WO2025143421A1 - Aerosol generating device comprising sensor module - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device may comprise: a housing including a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article may be inserted; and a sensor module disposed in the cavity, wherein the sensor module may include: a light-emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength toward the cavity; a light-receiving unit receiving light emitted from the aerosol-generating article; and a filter for filtering light of the first wavelength among the light received by the light-receiving unit.

Description

Aerosol generating device comprising a sensor module

Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to an aerosol generating device including a sensor module.

Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative products that overcome the shortcomings of traditional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for devices that generate aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette stick (e.g., a cigarette-type electronic cigarette). Accordingly, research on cigarette sticks (or aerosol-generating articles) and electrically heated aerosol-generating devices into which cigarette sticks are inserted is being actively conducted.

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

The aerosol-generating device may be used with various types of aerosol-generating articles inserted therein. The aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-generating substance, and may be, for example, a cigarette, a stick, a capsule, a liquid substance, or a cartridge.

The aerosol generating device can identify information about an aerosol generating article and generate an aerosol based on this. For example, the aerosol generating device can control the operating state of a heater based on information about an inserted stick, thereby providing a temperature profile suitable for an individual stick.

In cases where the aerosol generating device does not recognize information about the aerosol generating article on its own, the user has to manually input the type of the aerosol generating article being inserted, which is inconvenient. In addition, there were various difficulties in forming markers for identifying information on each aerosol generating article, and in some cases, the recognition accuracy of the aerosol generating device was reduced depending on the recognition method.

In one embodiment, an aerosol-generating device may include a housing including a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted; a sensor module disposed in the cavity; at least one processor receiving a detection result from the sensor module; and a memory operatively connected to the at least one processor and storing executable instructions. In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a light-emitting unit emitting light of a first wavelength toward the cavity, a light-receiving unit receiving light emitted from the aerosol-generating article, and a filter for filtering light of the first wavelength among light received by the light-receiving unit. In one embodiment, the at least one processor may recognize identification information about the aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light filtered by the filter by executing the instructions stored in the memory.

Alternatively, an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment may include a housing including a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted; a sensor module disposed in the cavity; at least one processor receiving a detection result from the sensor module; and a memory operatively connected to the at least one processor and storing executable instructions. In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a light-emitting unit emitting light of a first wavelength toward the cavity, a light-receiving unit receiving light emitted from the aerosol-generating article, and a filter filtering light of the first wavelength among light received by the light-receiving unit. In one embodiment, the at least one processor may recognize identification information about the aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light filtered by the filter by executing the instructions stored in the memory.

An aerosol-generating device including a sensor module of one embodiment can identify information about an inserted aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a stick, a capsule, or a cartridge) based on the amount of light of a specific wavelength transmitted to the light receiving portion.

In addition, an aerosol generating device including a sensor module according to one embodiment may have design advantages of a control unit and may improve the accuracy of optical recognition. In addition, the manufacturing difficulty of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment and an identification marker of an aerosol generating article inserted therein may be improved.

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

FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an example of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette or a stick) inserted into an aerosol-generating device according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of an aerosol-generating article inserted into an aerosol-generating device according to various embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4b is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6A is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6b is a plan view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6c is a block diagram of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7a is a graph illustrating a detection result of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7b is a graph illustrating a detection result of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a side view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a plan view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a plan view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a plan view of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hereinafter, an object inserted into an aerosol generating device (1) according to various embodiments of the present document is described as a 'stick (2)', but the object inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to a stick (2), and various objects such as, for example, a cigarette, a cartridge, or other electronic devices may be inserted into the aerosol generating device (1).

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

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

In one embodiment, when the stick (2) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), the aerosol generating device (1) can operate the heater (13) and/or the vaporizer (14) to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater (13) and/or the vaporizer (14) passes through the stick (2) and is delivered to the user. If necessary, the aerosol generating device (1) can heat the heater (13) even when the stick (2) is not inserted into the aerosol generating device (1).

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

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

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

In one embodiment, the heater (13) may be heated by power supplied from the battery (11). For example, when a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), the heater (13) may be located on the outside of the cigarette. The heated heater (13) may increase the temperature of the aerosol generating material within the cigarette.

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

In one embodiment, the heater (13) may be an induction heating heater. Specifically, the heater (13) may include an electrically conductive coil for inductively heating the cigarette, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heating heater.

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

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

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

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

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

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

In one embodiment, the liquid delivery means can deliver the liquid composition from the liquid reservoir to the heating element. For example, the liquid delivery means can be a wick, such as, but not limited to, cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramics.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment may include a control unit (110) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2), a sensing unit (120), an output unit (130), a battery (140), a heater (150) (e.g., the battery (11) of FIGS. 1 and 2), a user input unit (160), a memory (170), and a communication unit (180).

However, the configuration of the aerosol generating device (100) is not limited to that shown in FIG. 3, and some of the configurations of FIG. 3 may be omitted or replaced, or new configurations may be added, depending on the aerosol generating device (100) of various embodiments.

In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) can detect the status of the aerosol generating device (100) or the status around the aerosol generating device (100) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (110). Based on the detected information, the control unit (110) can control the aerosol generating device (100) to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater (150), restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a cartridge, a stick, etc.) (e.g., a stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2) is inserted, and displaying a notification.

In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) may include at least one of a temperature sensor (122), an insertion detection sensor (124), and a puff sensor (126).

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

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

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

In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) is not limited to the sensors described above, and may further include at least one of a temperature/humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred from its name by a person skilled in the art, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

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

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

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

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

In one embodiment, the battery (140) can supply power used to operate the aerosol generating device (100). The battery (140) can supply power so that the heater (150) can be heated. In addition, the battery (140) can supply power required for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generating device (100) (e.g., the sensing unit (120), the output unit (130), the user input unit (160), the memory (170), and the communication unit (180)). The battery (140) can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery (140) can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

In one embodiment, the heater (150) may be powered by the battery (140) to heat the aerosol generating material. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (100) may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC/AC converter) that converts power from the battery (140) and supplies it to the heater (150).

In one embodiment, when the aerosol generating device (100) generates the aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating device (100) may further include a DC/AC converter that converts the direct current power of the battery (140) into alternating current power.

In one embodiment, the control unit (110), the sensing unit (120), the output unit (130), the user input unit (160), the memory (170), and the communication unit (180) can perform their functions by receiving power from the battery (140).

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (100) may further include a power conversion circuit, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts power from the battery (140) and supplies it to each of the components.

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

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

In one embodiment, the heater (150) may be comprised of a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater (150) may include a first heater for heating the cigarette and a second heater for heating the liquid.

In one embodiment, the user input unit (160) may receive information input by a user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit (160) may include, but is not limited to, a keypad, a dome switch, a touch pad (contact electrostatic capacitance type, pressure resistive film type, infrared detection type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezo effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (100) may further include a connection interface, such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface. The aerosol generating device (100) may be connected to another external device through a connection interface, such as a USB interface, to transmit and receive information, or to charge a battery (140).

