick (A45). The heater (A46) may be placed in the second chamber (AC2). The heater (A46) may wind the wick (A45). When the heater (A46) heats the wick (A45), an aerosol may be generated around the wick (A45) in the second chamber (AC2).

The heater terminal (A47) may be exposed to the lower portion of the cartridge (A40). The heater terminal (A47) may be formed at the bottom of the second container (A42). The heater terminal (A47) may be electrically connected to the heater (A46). When the cartridge (A40) is coupled to the upper body (A2), the heater terminal (A47) may be brought into contact with the first pin (A50) and electrically connected thereto.

The first pin (A50) may protrude outside the mounting portion (A20). The first pin (A50) may receive power from a battery installed inside the lower body (A1) through a connector (A97) and provide it to the heater terminal (A47) and the heater (A46). The heater (A46) may receive power and generate heat.

Air outside the cartridge (A40) can be introduced into the interior of the cartridge (A40) through the cartridge inlet (A441). The air can sequentially flow through the cartridge inlet (A441), the cartridge passage (A443), the second chamber (AC2), and the cartridge outlet (A442). The air inside the cartridge (A40) can be discharged to the exterior of the cartridge (A40) through the cartridge outlet (A442). The air introduced into the interior of the cartridge (A40) can be discharged to the exterior of the cartridge (A40) through the cartridge outlet (A442) along with the aerosol generated in the second chamber (AC2).

The first pin (A50) is arranged on the inside of the body (A3), but may protrude outwardly from the body (A3). The body (A3) may include a fixing portion (A20).

The mounting portion (A20) may have an outer recessed groove (A25). The outer recessed groove (A25) may be formed by the upper surface (A21) of the mounting portion (A20) being recessed downward. The outer recessed groove (A25) may be located on the lower side of the cartridge area (A24). The upper surface (A21) of the mounting portion (A20) may be referred to as the outer surface of the body (A3). The outer recessed groove (A25) may be formed on the outer surface of the body (A3).

The lower part of the outer recessed groove (A25) may be covered with a bottom part (A251), and the side part may be covered with a peripheral part (A252). The upper part of the outer recessed groove (A25) may be open. One side of the outer recessed groove (A25) may be open without being covered with the peripheral part (A252). When the x direction indicated in the coordinate system is defined as the front, the front of the outer recessed groove (A25) may be open. The upper part of the first pin (A50) may be convexly protruded or exposed upward from the bottom part (A251) of the outer recessed groove (A25) toward the outer recessed groove (A25).

The bottom of the cartridge (A40) may have a shape corresponding to the mounting portion (A20) and the outer recessed groove (A25). When the cartridge (A40) is coupled to the upper body (A2), the bottom of the cartridge (A40) is mounted on the mounting portion (A20), and the first pin (A50) and the second pin (A47) may be electrically connected to each other.

The guide portion (A253) may be provided in multiple forms. The guide portion (A253) may be extended from the front to the rear. The guide portion (A253) may be formed to be inclined so as to gradually increase in height from the front to the rear. Each of the plurality of guide portions (A253) may be arranged in front of each of the plurality of first fins (A50). The height of the rear end of the guide portion (A253) adjacent to the first fin (A50) may be the same as or similar to the height of the first fin (A50).

Accordingly, when the cartridge (A40) is coupled to the upper body (A2), the guide portion (A253) can guide the placement of the cartridge (A40) so that the first pin (A50) and the second pin (A47) come into contact.

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 7 is a combined perspective view of a body, a cartridge, and a cap of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a body (B100) having an upper body (B120) and a lower body (B110). The upper body (B120) may be located above the lower body (B110). The lower body (B110) may be extended vertically. The body (B100) may accommodate components for driving the device therein. The upper body (B120) may provide an insertion space (B134) that is opened upwardly. The insertion space (B134) may be located inside the upper body (B120). The insertion space (B134) may be extended vertically. The insertion space (B134) may be formed in a pipe (B130) located inside the upper body (B120).

The upper case (B200) may have a hollow shape with an open bottom. The upper body (B120) may be inserted into the hollow portion of the upper case (B200). The upper case (B200) may be detachably coupled to the body (B100). The upper case (B200) may cover the upper body (B120) so as to surround it. A lateral portion (B211) of the upper case (B200) may surround and cover a side wall (B121) of the upper body (B120). An upper portion (B212) of the upper case (B200) may cover an upper portion (B180) or an outer cover (B180) of the upper body (B120). When the upper case (B200) is combined with the body (B100), the upper case (B200) can cover the body (B100) and the cartridge (B300) together. The cartridge (B300) can be placed inside the upper case (B200).

The insertion port (B214) may be formed by opening the upper portion (B212) of the upper case (B200). The insertion port (B214) may correspond to the opening of the insertion space (B134). The cap (B215) may be movably installed in the upper portion (B212) of the upper case (B200). The slide hole (B213) may be formed by extending to one side from the insertion port (B214) in the upper portion (B212) of the upper case (B200). The cap (B215) may be movable along the slide hole (B213). The cap (B215) may open and close the insertion port (B214) and the insertion space (B134). The stick (S) may be inserted into the insertion space (B134) through the insertion port (B214). For example, the stick (S) may be a cigarette.

The outer wall (B121) and the partition wall (B125) can form a lateral portion of the upper body (B120). The outer wall (B121) and the partition wall (B125) can be connected. The outer wall (B121) can be covered by the inner surface of the upper case (B200). The partition wall (B125) can separate the cartridge coupling space (B124a) and the insertion space (B134).

The upper body (B120) may include a mounting portion (B122). The mounting portion (B122) may extend from the lower portion of the bulkhead (B125) to one side. The mounting portion (B122) may be formed on the upper portion of the lower body (B110). The mounting portion (B122) may cover the lower portion of the joining space (B124a). The bottom surface of the cartridge (B300) may be supported by being mounted on the mounting portion (B122).

The upper body (B120) may include an extension (B140). The extension (B140) may extend from the upper portion of the bulkhead (B125) to one side. The extension (B140) may extend in a direction in which the mounting portion (B122) is formed. The extension (B140) may cover the upper portion of the cartridge coupling space (B124a). The extension (B140) may cover the upper surface of the cartridge (B300). The extension (B140) may cover a cartridge inlet (B301) formed in the cartridge (B300). A gap through which air can flow may be formed between the extension (B140) and the cartridge inlet (B301).

The cartridge coupling space (B124a) may be formed on one side of the upper body (B120). The cartridge coupling space (B124a) may be defined by the mounting portion (B122), the partition wall (B125), and the extension portion (B140) of the upper body (B120). The bottom of the cartridge coupling space (B124a) may be covered by the mounting portion (B122). One side of the cartridge coupling space (B124a) may be covered by the partition wall (B125) of the upper body (B120). The upper side of the cartridge coupling space (B124a) may be covered by the extension portion (B140). The cartridge coupling space (B124a) may be opened outward between the mounting portion (B122) and the extension portion (B140).

The cartridge (B300) can be inserted into the joining space (B124a) and coupled to the body (B100). The cartridge (B300) can be detachably coupled to the body (B100). A lateral surface (B311) of the cartridge (B300) can face the partition wall (B125). An upper surface (B312) of the cartridge (B300) can be covered by an extension portion (B140). A bottom surface (B322) of the cartridge (B300) can be mounted on a mounting portion (B122). A cartridge terminal (B128) can be connected to the cartridge (B300) to supply power to a heater (B342) inside the cartridge (B300).

