KR102138873B1 - Aerosols generating system for pre-heating the heater - Google Patents

Abstract

In an aerosol-generating system comprising a cradle comprising a holder for generating an aerosol by heating a cigarette, and an inner space into which the holder is inserted, the holder is electrically connected to the cradle and is movable in the inner space of the cradle, producing an aerosol The system includes a control unit, and a heater that heats the aerosol-generating material, wherein the control unit predicts that a cigarette is inserted into the holder and pre-heats the heater based on the predicted result.

Description

Aerosol generation system to preheat heaters {AEROSOLS GENERATING SYSTEM FOR PRE-HEATING THE HEATER}

The present disclosure provides an aerosol-generating system that preheats a heater.

In recent years, there is an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the shortcomings of common cigarettes. For example, the demand for aerosol-generating methods is increasing as aerosol-generating substances in cigarettes are heated, rather than a method of burning a cigarette to produce an aerosol.

When using an electronic cigarette device having a heater that heats a cigarette using electricity, it takes time to increase the temperature of the heater to a certain level. In addition, the essence of the previously used cigarettes, etc., is on the heater, which may prevent the new cigarette from being inserted into the heater.

Accordingly, research into a heated cigarette or a heated aerosol generating device has been actively conducted.

It is to provide an aerosol generating system for preheating a heater. The technical problems to be achieved by the present embodiment are not limited to the technical problems as described above, and other technical problems may be inferred from the following embodiments.

As a technical means for achieving the above technical problem, a first aspect of the present disclosure includes a holder for generating an aerosol by heating a cigarette; And a cradle including an inner space into which the holder is inserted, wherein the holder is electrically connected to the cradle and is movable in the inner space of the cradle, wherein the aerosol generating system comprises: a control unit; And a heater for heating the aerosol-generating material. The controller may provide an aerosol-generating system that predicts that a cigarette is inserted into the holder and preheats the heater based on the prediction result. .

In addition, a second aspect of the present disclosure is a method of generating an aerosol by heating a cigarette in an aerosol-generating system, the method comprising: predicting whether a cigarette is inserted into the holder; And preheating the heater of the holder based on the prediction result.

In addition, the third aspect of the present disclosure can provide a computer-readable recording medium that records a program for executing the method of the second aspect on a computer.

1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of preheating a heater in an aerosol-generating system.
2 is a view showing an example in which the holder is tilted in the state of being coupled to the cradle.
3 is a view showing an example in which the holder is separated from the cradle.
4A to 4B are diagrams showing changes in heater temperature according to preheating or preheating.
5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a holder including an input device.
6 is a view showing an example in which the cigarette is inserted into the holder.
7 is a block diagram showing an example of an aerosol generating device.
8A and 8B are views illustrating an example of a holder in various aspects.
9 is a configuration diagram showing an example of a cradle.
10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a cradle in various aspects.
11 is a view showing an example in which the holder is inserted into the cradle.
FIG. 12 is a view showing an example in which the holder is tilted while inserted into the cradle.
13A to 13B are views showing examples in which the holder is inserted into the cradle.
14 is a flowchart illustrating an example in which the holder and the cradle operate.
15 is a flowchart illustrating an example in which the holder operates.
16 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the cradle.
17 is a view showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into the holder.
18A and 18B are diagrams showing an example of a cigarette.
19A to 19F are views showing examples of the cooling structure of the cigarette.

The terminology used in the embodiments has been selected for general terms that are currently widely used while considering functions in the present invention, but this may vary depending on the intention or precedent of a person skilled in the art or the appearance of new technologies. In addition, in certain cases, some terms are arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the applicable invention. Therefore, the term used in the present invention should be defined based on the meaning of the term and the contents of the present invention, rather than a simple term name.

When a certain part of the specification “includes” a certain component, it means that the other component may be further included rather than excluding the other component unless otherwise specified. Also, “… Wealth”, “… The term “module” means a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains may easily practice. However, the present invention can be implemented in many 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.

1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of preheating a heater in an aerosol-generating system.

In the present disclosure, the step of preheating the heater means a step before the heater is preheated. For example, preheating the heater may mean increasing the temperature of the heater by predicting that the cigarette will be inserted into the holder 1 before the cigarette is actually inserted into the holder 1. have. Specifically, when the holder 1 is tilted in the inner space of the cradle 2, when the holder 10 is separated from the inner space of the cradle 2, the user inputs included in the holder 1 When the device is operated, or after the cigarette is sensed to be inserted into the holder 1, the heater of the holder 1 may be preheated before the cigarette contacts one side of the heater. The heater may be preheated for a preset time in a preset temperature range. However, the step of preheating the heater is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIG. 1, in step 110, the aerosol-generating system can predict whether a cigarette is inserted into the holder. Meanwhile, the aerosol-generating system may include a holder 1 and/or a cradle 2, and for convenience of description, the cradle 2 will be described below.

In one embodiment, after the holder 1 is inserted into the inner space 230 of the cradle 2, the cradle 2 may detect a change in the position of the holder 1. In addition, the cradle 2 can predict whether a cigarette is inserted into the holder 1 based on the sensed position change of the holder 1.

More specifically, the cradle 2 may detect that the holder 1 is tilted after being inserted into the inner space 230 of the cradle 2 in order to sense the position change of the holder 1. In addition, the cradle 2 may detect that the holder 1 is separated from the inner space 230 of the cradle 2 in order to sense the position change of the holder 1.

On the other hand, in step 110, the operation of the cradle 2 that detects the position change of the holder 1 may be performed by the holder 1.

In step 120, the aerosol-generating system may preheat the heater of the holder 1 based on the prediction result in step 110.

In one embodiment, after the holder 1 is inserted into the inner space 230 of the cradle 2, the holder 1 or the cradle 2 has changed the position of the holder 1 above a predetermined threshold. By detecting that the cigarette is inserted into the interior of the holder 1 by sensing that it is, it is possible to preheat the heater of the holder 1.

More specifically, in the state where the holder 1 is combined with the cradle 2, the cradle 2 detects that the holder 1 has been tilted above a predetermined threshold value and the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1 By predicting this, the heater of the holder 1 can be preheated. In addition, the cradle 2 can preheat the heater of the holder 1 by detecting that the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are separated and predicting that a cigarette will be inserted into the holder 1.

Meanwhile, the operation of the cradle 2 for preheating the heater of the holder 1 in step 120 may be performed by the holder 1.

In another embodiment, the holder 1 may include at least one input device capable of controlling the function of the holder 1. The holder 1 can predict whether a cigarette is inserted into the holder 1 using at least one input device. Further, the holder 1 may preheat the heater of the holder 1 as input is received through at least one input device.

In another embodiment, the holder 1 may include a cigarette insertion sensor. The holder 1 detects that a cigarette is inserted into the holder 1 using a cigarette insertion sensor, and preheats the heater of the holder 1 until the cigarette contacts one side of the heater of the holder 1 Can.

2 is a view showing an example in which the holder is tilted in the state of being coupled to the cradle.

Referring to FIG. 2, the holder 1 may include a binding member 182 in a first position, and the cradle 2 may include binding members 273 and 274 in a second position and a third position, respectively. Can. In this case, the first position and the third position may be positions facing each other when the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2.

Further, the holder 1 may include a terminal 170, and the cradle 2 may include a terminal 260. By contacting the terminal 170 of the holder 1 and the terminal 260 of the cradle 2, the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are combined and can be electrically connected.

Referring to FIG. 2, the holder 1 is tilted inside the cradle 2. Here, the tilt means that the holder 1 is inclined at a certain angle in the state inserted into the cradle 2. For example, the range of the tilt angle θ may be 0° or more and 180° or less, and preferably 10° or more and 90° or less.

