KR20230172999A - Aerosol generating device and operating method therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes a case including a receiving passage into which a cigarette is inserted, a cover coupled to the case, a heater for heating the cigarette, a humidity detection sensor disposed on the upper surface of the cover, and a humidity detection sensor. It includes a control unit that determines the humidity state of the reel by comparing the amount of moisture detected by the coil with a preset threshold.

Description

Aerosol generating device and operating method therefor {AEROSOL GENERATING DEVICE AND OPERATING METHOD THEREFOR}

The present disclosure relates to aerosol generating devices and methods of operation therefor. Specifically, it relates to an aerosol generating device that can provide an operating mode corresponding to the humidity of a cigarette detected by a humidity sensor and an operating method therefor.

Recently, there has been an increasing demand for smoking methods that replace regular cigarettes. For example, there is an increasing demand for a method of generating an aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material in the cigarette, rather than a method of generating an aerosol by burning a cigarette. Accordingly, research on heated cigarettes or heated aerosol generating devices is actively underway.

Meanwhile, moisture has a greater specific heat than air, and its heat capacity is greater than that of air at the same temperature. Because of this, when a user inhales an aerosol with a high moisture content, a problem may arise where the user feels more hot than when inhaling air of the same temperature.

The present disclosure provides an aerosol generating device capable of distinguishing between regular cigarettes and overly humidified cigarettes, and an operating method therefor.

The present disclosure provides an aerosol generating device including operating modes corresponding to normal cigarettes and over-humidified cigarettes, respectively, and an operating method therefor.

The problems to be solved through the embodiments are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings. will be.

An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes a case including a receiving passage into which a cigarette is inserted, a cover coupled to the case, a heater for heating the cigarette, a humidity detection sensor disposed on the upper surface of the cover, and the It includes a control unit that determines the humidity state of the reel by comparing the amount of moisture detected by the humidity sensor with a preset threshold.

A method of operating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes heating a cigarette by a heater, comparing the amount of moisture detected by a humidity sensor with a preset threshold, and determining the humidity state of the cigarette, and and operating the heater with a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette. The aerosol generating device includes a case including a receiving passage into which the cigarette is inserted, and a cover coupled to the case and including an external hole overlapping the receiving passage in the thickness direction, and the humidity detection sensor , characterized in that it is disposed on the upper surface of the cover.

The aerosol generating device and operating method thereof according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can distinguish between a regular cigarette and an overly humid cigarette using a humidity detection sensor.

Additionally, the aerosol generating device and operating method thereof according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may provide operating modes corresponding to a regular cigarette and an over-humidified cigarette, respectively.

The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings.

Figures 1 to 3 are diagrams showing examples of cigarettes inserted into an aerosol generating device.
Figures 4 and 5 are diagrams showing examples of cigarettes.
Figure 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.
Figure 7a is a perspective view showing the appearance of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7B is a perspective view showing an operating state in which some components are separated from the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A.
FIGS. 8A and 8B are top views of the cover shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B.
Figure 9a is a cross-sectional view for explaining a capacitive humidity detection sensor.
Figure 9b is a cross-sectional view for explaining an electrical resistance type humidity detection sensor.
Figure 9c is a cross-sectional view for explaining the optical humidity detection sensor.
Figure 10 is a graph to explain the temperature profile.
Figure 11 is a flowchart explaining a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

The terms used in the embodiments are general terms that are currently widely used as much as possible while considering the function in the present invention, but this may vary depending on the intention or precedent of a person skilled in the art, the emergence of new technology, etc. In addition, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, the meaning 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 meaning of the term and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply the name of the term.

When it is said that a part "includes" a certain element throughout the specification, this means that, unless specifically stated to the contrary, it does not exclude other elements but may further include other elements. In addition, terms such as “??unit” and “??module” used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented as hardware or software, or as a combination of hardware and software. there is.

Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the present invention may 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.

Figures 1 to 3 are diagrams showing examples of cigarettes inserted into an aerosol generating device.

Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. 2 and 3, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes a vaporizer 14. Additionally, a cigarette 2 may be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device 1.

Components related to this embodiment are shown in the aerosol generating device 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. Accordingly, those skilled in the art can understand that in addition to the components shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, other general-purpose components may be further included in the aerosol generating device 1. .

2 and 3 show that the aerosol generating device 1 includes a heater 13, but if necessary, the heater 13 may be omitted.