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

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

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

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

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

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

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may analyze the result detected by the sensing unit (120) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (110) may control the power supplied to the heater (150) so that the operation of the heater (150) is started or ended based on the result detected by the sensing unit (120). For example, the control unit (110) may control the amount of power supplied to the heater (150) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (150) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature based on the result detected by the sensing unit (120).

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

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may control the power supply time and/or power supply amount to the heater (150) according to the state of the aerosol-generating article detected by the sensing unit (120). For example, when the aerosol-generating article is in a hyper-humid state, the control unit (110) may control the power supply time to the induction coil to increase the preheating time compared to when the aerosol-generating article is in a normal state.

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, that are executed by a computer. Computer-readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer, and may include both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Additionally, computer-readable media may include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media may include both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically includes computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data in a modulated data signal, or other transmission mechanism, and may include any information delivery media.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams of an aerosol generating device (200) and an aerosol generating article (201) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, an aerosol generating device (200) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 3) may include a housing (210) and a sensor module (250) (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3).

Hereinafter, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted and explained, and it is obvious that some configurations and structures of the aerosol generating device (200) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the embodiments described above may be combined in the aerosol generating device (200) unless it is technically obviously impossible.

In one embodiment, the housing (210) may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (200). Alternatively, the housing (210) may accommodate other components of the aerosol generating device (200). The housing (210) may be a body or a main body.

In one embodiment, the housing (210) may include at least one of an inlet (211) and a cover (217). The inlet (211) may be an opening or hole for inserting an aerosol-generating article (201) (e.g., a stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2). The inlet (211) may be formed to be open on one side of the housing (210) (e.g., an upper side or a side in the +Z direction). The cover (217) may be movably (e.g., slidably) coupled to one side of the housing (210). The cover (217) may open and close the inlet (211).

Hereinafter, an object inserted or removed from an aerosol generating device (200) according to various embodiments of this document is referred to as an 'aerosol generating article (201)', but is not limited to this when actually implementing the aerosol generating device (200).

In one embodiment, the housing (210) can include a cavity (213). An aerosol-generating article (201) can be inserted into the cavity (213). The cavity (213) can be an elongated cavity, a bonding region, an insertion region, or a heating region that accommodates the aerosol-generating article (201). The cavity (213) can have a shape corresponding to at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article (201).

In one embodiment, the cavity (213) may be connected to the suction port (211). The cavity (213) may have a shape extending in one direction (e.g., in the -Z direction) from the suction port (211). The aerosol-generating article (201) may be inserted longitudinally through the suction port (211) into the cavity (213).

In one embodiment, a sensor module (250) may be placed in the cavity (213). The sensor module (250) may detect whether an aerosol-generating article (201) has been inserted into the cavity (213). Additionally, the sensor module (250) may detect identification information of the aerosol-generating article (201).

In one embodiment, the sensor module (250) may include a light emitting unit (251) and a light receiving unit (255). The light emitting unit (251) may emit light of a first wavelength toward the cavity (213). For example, the light emitting unit (251) may be formed of at least one light emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows.

In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating article (201) may include an identification area (203). The identification area (203) may be provided on at least a portion of an outer surface of the aerosol-generating article (201). A physical, chemical, or optical marker (e.g., a taggant) may be provided in the identification area (203).

For example, the identification area (203) may be coated with a chemical that changes the wavelength of the transmitted light and emits it. Based on the identification information of the individual aerosol-generating article (201), the amount, type, and/or composition ratio of the chemical applied to the identification area (203) may be determined. The aerosol-generating device (200) may recognize the identification information for the aerosol-generating article (201) from the identification area (203).

In one embodiment, at least a portion of the light of the first wavelength emitted by the light emitting unit (251) can be transmitted to the identification area (203) of the aerosol-generating article (201). The light of the first wavelength is excited in the identification area (203), and the identification area (203) can emit light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength. Optical characteristics such as the wavelength and amount of light emitted from the identification area (203) can be determined by a marker provided in the identification area (203).

In one embodiment, the light receiving unit (255) can receive light emitted from the identification area (203) of the aerosol generating article (201). For example, the light receiving unit (255) can be formed of at least one light receiving diode that conducts current when irradiated with light.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (250) can detect optical characteristics of light emitted from the aerosol-generating article (201), for example, the amount of light of a second wavelength, to recognize identification information about the aerosol-generating article (201). The sensor module (250) can provide the detection result to at least one processor (260) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the control unit (110) of FIG. 3).

In one embodiment, the sensor module (250) may include a filter (e.g., filter (480) of FIG. 6C) to filter light of a first wavelength or a wavelength of a region adjacent thereto among light received by the light receiving unit (255). The sensor module (250) may recognize identification information for the aerosol-generating article (201) based on optical characteristics (e.g., light quantity) of the light after being filtered.

Hereinafter, when explaining the optical characteristics of light detected by the sensor module (250), the amount of light of the second wavelength (or the amount of light after filtering) is explained as an example of the optical characteristics. However, the optical characteristics detected by the sensor module (250) are not limited thereto.

In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength can be infrared, and the light of the second wavelength can be infrared having a different wavelength than the first wavelength. For example, the first wavelength can be a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm. The second wavelength can be a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

In one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (250) can recognize identification information of an aerosol-generating article (201) without being visually exposed to a user by using light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength, which are infrared rays.

In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength can be ultraviolet light and the light of the second wavelength can be infrared light. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength can be ultraviolet light and the light of the second wavelength can be visible light.

In one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (250) can improve identification accuracy by using different types of light (or light with a relatively large wavelength change) such as light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength.

In one embodiment, at least one processor (260) can receive a detection result from the sensor module (250). A memory (265) (e.g., memory (170) of FIG. 3) is operatively connected to the at least one processor (260) and can store executable instructions. The at least one processor (260) can control the operation of the aerosol generating device (200) by executing the instructions stored in the memory (265).

In one embodiment, at least one processor (260) receives a detection result from the sensor module (250) and executes a command related to the sensor module (250) among the commands stored in the memory (265), thereby recognizing identification information for the aerosol-generating article (201) based on the amount of light of the second wavelength.

For example, the identification information may be information about the type, authenticity, and/or content of the aerosol-generating article (201). At least one processor (260) may control operation of the aerosol-generating device (200) based on the recognized identification information.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (200) may further include a heater (270) (e.g., heater (13) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or heater (150) of FIG. 3). At least one processor (260) may control the operation of the heater (270) differently based on the identification information by executing a command related to the operation of the heater (270) among the commands stored in the memory (265).

For example, the memory (265) of the aerosol generating device (200) may have information on an appropriate temperature profile and operation based on various information such as the type of the aerosol generating article (201), the type of the contained material, the content ratio of the material, the content of the material, and the degree of over-humidity. At least one processor (260) may execute a command of information on operation of the heater (270) (e.g., operation cycle, operation intensity, etc.) from the memory (265) based on the identification information, thereby performing operation customized for the aerosol generating article (201).

In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (200) can recognize identification information about an aerosol generating article (201) identified through a sensor module (250) and automatically customize and control the operation of the aerosol generating device (200) based on the identification information, even if the user does not input information about the aerosol generating article (201) or directly control the operation of the aerosol generating device (200).