The cradle 2 can detect that the holder 1 is tilted inside the cradle 2.

In one embodiment, while some or all of the holder 1 is included (or inserted) in the inner space 230 of the cradle 2, the sensor of the cradle 2 measures the degree of tilt of the holder 1. It is possible to detect that the holder 1 is tilted by measuring the indicated tilt angle θ. On the other hand, that the holder 1 is included in the inner space 230 of the cradle 2 may mean a state in which the terminal 170 of the holder 1 and the terminal 260 of the cradle 2 are in contact, It is not limited to this.

In addition, the sensor of the cradle 2 has the holder 1 separated from the binding member 273 in the second position in the state where the binding member 182 in the first position and the binding member 274 in the third position are engaged. By measuring the length of time, it is possible to detect that the holder 1 is tilted. However, the method for sensing that the holder 1 is tilted is not limited thereto.

Meanwhile, that the holder 1 is tilted inside the cradle 2 may be detected by a sensor (not shown) of the holder 1.

By detecting that the holder 1 is tilted inside the cradle 2, the cradle 2 can predict that the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1.

In one embodiment, in a state in which the holder 1 is included in the inner space 230 of the cradle 2, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 has a tilt angle θ of the holder 1 greater than or equal to a certain angle By determining that is, it is possible to predict that the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1. For example, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 determines that the tilt angle θ of the holder 1 is 5°, 10°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60° or 75° or more. It can be predicted that the cigarette is inserted into the interior of (1).

In addition, in a state in which the binding member 182 in the first position and the binding member 274 in the third position are coupled, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 is attached to the holder 1 from the binding member 273 in the second position. By determining that) is separated for a certain period of time, it can be predicted that the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1. For example, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 determines that the holder 1 is separated from the binding member 273 in the second position by 0.3 seconds, 0.5 seconds, 1 second, or 1.5 seconds or more, and thus the holder 1 It can be predicted that the cigarette is inserted into the interior.

Meanwhile, an operation of predicting that a cigarette is inserted into the holder 1 may be performed by the control unit 120 of the holder 1.

By predicting that the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1, the heater of the holder 1 can be preheated.

In one embodiment, the battery 210 of the cradle 2 can be used to preheat the heater of the holder 1. Even if the holder 1 is tilted inside the cradle 2, since the terminal 170 of the holder 1 and the terminal 260 of the cradle 2 are in contact, the battery 210 of the cradle 2 is in the holder It can be used to preheat the heater of (1). In addition, the battery 110 of the holder 1 can be used to preheat the heater of the holder 1.

For example, the heater of the holder 1 may be preheated by the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2. In addition, the battery 110 of the holder 1 is charged by the electric power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2, and the holder 1 of the holder 1 is powered by the electric power supplied by the battery 110 of the holder 1 The heater can be preheated. In addition, the battery 210 of the cradle 2 may supply power to the heater of the holder 1 for preheating, and may supply power to the battery 110 of the holder 1 for charging. In addition, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 or the control unit 120 of the holder 1 may use the battery 110 of the holder 1 to preheat the heater of the holder 1. However, the method of using the battery 210 of the cradle 2 and the battery 110 of the holder 1 to preheat the heater of the holder 1 is not limited thereto.

3 is a view showing an example in which the holder is separated from the cradle.

Referring to FIG. 3, a process in which the holder 1 is separated from the cradle 2 is illustrated. In one embodiment, the holder 1 can be separated after being tilted inside the cradle 2. In addition, the holder 1 can be separated from the cradle 2 by being popped up by an input device on the holder 1 or the cradle 2 side without a tilting process inside the cradle 2.

It can be seen that even if the contents are omitted below, the contents described in FIG. 2 also apply to FIG. 3.

The cradle 2 can detect that the holder 1 is separated from the cradle 2.

In one embodiment, in the state where the holder 1 is included in the inner space 230 of the cradle 2, the sensor of the cradle 2 measures the tilt angle θ indicating the inclination degree of the holder 1 By doing so, it is possible to detect that the holder 1 is separated from the cradle 2. In addition, the sensor of the cradle 2 measures the time at which the binding member 182 and the binding member 274 at the third position, which have been coupled, are separated, so that the holder 1 is separated from the cradle 2. Can detect things. However, the method for sensing that the holder 1 is separated from the cradle 2 is not limited thereto.

Meanwhile, the separation of the holder 1 from the cradle 2 may be detected by a sensor (not shown) of the holder 1.

By detecting that the holder 1 is separated from the inside of the cradle 2, the cradle 2 can predict that the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1.

In one embodiment, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 determines that the tilt angle θ of the holder 1 is greater than or equal to a certain angle, thereby determining that the holder 1 is separated from the interior of the cradle 2 , It can be predicted that the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1. For example, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 is that the tilt angle θ of the holder 1 is 5°, 10°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75° or 80° or more. By determining, it is possible to determine that the holder 1 is separated from the interior of the cradle 2.

In addition, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 is that the binding member 182 in the first position and the binding member 274 in the third position are separated for a predetermined time (eg, 0.3 seconds, 0.5 seconds, etc.) or more. By judging, it is possible to predict that the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1. For example, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 determines that the binding member 182 in the first position and the binding member 274 in the third position are separated by 0.5 seconds, 1 second, or 1.5 seconds or more, thereby holding the holder. It can be predicted that the cigarette is inserted into the interior of (1).

Meanwhile, an operation of predicting that a cigarette is inserted into the holder 1 may be performed by the control unit 120 of the holder 1.

By predicting that the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1, the heater of the holder 1 can be preheated.

In one embodiment, the battery 110 of the holder 1 can be used to preheat the heater of the holder 1. For example, the heater of the holder 1 may be preheated by the power supplied by the battery 110 of the holder 1.

4A to 4B are diagrams showing changes in heater temperature according to preheating or preheating.

FIG. 4A shows an exemplary graph of heater temperature over time when the heater of holder 1 is preheated without preheating. In one embodiment, after the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1, the input device of the holder 1 is operated to receive user input, so that the heater of the holder 1 may be preheated.

Referring to FIG. 4A, T0 represents a heater temperature (eg, 15, 20, 25° C., etc.) at room temperature before heater preheating. In addition, T2 represents a preferred temperature of the heater (for example, 400°C, 500°C, 600°C, etc.) at a time point (s12) when the user starts puffing.

The heater of the holder 1 may be preheated from s11 to s12. The preheating times s11 to s12 may be 0.5 seconds, 1 second, 1.5 seconds, 2 seconds, and the like. The control unit of the holder 1 can control the heater temperature in a manner such as ON/OFF control, proportional control, integral control, differential control and PID control. On the other hand, the ON/OFF control method is simple in operation, but overshoot and hunting may occur, while the proportional control method has less overshoot and hunting, but it may take time to stabilize.

For example, when the heater preheating time (s11 to s12) is not sufficiently secured when the heater temperature is controlled using the proportional control method, the heater temperature (T1) at the time (s12) at which the user starts puffing May be lower than T2.

4B shows an exemplary graph of heater temperature over time when the heater of holder 1 is preheated after preheating.

Referring to FIG. 4B, T0 denotes a heater temperature (eg, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, 25° C., etc.) at room temperature before heater preheating. In addition, T2 represents a preferred temperature of the heater (for example, 400°C, 500°C, 600°C, etc.) at a time point (s12) when the user starts puffing.