In Figure 1, the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the heater 13 are shown arranged in a line. Additionally, Figure 2 shows the battery 11, control unit 12, vaporizer 14, and heater 13 arranged in a row. Additionally, Figure 3 shows the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 being arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. In other words, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1, the arrangement of the battery 11, control unit 12, heater 13, and vaporizer 14 may be changed.

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

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

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

The control unit 12 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the operation of the battery 11, heater 13, and vaporizer 14, as well as other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. Additionally, the control unit 12 may check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed on the microprocessor. Additionally, those skilled in the art can understand that this embodiment may be implemented with other types of hardware.

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

Heater 13 may be an electrically resistive heater. For example, the heater 13 includes an electrically conductive track, and the heater 13 may be heated as a current flows through the electrically conductive track. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above-described example, and may be any heater that can be heated to a desired temperature without limitation. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device 1, or may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

Meanwhile, as another example, the heater 13 may be an induction heating type heater. Specifically, the heater 13 may include an electrically conductive coil for heating the cigarette by induction heating, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heating type 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 depending on the shape of the heating element, heats the inside or outside of the cigarette 2. It can be heated.

Additionally, a plurality of heaters 13 may be disposed in the aerosol generating device 1. At this time, the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged to be inserted into the inside of the cigarette 2 or may be placed outside the cigarette 2. Additionally, some of the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged to be inserted into the inside of the cigarette 2, and others may be placed outside the cigarette 2. Additionally, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shape shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and may be manufactured in various shapes.

The vaporizer 14 can generate an aerosol by heating the liquid composition, and the generated aerosol can pass through the cigarette 2 and be delivered to the user. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 can move along the airflow passage of the aerosol generating device 1, and the airflow passage allows the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 to pass through the cigarette and be delivered to the user. It can be configured to be possible.

For example, 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, liquid delivery means and heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

The liquid storage unit may store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances, including volatile tobacco flavor components, or may be a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. The liquid storage unit may be manufactured to be detachable from/attached to the vaporizer 14, or may be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 14.

For example, liquid compositions may include water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrances, flavors, or vitamin mixtures. Fragrances may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit flavor ingredients. Flavoring agents may include ingredients that can provide various flavors or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the liquid composition may contain aerosol formers such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

The liquid delivery means may deliver the liquid composition of the liquid reservoir to the heating element. For example, the liquid delivery means may be, but is not limited to, a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

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

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

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

Although not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the aerosol generating device 1 may form a system with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle can be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 may be heated while the cradle and the aerosol generating device 1 are combined.

The cigarette 2 may be similar to a regular combustion-type cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 may be divided into a first part containing an aerosol-generating material and a second part containing a filter, etc. Alternatively, the second part of the cigarette 2 may also contain aerosol-generating substances. An aerosol-generating material, for example in the form of granules or capsules, may be inserted into the second part.

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

As an example, external 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 adjusted by the user. Accordingly, the amount of atomization, smoking sensation, etc. can be adjusted by the user. As another example, external air may be introduced into the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 2.

Hereinafter, examples of the cigarette 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

Figures 4 and 5 are diagrams showing examples of cigarettes.

Referring to Figure 4, the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. In Figure 4, the filter rod 22 is shown as a single segment, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 22 may be composed of a plurality of segments. For example, filter rod 22 may include a segment that cools the aerosol and a segment that filters certain components contained within the aerosol. Additionally, if necessary, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment that performs another function.

The diameter of the cigarette 2 may be within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length may be about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 is about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 is about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 is about 14 mm, and the length of the filter rod 22 is about 14 mm. The length of the third segment may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The cigarette 2 may be packaged by at least one wrapper 24 . At least one hole may be formed in the wrapper 24 through which external air flows in or internal gas flows out. As an example, cigarettes 2 may be packaged by one wrapper 24. As another example, the cigarette 2 may be overlappingly packaged by two or more wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be packaged by the first wrapper 241 and the filter rod 22 may be packaged by the wrappers 242, 243, and 244. And, the entire cigarette 2 can be repackaged by a single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped by wrappers 242, 243, and 244.

The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of general filter paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be porous wrappers or non-porous wrappers. Additionally, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of oil-resistant paper and/or aluminum laminate packaging.

The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be within the range of 88 g/m ² to 96 g/m ² , and preferably within the range of 90 g/m ² to 94 g/m ² . Additionally, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be within the range of 120um to 130um, and may preferably be 125um.