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device (300) and an aerosol generating article (301) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 5, an aerosol generating device (300) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device (100) of FIG. 3, or the aerosol generating device (200) of FIGS. 4a and 4b) may include a housing (310) and a sensor module (350) (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3 or the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4a and 4b).

Hereinafter, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted and explained, and it is obvious that some configurations and structures of the aerosol generating device (300) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the embodiments described above may be combined in the aerosol generating device (300) unless it is technically obviously impossible.

In one embodiment, the housing (310) may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device (300). Alternatively, the housing (310) may accommodate other components of the aerosol generating device (300). The housing (310) may be a body or a main body.

In one embodiment, the housing (310) may include at least one of an inlet (311) and a cover (317). The inlet (311) may be an opening or hole for a user to inhale an aerosol. Alternatively, the inlet (311) may be an opening or hole for a stick-shaped aerosol-generating article (e.g., a stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or an aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B) to be inserted. The inlet (311) may be formed to be open on one side of the housing (310) (e.g., an upper side or a side in the +Z direction). The cover (317) may be movably (e.g., slidably) coupled to one side of the housing (310). The cover (317) may open and close the inlet (311).

In one embodiment, the housing (310) can include a cavity (313). An aerosol-generating article (301) (e.g., a stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or an aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B) can be inserted into the cavity (313). The aerosol-generating article (301) can be comprised of a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol-generating material, a solid aerosol-generating material, and/or a capsule. The aerosol-generating article (301) can be removably coupled to the housing (310).

Hereinafter, an object inserted or removed from an aerosol generating device (300) according to various embodiments of this document is referred to as an 'aerosol generating article (301)', but is not limited to this when actually implementing the aerosol generating device (300).

In one embodiment, the cavity (313) may be a cavity, a bonding region, an insertion region, or a heating region that accommodates the aerosol-generating article (301). The cavity (313) may have a shape corresponding to at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article (301).

In one embodiment, the housing (310) may further include an aerosol path (315) and a terminal (319). When an aerosol-generating article (301) is inserted into the cavity (313), the aerosol path (315) and the terminal (319) may be respectively connected to the aerosol-generating article (301).

In one embodiment, the aerosol conduit (315) can receive aerosol generating material and/or aerosol from an aerosol generating article (301). The aerosol conduit (315) can be connected to an inlet (311).

In one embodiment, the terminal (319) can be electrically connected to the aerosol-generating article (301). The terminal (319) can transmit and receive power and/or electrical signals for the aerosol-generating article (301).

In one embodiment, a sensor module (350) may be placed in the cavity (313). The sensor module (350) may detect whether an aerosol-generating article (301) has been inserted into the cavity (313). Additionally, the sensor module (350) may detect identification information of the aerosol-generating article (301).

In one embodiment, the sensor module (350) may include a light emitting unit (351) and a light receiving unit (355). The light emitting unit (351) may emit light of a first wavelength toward the cavity (313). For example, the light emitting unit (351) may be formed of at least one light emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows.

In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating article (301) may include an identification area (303). The identification area (303) may be provided on at least a portion of an outer surface of the aerosol-generating article (301). A physical, chemical, or optical marker (e.g., a taggant) may be provided in the identification area (303).

For example, the identification area (303) may be coated with a chemical substance that changes the wavelength of the transmitted light and emits it. Based on the identification information of the individual aerosol-generating article (301), the amount, type, and/or composition ratio of the chemical substance applied to the identification area (303) may be determined. The aerosol-generating device (300) may recognize the identification information for the aerosol-generating article (301) from the identification area (303).

In one embodiment, at least a portion of the light of the first wavelength emitted by the light emitting unit (351) can be transmitted to the identification area (303) of the aerosol-generating article (301). The light of the first wavelength is excited in the identification area (303), and the identification area (303) can emit light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength. Optical characteristics such as the wavelength and amount of light emitted from the identification area (303) can be determined by a marker provided in the identification area (303).

In one embodiment, the light receiving unit (355) can receive light emitted from the identification area (303) of the aerosol generating article (301). For example, the light receiving unit (355) can be formed of at least one light receiving diode that allows current to flow when light is irradiated.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (350) can detect optical characteristics of light emitted from the aerosol-generating article (301), for example, the amount of light of a second wavelength, to recognize identification information about the aerosol-generating article (301). The sensor module (350) can provide the detection result to at least one processor (360) (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2 , the control unit (110) of FIG. 3 , or at least one processor (260) of FIG. 4b ).

In one embodiment, the sensor module (350) may include a filter (e.g., filter (480) of FIG. 6C) to filter light of a first wavelength or a wavelength of a region adjacent thereto among light received by the light receiving unit (355). The sensor module (350) may recognize identification information for the aerosol-generating article (301) based on optical characteristics (e.g., light quantity) of the light after being filtered.

Hereinafter, when explaining the optical characteristics of light detected by the sensor module (350), the amount of light of the second wavelength (or the amount of light after filtering) is explained as an example of the optical characteristics. However, the optical characteristics detected by the sensor module (350) are not limited thereto.

In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength can be infrared, and the light of the second wavelength can be infrared having a different wavelength than the first wavelength. For example, the first wavelength can be a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm. The second wavelength can be a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

In one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (350) can safely recognize the identification information of an aerosol-generating article (301) without being visually exposed to a user by using light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength, which are infrared rays.

In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength can be ultraviolet light and the light of the second wavelength can be infrared light. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength can be ultraviolet light and the light of the second wavelength can be visible light.

In one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (350) can improve identification accuracy by using different types of light (or light with a relatively large wavelength change) such as light of a first wavelength and light of a second wavelength.

In one embodiment, at least one processor (360) can receive a detection result from the sensor module (350). A memory (365) (e.g., memory (170) of FIG. 3 or memory (265) of FIG. 4b) is operatively connected to the at least one processor (360) and can store executable instructions. The at least one processor (360) can control the operation of the aerosol generating device (300) by executing the instructions stored in the memory (365).

In one embodiment, at least one processor (360) receives a detection result from a sensor module (350) and executes a command related to the sensor module (350) among the commands stored in the memory (365), thereby recognizing identification information for an aerosol-generating article (301) based on the amount of light of the second wavelength.

For example, the identification information may be information about the type, authenticity, and/or content of the aerosol-generating article (301). At least one processor (360) may control operation of the aerosol-generating device (300) based on the recognized identification information.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (300) may further include a heater (370) (e.g., heater (13) of FIGS. 1 and 2, heater (150) of FIG. 3, or heater (370) of FIG. 4b). The heater (370) may be disposed inside the housing (310). Alternatively, the heater (370) may be disposed in the aerosol generating article (301), and the aerosol generating article (301) may receive power and/or an electrical signal for driving the heater (370) from the aerosol generating device (300) through the terminal (319).

In one embodiment, at least one processor (360) may control the operation of the heater (370) differently based on the identification information by executing a command related to the operation of the heater (370) among the commands stored in the memory (365).

For example, the memory (365) of the aerosol generating device (300) may have information on an appropriate temperature profile and operation based on various information such as the type of the aerosol generating article (301), the type of the contained material, the content ratio of the material, the content of the material, and the degree of over-humidity. At least one processor (360) may execute a command of information on operation of the heater (370) (e.g., operation cycle, operation intensity, etc.) from the memory (365) based on the identification information, thereby performing operation customized for the aerosol generating article (301).