The coupling hook (B125a) may be formed on the upper body (B120). The pusher (B125b) may be formed on the upper body (B120). The coupling hook (B125a) and the pusher (B125b) may be formed as a pair on both sides and may be arranged at opposing positions. The cartridge (B300) may include a hook coupling groove (B315). The hook coupling groove (B315) may be formed at a position corresponding to the coupling hook (B125a). When the cartridge (B300) is inserted into the coupling space (B124a), the coupling hook (B125a) may be coupled to the hook coupling groove (B315) to couple the cartridge (B300) and the body (B100). The pusher (B125b) and the coupling hook (B125a) may move in conjunction with each other. When the pusher (B125b) is pressed, the coupling hook (B125a) moves in a direction that separates it from the hook coupling groove (B315), and the cartridge (B300) can be separated from the body (B100).

The connecting passage (B133) may be formed at the lower portion of the bulkhead (B125). The connecting passage (B133) may be communicated with the insertion space (B134). The connecting passage (B133) may be opened to one side of the upper body (B120). When the cartridge (B300) is coupled to the body (B100), the discharge port (B323) is inserted into the connecting passage (B133), and the connecting passage (B133) and the cartridge discharge port (B304) may be communicated with each other.

Referring to FIG. 8, the cartridge (B300) may include a first container (B31) and a second container (B32). The first container (B31) may be coupled to an upper side of the second container (B32). The plate (B35) may be coupled between the first container (B31) and the second container (B32) or between the first container (B31) and the frame (B33).

The first container (B31) may have a first chamber (C1) capable of storing liquid therein. The first container (B31) surrounds the first chamber (C1), and the lower part of the first chamber (C1) may be opened. The opening of the first chamber (C1) may be covered by a plate (B35).

Referring to Fig. 9, the first container (B31) may have an inlet passage (B302) through which air passes. The first chamber (C1) and the inlet passage (B302) may be separated from each other. The inlet passage (B302) may be extended vertically on one side of the first container (B31).

The first container (B31) may be provided with a cartridge inlet (B301). The cartridge inlet (B301) is formed by opening the upper portion of the first container (B31) and may be communicated with the inlet path (B302). The cartridge inlet (B301) may be communicated with the upper portion of the inlet path (B302). The lower portion of the inlet path (B302) may be communicated with the connecting hole (B351) and the chamber inlet (B303).

The second container (B32) can be coupled to the lower portion of the first container (B31). The second container (B32) can have a space (B324) with an open upper portion and a covered lower portion. The frame (B33) can be accommodated inside the space (B324) of the second container (B32).

The second container (B32) may have a cartridge discharge port (B304). The cartridge discharge port (B304) may be formed on a lateral portion (B321) of the second container (B32). The cartridge discharge port (B304) may be formed on the inside of a port protruding in the thickness direction from the lateral portion of the second container (B32). The cartridge discharge port (B304) may be communicated with the space (B324). The second container (B32) may include a discharge port (B323). The discharge port (B323) may form a cartridge discharge port (B304) therein. The discharge port (B323) may protrude from the lateral portion (B321) of the second container (B32) to one side. The discharge port (B323) may surround the cartridge discharge port (B304). The cartridge discharge port (B304) may be named discharge port (B304).

The frame (B33) can be inserted into the space (B324) inside the second container (B32) and combined with the second container (B32). A fastening member (B326) protruding from the side wall of the second container (B32) into the space (B324) can be fastened to the frame (B33) and secure the frame (B33).

The frame (B33) may have a second chamber (C2) therein. The frame (B33) surrounds the second chamber (C2), and the upper portion of the second chamber (C2) may be open. The upper portion of the second chamber (C2) may be covered by a plate (B35).

The frame (B33) may have a chamber inlet (B303). The chamber inlet (B303) may be formed by opening one side of a side wall surrounding the second chamber (C2). The chamber inlet (B303) may extend upwardly from the second chamber (C2) toward the inlet path (B302). One end of the chamber inlet (B303) may be connected to the second chamber (C2), and the other end of the chamber inlet (B303) may be connected to the inlet path (B302) and the connecting hole (B351).

The frame (B33) may have a chamber outlet (B332). The chamber outlet (B332) may be formed on a lateral portion of the frame (B33). The chamber outlet (B332) may be communicated with the second chamber (C2). The chamber outlet (B332) may be formed on the inner side of a port protruding in the thickness direction from the lateral portion of the frame (B33). The chamber outlet (B332) may be communicated with the second chamber (C2). The chamber outlet (B332) may be formed at a position corresponding to the cartridge outlet (B304). The chamber outlet (B332) may be formed at a position opposite to the chamber inlet (B303) with respect to the second chamber (C2). When the frame (B33) is combined with the second container (B32), the chamber outlet (B332) and the cartridge outlet (B304) can be communicated with each other.

The frame (B33) may have a wick coupling groove (B334) therein. The wick coupling groove (B334) may be communicated with the second chamber (C2). The wick coupling groove (B334) may be formed by the second chamber (C2) being sunken to one side. The wick coupling grooves (B334) are formed in a pair, and the pair of wick coupling grooves (B334) may be formed to be positioned opposite to each other in the second chamber (C2). The upper part of the wick coupling groove (B334) may be open.

The wick (B341) may have a cylindrical shape that is extended transversely in the second chamber (C2). The two ends of the wick (B341) may be inserted and positioned in each of a pair of wick coupling grooves (B334). The center of the wick (B341) may be positioned in the second chamber (C2). The wick (B341) may be connected to the first chamber (BC1) and may receive liquid from the first chamber (C1). The wick (B341) may be fixed in the wick coupling groove (B334) by the frame (B33) and the plate (B35).

The heater (B342) can wind around the center of the wick (B341). The heater (B342) can be heated to heat the wick (B341). For example, the heater (B342) can be a resistive heater. The heater (B342) can be placed in the second chamber (C2). An end of the heater (B342) can be electrically connected to an electrode placed on the bottom of the second container (B32) by penetrating the bottom of the frame (B33).

The plate (B35) can be coupled between the first container (B31) and the second container (B32) or between the first container (B31) and the frame (B33). The plate (B35) of the frame (B33) can cover and seal an open portion of the first chamber (C1). The plate (B35) can cover an upper portion of the frame (B33). The plate (B35) can cover and seal an open portion of the second chamber (C2).

The plate (B35) may have a connecting hole (B351) on one side. The connecting hole (B351) may be located between the inlet passage (B302) and the chamber inlet (B303). The connecting hole (B351) may connect the inlet passage (B302) and the chamber inlet (B303).

The plate (B35) may be provided with a liquid inlet hole (B354). The liquid inlet holes (B354) may be formed in a pair at positions corresponding to the wick coupling grooves (B334). The pair of liquid inlet holes (B354) may be located on the upper side of both ends of the wick (B341). The liquid inlet holes (B354) may connect the first chamber (C1) and the wick coupling groove (B334). The wick (B341) may be connected to the first chamber (C1) through the liquid inlet holes (B354).

The hook groove (B335) may be formed on the upper side of the chamber outlet (B332) at a position adjacent to the chamber outlet (B332). The hook (B335) may protrude downward from one side of the plate (B35). The hook (B353) may be inserted into and fastened to the hook groove (B335) formed on the upper side of the frame (B33). The plate (B35) is fastened to the frame (B33), and the first container (B31) coupled to the second container (B32) may press an edge portion of the plate (B35) toward the frame (B33).

The user can hold the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (B134) in his mouth and inhale air. When the upper case (B200) is connected to the body (B100), air can flow into the cartridge inlet (B301) through the opening (B201) formed in the upper case (B200). The air can flow into the interior of the cartridge (B300) through the cartridge inlet (B301) and be discharged to the exterior of the cartridge (B300) through the cartridge discharge outlet (B304). The air that has flowed into the interior of the cartridge (B300) can pass through the inlet path (B302), the connection hole (B351), the chamber inlet (B303), the second chamber (C2), the chamber discharge outlet (B332), and the cartridge discharge outlet (B304) sequentially and be discharged to the exterior.