The fourth wrapper 244 may be made of oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be within the range of 88 g/m ² to 96 g/m ² , and preferably within the range of 90 g/m ² to 94 g/m ² . Additionally, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be within the range of 120um to 130um, and may preferably be 125um.

The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to improve tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be within the range of 57 g/m ² to 63 g/m ² , and preferably 60 g/m ² . Additionally, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be within the range of 64um to 70um, and may preferably be 67um.

The fifth wrapper 245 may be internally added with a predetermined material. Here, an example of a certain material may be silicon, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicone has properties such as heat resistance with little change depending on temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any material having the above-mentioned characteristics can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the cigarette 2 from burning. For example, when the tobacco rod 210 is heated by the heater 13, there is a possibility that the cigarette 2 may burn. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the materials included in the cigarette rod 310, the cigarette 2 may combust. Even in this case, since the fifth wrapper 245 includes a non-combustible material, combustion of the cigarette 2 can be prevented.

Additionally, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the aerosol generating device 1 from being contaminated by substances generated from the cigarette 2. Liquid substances may be created within the cigarette 2 by the user's puff. For example, when the aerosol generated from the cigarette 2 is cooled by external air, liquid substances (eg, moisture, etc.) may be generated. As the fifth wrapper 245 packages the cigarette 2, liquid substances generated within the cigarette 2 can be prevented from leaking out of the cigarette 2.

The tobacco load 21 contains aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material may include, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. Additionally, the tobacco rod 21 may contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants and/or organic acids. Additionally, a flavoring agent such as menthol or a moisturizer can be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying it on the tobacco rod 21 .

The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured as a sheet or as a strand. Additionally, the tobacco rod 21 may be made of cut tobacco with finely chopped tobacco sheets. Additionally, the tobacco rod 21 may be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material may be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil. As an example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can improve the heat conductivity applied to the tobacco rod by evenly dispersing the heat transmitted to the tobacco rod 21, thereby improving the taste of the tobacco. . Additionally, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor that is heated by an induction heater. At this time, although not shown in the drawing, the tobacco rod 21 may further include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat-conducting material surrounding the outside.

Filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. Meanwhile, there are no restrictions on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical rod or a tubular rod with a hollow interior. Additionally, the filter rod 22 may be a recess type rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

The first segment of filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure including a hollow interior. When the heater 13 is inserted through the first segment, the internal material of the tobacco rod 21 can be prevented from being pushed back, and the cooling effect of the aerosol can also be generated. The diameter of the hollow included in the first segment may be an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The length of the first segment may be an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the first segment may be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by adjusting the content of the plasticizer when manufacturing the first segment. Additionally, the first segment may be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or tube made of the same or different material into the interior (eg, hollow).

The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 13 heating the tobacco rod 21 . Therefore, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

The length or diameter of the second segment may be determined in various ways depending on the shape of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the second segment may be appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment may be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

The second segment may be fabricated by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, the flavoring liquid may be applied to fibers made of polymer. Alternatively, the second segment may be manufactured by weaving separate fibers coated with a flavoring agent and fibers made of polymer together. Alternatively, the second segment may be formed by a crimped polymer sheet.

For example, the polymer may be selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil. It can be made from materials.

As the second segment is formed by woven polymer fibers or crimped polymer sheets, the second segment may include one or a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. Here, the channel refers to a passage through which a gas (eg, air or aerosol) passes.

For example, the second segment comprised of a crimped polymer sheet may be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, such as between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. Additionally, the total surface area of the second segment can be between about 300 mm ² /mm and about 1000 mm ² /mm. Additionally, the aerosol cooling element can be formed from a material having a specific surface area between about 10 mm ² /mg and about 100 mm ² /mg.

Meanwhile, the second segment may include threads containing volatile flavor components. Here, the volatile flavor component may be, but is not limited to, menthol. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide the second segment with more than 1.5 mg of menthol.

The third segment of filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be appropriately adopted within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

In the process of manufacturing the third segment, it may be manufactured to generate flavor by spraying a flavoring liquid on the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted into the third segment. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 is cooled as it passes through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is delivered to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the sustainability of the flavor delivered to the user can be improved.

Additionally, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may perform a flavor generating function or an aerosol generating function. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing fragrance is wrapped with a film. The capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

Referring to Figure 5, the cigarette 3 may further include a front end plug 33. The shear plug 33 may be located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite the filter rod 32. The shear plug 33 can prevent the cigarette rod 31 from leaving the cigarette rod 31 and prevents the liquefied aerosol from the cigarette rod 31 from flowing into the aerosol generating device (1 in FIGS. 1 to 3) during smoking. It can be prevented.