In one embodiment of the present document, the aerosol generating device (300) can recognize identification information about an aerosol generating article (301) identified through a sensor module (350) and automatically customize and control the operation of the aerosol generating device (300) based on the identification information, even if the user does not input information about the aerosol generating article (301) or directly control the operation of the aerosol generating device (300).

Hereinafter, various embodiments of a sensor module (e.g., a sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or a sensor module (350) of FIG. 5) will be described with reference to the drawings. However, this is only a limited description of an exemplary implementation, and the implementation of the sensor module (250, 350) is not limited to the drawings and the description to be described below, and the sensor module (250, 350) may have various structures, shapes, components, and arrangements.

FIG. 6a is a side view of a sensor module (450) according to one embodiment, FIG. 6b is a plan view of a sensor module (450) according to one embodiment, and FIG. 6c is a block diagram of a sensor module (450) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, a sensor module (450) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, or the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5) may further include at least a portion of a substrate (458), a molding member (460), and a filter (480).

In the following, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted and explained, and it is obvious that some configurations and structures of the sensor module (450) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined in the electronic device unless it is technically obviously impossible.

In one embodiment, the substrate (458) may include a substrate surface (458a) and a substrate terminal (459). The substrate surface (458a) may be a surface of the substrate (458) on which a device or chip is placed (e.g., a surface in the +Z direction). The substrate terminal (459) may be formed on a surface opposite to the substrate surface (458a) (e.g., a surface in the -Z direction).

In one embodiment, the substrate surface (458a) may be a surface facing a detection target of the sensor module (450) (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, or the aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5). The substrate terminal (459) may be electrically and/or physically connected to an aerosol-generating device (e.g., the aerosol-generating device (1) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating device (100) of FIG. 3, the aerosol-generating device (200) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, or the aerosol-generating device (300) of FIG. 5).

In one embodiment, the light emitting unit (451) (e.g., the light emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4b or the light emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5) may be formed of at least one light emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows through it.

In one embodiment, the light receiving unit (455) (e.g., the light receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4b or the light receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5) may be formed of at least one light receiving diode that allows current to flow when light is irradiated.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (450) may include at least some of a first element (451), a second element (456), a first conductive member (453), and a second conductive member (457).

In one embodiment, the first element (451) and the second element (456) may be provided on the substrate surface (458a). The first element (451) may be connected to a light-emitting unit (451) formed of a light-emitting diode. The second element (456) may be connected to a light-receiving unit (455) formed of a light-receiving diode.

In one embodiment, the first conductive member (453) can electrically connect the first element (451) and the light-emitting unit (451). The second conductive member (457) can electrically connect the second element (456) and the light-receiving unit (455).

For example, the first element (451) may be composed of two terminals including a negative terminal and a positive terminal. The light emitting unit (451) may be directly coupled to either one of the two terminals. The first conductive member (453) may connect the light emitting unit (451) to the other one of the two terminals.

For example, the second element (456) may be composed of two terminals (e.g., a negative terminal and a positive terminal). The light receiving unit (455) may be directly coupled to either of the two terminals. The second conductive member (457) may connect the light receiving unit (455) to the other of the two terminals.

In one embodiment, the first element (451) and the second element (456) may be arranged adjacent to each other on the substrate surface (458a). In addition, the light emitting unit (451) and the light receiving unit (455) may be arranged adjacent to each other on the substrate surface (458a).

In one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (450) may be implemented in a package form by arranging a light emitting unit (451) and a light receiving unit (455) on a substrate surface (458a) of one substrate (458). The sensor module (450) in a package form may be advantageous for miniaturization. The sensor module (450) may provide space efficiency of the aerosol generating device.

In one embodiment, a molding member (460) can be disposed on the substrate surface (458a). The molding member (460) can protect the substrate surface (458a) and other components mounted on the substrate surface (458a). The molding member (460) can be made of a non-conductive material. The molding member (460) can reduce or prevent the substrate surface (458a) and other components mounted on the substrate surface (458a) from being electrically shorted or unnecessarily shorted.

In one embodiment, the molding member (460) may include a base region (461). The base region (461) may be arranged to surround the light emitting unit (451) and the light receiving unit (455) on the substrate surface (458a).

In one embodiment, the molding member (460) may be made of a light-transmitting material. The molding member (460) may guide light emitted from the light-emitting unit (451) through the base region (461) to be transmitted to the detection target of the sensor module (450).

In one embodiment, the base region (461) may be formed as a single body by connecting regions surrounding each of the light emitting unit (451) and the light receiving unit (455). The base region (461) may be substantially uniformly applied on the substrate surface (458a) and cured. The base region (461) formed as a single body may provide efficiency in manufacturing the sensor module (450).

However, 'substantially' in this document may mean the same level reflecting tolerance or error in general manufacturing processes. Alternatively, 'substantially' may refer to a range including any one of +/-0.1%, +/-0.5%, +/-1%, +/-3%, +/-5%, +/-7%, +/-10%, +/-15%, and +/-20% based on the literal same 0%.

In one embodiment, the filter (480) can filter at least a portion of the light received by the light receiving unit (455). For example, the filter (480) can filter light of a first wavelength among the light received by the light receiving unit (455). Or, for example, the filter (480) can filter light of a portion of the light including light of the first wavelength among the light received by the light receiving unit (455).

In one embodiment, at least one processor (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the control unit (110) of FIG. 3, at least one processor (260) of FIG. 4b, or at least one processor (360) of FIG. 5) may recognize identification information for an aerosol-generating article (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4a and 4b, or the aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5) based on the amount of light filtered by the filter (480) by executing instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory (170) of FIG. 3, the memory (265) of FIG. 4b, or the memory (365) of FIG. 5).

In one embodiment of the present document, the filter (480) can improve the identification accuracy of the sensor module (450) by blocking the light of the first wavelength transmitted to the light receiving unit (455). In addition, in one embodiment of the present document, the sensor module (450) including the filter (480) can provide ease of design of at least one processor and/or memory.

For example, when the light receiving unit (455) receives light including light of the first wavelength, at least one processor and/or memory needs to select light of the second wavelength among the light received by the light receiving unit (455), or ignore or block light of the first wavelength. At least one processor and/or memory may require additional configuration or operation circuit-wise (or operationally, programmatically, or in a different manner), and design difficulty may increase.

An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention may provide identification accuracy as well as an advantage in design difficulty of at least one processor and/or memory by having a filter (480) block light of a first wavelength at the sensor module (450) stage.

In one embodiment, the filter (480) may include at least some of an optical filter (481), a filter element (482), and a switching element (483). Hereinafter, a filtering method and configuration of the filter (480) will be exemplarily described with reference to FIG. 6C. However, the method and configuration of the filter (480) described below are merely examples, and the filter (480) may filter light received by the light receiving unit (455) in various methods and configurations.

In one embodiment, the optical filter (481) can reflect (or absorb) light of the first wavelength. The optical filter (481) can be physically arranged to surround at least a portion of the light receiving unit (455). The optical filter (481) can be arranged on an outer surface of the light receiving unit (455). Alternatively, the optical filter (481) can be arranged on the molding member (460). The optical filter (481) can provide an advantage in design difficulty of the filter (480) by physically or structurally blocking light of the first wavelength.