The heater of the holder 1 is pre-heated from s21 to s22 so that the temperature of the heater can reach Tx. The control unit of the holder 1 may preheat the heater to a preset temperature Tx. For example, the control unit of the holder 1 may preheat the heater in the range of 100 to 350°C. In addition, the control unit of the holder 1 may preheat the heater for a predetermined time (s21 ~ s22). For example, the control unit of the holder 1 may preheat the heater for 1 to 3 seconds.

The heater of the holder 1 may be preheated from s21 to s22, and then preheated from s22 to s23. Even if the time (s22 to s23) in which the heater is preheated is not sufficiently secured, the temperature of the heater may reach T2 at a time s23 when the user starts puffing. As the heater of the holder 1 is preheated, a sufficient amount of aerosol can be generated by the temperature of the heater reaching T2 at a time s23 when the user starts puffing. In addition, by preheating the heater of the holder 1, the essence and the like adhered to the heater can be made flexible so that the cigarette can be easily inserted.

5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a holder including an input device.

Referring to FIG. 5, the holder 1 may include at least one input device 501 (eg, a button) through which a user can control the function of the holder 1.

For example, the user can execute various functions using the input device 501 of the holder 1. By adjusting the number of times the user presses the input device 501 (e.g., once, twice, etc.) or the time the user presses the input device 501 (e.g., 0.1 seconds, 0.2 seconds, etc.), the holder ( The desired function can be executed among the plurality of functions of 1).

In one embodiment, as the user operates the input device 501, the holder 1 may perform a function of preheating the heater. For example, when the user presses the input device 501 for 1 to 2 seconds, the holder 1 has a preset time (eg, 1 to 100 to 350°C) at a preset temperature (eg, 1). It may be preheated for 3 seconds).

On the other hand, in one embodiment, the input device may be included in the cradle 2, and in the state where the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are electrically connected, the heater of the holder 1 using the input device of the cradle 2 Can be preheated.

6 is a view showing an example in which the cigarette is inserted into the holder.

Referring to FIG. 6, the cigarette 3 may be inserted into the holder 1 through the end 141 of the case 140. When the cigarette 3 is inserted, the heater 130 is located inside the cigarette 3. Therefore, the aerosol-generating material of the cigarette 3 is heated by the heated heater 130, and accordingly, an aerosol is generated.

The holder 1 may include a cigarette insertion detection sensor. The cigarette insertion detection sensor may be implemented by a general capacitive sensor or a resistance sensor. In one embodiment, the cigarette insertion detection sensor may detect whether the cigarette 3 is inserted at the a position of the holder 1. In addition, the cigarette insertion detection sensor can detect whether the cigarette 3 inserted into the holder 1 is in contact with one side of the heater 130 at the b or c position.

The holder 1 detects that the cigarette 3 is inserted at the a position of the holder 1 using the cigarette insertion detection sensor, and then the cigarette 3 contacts the heater 130 at the b position or the c position. Before sensing, the controller 120 of the holder 1 may preheat the heater 130 by supplying the power of the battery 110 to the heater 130.

Meanwhile, the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7 to 19 below show a modified aerosol-generating system that can be applied to the aerosol-generating system according to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 described above.

7 is a block diagram showing an example of an aerosol generating device.

Referring to FIG. 7, the holder 1 includes a battery 110, a control unit 120, and a heater 130. In addition, the holder 1 includes an inner space formed by the case 140. A cigarette may be inserted into the inner space of the holder 1.

Only the components related to this embodiment are shown in the holder 1 shown in FIG. 7. Therefore, it can be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment that other general-purpose components may be further included in the holder 1 in addition to the components shown in FIG. 7.

When the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1, the holder 1 heats the heater 130. The temperature of the aerosol-generating material in the cigarette is increased by the heated heater 130, thereby generating an aerosol. The resulting aerosol is delivered to the user through a cigarette filter. However, even if the cigarette is not inserted into the holder 1, the holder 1 can heat the heater 130.

The case 140 may be separated from the holder 1. For example, when the user rotates the case 140 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, the case 140 may be separated from the holder 1.

In addition, the diameter of the hole formed by the end 141 of the case 140 may be made smaller than the diameter of the space formed by the case 140 and the heater 130, in which case it is inserted into the holder 1 Can serve as a guide for cigarettes.

The battery 110 supplies power used for the holder 1 to operate. For example, the battery 110 may supply power so that the heater 130 can be heated, and supply power necessary for the control unit 120 to operate. In addition, the battery 110 may supply power required for the display, sensor, motor, and the like installed in the holder 1 to operate.

The battery 110 may be a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, but is not limited to the above-described example. For example, the battery 110 may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, or the like.

In addition, the battery 110 may have a cylindrical shape having a diameter of 10 mm and a length of 37 mm, but is not limited thereto. The capacity of the battery 110 may be 120 mAh or more, and may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, when the battery 110 can be charged, the charging rate (C-rate) of the battery 110 may be 10C, and the discharge rate (C-rate) may be 16C to 20C, but is not limited thereto. In addition, for stable use, the battery 110 may be manufactured such that 80% or more of the total capacity can be secured even when charging/discharging proceeds 8000 times.

Here, whether the battery 110 is fully charged or completely discharged may be determined by which level of power stored in the battery 110 is compared to the total capacity of the battery 110. For example, when the power stored in the battery 110 is 95% or more of the total capacity, it may be determined that the battery 110 is fully charged. In addition, when the power stored in the battery 110 is 10% or less of the total capacity, it may be determined that the battery 110 is completely discharged. However, the criteria for determining whether the battery 110 is fully charged and fully discharged is not limited to the above-described example.

The heater 130 is heated by electric power supplied from the battery 110. When the cigarette is inserted into the holder 1, the heater 130 is located inside the cigarette. Thus, the heated heater 130 can increase the temperature of the aerosol-generating material in the cigarette.

The heater 130 may have a shape in which a cylinder and a cone are combined. For example, the heater 130 has a cylindrical shape having a diameter of about 2 mm and a length of about 23 mm, and the end 131 of the heater 130 may be closed at an acute angle, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the heater 130 may be applicable without limitation as long as it can be inserted into the cigarette. In addition, only a portion of the heater 130 may be heated. For example, assuming that the length of the heater 130 is 23 mm, only 12 mm from the end 131 of the heater 130 is heated, and the rest of the heater 130 may not be heated.

The heater 130 may be an electric resistive heater. For example, the heater 130 may include an electrically conductive track, and as the current flows through the electrically conductive track, the heater 130 may be heated.

For stable use, the heater 130 may be supplied with power according to the specifications of 3.2 V, 2.4 A, 8 W, but is not limited thereto. For example, when power is supplied to the heater 130, the surface temperature of the heater 130 may increase to 400°C or higher. The surface temperature of the heater 130 may rise to about 350° C. before 15 seconds are exceeded from when power is supplied to the heater 130.

The holder 1 may be provided with a separate temperature sensing sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensing sensor is not provided in the holder 1, and the heater 130 may serve as a temperature sensing sensor. For example, the heater 130 may further include a second electrically conductive track for temperature sensing in addition to the first electrically conductive track for heat generation.

For example, when the voltage across the second electrically conductive track and the current flowing through the second electrically conductive track are measured, the resistance R can be determined. At this time, the temperature T of the second electrically conductive track may be determined by Equation 1 below.

In Equation 1, R means the current resistance value of the second electrically conductive track, R0 means the resistance value at the temperature T0 (for example, 0°C), and α is the resistance temperature of the second electrically conductive track Means a coefficient. Since the conductive material (eg, metal) has an intrinsic resistance temperature coefficient, α may be determined in advance depending on the conductive material constituting the second electrically conductive track. Accordingly, when the resistance R of the second electrically conductive track is determined, the temperature T of the second electrically conductive track can be calculated by Equation 1 above.