When the heater (B342) heats the wick (B341), an aerosol may be formed from the wick (B341) within the second chamber (C2). Air passing through the cartridge (B300) may be discharged from the second chamber (B2) through the cartridge discharge port (B304) along with the aerosol. The air discharged through the cartridge discharge port (B304) may be supplied to the insertion space (B134) and the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space (B134) through the connecting passage (B133).

Referring to Fig. 10, the upper body (B120) may have an outer wall (B121) and a partition wall (B125). The outer wall (B121) and the partition wall (B125) may be connected. The partition wall (B125) may be formed to extend vertically between the pipe (B130) and the cartridge coupling space (B124a).

The extension (B140) may be formed to extend to one side from the upper part of the upper body (B120). The upper surface (B312) of the cartridge (B300) may be covered by the extension (B140). The extension (B140) may cover the cartridge inlet (B301) and its surroundings. A gap may be formed between the extension (B140) and the cartridge inlet (B301) and between the lower part of the extension (B140) and the upper surface (B312) of the cartridge (B300). The gap may connect the cartridge inlet (B301) with the outside.

The pipe (B130) can be formed to be long in the vertical direction. The pipe (B130) can be formed hollow. The insertion space (B134) can be formed inside the pipe (B130). The insertion space (B134) can be opened upward. The insertion space (B134) can extend upwardly. The connection path (B133) can be formed inside the pipe (B130). The connection path (B133) can be formed at the lower side of the insertion space (B134). One end of the connection path (B133) can be connected to the outside of the pipe (B130), and the other end can be connected to the insertion space (B134). The connection path (B133) can be bent to one side from the lower part of the insertion space (B134).

The first sensor (B161) may be installed inside the extension (B140). The first sensor (B161) may face the upper surface of the cartridge (B300) or the cartridge inlet (B301). The first sensor (B161) may be installed adjacent to the cartridge inlet (B301). The first sensor (B161) may be located above the cartridge inlet (B301). The first sensor (B161) may overlap the cartridge inlet (B301) in the up-down direction.

The first sensor (B161) can sense the surrounding air flow. The first sensor (B161) may be an air flow sensor or a pressure sensor. The first sensor (B161) can sense the air flow through a change in the surrounding air pressure. At a location adjacent to the cartridge inlet (B301), the extension (B140) may have a hole for sensing the air flow. The first sensor (B161) may be mounted on a substrate arranged inside the extension (B140) and may be electrically connected to the control unit (B20). The control unit (B20) may control the operations of various connected components based on the first sensor (B161) detecting the air flow.

The first sealing portion (B151) can be arranged between the first bulkhead portion (B1251) and the inner plate (B171). The first sealing portion (B151) can be tightly attached to the upper portion of the first bulkhead portion (B1251). The first sealing portion (B151) can be tightly attached to the lower portion of the inner plate (B171).

The sensor receiving portion (B156) of the second sealing portion (B152) can seal the periphery of the first sensing hole (B144). The sensor receiving portion (B156) can be in close contact with the extension plate (B141) around the first sensing hole (B144). The second sensing hole (B1564) formed in the sensor receiving portion (B156) can be communicated with the first sensing hole (B144). The sensor receiving portion (B156) can be in close contact with the first sensor (B161) by surrounding it.

Accordingly, it is possible to prevent failure of the substrate or sensor due to foreign substances or aerosol discharged around the opening of the pipe (B130) or foreign substances through the first sensing hole (B144).

In the embodiment, a capacitance measurement method is used to measure the liquid remaining amount of the cartridge. In the embodiment, the following three compensation methods can be used to measure the liquid remaining amount of the cartridge: 1) calibration and measurement method (gain value compensation), 2) temperature compensation, and 3) deterioration compensation. Here, the compensation methods 1) to 3) may be applied individually, or two or more compensation methods may be selectively combined and applied.

1) Calibration and measurement method (gain compensation)

In the past, aerosol generating devices had inaccurate remaining amount indications, such as the liquid consumption rate being different for each user, or the maximum remaining amount being displayed even when the cartridge was not full, whenever a new cartridge was installed.

In addition, in capacitance-based measurement methods, deviations are bound to exist even when measuring the same dielectric due to inherent differences in the properties of materials used as electrodes, deviations in internal circuit elements such as capacitors and resistors, the length of connected connectors, and mechanical tolerances during electrode assembly.

In an embodiment, to overcome the above-mentioned problem, a correction operation is performed during the manufacture of an aerosol generating device, and the following method is used.

To control the charging current, a programmable internal current source is adjusted to obtain a baseline value so that a consistent measurement range is observed for each aerosol generating device in the absence of an external load.

To solve the problem that the liquid level variation range also varies due to the aforementioned deviation, the change sensitivity (gain value) is adjusted. This sets the gain coefficient or gain value that can create the expected fixed value, for example, 10,000, by inserting the maximum measurable object, for example, a full cartridge. In addition, an offset value can be additionally set for detailed tuning, if necessary.

According to the embodiment, the aerosol generating device stores the gain value and offset value set through the above-described correction operation in the memory of the aerosol generating device, for example, in a flash memory. Accordingly, the gain value or offset value stored in the memory of each aerosol generating device may be different from each other. This is because, rather than judging the remaining amount of the cartridge based on the same threshold value, by using the gain value or offset value stored for each aerosol generating device, the deviation of the device can be reduced by judging the amount of change compared to the reference value set at the manufacturing plant for each aerosol generating device.

After the above-described correction operation, the remaining amount of the cartridge can be calculated using the following mathematical expression 1.

[Mathematical Formula 1]

Capacitance value (or liquid level) = measured capacitance value (or liquid level) * gain + offset value

In the embodiment, it can be judged based on a fixed value and measured based on a desired water level and its resolution. Here, it can be set to a value that takes into account interference from external objects and hysteresis when the water level moves. For example, if the noise level due to external interference is at level 200 and the hysteresis by water level is also at level 200, it can be stably set to have a difference of 800, which is twice the total sum, by level. Here, it should be understood that the values of the noise level or hysteresis are exemplary. In addition, it should be understood that the difference between levels is twice or more the total sum. For example, in case of measuring at three levels, the level difference can be 1000 for each level, such as upper: 10500, middle: 9500, and lower: 8500.

2) Temperature compensation

In general, since capacitance is greatly affected by temperature, temperature compensation is inevitable. A simple and efficient method for temperature compensation is to place a separate thermometer on the electrode area or to use a reference electrode, but there are problems in applying it due to factors such as insufficient mounting area of a small aerosol generator, characteristics of the molding method (insert injection), and increased unit price. In addition, electronic cigarettes have characteristics that are different from general environmental changes, such as the temperature rising very quickly when heated and cooling down just as quickly.

Therefore, in addition to temperature compensation for the environment (chamber simulation), separate compensation depending on the use case must be considered.

In the embodiment, the following two cases can be considered for temperature compensation.

When the aerosol generating device is heated, heat is transferred from the upper part of the device (i.e., the cigarette heater) and the heater is affected by very high temperatures, for example, approximately 240 degrees or more, and also cools down relatively quickly after smoking is finished.

When charging an aerosol generating device, heat is transferred from the bottom of the device (where the battery is installed) and is affected by a relatively low temperature, for example, approximately 60 degrees, and heat dissipation by the internal seal is weak, so it cools slowly.

In the embodiment, two temperature compensation formulas can be considered as follows.

First, since heating and charging have opposite characteristics, separate temperature compensation formulas can be used for each case.

Next, assuming that the temperature compensation that can reflect both characteristics is performed by combining a temperature sensor attached to the heating element or heater, such as an RTD, when heating, and a temperature sensor attached to the battery pack, such as an NTC, when charging, temperature compensation is possible with a single temperature compensation formula. Here, although RTD and NTC are described as examples of each temperature sensor, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that the temperature of the heater or battery can be sensed in various ways.