The filter rod 32 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 may correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4, and the second segment 322 may correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4. You can.

The diameter and overall length of the cigarette 3 may correspond to the diameter and overall length of the cigarette 2 in FIG. 4 . For example, the length of the shear plug 33 is about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 is about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is about 14 mm. However, it is not limited to this.

The cigarette 3 may be packaged by at least one wrapper 35 . At least one hole may be formed in the wrapper 35 through which external air flows in or internal gas flows out. For example, the shear plug 33 is packaged by the first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 is packaged by the second wrapper 352, and the first segment ( 321) may be packaged, and the second segment 322 may be packaged by the fourth wrapper 354. And, the entire cigarette 3 can be repackaged by the fifth wrapper 355.

Additionally, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in an area surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 may serve to transfer heat generated by the heater 13 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 to the inside of the tobacco rod 31.

Additionally, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may perform a flavor generating function or an aerosol generating function. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a liquid containing fragrance is wrapped with a film. The capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

The first wrapper 351 may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil combined with a general filter wrapper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be within the range of 45um to 55um, and may preferably be 50.3um. Additionally, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be within the range of 6um to 7um, and may preferably be 6.3um. Additionally, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 may be within the range of 50 g/m ² to 55 g/m ² , and may preferably be 53 g/m ² .

The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be made of general filter paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be porous wrappers or non-porous wrappers.

For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be 35000CU, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be within the range of 70um to 80um, and may preferably be 78um. Additionally, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 may be within the range of 20 g/m ² to 25 g/m ² , and may preferably be 23.5 g/m ² .

For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be 24000CU, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be within the range of 60um to 70um, and may preferably be 68um. Additionally, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 may be within the range of 20 g/m ² to 25 g/m ² , and may preferably be 21 g/m ² .

The fourth wrapper 354 may be made of PLA paper. Here, PLA laminate refers to three layers of paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be within the range of 100um to 120um, and may preferably be 110um. Additionally, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be within the range of 80 g/m ² to 100 g/m ² , and may preferably be 88 g/m ² .

The fifth wrapper 355 may be made of sterile paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to improve tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to regular paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be within the range of 57 g/m ² to 63 g/m ² , and preferably 60 g/m ² . Additionally, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be within the range of 64um to 70um, and may preferably be 67um.

The fifth wrapper 355 may be internally added with a predetermined material. Here, an example of a certain material may be silicon, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicone has properties such as heat resistance with little change depending on temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, any material having the above-mentioned characteristics can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

The shear plug 33 may be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the shear plug 33 may be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (eg, triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filament constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and preferably within the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filament of the shear plug 33 may be 5.0. Additionally, the cross section of the filament constituting the shear plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the shear plug 33 may be within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and preferably within the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the shear plug 33 may be 28000.

Additionally, if necessary, the shear plug 33 may include at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel may be manufactured in various ways.

The cigarette rod 31 may correspond to the cigarette rod 21 described above with reference to FIG. 4 . Therefore, detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure including a hollow interior. The first segment 321 may be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (eg, triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the mono denier and total denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the mono denier and total denier of the shear plug 33 .

The second segment 322 may be made of cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filament constituting the second segment 322 may be within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and preferably within the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of second segment 322 may be 9.0. Additionally, the cross-section of the filament of the second segment 322 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 may be within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and may preferably be 25,000.

Figure 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

The aerosol generating device 600 includes a control unit 610, a sensing unit 620, an output unit 630, a battery 640, a heater 650, a user input unit 660, a memory 670, and a communication unit 680. It can be included. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 600 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 6. That is, those skilled in the art can understand that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 600, some of the configurations shown in FIG. 6 may be omitted or new configurations may be added. there is.

The sensing unit 620 may detect the state of the aerosol generating device 600 or the state around the aerosol generating device 600 and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 610. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 610 performs various functions such as controlling the operation of the heater 650, limiting smoking, determining whether to insert an aerosol-generating article (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.), displaying a notification, etc. The aerosol generating device 600 can be controlled.

The sensing unit 620 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 622, an insertion detection sensor 624, a puff sensor 626, and a humidity detection sensor 628, but is not limited thereto.

The temperature sensor 622 may detect the temperature at which the heater 650 (or an aerosol-generating material) is heated. The aerosol generating device 600 may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heater 650, or the heater 650 itself may serve as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 622 may be disposed around the battery 640 to monitor the temperature of the battery 640.