The heater 130 may be composed of at least one electrically conductive track (first electrically conductive track and second electrically conductive track). For example, the heater 130 may be composed of two first electrically conductive tracks and one or two second electrically conductive tracks, but is not limited thereto.

The electrically conductive track includes an electrically resistive material. As an example, the electrically conductive track can be made of a metallic material. As another example, the electrically conductive track may be made of an electrically conductive ceramic material, carbon, metal alloy, or a composite material of ceramic material and metal.

Further, the holder 1 may include both an electrically conductive track and a temperature sensing sensor that serve as a temperature sensing sensor.

The control unit 120 generally controls the operation of the holder 1. Specifically, the controller 120 controls the operation of the battery 110 and the heater 130 as well as other components included in the holder 1. In addition, the control unit 120 may determine whether each of the components of the holder 1 is in a state in which the holder 1 is operable.

The control unit 120 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which programs executable on the microprocessor are stored. In addition, those skilled in the art to which this embodiment belongs may understand that it may be implemented with other types of hardware.

For example, the controller 120 may control the operation of the heater 130. The controller 120 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater 130 and the time during which the power is supplied so that the heater 130 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintains an appropriate temperature. In addition, the controller 120 may check the state of the battery 110 (eg, the remaining amount of the battery 110, etc.) and generate a notification signal if necessary.

In addition, the controller 120 may check the presence or absence of the puff of the user and the strength of the puff, and may count the number of puffs. In addition, the control unit 120 may continuously check the time that the holder 1 is operating. In addition, the control unit 120 checks whether the cradle 2 to be described later is combined with the holder 1, and controls the operation of the holder 1 according to the engagement or separation of the cradle 2 and the holder 1. Can.

Meanwhile, the holder 1 may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 110, the controller 120, and the heater 130.

For example, the holder 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information or a motor for outputting tactile information. As an example, when the holder 1 includes a display, the control unit 120 may display information about the state of the holder 1 to the user (eg, whether the holder is usable or the like), a heater ( Information about 130 (for example, start preheating, preheating progress, completion of preheating, etc.), information related to the battery 110 (eg, remaining capacity of the battery 110, availability, etc.), holder 1 ) Information related to the reset (for example, reset timing, reset progress, reset completion, etc.), information related to cleaning of the holder 1 (for example, cleaning time, cleaning required, cleaning progress, cleaning completion, etc.), Information related to charging of the holder 1 (e.g., charging required, charging progress, charging completed, etc.), information related to puffs (e.g., number of puffs, notice of puff termination), or information related to safety (e.g. (E.g., usage time has elapsed). As another example, when the holder 1 includes a motor, the controller 120 may transmit the above-described information to the user by generating a vibration signal using the motor.

In addition, the holder 1 may include a terminal coupled with at least one input device (for example, a button) and/or cradle 2 through which the user can control the function of the holder 1. For example, the user can perform various functions using the input device of the holder 1. Multiple functions of the holder 1 by adjusting the number of times the user presses the input device (e.g., once, twice, etc.) or the time the input device is pressed (e.g., 0.1 seconds, 0.2 seconds, etc.) You can perform any function you want. As the user operates the input device, the holder 1 has a function of preheating the heater 130, a function of adjusting the temperature of the heater 130, a function of cleaning the space where the cigarette is inserted, and a holder 1 A function of checking whether it is in an operable state, a function of displaying the remaining amount (power available) of the battery 110, a reset function of the holder 1, and the like can be performed. However, the function of the holder 1 is not limited to the examples described above.

Further, the holder 1 may include a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, and/or a cigarette insertion detection sensor. For example, the puff detection sensor may be implemented by a general pressure sensor, and the cigarette insertion detection sensor may be implemented by a general capacitive sensor or a resistance sensor. In addition, the holder 1 may be manufactured in a structure that allows external air to flow in/out even when a cigarette is inserted.

8A and 8B are views illustrating an example of a holder in various aspects.

8A is a view showing an example of the holder 1 as viewed from the first direction. 8A, the holder 1 may be manufactured in a cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto. The case 140 of the holder 1 may be separated by a user's action, and a cigarette may be inserted into the end 141 of the case 140. Also, the holder 1 may include a button 150 through which a user can control the holder 1 and a display 160 on which an image is output.

8B is a view showing an example of the holder 1 as viewed from the second direction. The holder 1 may include a terminal 170 coupled with the cradle 2. When the terminal 170 of the holder 1 is coupled to the terminal 260 of the cradle 2, the battery 110 of the holder 1 is charged by the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2 Can. In addition, through the terminal 170 and the terminal 260, the holder 1 may be operated by the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2, and communication between the holder 1 and the cradle 2 (Transmission and reception of signals) is possible. For example, the terminal 170 may be composed of four micro pins, but is not limited thereto.

9 is a configuration diagram showing an example of a cradle.

Referring to FIG. 9, the cradle 2 includes a battery 210 and a control unit 220. In addition, the cradle 2 includes an inner space 230 into which the holder 1 can be inserted. For example, the inner space 230 may be formed on one side of the cradle 2. Therefore, even if the cradle 2 does not include a separate lid, the holder 1 can be inserted into the cradle 2 and fixed.

In the cradle 2 shown in Fig. 9, only the components related to this embodiment are shown. Therefore, those of ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment may understand that other general-purpose components other than those shown in FIG. 9 may be further included in the cradle 2.

The battery 210 supplies power used for the cradle 2 to operate. In addition, the battery 210 may supply power for charging the battery 110 of the holder 1. For example, when the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2 and the terminal 170 of the holder 1 and the terminal 260 of the cradle 2 are combined, the battery 210 of the cradle 2 is Electric power may be supplied to the battery 110 of the holder 1.

In addition, when the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are combined, the battery 210 may supply power used to operate the holder 1. For example, when the terminal 170 of the holder 1 and the terminal 260 of the cradle 2 are combined, regardless of whether the battery 110 of the holder 1 is discharged, the holder 1 is a cradle. (2) can operate using the power supplied by the battery 210.

An example of the type of the battery 210 may be the same as the example of the battery 110 described above with reference to FIG. 7. The capacity of the battery 210 may be larger than the capacity of the battery 110, for example, the capacity of the battery 210 may be 3000mAh or more, but the capacity of the battery 210 is not limited to the above-described example Does not.

The control unit 220 generally controls the operation of the cradle 2. The control unit 220 may control the operation of all components of the cradle 2. In addition, the control unit 220 may determine whether the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are coupled, and control the operation of the cradle 2 according to the combination or separation of the cradle 2 and the holder 1.

For example, when the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are combined, the control unit 220 charges the battery 110 or heats the heater 130 by supplying the power of the battery 210 to the holder 1 I can do it. Therefore, even when the remaining amount of the battery 110 is small, the user can continuously smoke by combining the holder 1 and the cradle 2.

The control unit 120 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which programs executable on the microprocessor are stored. In addition, those skilled in the art to which this embodiment belongs may understand that it may be implemented with other types of hardware.

Meanwhile, the cradle 2 may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 210 and the control unit 220. For example, the cradle 2 may include a display capable of outputting visual information. For example, when the cradle 2 includes a display, the control unit 220 generates a signal to be displayed on the display, so that the user can use the battery 210 (eg, the remaining capacity of the battery 210). Information related to the reset of the cradle 2 (e.g., when to reset, reset progress, reset completed, etc.), cleaning of the holder 1 (e.g., when to clean, need cleaning, cleaning) Information related to the progress, cleaning completion, etc., and charging of the cradle 2 (eg, charging required, charging progress, charging completion, etc.) may be transmitted.