In one embodiment, the filter element (482) can controllably filter the detection result of the sensor module (450). The filter element (482) can be controllably connected to the light receiving unit (455). For example, the filter element (482) can be implemented as a wafer filter.

In one embodiment, the filter element (482) can noise-process light of a first wavelength among light received by the light receiving unit (455). The filter element (482) can be disposed on the light receiving unit (455) or the substrate (458). For example, the filter element (482) can be a part of the second element (456) or the substrate (458).

In one embodiment, the switching element (483) can controllably filter the detection result of the sensor module (450). The switching element (483) can be controllably connected to the light emitting unit (451) and/or the light receiving unit (455). For example, the switching element (483) can be implemented as a wafer filter.

In one embodiment, the switching element (483) can block the light emission of the light emitting unit (451) while the light receiving unit (455) receives light. The switching element (483) can be disposed in the light emitting unit (451) or the substrate (458). For example, the filter element (482) can be a part of the first element (452) or the substrate (458).

FIGS. 7A and 7B are graphs illustrating detection results of a sensor module according to one embodiment.

Specifically, FIGS. 7A and 7B are graphs showing the response according to the wavelength of light received by a light-receiving unit (e.g., the light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, the light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, or the light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C) when a light-emitting unit (e.g., the light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, the light-receiving unit (351) of FIG. 5, or the light-receiving unit (451) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C) of a sensor module (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, or the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C) emits a first wavelength (W1).

For example, FIG. 7a may be a response graph according to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module before being filtered by a filter (e.g., the filter of FIG. 6c). Alternatively, FIG. 7a may be a response graph according to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module when the sensor module does not include a filter. The response graph may be a parameter that relatively indicates light of adjacent wavelengths based on a wavelength having the largest amount of light received by the light receiving unit (1.0).

For example, Fig. 7b may be a response diagram according to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module after being filtered by the filter. Alternatively, Fig. 7b may be a response diagram according to the wavelength of light received by the sensor module when the sensor module includes a filter.

In one embodiment, light of the first wavelength (W1) emitted from the light emitting unit may mean light of a wavelength that substantially primarily includes light of the first wavelength (W1). For example, the first wavelength (W1) may be a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm.

Referring to FIG. 7a, when the light emitting unit emits light of the first wavelength (W1), it can be confirmed that the light quantity of the first wavelength (W1) is the largest, and that the light quantity of the wavelength substantially (or approximately) decreases as it moves away from the first wavelength (W1).

However, "substantially," "approximately," or "about" in this document may mean the same level reflecting tolerances or errors in general manufacturing processes. Alternatively, "substantially," "approximately," or "about" may refer to a range including any one of +/-0.1%, +/-0.5%, +/-1%, +/-3%, +/-5%, +/-7%, +/-10%, +/-15%, and +/-20% based on the literal equivalent 0%.

In one embodiment, light of a first wavelength (W1) is excited at an identification region (e.g., identification region (203) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or identification region (303) of FIG. 5) of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2 , aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5 ), and the identification region can emit light of a second wavelength (W2) different from the first wavelength (W1).

In one embodiment, the light of the second wavelength (W2) emitted from the identification unit may mean light of a wavelength that substantially primarily includes light of the second wavelength (W2). For example, the second wavelength (W2) may be a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, when the identification area emits light of the second wavelength (W2), it can be confirmed that the amount of light of the second wavelength (W2) is the largest, and that the amount of light of the wavelength substantially (or approximately) decreases as it moves away from the second wavelength (W2).

In one embodiment, the filter can filter wavelengths in a first filtering range (Fw). The first filtering range (Fw) can be a range from a reference wavelength between the first wavelength (W1) and the second wavelength (W2) to include the first wavelength (W1). For example, the first filtering range (Fw) can be a wavelength less than 1000 nm.

In one embodiment, at least one processor (e.g., the control unit (12) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the control unit (110) of FIG. 3, at least one processor (260) of FIG. 4b, or at least one processor (360) of FIG. 5) can recognize identification information for an aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light of a second wavelength (W2) outside the first filtering range (Fw) by executing instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory (170) of FIG. 3, the memory (265) of FIG. 4b, or the memory (365) of FIG. 5).

In one embodiment of the present document, when the difference between the first wavelength (W1) and the second wavelength (W2) is not large, for example, when both the light of the first wavelength (W1) and the light of the second wavelength (W2) are infrared rays, at least one processor may have difficulty recognizing identification information based on the amount of light of the second wavelength (W2), and there is a possibility that an error may occur in the identification result or the accuracy may be reduced. The sensor module according to one embodiment of the present document can reduce or eliminate an error in the identification result and improve the identification accuracy by physically blocking or controllably noise-processing a first filtering range (Fw) including the light of the first wavelength (W1) through a filter.

FIG. 8 is a side view of a sensor module (450-1) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 8, a molding member (460-1) (e.g., the molding member (460) of FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c) of a sensor module (450-1) (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4a and 4b, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, or the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c) according to one embodiment may further include a first dome-shaped molding region (463-1).

In the following, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted and explained, and it is obvious that some configurations and structures of the sensor module (450-1) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined in the electronic device unless it is technically obviously impossible.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (450-1) may include a light-emitting unit (451-1) (e.g., light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, or light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), a light-receiving unit (455-1) (e.g., light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, or light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), a substrate (458-1) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), and a molding member (460-1).

In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the light emitting unit (451-1) on one side (e.g., the side in the +Z direction) of the base region (461-1) (e.g., the base region (461) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C) facing the cavity (e.g., the cavity (213) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the cavity (313) of FIG. 5). The first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) may guide light emitted from the light emitting unit (451-1).

For example, the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) can guide at least a portion of the light emitted from the light emitting unit (451-1) to be focused on an identification region (e.g., the identification region (203) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the identification region (303) of FIG. 5) of a detection target (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5) of the sensor module (450-1).

In one embodiment of the present document, the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) can provide light transmission efficiency of the light emitting unit (451-1), and the sensor module (450-1) can improve sensing accuracy through the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1).

In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) may be formed as a single body that is continuous with the base region (461-1). Alternatively, the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) may have a discontinuous structure with the base region (461-1) and may be formed by being combined with the base region (461-1).

FIG. 9 is a side view of a sensor module (450-2) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 9, a molding member (460-2) (e.g., the molding member (460) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C or the molding member (460-1) of FIG. 8) of a sensor module (450-2) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C or the sensor module (450-1) of FIG. 8) may further include a second dome-shaped molding region (465-2).

In the following, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted and explained, and it is obvious that some configurations and structures of the sensor module (450-2) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with the electronic device unless it is technically obviously impossible.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (450-2) may include a light-emitting unit (451-2) (e.g., light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or light-emitting unit (451-1) of FIG. 8), a light-receiving unit (455-2) (e.g., light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or light-receiving unit (455-1) of FIG. 8), a substrate (458-2) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or substrate (458-1) of FIG. 8), and a molding member (460-2).