When the temperature characteristics of the electrode material used for measuring the remaining amount of the cartridge are high and the electrostatic capacitance increases, temperature compensation is possible according to the following mathematical expression 2.

[Mathematical formula 2]

Capacitance value (or liquid level) = measured capacitance value (or liquid level) - (a * heater temperature) - (b * battery temperature)

Here, a and b are values that can be arbitrarily set according to the characteristics of the aerosol generating device, and generally, since the temperature of the heater has a large fluctuation range, a may be lower than b. Here, the temperature of the heater and the temperature of the battery have been described as examples, but they are not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that the temperature characteristics of the heating component of the aerosol generating device may be considered. In addition, in the embodiment, when a cartridge is mounted on the main body of the aerosol generating device, or when the remaining amount of the cartridge needs to be measured, the temperature of the heater or the temperature of the battery described above can be measured to perform temperature compensation for the measured capacitance value.

3) Compensation for degradation

The capacitance value of the liquid level of the cartridge may change over time. For example, there may be changes in the characteristics of the electrode used to measure the capacitance value due to aging, leakage due to aerosol, contaminants on the connector or path, etc. In such cases, the capacitance value compensated by 1) gain compensation and 2) temperature compensation may change, and measurement errors may occur.

In an embodiment, compensation for deterioration of the electrode for capacitance measurement can be compensated for using the minimum and maximum values that can be measured in the calibration process described in 1). Here, the maximum value may be a capacitance value measured when a full cartridge is mounted, and the minimum value may be a capacitance value measured when an empty cartridge or no cartridge is mounted.

In an embodiment, if the measured capacitance value after mounting a full cartridge is greater than the maximum value stored in advance, that is, if it is too high compared to the capacitance value at the time of calibration, compensation is possible by subtracting the value by the increased value. Here, the subtraction level may be a ratio of the difference value. In addition, a fixed ratio, for example, approximately 2%, may be selected optionally in consideration of stability, and that ratio may be subtracted. For example, if the value of the full cartridge at the time of calibration is 10500, and a value of 11000 or higher is measured, 220, which is at the 2% level, may be subtracted from the measured value to determine the capacitance value (or cartridge value) compensated as 10780. Here, the ratio and specific values for deterioration compensation have been described as examples, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications may be made in consideration of the characteristics of the aerosol generating device, the usage time, etc.

Conversely, if the remaining value or capacitance value of the cartridge is low, the lowest value in the absence of the cartridge is stored in advance during the calibration process, so when the cartridge is removed from the aerosol generator, the lowest value can be measured and reverse compensation can be performed if it is lower than the value at the time of calibration. When the cartridge is removed, there is no protection against external noise due to the contact point, but there is no problem in monitoring the lowest value because an external object such as a human hand increases the capacitance value.

In the embodiment, since the maximum or minimum value at the time of calibration is stored in the memory of the aerosol generating device, when the aerosol generating device is used for a long time and the remaining amount of the cartridge is measured, deterioration compensation can be performed on the measured capacitance value or the remaining amount of the cartridge as in the method described above.

Figures 11a to 11c are cross-sectional views of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 11A, the aerosol generating device includes a main body (1100) and a cartridge (1120) mounted on the main body (1100). The cartridge (1120) is detachably attachable to the main body (1100). The cartridge (1120) includes a liquid storage (not shown) for storing an aerosol generating substance and a heater (not shown) for vaporizing the aerosol generating substance. The aerosol generating substance may include vegetable glycerin (hereinafter VG) and propylene glycol (hereinafter PG). The aerosol generating substance is composed of a mixed liquid of VG and PG and generally has a dielectric constant higher than that of a vacuum. In an embodiment, the cartridge (1120) may include an amount of aerosol generating substance that can be used with one pack of disposable cigarettes (20 cigarettes). A user can use an aerosol generating device after using a pack of disposable cigarettes and a cartridge together, and then replacing the pack of cigarettes with a new cartridge. In addition, the cartridge (1120) can store an amount of aerosol generating material corresponding to the number of times a user inhales one disposable cigarette, for example, 280 puffs, which is 20 times the 14 puffs. Therefore, in an aerosol generating device of this type, it is essential to check the remaining amount of the cartridge (1120) storing the aerosol generating material, and accurate calculation of the remaining amount of the aerosol generating device is required. In the embodiment, an aerosol generating device that heats and inhales an aerosol generating article (cigarette) inserted into a cigarette heater and an aerosol generating material (liquid) stored in the cartridge (1120) together is described, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is of course possible to equally apply to an aerosol generating device, e-vaper, or e-vaping device that heats only the aerosol generating material (liquid) to inhale an aerosol.

Referring to FIG. 11b, an electrode member (1110) is arranged on one side of the main body (1100). Here, the electrode member (1110) may be arranged to face one side of the cartridge (1120), the side coupled with the main body (1100). Here, the electrode member (1110) may have an area corresponding to the area of the cartridge (1120) or the liquid storage portion (not shown) of the cartridge (1120). In an embodiment, the area of the electrode member (1110) may be an area equal to the area of one side of the liquid storage portion facing the main body (1100) so that an electric field can reach the end of the liquid storage portion even when the aerosol generating device is tilted. Although not shown, the lower end of the electrode member (1110) may be connected to a capacitive sensor or a sensor IC via a connector such as a C-clip. Additionally, the capacitive sensor or sensor IC may be placed on a separate sensor PCB or may be placed within the main MCU (Micro Controller Unit, hereinafter referred to as MCU). In an embodiment, the electrode member (1110) may have a contact point (ground) to remove noise from an external object having its own permittivity, such as a human hand, when measuring capacitance.

Referring to FIG. 11c, the electrode member (1110) and the cartridge (1120) mounted on the main body (1100) or the liquid storage to be detected may be spaced apart by a predetermined distance (d). The predetermined distance (d) may be 0.55 mm to 1.55 mm. By maintaining the predetermined distance (d), interference by other conductors within the aerosol generating device can be prevented, and the maximum detection distance of the capacitive sensor can be maintained.

Figures 12a and 12b are block diagrams of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 12A, the aerosol generating device includes a processor (1200), a capacitive sensor (1201), an electrode member (1210), and a cartridge (1220). In an embodiment, the processor (1200) controls the capacitive sensor (1201) to apply a measurement signal to the electrode member (1210) and receive a sensing signal from the electrode member (1210). The processor (1200) can calculate a capacitance value based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor (1201), and calculate a remaining amount of an aerosol generating substance stored in a liquid storage portion of the cartridge (1220) based on the calculated capacitance value. Here, the processor (1200) can measure a charging time by a measurement signal applied to the electrode member (1210), for example, a current signal, and a discharging time by a sensing signal received from the electrode member (1210), for example, a current signal, and calculate a capacitance value of the electrode member (1210) based on the charging and discharging time. The processor (1200) can calculate the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance by referring to an absolute value of the calculated capacitance value or a matching table between the capacitance value and the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance. In the embodiment, the capacitance value is calculated by measuring the charging and discharging time of the electrode member, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is of course possible to calculate the capacitance value using various known technologies.

The capacitive sensor (1201) may be a functional module within the processor (1200) or a separate sensor IC. The capacitive sensor (1201) may be connected to the electrode member (1210) with a connector such as a C-clip, but is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIG. 12B, the aerosol generating device includes a processor (1200), a memory (1250), a temperature sensor (1260), a cartridge insertion/removal detection sensor (1270), and a display (1280). The processor (1200) includes a capacitance value calculation unit (1202), a gain value calculation unit (1203), a remaining amount calculation unit (1204), a temperature compensation unit (1205), and a deterioration compensation unit (1206). Here, it is to be understood that the aerosol generating device may exclude some components or functions of all of the illustrated components. As described above, the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment may apply gain value compensation, temperature compensation, and deterioration compensation to compensate for the remaining amount measurement value of the cartridge based on capacitance measurement, and it is to be understood that each compensation method may be applied alone.