Insertion detection sensor 624 may detect insertion and/or removal of an aerosol-generating article. For example, insertion detection sensor 624 may 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, where the aerosol-generating article is inserted and/or Signal changes can be detected as it is removed.

The puff sensor 626 may detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 626 may detect the user's puff based on any one of temperature change, flow change, voltage change, and pressure change.

The humidity detection sensor 628 can detect the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette (see 2 in FIG. 2). Overhumidified cigarettes may evaporate more moisture when heated compared to regular cigarettes. Because of this, condensation may occur around where the overly humid cigarette is placed. According to one embodiment, the humidity detection sensor 628 may be placed in a location where condensation is likely to occur in the aerosol generating device 600. For example, the humidity detection sensor 628 is located around the external hole (1002p in FIG. 7A) or on the door (1003 in FIG. 7A) that overlaps the receiving passage (1004h in FIG. 7A) of the aerosol generating device 600 in the thickness direction. can be placed. The humidity detection sensor 628 can detect the amount of moisture on the door. For example, the humidity detection sensor 628 may be one of an electrical resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, and an optical sensor. However, this is an example, and the humidity detection sensor 628 is not limited to this.

In addition to the sensors 622 to 628 described above, the sensing unit 620 includes an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor. It may further include at least one sensor (illuminance sensor). Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively deduced by a person skilled in the art from its name, detailed descriptions may be omitted.

The output unit 630 may output information about the status of the aerosol generating device 600 and provide it to the user. The output unit 630 may include at least one of a display unit 632, a haptic unit 634, and an audio output unit 636, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 632 and the touch pad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit 632 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

The display unit 632 can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 600 to the user. For example, information about the aerosol generating device 600 may include the charging/discharging state of the battery 640 of the aerosol generating device 600, the preheating state of the heater 650, the insertion/removal state of the aerosol generating article, or the aerosol generating state. It may refer to various information, such as a state in which the use of the device 600 is restricted (e.g., abnormal item detection), and the display unit 632 may output the information to the outside. The display unit 632 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD) or an organic light emitting display panel (OLED). Additionally, the display unit 632 may be in the form of an LED light-emitting device.

The haptic unit 634 may convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimulation to provide tactile information about the aerosol generating device 600 to the user. For example, the haptic unit 634 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

The sound output unit 636 can provide information about the aerosol generating device 600 audibly to the user. For example, the audio output unit 636 may convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

The battery 640 may supply power used to operate the aerosol generating device 600. The battery 640 may supply power so that the heater 650 can be heated. In addition, the battery 640 is connected to other components provided in the aerosol generating device 600 (e.g., sensing unit 620, output unit 630, user input unit 660, memory 670, and communication unit 680). It can supply the power required for operation. The battery 640 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 640 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

The heater 650 may receive power from the battery 640 to heat the aerosol-generating material. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 600 may further include a power conversion circuit (eg, DC/DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 640 and supplies it to the heater 650. Additionally, when the aerosol generating device 600 generates an aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating device 600 may further include a DC/AC converter that converts direct current power of the battery 640 into alternating current power.

The control unit 610, sensing unit 620, output unit 630, user input unit 660, memory 670, and communication unit 680 may perform their functions by receiving power from the battery 640. Although not shown in FIG. 6, it may further include a power conversion circuit that converts the power of the battery 640 and supplies it to each component, for example, a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit.

In one embodiment, heater 650 may be formed from any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. It may be a metal or metal alloy containing, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the heater 650 may be implemented as a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate with electrically conductive tracks, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

In another embodiment, the heater 650 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 650 may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol-generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by the coil.

In one embodiment, heater 650 may include a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater 650 may include a first heater for heating a cigarette and a second heater for heating a liquid.

The user input unit 660 may receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 660 includes a key pad, a dome switch, and a touch pad (contact capacitive type, pressure resistive type, infrared detection type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, and integral type). Tension measurement method, piezo effect method, etc.), jog wheel, jog switch, etc., but are not limited thereto. In addition, although not shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 600 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and is connected to other external devices through a connection interface such as a USB interface. In this way, information can be transmitted and received or the battery 640 can be charged.