In one embodiment, the molding member (460-2) may include at least one of a base region (461-2) (e.g., the base region (461) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C or the base region (461-1) of FIG. 8) and a first dome-shaped molding region (463-2) (e.g., the first dome-shaped molding region (463-1) of FIG. 8).

In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region (465-2) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the light receiving unit (455-2) on one side (e.g., the side in the +Z direction) of the base region (461-2) facing the cavity (e.g., the cavity (213) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the cavity (313) of FIG. 5). The second dome-shaped molding region (465-2) may guide light transmitted to the light receiving unit (455-2).

For example, the light receiving unit (455-2) can receive light emitted from an identification area (e.g., the identification area (203) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the identification area (303) of FIG. 5) of a detection target (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5) of the sensor module (450-2). The light emitted from the identification area can be guided to be focused on the light receiving unit (455-2).

In one embodiment of the present document, the second dome-shaped molding region (465-2) can provide light absorption efficiency of the light receiving unit (455-2), and the sensor module (450-2) can improve sensing accuracy through the second dome-shaped molding region (465-2).

In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region (465-2) may be formed as a single body that is continuous with the base region (461-2). Alternatively, the second dome-shaped molding region (465-2) may have a discontinuous structure with the base region (461-2) and may be formed by being combined with the base region (461-2).

FIG. 10 is a side view of a sensor module (550) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 10, a sensor module (550) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4a and 4b, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, or the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c) may further include a partition wall (570).

In the following, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted and explained, and it is obvious that some configurations and structures of the sensor module (550) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the embodiments described above may be combined with the electronic device unless it is technically clearly impossible.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (550) may include a light-emitting unit (551) (e.g., light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, or light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), a light-receiving unit (555) (e.g., light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, or light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), a substrate (558) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C), and a molding member (560) (e.g., molding member (460) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C).

In one embodiment, the base region (561) of the molding member (560) (e.g., the base region (461) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C) may be arranged to surround the light emitting unit (551) and the light receiving unit (555) on the substrate surface (e.g., the substrate surface (458a) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C).

In one embodiment, the molding member (560) may be made of a light-transmitting material. The molding member (560) may guide light emitted from the light-emitting unit (551) through the base region (561) to be transmitted to the detection target of the sensor module (550).

In one embodiment, the base region (561) may include a first molding region (561a) and a second molding region (561b). The first molding region (561a) may surround the light emitting unit (551). The second molding region (561b) may surround the light receiving unit (555).

In one embodiment, the second molding region (561b) may be separated from the first molding region (561a). Alternatively, the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b) may be arranged discontinuously from each other. Alternatively, the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b) may be arranged spaced apart from each other.

In one embodiment of the present document, the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b) are separated from each other, thereby preventing light emitted from the light emitting unit (551) from being transmitted to the light receiving unit (555) through the molding member (560). The sensor module (550) can improve sensing accuracy through the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b).

In one embodiment, the partition wall (570) can partition the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b). The partition wall (570) can be positioned between the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b). The partition wall (570) can have a shape that extends along the first molding region (561a) and the second molding region (561b).

In one embodiment, the partition wall (570) may be made of an epoxy molding compound (EMC) material. The partition wall (570) may be made of a material having relatively low light transmittance compared to the molding member (560). The partition wall (570) may prevent light emitted from the light emitting unit (551) from being transmitted to the light receiving unit (555). The sensor module (550) may improve sensing accuracy through the partition wall (570).

FIG. 11 is a side view of a sensor module (550-1) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 11, a molding member (560-1) of a sensor module (550-1) (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or the sensor module (550) of FIG. 10) according to one embodiment may further include a first dome-shaped molding region (563-1).

In the following, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted and explained, and it is to be understood that some configurations and structures of the sensor module (550-1) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with the electronic device unless it is technically clearly impossible.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (550-1) includes a light-emitting unit (551-1) (e.g., light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or light-emitting unit (551) of FIG. 10), a light-receiving unit (555-1) (e.g., light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or light-receiving unit (555) of FIG. 10), a substrate (558-1) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or substrate (558) of FIG. 10), a molding member (560-1), and a partition wall (570-1) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, or substrate (558) of FIG. 10). It may include a bulkhead (570)).

In one embodiment, the molding member (560-1) may include a base region (561-1) (e.g., base region (561) of FIG. 10) comprising a first molding region (561a-1) (e.g., first molding region (561a) of FIG. 10) and a second molding region (561b-1) (e.g., second molding region (561b) of FIG. 10).

In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the light emitting unit (551-1) on one side (e.g., a side in the +Z direction) of the base region (561-1) facing the cavity (e.g., the cavity (213) of FIGS. 4a and 4b or the cavity (313) of FIG. 5). For example, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) may be positioned over the first molding region (561a-1).

In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) can guide light emitted from the light emitting unit (551-1). For example, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) can guide at least a portion of the light emitted from the light emitting unit (551-1) to be focused on an identification region (e.g., the identification region (203) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the identification region (303) of FIG. 5) of a detection target (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2 , the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5) of the sensor module (550-1).

In one embodiment of the present document, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) can provide light transmission efficiency of the light emitting unit (551-1), and the sensor module (550-1) can improve sensing accuracy through the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1).

In one embodiment, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) may be formed as a single body that is continuous with the base region (561-1). Alternatively, the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) may have a discontinuous structure with the base region (561-1) and may be formed by being combined with the base region (561-1).

FIG. 12 is a side view of a sensor module (550-2) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 12, a molding member (560-2) of a sensor module (550-2) according to one embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, the sensor module (550) of FIG. 10, or the sensor module (550-1) of FIG. 11) may further include a second dome-shaped molding region (565-2).

In the following, any content that overlaps with the above description will be omitted and explained, and it is to be understood that some configurations and structures of the sensor module (550-2) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with the electronic device unless it is technically clearly impossible.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (550-2) includes a light-emitting unit (551-2) (e.g., light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, light-emitting unit (451) of FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C, light-emitting unit (551) of FIG. 10, or light-emitting unit (551-1) of FIG. 11), a light-receiving unit (555-1) (e.g., light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, light-receiving unit (455) of FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C, light-receiving unit (555) of FIG. 10, or light-receiving unit (555-1) of FIG. 11), a substrate (558-2) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C, substrate (558) of FIG. 10, or light-receiving unit (551-1) of FIG. 11). It may include a substrate (558-1)), a molding member (560-2) and a partition wall (570-2) (e.g., the partition wall (570) of FIG. 10 or the partition wall (570-1) of FIG. 11).

In one embodiment, the molding member (560-2) may include at least one of a base region (561-2) (e.g., the base region (561) of FIG. 10 or the base region (561-1) of FIG. 11) and a first dome-shaped molding region (563-2) (e.g., the first dome-shaped molding region (563-1) of FIG. 11)) formed by a first molding region (561a-2) (e.g., the first molding region (561a) of FIG. 10 or the first molding region (561a-1) of FIG. 11) and a second molding region (561b-2) (e.g., the second molding region (561b) of FIG. 10 or the second molding region (561b-1) of FIG. 11).

In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the light receiving unit (555-2) on one side (e.g., a side in the +Z direction) of the base region (561-2) facing the cavity (e.g., the cavity (213) of FIGS. 4a and 4b or the cavity (313) of FIG. 5). For example, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) may be positioned on the second molding region (561b-2).