In addition, the cradle 2 includes at least one input device (for example, a button), a terminal 260 and/or a battery 210 that engages the holder 1 to allow the user to control the function of the cradle 2 ) May include an interface for charging (eg, a USB port, etc.).

For example, the user can execute various functions using the input device of the cradle 2. By adjusting the number of times the user presses the input device or the time at which the input device is pressed, a desired function among a plurality of functions of the cradle 2 can be executed. As the user operates the input device, the cradle 2 has a function of preheating the heater 130 of the holder 1, a function of adjusting the temperature of the heater 130 of the holder 1, within the holder 1 A function to clean the space where the cigarette is inserted, a function to check whether the cradle 2 is operable, a function to display the remaining amount (power available) of the battery 210 of the cradle 2, a reset of the cradle 2 Functions and the like can be performed. However, the function of the cradle 2 is not limited to the examples described above.

10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a cradle in various aspects.

10A is a view showing an example of the cradle 2 viewed from the first direction. On one side of the cradle 2 is an inner space 230 into which the holder 1 can be inserted. Further, even if the cradle 2 does not include a separate fixing means such as a lid, the holder 1 can be inserted into and fixed to the cradle 2. In addition, the cradle 2 may include a button 240 through which a user can control the cradle 2 and a display 250 through which an image is output.

10B is a view showing an example of the cradle 2 viewed from the second direction. The cradle 2 may include a terminal 260 coupled with the inserted holder 1. When the terminal 260 is coupled to the terminal 170 of the holder 1, the battery 110 of the holder 1 can be charged by the electric power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2. In addition, through the terminal 170 and the terminal 260, the holder 1 may be operated by the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2, and the signal between the holder 1 and the cradle 2 It is possible to send and receive. For example, the terminal 260 may be composed of four micro pins, but is not limited thereto.

As described above with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10B, the holder 1 can be inserted into the inner space 230 of the cradle 2. Further, the holder 1 may be completely inserted into the cradle 2, or may be tilted while inserted into the cradle 2. Hereinafter, examples in which the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13B.

11 is a view showing an example in which the holder is inserted into the cradle.

Referring to FIG. 11, an example in which the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2 is illustrated. Since the inner space 230 into which the holder 1 is to be inserted is present on one side of the cradle 2, the inserted holder 1 may not be exposed to the outside by the other sides of the cradle 2. Accordingly, the cradle 2 may not include other configurations (eg, lids) for not exposing the holder 1 to the outside.

The cradle 2 may include at least one binding member 271 and 272 to increase the binding strength with the holder 1. Further, the holder 1 may also include at least one binding member 181. Here, the binding member 181, 271, 272 may be a magnet, but is not limited thereto. In FIG. 11, for convenience of description, the holder 1 includes one binding member 181, and the cradle 2 includes two binding members 271 and 272, but the binding member The number of (181, 271, 272) is not limited to this.

The holder 1 may include a binding member 181 in a first position, and the cradle 2 may include binding members 271 and 272 in a second position and a third position, respectively. In this case, the first position and the third position may be positions facing each other when the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2.

As the binding members 181, 271, and 272 are included in the holder 1 and the cradle 2, even if the holder 1 is inserted into one side of the cradle 2, the holder 1 and the cradle 2 are It can bind more strongly. In other words, as the holder 1 and the cradle 2 further include binding members 181, 271, 272 in addition to the terminals 170, 260, the holder 1 and the cradle 2 can be more strongly attached. have. Therefore, even if the cradle 2 does not have a separate configuration (for example, a lid), the inserted holder 1 may not be easily separated from the cradle 2.

In addition, if it is determined that the holder 1 has been completely inserted into the cradle 2 by the terminals 170, 260 and/or the binding members 181, 271, 272, the control unit 220 of the battery 210 The battery 110 of the holder 1 can be charged using electric power.

FIG. 12 is a view showing an example in which the holder is tilted while inserted into the cradle.

Referring to FIG. 12, the holder 1 is tilted inside the cradle 2. Here, the tilt means that the holder 1 is inclined at a certain angle in the state inserted into the cradle 2.

As shown in Fig. 11, when the holder 1 is completely inserted into the cradle 2, the user cannot smoke. In other words, when the holder 1 is completely inserted into the cradle 2, a cigarette cannot be inserted into the holder 1. Therefore, the user cannot smoke while the holder 1 is fully inserted into the cradle 2.

12, when the holder 1 is tilted, the end 141 of the holder 1 is exposed to the outside. Therefore, the user can insert a cigarette at the end 141 and inhale (smoking) the generated aerosol. The tilt angle θ may be secured at a sufficient angle so that the cigarette is not bent or damaged when the cigarette is inserted into the end 141 of the holder 1. For example, the holder 1 can be tilted as much as the entire cigarette insertion hole included in the end 141 can be exposed to the outside. For example, the range of the tilt angle θ may be 0° or more and 180° or less, and preferably 10° or more and 90° or less. More preferably, the range of the tilt angle θ is 10° or more and 20° or less, 10° or more and 30° or less, 10° or more and 40° or less, 10° or more, 50° or less, or 10° or more and 60° or less Can.

In addition, even if the holder 1 is tilted, the terminal 170 of the holder 1 and the terminal 260 of the cradle 2 are coupled to each other. Therefore, the heater 130 of the holder 1 can be heated by the power supplied by the battery 210 of the cradle 2. Therefore, even when the remaining amount of the battery 110 of the holder 1 is small or absent, the holder 1 can generate an aerosol using the battery 210 of the cradle 2.

12 shows an example in which the holder 1 includes one binding member 182 and the cradle 2 includes two binding members 273 and 274. For example, the positions of each of the binding members 182, 273, and 274 are as described above with reference to FIG. If it is assumed that the binding members 182, 273, and 274 are magnets, the magnet strength of the binding member 274 may be greater than that of the binding member 273. Therefore, even if the holder 1 is tilted, the holder 1 may not be completely separated from the cradle 2 by the binding member 182 and the binding member 274.

In addition, when it is determined that the holder 1 is tilted by the terminals 170, 260 and/or the binding members 182, 273, 274, the control unit 220 uses the power of the battery 210 to hold the holder The heater 130 of (1) can be heated or the battery 110 can be charged.

13A to 13B are views showing examples in which the holder is inserted into the cradle.

13A shows an example in which the holder 1 is completely inserted into the cradle 2. When the holder 1 is completely inserted into the cradle 2, in order to minimize the user's contact with the holder 1, the inner space 230 of the cradle 2 may be manufactured to be sufficiently secured. When the holder 1 is completely inserted into the cradle 2, the control unit 220 supplies power of the battery 210 to the holder 1 so that the battery 110 of the holder 1 can be charged.

13B shows an example in which the holder 1 is tilted with the cradle 2 inserted. When the holder 1 is tilted, the control unit 220 holds the power of the battery 210 so that the battery 110 of the holder 1 is charged or the heater 130 of the holder 1 is heated. (1).

14 is a flowchart illustrating an example in which the holder and the cradle operate.

The method of producing the aerosol shown in FIG. 14 consists of the steps performed in time series in the holder 1 shown in FIG. 7 or the cradle 2 shown in FIG. 9. Accordingly, it can be seen that the contents described above with respect to the holder 1 shown in FIG. 7 and the cradle 2 shown in FIG. 9 are applied to the method of FIG. 14 even if omitted below.