Referring to FIG. 12b, the capacitance value calculation unit (1202) calculates the charge/discharge time based on the sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor, and can calculate the capacitance value accordingly.

The gain value calculation unit (1203) calculates the gain value or gain values stored in the memory (1250). Here, the gain value or gain values stored in the memory are values stored in advance through calibration work during the manufacturing of the aerosol generating device. In addition, the gain value calculation unit (1203) can also calculate the offset value stored in the memory (1250).

The remaining amount calculation unit (1204) can calculate the remaining amount of the cartridge according to the compensated capacitance value by multiplying the capacitance value calculated by the capacitance value calculation unit (1202) by the gain value calculated by the gain value calculation unit (1203). Here, the remaining amount of the cartridge can be calculated by referring to the absolute value of the measured capacitance value or the matching table of the remaining amount corresponding to the capacitance value. In addition, if the offset value is stored in the memory (1250), the capacitance value can be compensated by adding up the offset values.

The temperature compensation unit (1205) may perform temperature compensation on the remaining amount of the cartridge calculated by the remaining amount calculation unit (1204) by considering the temperature of the heater or the temperature of the battery detected by the temperature sensor (1260). Here, the temperature compensation may be performed on the remaining amount of the cartridge after gain compensation, or the temperature compensation may be performed on the capacitance value calculated by the capacitance value calculation unit (1202). The temperature sensor (1260) may include a temperature sensor of the heater, a temperature sensor of the battery, etc. Here, the temperature compensation unit (1205) may be applied when calculating the remaining amount of the cartridge under the usage conditions of the aerosol generating device, for example, immediately after heating or immediately after charging.

The deterioration compensation unit (1206) compensates for the deterioration of the electrode member with respect to the capacitance value calculated by the residual amount calculation unit (1204). The deterioration compensation unit (1206) calculates the capacitance value for a full cartridge based on the maximum value (capacitance value of a full cartridge) and minimum value (capacitance value when an empty cartridge or a cartridge is not mounted) at the time of correction work stored in the memory (1250), and if the capacitance value measured by the capacitance value calculation unit (1202) for a full cartridge is greater than the maximum value, the difference or a certain ratio is subtracted from the measured capacitance value. Conversely, if the capacitance value calculated by the capacitance calculation unit (1202) is less than the minimum value when an empty cartridge or a cartridge is not mounted, the difference or a certain ratio is added to the measured capacitance value. The deterioration compensation unit (1206) may be performed after the gain compensation in the residual calculation unit (1204) or after the temperature compensation in the temperature compensation unit (1205). In addition, since the deterioration compensation unit (1206) is compensation due to deterioration of the electrode member, it may be selectively performed in consideration of the period of use of the aerosol generating device, etc.

The cartridge attachment/detachment detection sensor (1270) detects the attachment or detachment (detachment) of a cartridge to an aerosol generating device. Here, the processor (1200) can start measuring the remaining amount of the cartridge based on the attachment/detachment detection of the attachment/detachment detection sensor (1270). For example, when a new cartridge is attached, the processor (1200) can measure the remaining amount of the attached cartridge and display it on the display (1280).

The processor (1200) can calculate the remaining amount of the cartridge corresponding to the gain-compensated, temperature-compensated, and deterioration-compensated capacitance values in the remaining amount calculation unit (1204), the temperature compensation unit (1205), and the deterioration compensation unit (1206) into upper/middle/lower/none levels. FIG. 16 is an example diagram for measuring the remaining amount of the cartridge according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 16, based on the capacitance value measured through the electrode member (1610), the remaining amount of the cartridge can be classified into upper (1620) which is 100%, middle (1621) which is 50%, lower (1622) which is 15%, and none (1623). Here, each level or value is an example, and is not limited thereto, and various detailed modifications are of course possible.

The display (1280) displays the remaining amount of the cartridge under the control of the processor (1200). Fig. 17 is an example diagram showing the remaining amount of the cartridge according to one embodiment. Referring to Fig. 17, the display (1280) can display icons corresponding to the upper/middle/lower/none remaining amount of the cartridge.

The processor (1200) may accumulate and count the number of detected puffs from a puff sensor (not shown) that detects inhalation of aerosol vaporized in an aerosol generating device, and may also calculate the remaining amount of the cartridge based on the puffs. For example, if the total number of puffs for a full cartridge is (14 puffs * 20 times), which is a total of 280 puffs, the number of puffs may be reset immediately after the cartridge is replaced, that is, a new cartridge is installed, and the number of puffs may be accumulated to calculate the remaining amount of the cartridge. The processor (1200) may measure the remaining amount of the cartridge based on capacitance, and may compare the calculated remaining amount of the cartridge based on the puffs. If the difference is large, the processor may determine that the data is unreliable and may not output the currently calculated remaining amount of the cartridge. In this case, optionally, the previously calculated remaining amount of the cartridge may be output as is.

Fig. 13 is a flowchart for explaining a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. Fig. 13 explains a method for performing gain value compensation for a capacitance value measured through an electrode member in an aerosol generating device.

Referring to FIG. 13, in step 1300, a predetermined measurement signal is applied to an electrode member positioned on one side of the main body so as to face one side of a detachable cartridge. In step 1302, a sensing signal received from the electrode member is received.

In step 1304, a capacitance value is calculated based on a sensing signal received from a capacitive sensor.

In step 1304, the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance stored in the liquid storage of the cartridge is calculated based on the calculated capacitance value and the preset gain value. Here, the preset gain value is a value stored in the memory of each aerosol generating device through a calibration task during the manufacture of the aerosol generating device. Here, in the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment, the gain value and offset value set through the aforementioned calibration task are stored in the memory of the aerosol generating device, for example, a flash memory. Therefore, the gain value or offset value stored in the memory of each aerosol generating device may be different from each other. This is because, rather than determining the remaining amount of the cartridge based on the same threshold value, by using the gain value or offset value stored for each aerosol generating device, the deviation of the device can be reduced by determining the amount of change compared to the reference value set at the manufacturing plant for each aerosol generating device.

In the embodiment, it is judged based on the corrected value, and it can be measured based on the desired water level and its resolution. Here, it can be set to a value that takes into account interference from external objects and hysteresis when the water level moves. For example, if the noise level due to external interference is at level 200, and the hysteresis by water level is also at level 200, it can be stably set so that 800, which is twice the total sum, differs by level. Here, it should be understood that the values of the noise level or hysteresis are exemplary. In addition, it should be understood that the difference between levels is twice or more the total sum. For example, in case of measuring at three levels, the level difference can be 1000 for each level, such as upper: 10500, middle: 9500, and lower: 8500.

Fig. 14 is a flow chart for explaining a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. Fig. 14 explains a method for performing temperature compensation for a capacitance value measured through an electrode member in an aerosol generating device.

Referring to FIG. 14, in step 1400, a predetermined measurement signal is applied to an electrode member positioned on one side of the main body so as to be opposite to one side of a detachable cartridge.

At step 1402, a sensing signal is received from the electrode member.

In step 1404, a capacitance value is calculated based on a sensing signal received from a capacitive sensor.

In step 1406, the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance stored in the liquid storage of the cartridge is calculated based on the calculated capacitance value and the temperature compensation value according to the usage conditions of the aerosol generating device. Here, the usage conditions of the aerosol generating device may include the time of heating or the time of charging. When the aerosol generating device is heated, heat is transferred from the upper part of the device (i.e., the cigarette heater) and the heater is affected by a very high temperature, for example, approximately 240 degrees or more, and also cools down relatively quickly after smoking is finished. When the aerosol generating device is charged, heat is transferred from the lower part of the device (the battery mounting location) and is affected by a relatively low temperature, for example, approximately 60 degrees, and cools down slowly because heat dissipation by the internal seal is weak.