In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) can guide light transmitted to the light receiving unit (555-2). For example, the light receiving unit (555-2) can receive light emitted from an identification region (e.g., the identification region (203) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the identification region (303) of FIG. 5) of a detection target (e.g., the stick (2) of FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol-generating article (201) of FIGS. 4A and 4B or the aerosol-generating article (301) of FIG. 5) of the sensor module (550-2). The light emitted from the identification region can be guided to be focused on the light receiving unit (555-2).

In one embodiment of the present document, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) can provide light absorption efficiency of the light receiving unit (555-2), and the sensor module (550-2) can improve sensing accuracy through the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2).

In one embodiment, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) may be formed as a single body that is continuous with the base region (561-2). Alternatively, the second dome-shaped molding region (565-2) may have a discontinuous structure with the base region (561-2) and may be formed by being combined with the base region (561-2).

FIG. 13 is a plan view of a sensor module (650) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 13, a sensor module (650) according to an embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4a and 4b, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6a and 6b, or the sensor module (550) of FIG. 9) may include a plurality of light receiving units (655) (e.g., the light receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4b, the light receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, the light receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6a and 6b, or the light receiving unit (555) of FIG. 9).

In the following, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted and explained, and it is obvious that some configurations and structures of the sensor module (650) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined in the electronic device unless it is technically obviously impossible.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (650) may include a light-emitting unit (651) (e.g., light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, or light-emitting unit (551) of FIG. 9), a light-receiving unit (655), and a substrate (658) (e.g., substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A and 6B or substrate (558) of FIG. 9).

Although not shown in the drawing, the sensor module (650) may further include at least some of the components (e.g., molding members, bulkheads, etc.) of the sensor module according to one embodiment described above in at least one of FIGS. 6A to 11.

In one embodiment, a plurality of light receiving units (655) may be spaced apart from each other on a substrate surface (658a) of a substrate (658) (e.g., substrate surface (458a) of FIGS. 6A and 6B). Each of the plurality of light receiving units (655) may be composed of a light receiving diode.

For example, the plurality of light receiving units (655) may be composed of two light receiving units (655). The two light receiving units (655) may be arranged adjacent to each other and spaced apart from a portion of the substrate surface (658a). The two light receiving units (655) may be arranged spaced apart from the light emitting unit (651) by a predetermined distance.

In one embodiment of the present document, a plurality of light receiving units (655) can provide light absorption efficiency of the sensor module (650) and improve sensing accuracy of the sensor module (650).

FIG. 14 is a plan view of a sensor module (650-1) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 14, a sensor module (650-1) according to an embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the sensor module (550) of FIG. 9, or the sensor module (650) of FIG. 13) may include a plurality of light-emitting units (651-1) (e.g., the light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, the light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, the light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the light-emitting unit (551) of FIG. 9, or the light-emitting unit (651) of FIG. 13).

In the following, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted and explained, and it is obvious that some configurations and structures of the sensor module (650-1) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with the electronic device unless it is technically obviously impossible.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (650-1) may include a light emitting unit (651-1), a light receiving unit (655-1) (e.g., the light receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, the light receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, the light receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the light receiving unit (555) of FIG. 9, or the light receiving unit (655) of FIG. 13), and a substrate (658-1) (e.g., the substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the substrate (558) of FIG. 9, or the substrate (658) of FIG. 13).

Although not shown in the drawing, the sensor module (650-1) may further include at least some of the components (e.g., molding members, bulkheads, etc.) of the sensor module according to one embodiment described above in at least one of FIGS. 6A to 13.

In one embodiment, a plurality of light-emitting units (651-1) may be spaced apart from each other on a substrate surface (658a-1) of a substrate (658-1) (e.g., substrate surface (458a) of FIGS. 6A and 6B or substrate surface (658a) of FIG. 13). Each of the plurality of light-emitting units (651-1) may be composed of a light-emitting diode. Each of the plurality of light-emitting units (651-1) may emit light having substantially the same or similar optical characteristics (e.g., light of a first wavelength).

For example, a plurality of light-emitting units (651-1) may be composed of two light-emitting units (651-1). The two light-emitting units (651-1) may be arranged adjacent to each other and spaced apart from a portion of the substrate surface (658a-1). The two light-emitting units (651-1) may be arranged spaced apart from the light-receiving unit (655-1) by a predetermined distance.

In one embodiment of the present document, the amount of light transmitted to the light receiving unit (655-1) may increase by a plurality of light emitting units (651-1). As the amount of light of the first wavelength emitted from the sensor module (650-1) increases, the amount of light of the changed optical characteristic (e.g., light of the second wavelength) transmitted to the light receiving unit (655-1) may also increase, thereby improving the sensing accuracy of the sensor module (650-1).

FIG. 15 is a plan view of a sensor module (650-2) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 15, a sensor module (650-2) according to an embodiment (e.g., the sensing unit (120) of FIG. 3, the sensor module (250) of FIGS. 4A and 4B, the sensor module (350) of FIG. 5, the sensor module (450) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the sensor module (550) of FIG. 9, or the sensor module (650) of FIG. 13) may include a plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) (e.g., the light-emitting unit (251) of FIG. 4B, the light-emitting unit (351) of FIG. 5, the light-emitting unit (451) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the light-emitting unit (551) of FIG. 9, or the light-emitting unit (651) of FIG. 13). Additionally, in one embodiment, a plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) may be arranged to surround a light-receiving unit (655-2) (e.g., light-receiving unit (255) of FIG. 4B, light-receiving unit (355) of FIG. 5, light-receiving unit (455) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, light-receiving unit (555) of FIG. 9, or light-receiving unit (655) of FIG. 13).

In the following, any content that overlaps with the above-described content will be omitted and explained, and it is obvious that some configurations and structures of the sensor module (650-2) may be replaced, added, or omitted within a range that can be easily understood by those skilled in the art by referring to the drawings and descriptions below. In addition, at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined with the electronic device unless it is technically obviously impossible.

In one embodiment, the sensor module (650-2) may include a light emitting unit (651-2), a light receiving unit (655-2), and a substrate (658-2) (e.g., the substrate (458) of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the substrate (558) of FIG. 9, or the substrate (658) of FIG. 13).

Although not shown in the drawing, the sensor module (650-2) may further include at least some of the components (e.g., molding members, bulkheads, etc.) of the sensor module according to one embodiment described above in at least one of FIGS. 6A to 14.

In one embodiment, a plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) may be spaced apart from each other on a substrate surface (658a-2) of a substrate (658-2) (e.g., substrate surface (458a) of FIGS. 6A and 6B or substrate surface (658a) of FIG. 13). Each of the plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) may be composed of a light-emitting diode. Each of the plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) may emit light having substantially the same optical characteristics (e.g., light of the first wavelength).

In one embodiment, the substrate (658-2) may include a circular substrate surface (658a-2). Alternatively, the substrate surface (658a-2) may have an oval, square, or polygonal shape. The substrate (658-2) may have a shape corresponding to the arrangement or arrangement structure of the plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) and at least one light-receiving unit (655-2).