The memory 670 is hardware that stores various data (eg, temperature profile) processed within the aerosol generating device 600, and can store data processed and data to be processed by the control unit 610. The memory 670 is a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (for example, SD or XD memory, etc.), and RAM. (RAM, random access memory) SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk , and may include at least one type of storage medium among optical disks. The memory 670 may store the operation time of the aerosol generating device 600, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data on the user's smoking pattern.

The communication unit 680 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 680 may include a short-range communication unit 682 and a wireless communication unit 684.

The short-range wireless communication unit 682 includes 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, and an infrared (IrDA) communication unit. , infrared Data Association) communication unit, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, Ant+ communication unit, etc., but is not limited thereto.

The wireless communication unit 684 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (eg, LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 684 may use subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) to identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 600 within the communication network.

The control unit 610 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 600. In one embodiment, the control unit 610 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed on the microprocessor. Additionally, those skilled in the art can understand that this embodiment may be implemented with other types of hardware.

The control unit 610 can control the temperature of the heater 650 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 640 to the heater 650. For example, the control unit 610 may control power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery 640 and the heater 650. In another example, the heating direct circuit may control power supply to the heater 650 according to a control command from the control unit 610.

The control unit 610 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 620 and control subsequent processes. For example, the control unit 610 may control the power supplied to the heater 650 to start or end the operation of the heater 650 based on the result detected by the sensing unit 620. For another example, based on the results detected by the sensing unit 620, the control unit 610 adjusts the power supplied to the heater 650 so that the heater 650 can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature. You can control the amount and time at which power is supplied.

The control unit 610 may control the output unit 630 based on the results detected by the sensing unit 620. For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 626 reaches a preset number, the control unit 610 operates at least one of the display unit 632, the haptic unit 634, and the sound output unit 636. Through this, the user can be notified that the aerosol generating device 600 will soon be terminated.

The control unit 610 may compare the amount of moisture detected by the humidity detection sensor 928 with a preset threshold to determine the humidity state of the roll. The controller 610 may operate the heater 950 with a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette. Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 7A to 10, a specific method of determining the humidity state of a cigarette using the humidity detection sensor 928 will be described in detail.

Figure 7a is a perspective view showing the appearance of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7B is a perspective view showing an operating state with some components removed from the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A.

Referring to FIG. 7A, the aerosol generating device 1000 may include a case 1100 and a cover 1002. The cover 1002 is coupled to one end of the case 1100, so that the case 1100 and the cover 1002 together form the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1000.

The case 1100 forms part of the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1000 and performs the function of accommodating and protecting various components therein.

The cover 1002 and case 1100 may be made of a plastic material that does not conduct heat well, or a metal material coated with a heat-blocking material on the surface. The cover 1002 and case 1100 may be manufactured, for example, by injection molding, 3D printing, or assembling small parts manufactured by injection molding.

A holding device (not shown) may be installed between the cover 1002 and the case 1100 to maintain the coupled state of the cover 1002 and the case 1100. The retaining device may include, for example, protrusions and grooves. The combined state of the cover 1002 and the case 1100 can be maintained by maintaining the protrusion inserted into the groove, and the protrusion is moved by an operation button that can be pressed by the user to separate the protrusion from the groove. It may also be used.

Additionally, the holding device may include, for example, a magnet and a metal member that sticks to the magnet. When using a magnet in the holding device, a magnet can be installed in one of the case 1100 and the cover 1002 and a metal member that sticks to the magnet can be installed in the other, or both the case 1100 and the cover 1002 can be installed. You can also install magnets.

An external hole 1002p into which a cigarette 2000 can be inserted is formed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 coupled to the case 1100. Additionally, a rail 1003r is formed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 at a position adjacent to the external hole 1002p. A door 1003 that can slide along the upper surface of the cover 1002 is installed on the rail 1003r. The door 1003 can slide linearly along the rail 1003r.

As the door 1003 moves in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 7A along the rail 1003r, the external hole 1002p and the insertion hole allow the cigarette 2000 to pass through the cover 1002 and be inserted into the case 1100. It functions to expose (1004p) to the outside. The external hole 1002p of the cover 1002 functions to expose the insertion hole 1004p of the receiving passage 1004h that can accommodate the cigarette 2000 to the outside.

When the external hole 1002p is exposed to the outside by the door 1003, the user inserts the end 2000b of the cigarette 2000 into the external hole 1002p and the insertion hole 1004p to cover the cigarette 2000 ( It can be installed in the receiving passage 1004h formed inside 1002).

Although the rail 1003r has a concave groove shape, the embodiment is not limited by the shape of the rail 1003r. For example, the rail 1003r may have a convex shape or may extend in a curved shape rather than a straight line.