In the embodiment, considering both factors affecting the temperature, a temperature sensor attached to the heating element or heater, such as an RTD, is combined for compensation during heating, and a temperature sensor attached to the battery pack, such as an NTC, is combined for compensation during charging. When the temperature characteristic of the electrode material used for measuring the remaining amount of the cartridge is higher and the capacitance increases, the heater temperature and the battery temperature are subtracted from the measured capacitance value (or the remaining liquid amount). Here, an appropriate coefficient reflecting the temperature characteristic can be multiplied to each of the heater temperature and the battery temperature.

Fig. 15 is a flow chart for explaining a method for controlling an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. Fig. 15 explains a method for performing deterioration compensation for a capacitance value measured through an electrode member in an aerosol generating device.

Referring to FIG. 15, in step 1500, a predetermined measurement signal is applied to an electrode member positioned on one side of the main body so as to be opposite to one side of a detachable cartridge.

At step 1502, a sensing signal is received from the electrode member.

In step 1504, a capacitance value is calculated based on a sensing signal received from a capacitive sensor.

In step 1506, the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance stored in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge is calculated based on the calculated capacitance value and the compensation value according to the degree of deterioration of the electrode member. In an embodiment, compensation according to deterioration of the electrode for capacitance measurement can be compensated for using the minimum and maximum values that can be measured in the calibration process described in 1). Here, the maximum value may be a capacitance value measured when a full cartridge is mounted, and the minimum value may be a capacitance value measured when an empty cartridge or no cartridge is mounted.

In an embodiment, if the measured capacitance value after mounting a full cartridge is greater than the maximum value stored in advance, i.e., if it is too high compared to the capacitance value at the time of calibration, the increased value is subtracted. Here, the subtraction level may be a ratio of the difference value. In addition, a fixed ratio, for example, approximately 2%, may be optionally selected and that ratio may be subtracted. For example, if the value of the full cartridge at the time of calibration is 10500 and a value of 11000 or higher is measured, 220, which is 2%, may be subtracted from the measured value to determine the capacitance value (or cartridge value) compensated for as 10780. Here, the ratio and specific values for deterioration compensation have been described as examples, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications may be made in consideration of the characteristics of the aerosol generating device, the usage time, etc. Conversely, if the remaining value or capacitance value of the cartridge is low, the lowest value in the absence of the cartridge is stored in advance during the calibration process, so if the cartridge is removed from the aerosol generating device, the lowest value is measured and reverse compensation is possible if it is lower than the value at the time of calibration.

Fig. 18 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

The aerosol generator (1) may include a power source (11), a control unit (12), a sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), a memory (17), and at least one heater (18, 24). However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator (1) is not limited to that illustrated in Fig. 18. That is, a person having ordinary skill in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that some of the components illustrated in Fig. 18 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generator (1).

The sensor (13) can detect the status of the aerosol generator (1) or the status around the aerosol generator (1) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (12). Based on the detected information, the control unit (12) can control the aerosol generator (1) so that various functions such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18), restricting smoking, determining whether a stick (S) and/or cartridge (19) is inserted, and displaying a notification are performed.

The sensor (13) may include at least one of a temperature sensor (131), a puff sensor (132), an insertion detection sensor (133), a reuse detection sensor (134), a cartridge detection sensor (135), a cap detection sensor (136), and a movement detection sensor (137).

The temperature sensor (131) can detect the temperature at which the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) is heated. The aerosol generator (1) may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18), or the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) itself may serve as the temperature sensor.

The temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18). For example, the temperature sensor (131) can include a resistance element whose resistance value changes in response to a change in the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18). It can be implemented by a thermistor, which is an element that utilizes the property of changing resistance depending on temperature. At this time, the temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistance element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18). For example, the temperature sensor (131) can be configured as a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18). At this time, the temperature sensor (131) can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18).

The temperature sensor (131) may be placed around the power source (11) to monitor the temperature of the power source (11). The temperature sensor (131) may be placed adjacent to the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be attached to one side of a battery, which is the power source (11). For example, the temperature sensor (131) may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

A temperature sensor (131) is placed inside the body (10) and can detect the internal temperature of the body (10).

The puff sensor (132) can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor (132) can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor (132) can be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor (132) can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1) can correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor (132) can be arranged corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows in the aerosol generating device (1).

The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect insertion and/or removal of the stick (S). The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect a signal change according to the insertion and/or removal of the stick (S). The insertion detection sensor (133) can be installed around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor (133) can detect the insertion and/or removal of the stick (S) according to a change in the dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor (133) can be an inductive sensor and/or a capacitance sensor.

The inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. For example, when a magnetic field changes around a coil through which current flows, the characteristics of the current flowing in the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing in the coil may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

An inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing in the coil. For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

The capacitance sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitance sensor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitance sensor may output a signal corresponding to an electromagnetic characteristic of the surroundings, for example, an electrostatic capacitance of the surroundings of the conductor. For example, when a stick (S) including a wrapper made of a metal material is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic characteristic of the surroundings of the conductor may be changed by the wrapper of the stick (S).

The reuse detection sensor (134) can detect whether the stick (S) is reused. The reuse detection sensor (134) can be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the color of the stick (S). The color sensor can detect the color of a part of a wrapper that wraps the outside of the stick (S). The color sensor can detect a value for an optical characteristic corresponding to the color of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical characteristic can be a wavelength of light. The color sensor can be implemented as a single configuration with the proximity sensor, or can be implemented as a separate configuration distinct from the proximity sensor.

At least some of the wrappers constituting the stick (S) may change color due to the aerosol. The reuse detection sensor (134) may be arranged in response to a position where at least some of the wrappers whose color changes due to the aerosol are arranged when the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick (S) is used by a user, the color of at least some of the wrappers may be a first color. At this time, as at least some of the wrappers are wetted by the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device (1) while passing through the stick (S), the color of at least some of the wrappers may change to a second color. Meanwhile, the color of at least some of the wrappers may be maintained as the second color after changing from the first color to the second color.

The cartridge detection sensor (135) can detect the mounting and/or removal of the cartridge (19). The cartridge detection sensor (135) can be implemented by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC) using the Hall effect, etc.

The cap detection sensor (136) can detect the attachment and/or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the body (10), a portion of the cartridge (19) and the body (10) covered by the cap may be exposed to the outside. The cap detection sensor (136) can be implemented by a contact sensor, a hall sensor (hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

The motion detection sensor (137) can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device. The motion detection sensor (137) can be implemented with at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

In addition to the sensors (131 to 137) described above, the sensor (13) may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity 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.

The output unit (14) can output information on the status of the aerosol generator (1) and provide it to the user. The output unit (14) can include at least one of a display (141), a haptic unit (142), and an audio output unit (143), but is not limited thereto. When the display (141) and the touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display (141) can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

The display (141) can visually provide information about the aerosol generator (1) to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generator (1) can mean various information such as the charging/discharging status of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generator (1), the preheating status of the heater (18), the insertion/removal status of the stick (S) and/or cartridge (19), the mounting/removal status of the cap, or the status in which the use of the aerosol generator (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the display (141) can output the information to the outside. For example, the display (141) can be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display (141) can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

The haptic unit (142) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus to provide tactile information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the haptic unit (142) can generate a vibration corresponding to the completion of the initial preheating when the initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) for a set period of time. The haptic unit (142) can include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

The acoustic output unit (143) can provide information about the aerosol generator (1) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit (143) can convert an electric signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

The power source (11) can supply power used to operate the aerosol generator (1). The power source (11) can supply power so that the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) can be heated. In addition, the power source (11) can supply power required for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator (1), such as a sensor (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), and a memory (17). The power source (11) can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source (11) can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

Although not shown in Fig. 18, the aerosol generator (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power source (11) and may include a switching element.