In step 1410, the holder 1 determines whether or not it is inserted into the cradle (2). For example, the control unit 120 may include the holder 1 and the holders 170 and 260 of the cradle 2, and/or the holders 181, 271, and 272, depending on whether the operating members are connected to each other. It can be determined whether 1) has been inserted into the cradle 2.

When the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2, the process proceeds to step 1420, and when the holder 1 is separated from the cradle 2, the process proceeds to step 1430.

In step 1420, the cradle 2 determines whether the holder 1 is tilted. For example, the control unit 220 may include the holder (1) and the terminals (170, 260) of the cradle (2) are connected to each other and/or whether the binding members (182, 273, 274) operate according to the holder ( It can be determined whether 1) is tilted.

In step 1420, the cradle 2 is described as determining whether the holder 1 is tilted, but is not limited thereto. In other words, whether the holder 1 is tilted may be determined by the control unit 120 of the holder 1.

If the holder 1 is tilted, the process proceeds to step 1440, and if the holder 1 is not tilted (ie, the holder 1 is completely inserted into the cradle 2), the process proceeds to step 1470.

In step 1430, the holder 1 determines whether the use conditions of the holder 1 are satisfied. For example, the controller 120 may determine whether the use condition is satisfied by checking whether the remaining amount of the battery 110 and other components of the holder 1 can operate normally.

If the use condition of the holder 1 is satisfied, the process proceeds to step 1440, otherwise the procedure is terminated.

In step 1440, the holder 1 informs the user that it is available. For example, the controller 120 may output an image indicating that it is available for display on the holder 1 or may generate a vibration signal by controlling the motor of the holder 1.

In step 1450, the heater 130 is heated. As an example, when the holder 1 is separated from the cradle 2, the heater 130 may be heated by the power of the battery 110 of the holder 1. As another example, when the holder 1 is tilted, the heater 130 may be heated by the power of the battery 210 of the cradle 2.

The control unit 120 of the holder 1 or the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 checks the temperature of the heater 130 in real time to supply the amount of power supplied to the heater 130 and power to the heater 130 You can adjust the time. For example, the controllers 120 and 220 may check the temperature of the heater 130 in real time through the temperature sensing sensor included in the holder 1 or the electrically conductive track of the heater 130.

In step 1460, the holder 1 performs an aerosol-generating mechanism. For example, the controllers 120 and 220 check the temperature of the heater 130 that changes as the user performs puffing to adjust the amount of power supplied to the heater 130 or supply power to the heater 130. You can stop. In addition, the controllers 120 and 220 may count the number of puffs of the user, and output information indicating that cleaning of the holder is required when a certain number of puffs (for example, 1500 times) is reached.

In step 1470, the cradle 2 performs charging of the holder 1. For example, the control unit 220 may charge the holder 1 by supplying the battery 210 power of the cradle 2 to the battery 110 of the holder 1.

Meanwhile, the controllers 120 and 220 may stop the operation of the holder 1 according to the number of puffs of the user or the operation time of the holder 1. Hereinafter, an example in which the control units 120 and 220 stop the operation of the holder 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 15.

15 is a flowchart illustrating another example in which the holder operates.

The method of producing the aerosol shown in FIG. 15 consists of the steps performed in time series in the holder 1 shown in FIG. 7 and the cradle 2 shown in FIG. 9. Accordingly, it can be seen that the contents described above with respect to the holder 1 shown in FIG. 7 or the cradle 2 shown in FIG. 9 are applied to the method shown in FIG. 15 even if omitted below.

In step 1510, the control unit (120, 220) determines whether the user has puffed. For example, the controllers 120 and 220 may determine whether the user has puffed through the puff detection sensor included in the holder 1.

In step 1520, an aerosol is generated according to the user's puff. The control units 120 and 220 can adjust the power supplied to the heater 130 according to the temperature of the user's puff and heater 130, as described above with reference to FIG. Also, the controllers 120 and 220 count the number of puffs of the user.

In operation 1530, the controller 120 or 220 determines whether the number of puffs of the user is equal to or greater than the number of puffs. For example, assuming that the puff limit number is set to 14, the controllers 120 and 220 determine whether the counted puff count is 14 or more.

Meanwhile, when the number of puffs of the user is close to the number of puffs (for example, when the number of puffs of the user is 12), the controllers 120 and 220 may output a warning signal through a display or a vibration motor.

If the number of puffs of the user is greater than or equal to the number of puffs, the process proceeds to step 1550, and when the number of puffs of the user is less than the number of puffs, the process proceeds to step 1540.

In operation 1540, the controllers 120 and 220 determine whether the time at which the holder 1 operates is equal to or greater than the operation time limit. Here, the time when the holder 1 is operated means a time accumulated from the time when the holder starts to the operation. For example, assuming that the operation timeout period is set to 10 minutes, the controllers 120 and 220 determine whether the holder 1 is operating for 10 minutes or more.

On the other hand, when the operation time of the holder 1 is close to the operation time limit (for example, when the holder 1 is operating for 8 minutes), the controllers 120 and 220 signal a warning through the display or vibration motor Can output

If the holder 1 is operating for more than the operation time limit, the process proceeds to step 1550, and when the holder 1 is less than the operation time limit, the operation proceeds to step 1520.

In operation 1550, the controllers 120 and 220 forcibly end the operation of the holder. In other words, the control unit 120 or 220 stops the aerosol generating mechanism of the holder. For example, the controllers 120 and 220 may forcibly terminate the operation of the holder by cutting off power supplied to the heater 130.

16 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the cradle.

The flowchart shown in FIG. 16 is composed of steps processed in time series in the cradle 2 shown in FIG. 9. Therefore, it can be seen that even if the contents are omitted below, the contents described above with respect to the cradle 2 shown in FIG. 9 also apply to the flowchart of FIG. 16.

Although not illustrated in FIG. 16, the operation of the cradle 2 to be described below can be performed regardless of whether the holder 1 is inserted into the cradle 2.

In step 1610, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 determines whether the button 240 has been pressed. If the button 240 is pressed, the process proceeds to step 1620, and when the button 240 is not pressed, the process proceeds to step 1630.

In step 1620, the cradle 2 displays the status of the battery. For example, the controller 220 may output information about the current state of the battery 210 (eg, remaining amount, etc.) to the display 250.

In operation 1630, the control unit 220 of the cradle 2 determines whether a cable is connected to the cradle 2. For example, the control unit 220 determines whether a cable is connected to an interface (for example, a USB port) included in the cradle 2. If the cable is connected to the cradle 2, the process proceeds to step 1640, otherwise the procedure is terminated.

In step 1640, the cradle 2 performs a charging operation. For example, the cradle 2 charges the battery 210 using power supplied through a connected cable.

As described above with reference to FIG. 7, a cigarette may be inserted into the holder 1. The cigarette contains aerosol-generating material, and aerosol is generated by the heated heater 130.

Hereinafter, an example of a cigarette that can be inserted into the holder 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19F.

17 is a view showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into the holder.

Referring to FIG. 17, the cigarette 3 may be inserted into the holder 1 through the end 141 of the case 140. When the cigarette 3 is inserted, the heater 130 is located inside the cigarette 3. Therefore, the aerosol-generating material of the cigarette 3 is heated by the heated heater 130, and accordingly, an aerosol is generated.

The cigarette 3 may be similar to a typical combustion cigarette. For example, the cigarette 3 may be divided into a first portion 310 containing an aerosol-generating material and a second portion 320 including a filter or the like. Meanwhile, the cigarette 3 according to an embodiment may include an aerosol-generating material in the second portion 320. For example, an aerosol-generating material made in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion 320.