A button 1009 is installed in the case 1100. As the button 1009 is operated, the operation of the aerosol generating device 1000 can be controlled.

When the cover 1002 is coupled to the case 1100, a gap for external air inflow (1002g) is provided at the area where the cover 1002 and the case 1100 are coupled to allow air to flow into the inside of the cover 1002. ) is formed.

Referring to FIG. 7B, while the cigarette 2000 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1000, the user can inhale the aerosol by holding the cigarette 2000 with his or her mouth.

The case 1100 may be composed of an upper case 1100a in which the cigarette 2000 is inserted and the cigarette 2000 is heated, and a lower case 1100b that supports and protects various components installed therein. Hereinafter, the reference to case 1100 includes both the upper case 1100a and the lower case 1100b.

The cover 1002 can be coupled to the case 1100 to cover the cigarette support portion 4 coupled to the case 1100. Additionally, the cover 1002 may be separated from the case 1100 as needed.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are top views of the cover shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B.

Referring to FIGS. 7A, 8A, and 8B, the humidity detection sensors HS1 and HS2 may detect the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000. The humidity detection sensors HS1 and HS2 may measure the amount of moisture based on the moisture (WT in FIG. 9A) condensed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 by heating the cigarette 2000.

If moisture is contained in the cigarette 2000, when the cigarette 2000 is heated, the moisture may evaporate and condense on the upper surface of the cover 1002. If there is a lot of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000, more moisture evaporates compared to a normal dry cigarette, so more condensation may occur on the upper surface of the cover 1002. That is, the amount of moisture condensed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 may be proportional to the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000.

According to one embodiment, the humidity detection sensors HS1 and HS2 may be placed in a location where condensation is likely to occur in the aerosol generating device 1000.

For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the cover 1002 may include an external hole 1002p that overlaps the receiving passage 1004h in the thickness direction. The humidity detection sensor HS1 may be arranged along the outline of the external hole 1002p. At this time, the outline of the external hole 1002p may have a circular shape, and the humidity detection sensor HS1 may have a ring shape.

However, the shape of the outline of the external hole 1002p is illustrative and is not limited thereto. For example, the outline shape of the external hole 1002p may be one of oval, triangle, square, and polygon.

The shape and arrangement of the humidity sensor HS1 are illustrative and are not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the humidity sensor HS1 may be oval, triangle, square, or polygon with a cavity formed in the center to correspond to the shape of the outline of the external hole 1002p. Additionally, the humidity sensor HS1 may be disposed in at least one area of the upper surface of the cover 1002. That is, the humidity sensor HS1 may be disposed on the entire upper surface of the cover 1002, or may be arbitrarily disposed on a portion of the upper surface of the cover 1002.

For another example, as shown in FIG. 8B, the cover 1002 may include a door 1003 that can be slidably moved along its upper surface. The humidity detection sensor HS2 may be placed on the upper surface of the door 1003. At this time, the upper surface of the door 1003 has a circular shape, and the humidity sensor HS2 may be formed on the entire upper surface of the door 1003.

However, the shape of the upper surface of the door 1003 is illustrative and is not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the top surface of the door 1003 may be one of oval, triangle, square, and polygon.

The shape and arrangement of the humidity sensor HS2 are illustrative and are not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the humidity sensor HS2 may be oval, triangle, square, or polygonal to correspond to the shape of the top surface of the door 1003. Additionally, the humidity sensor HS2 may be disposed in at least one area of the upper surface of the door 1003. That is, the humidity sensor HS2 may be arbitrarily disposed on a portion of the door 1003 rather than the entire upper surface.

In this way, when the humidity detection sensors HS1 and HS2 are placed on the cover 1002, an advantageous effect can be expected in terms of space utilization compared to the case where the humidity detection sensor must be placed within the receiving passage 1004h. When placing the humidity detection sensor in the receiving passage 1004h, there is a restriction that it must be placed to avoid the heater (650 in FIG. 6). Because of this, the humidity detection sensor can be placed in an area adjacent to the filter rod (22 in FIG. 4) rather than the cigarette rod (21 in FIG. 4), which mainly contains moisture. On the other hand, the humidity detection sensors (HS1, HS2) according to an embodiment of the present invention measure the amount of moisture condensed on the cover 1002 by evaporation of moisture contained within the cigarette 2000 when the cigarette 2000 is heated. , may be relatively freely arranged in at least one area on the cover 1002.