The power protection circuit can block the power path to the power source (11) according to a predetermined condition. For example, the power protection circuit can block the power path to the power source (11) when the voltage level of the power source (11) is equal to or higher than a first voltage corresponding to overcharge. For example, the power protection circuit can block the power path to the power source (11) when the voltage level of the power source (11) is lower than a second voltage corresponding to overdischarge.

The heater (18) can receive power from the power source (11) to heat the medium or aerosol generating material within the stick (S). Although not shown in FIG. 18, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC/DC converter) that converts the power of the power source (11) and supplies it to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18). In addition, when the aerosol generating device (1) generates the aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a DC/AC converter that converts the direct current power of the power source (11) into alternating current power.

The control unit (12), the sensor (13), the output unit (14), the input unit (15), the communication unit (16), and the memory (17) can receive power from the power supply (11) and perform their functions. Although not shown in FIG. 18, a power conversion circuit, for example, an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power of the power supply (11) and supplies it to each component, may be further included. Also, although not shown in FIG. 18, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply (11) and the heater (18). The noise filter may be a low pass filter. The low pass filter may include at least one inductor and capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high frequency switching current applied from the power supply (11) to the heater (18). By the low pass filter, it is possible to prevent high frequency noise components from being applied to a sensor (13), such as an insertion detection sensor (133).

In one embodiment, the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) 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. Additionally, the heater (18) may be implemented as, but is not limited to, a metal wire, a metal plate having electrically conductive tracks arranged thereon, a ceramic heating element, and the like.

In another embodiment, the heater (18) may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater (18) may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by the coil.

The input unit (15) can receive information input from a user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit (15) can be a touch panel. The touch panel can include at least one touch sensor that detects touch. For example, the touch sensor can include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc.

The display (141) and the touch panel may be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel may be inserted into the display (141) (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added-on to the display (141).

Meanwhile, the input unit (15) may include, but is not limited to, buttons, key pads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

The memory (17) is a hardware that stores various data processed in the aerosol generator (1), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (12). The memory (17) 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. The memory (17) may store data on the operation time of the aerosol generator (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

The communication unit (16) may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit (16) may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

The short-range wireless communication unit 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, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

The wireless communication unit 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.

Although not shown in FIG. 18, the aerosol generator (1) further includes a connection interface, such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can transmit and receive information or charge a power source (11) by connecting to another external device through a connection interface, such as a USB interface.

The control unit (12) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). In one embodiment, the control unit (12) 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 in 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.

The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the heater (18) by controlling the supply of power from the power source (11) to the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) sensed by the temperature sensor (131). The control unit (12) can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18). For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) based on a temperature profile stored in the memory (17).

The aerosol generator (1) may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply (11) between the power supply (11) and the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18). The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater (24), the heater (18), or the induction coil (181). The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit (12) may control the power supply circuit.

The control unit (12) can control power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts direct current power output from the power source (11) into alternating current power. For example, the inverter may be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements.

The control unit (12) can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power source (11) to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18). The control unit (12) can turn off the switching element so that power is cut off to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18). The control unit (12) can control the current supplied from the power source (11) by controlling the frequency and/or duty ratio of the current pulse input to the switching element.

The control unit (12) can control the voltage output from the power source (11) by controlling the switching of the switching element of the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit can include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the power source (11). For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented through a buck-boost converter, a zener diode, etc.

The control unit (12) can control the on/off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit to adjust the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit. When the on state of the switching element continues, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may correspond to the level of the voltage output from the power source (11). The duty ratio for the on/off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power source (11). As the duty ratio for the on/off operation of the switching element decreases, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may decrease. The heater (18) can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

The control unit (12) can control power to be supplied to the heater (18) by using at least one of the pulse width modulation (PWM) method and the proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

For example, the control unit (12) can control a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the heater (18) using the PWM method. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

For example, the control unit (12) can determine a target temperature that is a target of control based on a temperature profile. The control unit (12) can control the power supplied to the heater (18) by using a PID method, which is a feedback control method using a difference value between the temperature of the heater (18) and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference value over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference value over time.

The control unit (12) can prevent the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) from overheating. For example, the control unit (12) can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit (12) can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) by a predetermined ratio based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating material contained in the cartridge (19) is exhausted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeding a preset limit temperature, and can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24).

The control unit (12) can control the charging and discharging of the power supply (11). The control unit (12) can check the temperature of the power supply (11) based on the output signal of the temperature sensor (131).

When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator (1), the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the power source (11) is equal to or higher than the first limit temperature, which is a criterion for blocking charging of the power source (11). When the temperature of the power source (11) is lower than the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can control the power source (11) to be charged based on a preset charging current. When the temperature of the power source (11) is equal to or higher than the first limit temperature, the control unit (12) can block charging of the power source (11).

When the power of the aerosol generator (1) is turned on, the control unit (12) can check whether the temperature of the power source (11) is equal to or higher than the second limit temperature, which is a criterion for blocking discharge of the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is lower than the second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can control to use the power stored in the power source (11). If the temperature of the power source (11) is equal to or higher than the second limit temperature, the control unit (12) can stop using the power stored in the power source (11).

The control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power source (11). For example, the control unit (12) can calculate the remaining capacity of the power source (11) based on the voltage and/or current sensing values of the power source (11).

The control unit (12) can determine whether a stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor (133). The control unit (12) can determine that the stick (S) is inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor (133). If it is determined that the stick (S) is inserted into the insertion space, the control unit (12) can control to supply power to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18). For example, the control unit (12) can supply power to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) based on the temperature profile stored in the memory (17).

The control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor (133). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater (18) is higher than a limited temperature or when the temperature change slope of the heater (18) is higher than a set slope. When it is determined that the stick (S) is removed from the insertion space, the control unit (12) can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18).

The control unit (12) can control the power supply time and/or power supply amount to the heater (18) according to the state of the stick (S) detected by the sensor (13). The control unit (12) can check the level range that includes the level of the signal of the capacitance sensor based on a lookup table. The control unit (12) can determine the moisture content of the stick (S) according to the checked level range.

When the stick (S) is in an over-humidified state, the control unit (12) can control the power supply time to the heater (18) to increase the preheating time of the stick (S) compared to the normal state.

The control unit (12) can determine whether the stick (S) inserted into the insertion space is reused through the reuse detection sensor (134). For example, the control unit (12) can compare the sensing value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor with a first reference range that includes a first color, and if the sensing value is included in the first reference range, it can determine that the stick (S) has not been used. For example, the control unit (12) can compare the sensing value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor with a second reference range that includes a second color, and if the sensing value is included in the second reference range, it can determine that the stick (S) has been used. If it is determined that the stick (S) has been used, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18).

The control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is coupled and/or removed through the cartridge detection sensor (135). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is coupled and/or removed based on the sensing value of the signal of the cartridge detection sensor.

The control unit (12) can determine whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted. For example, the control unit (12) can preheat the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) by applying power, and determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating section. If the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) exceeds the limit temperature, the control unit (12) can determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted. If the control unit (12) determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge (19) is exhausted, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18).

The control unit (12) can determine whether the cartridge (19) is usable. For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the cartridge (19) cannot be used if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge (19) based on data stored in the memory (17). For example, the control unit (12) can determine that the cartridge (19) cannot be used if the total time that the heater (24) has been heated is greater than or equal to the preset maximum time or the total amount of power supplied to the heater (24) is greater than or equal to the preset maximum amount of power.

The control unit (12) can perform a judgment regarding the user's inhalation through the puff sensor (132). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal of the puff sensor. For example, the control unit (12) can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal of the puff sensor (132). If the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs or if no puffs are detected for a preset time or longer, the control unit (12) can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater (24) and/or heater (18).