The entire first portion 310 is inserted into the holder 1, and the second portion 320 can be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first portion 310 may be inserted into the holder 1, or a portion of the first portion 310 and the second portion 320 may be inserted.

The user may inhale the aerosol while the second part 320 is in the mouth. At this time, the aerosol is mixed with external air and delivered to the user's mouth. As shown in FIG. 17, external air may be introduced 1110 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 3, or introduced through at least one air passage formed in the holder 1 It may be (1120). For example, the air passage formed in the holder 1 may be manufactured to be opened and closed by a user.

18A and 18B are diagrams illustrating an example of a cigarette.

18A and 18B, the cigarette 3 includes a tobacco rod 310, a first filter segment 321, a cooling structure 322, and a second filter segment 323. The first portion 310 described above with reference to FIG. 17 includes a tobacco rod 310, and the second portion 320 includes a first filter segment 321, a cooling structure 322, and a second filter segment 323 ).

Meanwhile, when comparing FIGS. 18A and 18B, the cigarette 3 of FIG. 18B further includes a fourth wrapper 334 compared to the cigarette 3 of FIG. 18A.

However, the structure of the cigarette 3 shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B is only an example, and some components may be omitted. For example, one or more of the first filter segment 321, the cooling structure 322, and the second filter segment 323 may not be included in the cigarette 3.

Cigarette rod 310 includes an aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol and oleyl alcohol. The length of the tobacco rod 310 may be between about 7 mm and 15 mm, or preferably about 12 mm. Further, the diameter of the tobacco rod 310 may be 7 mm to 9 mm, or preferably, about 7.9 mm. The length and diameter of the cigarette rod 310 is not limited to the above-described numerical range.

Additionally, the tobacco rod 310 may contain other additives such as flavoring agents, wetting agents and/or acetate compounds. For example, flavoring agents are licorice, sucrose, fructose syrup, isosweet, cocoa, lavender, cinnamon, cardamom, celery, fenugreek, cascarilla, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, Vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, mint oil, cinnamon, caraway, cognac, jasmine, chamomile, menthol, cinnamon, ylang-ylang, sage, spearmint, ginger, coriander or coffee. Further, the wetting agent may include glycerin or propylene glycol.

As an example, the cigarette rod 310 may be filled with cigarette cuts. Here, tobacco cuts can be produced by finely crushing the tobacco sheet.

In order for the wide tobacco sheet to be filled in the tobacco rod 310 in a narrow space, a process for allowing the tobacco sheet to be easily folded is additionally required. Therefore, compared to filling the cigarette rod 310 with a cigarette sheet, it is easier to fill the cigarette rod 310 with cigarette cuts, and the productivity and efficiency of the process for producing the cigarette rod 310 may be higher. have.

As another example, the tobacco rod 310 may be filled with a plurality of tobacco strands with a shredded tobacco sheet. For example, the tobacco rod 310 may be formed by combining a plurality of tobacco strands in the same direction (parallel) or randomly. One tobacco strand may be manufactured in a cuboid shape having a width of 1 mm, a length of 12 mm, and a thickness (height) of 0.1 mm, but is not limited thereto.

Compared to the cigarette rod 310 being filled with a cigarette sheet, the cigarette rod 310 filled with cigarette strands may generate a greater amount of aerosol. Assuming that they are filled in the same space, compared to the tobacco sheet, the tobacco strands ensure a larger surface area. The large surface area means that there is more opportunity for the aerosol-generating material to contact the outside air. Thus, when the tobacco rod 310 is filled with tobacco strands, more aerosols can be generated compared to that filled with a tobacco sheet.

In addition, when separating the cigarette 3 from the holder 1, the cigarette rod 310 filled with cigarette strands can be separated more easily than that filled with a cigarette sheet. Compared to the tobacco sheet, the frictional forces generated by the tobacco strands contacting the heater 130 are smaller. Thus, when the tobacco rod 310 is filled with tobacco strands, it can be more easily separated from the holder 1 compared to being filled with a tobacco sheet.

The tobacco sheet may be formed by crushing the tobacco raw material in a slurry form and then drying the slurry. For example, 15-30% of aerosol-generating material may be added to the slurry. Tobacco raw materials may be tobacco leaf flakes, tobacco stems, tobacco dust generated during tobacco processing and/or major side strips of tobacco leaves. In addition, the tobacco sheet may contain other additives such as wood cellulose fiber.

The first filter segment 321 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first filter segment 321 may be in the form of a tube including a hollow inside. The length of the first filter segment 321 may be about 7 mm to 15 mm, or preferably, about 7 mm. The length of the first filter segment 321 may be shorter than about 7 mm, but it is desirable to have a length that does not impair the function of at least one cigarette element (eg, cooling element, capsule, acetate filter, etc.). . The length of the first filter segment 321 is not limited to the aforementioned numerical range. Meanwhile, the length of the first filter segment 321 may be extended, and the entire length of the cigarette 3 may be adjusted according to the length of the first filter segment 321.

The second filter segment 323 may also be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the second filter segment 323 may be made of a recess filter including hollow, but is not limited thereto. The length of the second filter segment 323 may be about 5 mm to 15 mm, or preferably, about 12 mm. The length of the second filter segment 323 is not limited to the above-described numerical range.

Also, at least one capsule 324 may be included in the second filter segment 323. Here, the capsule 324 may be a structure in which a content liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped with a film. For example, the capsule 324 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape. The diameter of the capsule 324 may be 2 mm or more, or preferably 2-4 mm.

The material forming the coating of the capsule 324 may be starch and/or gelling agent. For example, gellan gum or gelatin may be used as the gelling agent. In addition, a gelling aid may be further used as a material for forming the coating of the capsule 324. Here, as a gelling aid, calcium chloride can be used, for example. Further, a plasticizer may be further used as a material for forming the coating of the capsule 324. Here, glycerin and/or sorbitol can be used as the plasticizer. In addition, a coloring agent may be further used as a material for forming a coating of the capsule 324.

For example, menthol, essential oil of a plant, etc. may be used as a fragrance contained in the contents of the capsule. In addition, as a solvent of the fragrance contained in the content liquid, for example, a medium chain fatty acid triglyceride (MCT) may be used. In addition, the content liquid may contain other additives such as a pigment, emulsifier, and thickener.

The cooling structure 322 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 130 heating the tobacco rod 310. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to a suitable temperature. The length of the cooling structure 322 may be about 10 mm to 20 mm, or preferably, about 14 mm. The length of the cooling structure 322 is not limited to the above-described numerical range.

For example, the cooling structure 322 can be made of polylactic acid. The cooling structure 322 may be manufactured in various forms to increase the surface area per unit area (ie, the surface area in contact with the aerosol). Various examples of the cooling structure 322 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 19A to 19F.

The cigarette rod 310 and the first filter segment 321 may be packaged by the first wrapper 331. For example, the first wrapper 331 may be made of a paper-like packaging material having oil resistance.

The cooling structure 322 and the second filter segment 323 may be packaged by a second wrapper 332. In addition, the entire cigarette 3 may be repackaged by a third wrapper 333. For example, the second wrapper 332 and the third wrapper 333 may be made of general paper packaging materials. Optionally, the second wrapper 332 may be an oil resistant hard wrapping paper or a PLA flavored paper. In addition, the second wrapper 332 may wrap the second filter segment 323 portion, and additionally further pack the second filter segment 323 and the cooling structure 322.

Referring to FIG. 18B, the cigarette 3 may include a fourth wrapper 334. At least one of the tobacco rod 310 and the first filter segment 321 may be packaged by the fourth wrapper 334. In other words, only the cigarette rod 310 may be packaged by the fourth wrapper 334, and the cigarette rod 310 and the first filter segment 321 may be packaged by the fourth wrapper 334. For example, the fourth wrapper 334 may be made of a paper packaging material.