In one embodiment, a plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) may be arranged to surround a light-receiving unit (655-2). The plurality of light-emitting units (651-2) may be arranged spaced apart from each other.

In one embodiment of the present document, the amount of light transmitted to the light receiving unit (655-2) may increase by the plurality of light emitting units (651-2). As the amount of light of the first wavelength emitted from the sensor module (650-2) increases, the amount of light of the changed optical characteristic (e.g., light of the second wavelength) transmitted to the light receiving unit (655-2) may also increase, thereby improving the sensing accuracy of the sensor module (650-2).

In one embodiment, an aerosol-generating device may include a housing including a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted, a sensor module disposed in the cavity, at least one processor receiving a detection result from the sensor module, and a memory operatively connected to the at least one processor and storing executable instructions. In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a light emitting unit emitting light of a first wavelength toward the cavity and a light receiving unit receiving light emitted from the aerosol-generating article. In one embodiment, the at least one processor may recognize identification information for the aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength by executing instructions stored in the memory.

In one embodiment, the sensor module may further include a substrate including a substrate surface on which light emitting units and light receiving units are arranged adjacent to each other.

In one embodiment, the sensor module may further include a molding member made of a light-transmitting material. In one embodiment, the molding member may include a base region arranged to surround the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit on the substrate surface.

In one embodiment, the molding member may include a first dome-shaped molding region positioned at a position corresponding to the light emitting unit on one side of the base region facing the cavity.

In one embodiment, the molding member may include a second dome-shaped molding region positioned at a position corresponding to the light receiving unit on one side of the base region facing the cavity.

In one embodiment, the base region may be formed as a single body by connecting regions surrounding each of the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit.

In one embodiment, the base region may include a first molding region surrounding the light-emitting unit and a second molding region separated from the first molding region and surrounding the light-receiving unit.

In one embodiment, the sensor module may further include a partition wall dividing the first molding region and the second molding region.

In one embodiment, the baffle may be formed of a material having relatively low optical transmittance compared to the molding member.

In one embodiment, the light-emitting unit may be formed of a light-emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows through it. In one embodiment, the light-receiving unit may be formed of a light-receiving diode that causes current to flow when light is irradiated.

In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a plurality of light receiving units.

In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a plurality of light-emitting units.

In one embodiment, a plurality of light-emitting units may be arranged surrounding a light-receiving unit.

In one embodiment, the first wavelength can be a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm, and the second wavelength can be a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

In one embodiment, the light of the first wavelength may be ultraviolet light, and the light of the second wavelength may be either infrared light or visible light.

In one embodiment, an aerosol-generating device may include a housing including a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted, a sensor module disposed in the cavity, at least one processor receiving a detection result from the sensor module, and a memory operatively connected to the at least one processor and storing executable instructions. In one embodiment, the sensor module may include a light emitting unit emitting light of a first wavelength toward the cavity, a light receiving unit receiving light emitted from the aerosol-generating article, and a filter for filtering light of the first wavelength among the light received by the light receiving unit. In one embodiment, the at least one processor may recognize identification information about the aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light filtered by the filter by executing instructions stored in the memory.

In one embodiment, the filter may include an optical filter that reflects light of the first wavelength.

In one embodiment, the filter may include a filter element controllably connected to the light receiving unit and configured to noise-process light of a first wavelength among light received by the light receiving unit.

In one embodiment, the filter may include a switching element controllably connected to the light emitting unit and blocking light emission from the light emitting unit while the light receiving unit is receiving light.

In one embodiment, the filter can filter wavelengths in a first filtering range that includes the first wavelength.

In one embodiment, the first wavelength can be a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm. In one embodiment, the first filtering range can be a wavelength less than 1000 nm.

In one embodiment, at least one processor can, by executing instructions stored in memory, recognize identification information for an aerosol-generating article based on an amount of light of a second wavelength outside the first filtering range.

In one embodiment, the second wavelength can be a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm.

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

Claims (15)

In an aerosol generating device, A housing comprising a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted; A sensor module placed in the above cavity; At least one processor receiving detection results from the sensor module; and a memory operatively connected to at least one processor and storing executable instructions; The above sensor module, A light emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength toward the cavity; and Includes a light receiving unit that receives light emitted from the aerosol generating article; The at least one processor executes the instructions stored in the memory, An aerosol generating device that recognizes identification information for the aerosol generating article based on the amount of light of a second wavelength different from the first wavelength. In the first paragraph, The above sensor module, An aerosol generating device further comprising a substrate including a substrate surface on which the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit are arranged adjacent to each other. In the second paragraph, The above sensor module further includes a molding member made of a light-transmitting material, The above molding member, An aerosol generating device comprising a base region arranged to surround the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit on the substrate surface. In the third paragraph, The above molding member, A first dome-shaped molding region positioned at a position corresponding to the light-emitting unit on one side of the base region facing the cavity; and A second dome-shaped molding area positioned at a position corresponding to the light receiving unit on one side of the base area facing the cavity An aerosol generating device comprising at least one of: In the third paragraph, The above base area is, An aerosol generating device, wherein the areas surrounding each of the light emitting unit and the light receiving unit are connected to form a single body. In the third paragraph, The above base area is, A first molding region surrounding the above light-emitting unit, and An aerosol generating device comprising a second molding region separated from the first molding region and surrounding the light receiving unit. In Article 6, The above sensor module, An aerosol generating device further comprising a partition wall that divides the first molding region and the second molding region and is made of a material having relatively low light transmittance compared to the molding member. In the first paragraph, The above light-emitting unit is composed of a light-emitting diode that emits light of a first wavelength when current flows through it, The above light-receiving unit is an aerosol generating device comprising a light-receiving diode through which current flows when light is irradiated. In the first paragraph, The above sensor module, An aerosol generating device comprising at least one of the above light receiving unit and the above light emitting unit in multiple quantities. In the first paragraph, The first wavelength is a wavelength between 960 nm and 990 nm, An aerosol generating device, wherein the second wavelength is a wavelength between 1000 nm and 1020 nm. In the first paragraph, The above sensor module, An aerosol generating device further comprising a filter for filtering light of the first wavelength among light received by the light receiving unit. In Article 11, The above filter is, An aerosol generating device comprising an optical filter reflecting light of the first wavelength. In Article 11, The above filter is, An aerosol generating device, comprising a filter element controllably connected to the light receiving unit and configured to noise-process light of the first wavelength among light received by the light receiving unit. In the first paragraph, The above filter is, An aerosol generating device comprising a switching element controllably connected to the light emitting unit and blocking light emission of the light emitting unit while the light receiving unit receives light. In an aerosol generating device, A housing comprising a cavity into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted; A sensor module placed in the above cavity; At least one processor receiving detection results from the sensor module; and a memory operatively connected to at least one processor and storing executable instructions; The above sensor module, A light emitting unit that emits light of a first wavelength toward the cavity; A light receiving unit that receives light emitted from the above aerosol generating article, and Including a filter for filtering light of the first wavelength among the light received by the light receiving unit, The at least one processor executes the instructions stored in the memory, An aerosol generating device that recognizes identification information about an aerosol generating article based on the amount of light filtered by the filter.

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