The control unit (12) can determine whether the cap is attached and/or removed through the cap detection sensor (136). For example, the control unit (12) can determine whether the cap is attached and/or removed based on the sensing value of the signal of the cap detection sensor.

The control unit (12) can control the output unit (14) based on the result detected by the sensor (13). For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor (132) reaches a preset number, the control unit (12) can notify the user that the aerosol generating device (1) will soon be terminated through at least one of the display (141), the haptic unit (142), and the sound output unit (143). For example, the control unit (12) can notify the user through the output unit (14) based on the determination that the stick (S) does not exist in the insertion space. For example, the control unit (12) can notify the user through the output unit (14) based on the determination that the cartridge (19) and/or the cap is not mounted. For example, the control unit (12) can transmit information on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18) to the user through the output unit (14).

The control unit (12) can store and update the history of the event that occurred in the memory (17) based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. The event can include operations such as detection of insertion of the stick (S), initiation of heating of the stick (S), detection of puff, termination of puff, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18), detection of overvoltage application to the cartridge heater (24) and/or the heater (18), termination of heating of the stick (S), power on/off of the aerosol generator (1), initiation of charging of the power source (11), detection of overcharge of the power source (11), termination of charging of the power source (11), etc. The history of the event can include the time when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, when the predetermined event is detection of insertion of the stick (S), the log data corresponding to the event can include data on the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor (133), etc. For example, if a given event is overheating detection of the cartridge heater (24) and/or heater (18), log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the cartridge heater (24) and/or heater (18), the voltage applied to the cartridge heater (24) and/or heater (18), the current flowing to the cartridge heater (24) and/or heater (18), etc.

The control unit (12) can control to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. When data regarding authentication is received from the external device through the communication link, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator (1). Here, the data regarding authentication can include data indicating completion of user authentication for a user corresponding to the external device. The user can perform user authentication through the external device. The external device can determine whether user data is valid based on the user's birthday, a unique number indicating the user, etc., and can receive data regarding the use authority of the aerosol generator (1) from an external server. The external device can transmit data indicating completion of user authentication to the aerosol generator (1) based on the data regarding the use authority. When the user authentication is completed, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator (1). For example, the control unit (12) can release the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the heater (18) when user authentication is completed.

The control unit (12) can transmit data on the status of the aerosol generator (1) to the external device through a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generator (1), the operation mode, etc. through the display of the external device.

The external device can transmit a location search request to the aerosol generator (1) based on an input that initiates location search of the aerosol generator (1). When receiving a location search request from the external device, the control unit (12) can control at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, the haptic unit (142) can generate vibration in response to the location search request. For example, the display (141) can output an object corresponding to location search and search termination in response to the location search request.

The control unit (12) can control to perform a firmware update when receiving firmware data from an external device. The external device can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generator (1) and determine whether a new version of the firmware exists. When an input requesting firmware download is received, the external device can receive a new version of the firmware data and transmit the new version of the firmware data to the aerosol generator (1). The control unit (12) can control to perform a firmware update of the aerosol generator (1) when receiving a new version of the firmware data.

The control unit (12) can transmit data on the sensing value of at least one sensor (13) to an external server (not shown) through the communication unit (16), and receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensing value through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The control unit (12) can perform an operation of determining a user's inhalation pattern, an operation of generating a temperature profile, etc., using the learning model received from the server. The control unit (12) can store, in the memory (17), the sensing value data of at least one sensor (13) and data for learning an artificial neural network (ANN). For example, the memory (17) can store a database for each component equipped in the aerosol generating device (1) for learning the artificial neural network (ANN), and weights and biases forming the artificial neural network (ANN) structure. The control unit (12) can learn data on the sensing values of at least one sensor (13), the user's suction pattern, temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory (17), and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's suction pattern, generating a temperature profile, etc.

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

For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and/or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and/or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

The above detailed description should not be construed as restrictive in all respects but should be considered as illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes coming within the equivalent scope of the invention are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention.

Claims (15)

In an aerosol generating device, A detachable cartridge comprising a liquid storage portion storing an aerosol generating substance and a heater vaporizing the aerosol generating substance; A battery that supplies power to the above heater; An electrode member arranged on one side of the main body so as to face one side of the cartridge; A capacitive sensor that applies a predetermined measurement signal to the electrode member and receives a sensing signal received from the electrode member; and An aerosol generating device including a processor that calculates a capacitance value based on a sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor, and calculates a remaining amount of an aerosol generating substance stored in the liquid storage unit based on the calculated capacitance value and a temperature compensation value according to the usage conditions of the aerosol generating device. In paragraph 1, The above processor, An aerosol generating device, which calculates the capacitance value based on the charging and discharging time for the electrode member. In paragraph 1, The temperature compensation value according to the above usage conditions is: An aerosol generating device, wherein the first temperature compensation value is based on a heating operation of a cigarette heater that heats an aerosol generating article, or the second temperature compensation value is based on charging of the battery. In the third paragraph, The above processor, An aerosol generating device that calculates the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance based on a capacitance value obtained by subtracting the first temperature compensation value or the second temperature compensation value from the calculated capacitance value when the capacitance of the electrode member has a characteristic proportional to the temperature. In the third paragraph, a first temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the cigarette heater; and Further comprising a second temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the battery; The above processor, An aerosol generating device that calculates the remaining amount of the aerosol generating material based on a capacitance value obtained by subtracting the first temperature value measured by the first temperature sensor and the second temperature value measured by the second temperature sensor from the calculated capacitance value. In paragraph 5, A first coefficient multiplied by the first temperature value, Including a second coefficient multiplied by the second temperature value, The above first coefficient reflects the temperature change of the cigarette heater, The above second coefficient reflects the temperature change of the battery, An aerosol generating device, wherein the first coefficient is smaller than the second coefficient. In paragraph 1, The above processor, An aerosol generating device that sets a difference between the levels of the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance by a predetermined value by reflecting the hysteresis effect according to noise caused by external interference and changes in the water level of the liquid storage tank. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a puff sensor for detecting inhalation of the vaporized aerosol; The above processor, An aerosol generating device that counts the number of puffs detected by the puff sensor and calculates a puff-based residual amount corresponding to the cumulative sum of the counted number of puffs. In Article 8, The above processor, An aerosol generating device that compares the calculated residual amount of the aerosol generating substance with the puff-based residual amount, and does not output the calculated residual amount of the aerosol generating substance if the difference between them is greater than a threshold value. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a display that outputs an icon corresponding to the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance; The above processor, An aerosol generating device that calculates the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance when the cartridge is mounted on the main body and controls the display to output an icon corresponding to the calculated remaining amount. In Article 10, The above display is, An aerosol generating device, wherein the remaining amount of the aerosol generating substance is output as at least four icons corresponding to high/medium/low/none. In paragraph 1, The above electrode absence is, An aerosol generating device having an area corresponding to the area of the liquid storage portion of the cartridge. In paragraph 1, The above electrode absence is, An aerosol generating device spaced apart from the liquid storage portion of the cartridge by 0.55 mm to 1.55 mm. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device, wherein the electrode member and the capacitive sensor are connected by a connector including a C-clip. In a method for controlling an aerosol generating device, A step of applying a predetermined measurement signal to an electrode member arranged on one side of the main body so as to be opposite to one side of a detachable cartridge; A step of receiving a sensing signal received from the electrode member; A step of calculating a capacitance value based on a sensing signal received from the capacitive sensor; and A control method for an aerosol generating device, comprising a step of calculating the remaining amount of an aerosol generating substance stored in a liquid storage portion of the cartridge based on the calculated capacitance value and a temperature compensation value according to the usage conditions of the aerosol generating device.

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