The fourth wrapper 334 may be produced by applying (or coating) a predetermined material to one or both surfaces of the paper packaging material. Here, as an example of a predetermined material, silicon may be applicable, but is not limited thereto. Silicone has characteristics such as heat resistance with little change with temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any material having the above-described properties may be applied (or coated) to the fourth wrapper 334 without limitation.

Meanwhile, FIG. 18B shows that the cigarette 3 includes both the first wrapper 331 and the fourth wrapper 334, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the cigarette 3 may include only one of the first wrapper 331 and the fourth wrapper 334.

The fourth wrapper 334 can prevent the cigarette 3 from burning. For example, when the cigarette rod 310 is heated by the heater 130, there is a possibility that the cigarette 3 is burned. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the substances included in the cigarette rod 310, the cigarette 3 may be burned. Even in this case, since the fourth wrapper 334 includes a non-combustible material, the phenomenon that the cigarette 3 is burned can be prevented.

In addition, the fourth wrapper 334 can prevent the holder 1 from being contaminated by materials generated in the cigarette 3. By the user's puff, liquid substances can be produced in the cigarette 3. For example, the aerosol generated in the cigarette 3 is cooled by external air, whereby liquid substances (eg, moisture, etc.) may be generated. As the fourth wrapper 334 wraps the tobacco rod 310 and/or the first filter segment 321, liquid substances generated in the cigarette 3 can be prevented from leaking out of the cigarette 3 Can be. Therefore, the phenomenon that the case 140 of the holder 1 is contaminated by the liquid substances generated in the cigarette 3 can be prevented.

19A to 19F are views showing examples of the cooling structure of the cigarette.

For example, the cooling structures shown in FIGS. 19A-19F can be fabricated using fibers produced from pure polylactic acid (PLA).

As an example, when a film (sheet) is produced by filling a film (sheet) and a cooling structure, the film (sheet) may be broken by an external impact. In this case, the effect of the cooling structure cooling the aerosol is reduced.

As another example, in the case of manufacturing a cooling structure by extrusion molding, the efficiency of the process is lowered as processes such as cutting of the structure are added. In addition, there are limitations in manufacturing cooling structures in various shapes.

As the cooling structure according to an embodiment is manufactured using polylactic acid fibers (eg, weaving), the risk that the cooling structure is deformed or loses function by external impact may be lowered. In addition, by changing the method of combining the fibers, it is possible to manufacture a cooling structure having various shapes.

In addition, by fabricating a cooling structure using fibers, the surface area in contact with the aerosol is increased. Therefore, the aerosol cooling effect of the cooling structure can be further improved.

Referring to FIG. 19A, the cooling structure 1910 may be manufactured in a cylindrical shape, and at least one air passage 1911 may be formed on a cross section of the cooling structure 1910.

Referring to FIG. 19B, the cooling structure 1920 may be made of a structure in which a plurality of fibers are entangled with each other. At this time, the aerosol may flow between the fibers, and a vortex may be formed according to the shape of the cooling structure 1920. The formed vortex widens the area where the aerosol contacts in the cooling structure 1920, and increases the time that the aerosol stays in the cooling structure 1920. Thus, the heated aerosol can be cooled effectively.

Referring to FIG. 19C, the cooling structure 1930 may be manufactured in a form in which a plurality of bundles 1931 are collected.

Referring to FIG. 19D, the cooling structure 1940 may be filled with granules made of polylactic acid, legume, or charcoal, respectively. In addition, the granules can also be made of a mixture of polylactic acid, legume and charcoal. On the other hand, the granule may further include an element capable of increasing the cooling effect of the aerosol in addition to polylactic acid, legume and/or charcoal.

Referring to FIG. 19E, the cooling structure 1950 may include a first cross section 1951 and a second cross section 1951.

The first cross-section 1951 borders the first filter segment 321 and may include an air gap through which an aerosol flows. The second cross-section 1952 abuts the second filter segment 323 and may include voids through which aerosols can be released. For example, the first section 1951 and the second section 1952 may include a single void having the same diameter, but the diameter and number of voids included in the first section 1951 and the second section 1952 Is not limited to this.

In addition, the cooling structure 1950 may include a third section 1953 including a plurality of voids between the first section 1951 and the second section 1952. For example, the diameter of the plurality of voids included in the third section 1953 may be smaller than the diameter of the voids included in the first section 1951 and the second section 1952. Also, the number of voids included in the third section 1953 may be greater than the number of voids included in the first section 1951 and the second section 1952.

Referring to FIG. 19F, the cooling structure 1960 may include a first section 1961 that abuts the first filter segment 321 and a second section 1962 that abuts the second filter segment 323. . In addition, the cooling structure 1960 can include one or more tubular elements 1963. For example, the tubular element 1963 can penetrate the first cross section 1961 and the second cross section 1962. Further, the tubular element 1963 may be packaged with a microporous packaging material and may be filled with a filler (eg, the granules described above with reference to FIG. 19D) that can increase the cooling effect of the aerosol.

According to the above, the holder can produce an aerosol by heating the cigarette. In addition, the aerosol can be produced independently of the holder or even when the holder is inserted into the cradle and tilted. In particular, when the holder is tilted, the heater may be heated by the power of the battery of the cradle.

The above-described method may be implemented as a program executable on a computer, and may be implemented on a general-purpose digital computer that operates the program using a computer-readable recording medium. In addition, the structure of data used in the above-described method may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium through various means. The computer-readable recording medium includes a storage medium such as a magnetic storage medium (e.g., ROM, RAM, USB, floppy disk, hard disk, etc.), an optical reading medium (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD, etc.). do.

Those of ordinary skill in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that it may be implemented in a modified form without departing from the essential characteristics of the above-described substrate. Therefore, the disclosed methods should be considered in terms of explanation, not limitation. The scope of the present invention is shown in the claims rather than the foregoing description, and all differences within the equivalent range should be interpreted as being included in the present invention.

Claims (17)

A holder comprising a heater that produces an aerosol by heating the cigarette; And
In the aerosol generating system comprising a; cradle comprising an inner space into which the holder is inserted,
The holder is tiltable in the inner space of the cradle while maintaining electrical connection with the cradle,
The cradle senses the tilt of the holder inserted into the inner space of the cradle to predict that a cigarette is inserted into the holder,
The aerosol generating system is to preheat the heater by supplying power to the heater based on the detection result. delete delete delete According to claim 1,
The cradle preheats the heater in the range of 100°C to 350°C, an aerosol-generating system. According to claim 1,
The cradle preheats the heater for 1-3 seconds, aerosol generating system. According to claim 1,
The holder,
Further comprising; at least one input device capable of controlling the function of the holder,
The holder pre-heats the heater as input is received through the at least one input device. According to claim 1,
The holder detects whether a cigarette is inserted into the holder,
Based on the detection result, the aerosol generating system pre-heats the heater until the cigarette contacts one side of the heater. In the method of producing an aerosol by heating the cigarette,
Predicting whether a cigarette is inserted into the holder; And
Preheating the heater by supplying power to the holder based on the prediction result;
Including,
The holder is tiltable in the interior space of the cradle while maintaining electrical connection with the cradle,
The predicting step,
Sensing the tilt of the holder after the holder is inserted into the inner space of the cradle; And
Predicting whether a cigarette is inserted into the holder based on the detection result;
How to include. delete delete delete A computer-readable recording medium recording a program for executing the method of claim 9 on a computer. delete delete delete delete

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