Figure 9a is a cross-sectional view for explaining a capacitive humidity detection sensor. Figure 9b is a cross-sectional view for explaining an electrical resistance type humidity detection sensor. Figure 9c is a cross-sectional view for explaining the optical humidity detection sensor. At this time, since the operating principles of the humidity detection sensor HS1 shown in FIG. 8A and the humidity detection sensor HS2 shown in FIG. 8B are substantially the same, for convenience of explanation, hereinafter, the humidity detection sensor is shown in FIG. 8A. The explanation is based on the humidity detection sensor (HS1).

Referring to FIGS. 8A and 9A to 9C, the humidity detection sensor HS1 may be one of an electrical resistance type, a capacitance type, and an optical type.

Referring to FIGS. 6, 8A, and 9A, one surface of the humidity sensor HS1 may form a continuous surface with the upper surface of the cover 1002. The humidity sensor HS1 may include a plurality of electrodes E1, a substrate SUB1, and a coating layer CT.

The electrode E1 may be formed of a conductive material. For example, the electrode E1 may be formed of a metal material with high conductivity, such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), or aluminum (Al).

The capacitance between the electrodes E1 may vary depending on the amount of moisture WT placed between the electrodes E1. For example, as the amount of moisture (WT) condensed on the coating layer (CT) increases, the capacitance may also increase.

The substrate SUB1 may mount electrodes E1. The coating layer (CT) may be composed of a polymer composite surrounding the electrodes (E1) and the substrate (SUB1).

The humidity detection sensors HS1 and HS2 may output an electrical signal corresponding to the capacitance between the electrodes E1 to an external component (eg, the control unit 610). The humidity sensor HS1 may detect a change in capacitance between the electrodes E1 and output an electrical signal corresponding to the detection result to an external component (eg, the control unit 610).

The control unit 610 may detect the amount of moisture condensed on the coating layer CT based on a signal received from the moisture detection sensor HS1.

Referring to FIGS. 6, 8A, and 9B, one surface of the humidity sensor HS1 may form a continuous surface with the upper surface of the cover 1002. The humidity sensor HS1 may include a plurality of electrodes E2, a substrate SUB2, and a desiccant material DH.

The electrode E2 may be formed of a conductive material. For example, the electrode E1 may be formed of a metal material with high conductivity, such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), or aluminum (Al). Although not explicitly shown in FIG. 9B, the electrode E2 may have a structure in which a pair of comb-shaped electrodes E2 are arranged alternately on a plane. Each of the comb-shaped electrodes E2 may include a first portion extending in a first direction and a plurality of second portions branching in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

The desiccant material (DH) may be formed of a material that absorbs surrounding moisture (WT). For example, the dehumidifying material (DH) may be formed of a conductive polymer material such as lithium chloride (LiCl) or aluminum oxide (Al ₂ O ₃ ).

The resistance between the electrodes E2 may vary depending on the amount of moisture (WT) absorbed by the desiccant material (DH). For example, as the amount of moisture (WT) absorbed by the desiccant material (DH) increases, the resistance may decrease.

The substrate SUB2 may mount electrodes E2.

The humidity sensor HS1 may output an electrical signal corresponding to the resistance between the electrodes E2 to an external component (eg, the control unit 610). The humidity sensor HS1 may detect a change in resistance between the electrodes E2 and output an electrical signal corresponding to the detection result to an external component (eg, the control unit 610).

The control unit 610 may detect the amount of moisture absorbed (or condensed) in the desiccant material DH based on the signal received from the humidity sensor HS1.

Referring to FIGS. 6, 8A, and 9C, one surface of the humidity sensor HS1 may form a continuous surface with the upper surface of the cover 1002. The humidity sensor HS1 may include a light emitting part (EM), a light receiving part (RC), a substrate (SUB3), and a coating layer (CT).

The light emitting unit (EM) may include at least one light source that generates light. For example, the light emitting unit (EM) may include a light emitting diode (LED), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a laser diode (LD), etc. as a light source. At this time, the plurality of light sources included in the light emitting unit EM may be arranged in a certain pattern.

The light emitting unit (EM) may irradiate light in a predetermined direction. For example, the light emitting unit (EM) may include a first light condensing unit (not shown) that collects light generated from a light source toward an object. Here, the first light condenser may be composed of an imaging lens, a diffractive optical element (DOE), etc.

The light receiving unit RC may include a photo diode that reacts to light. The light receiver RC may output an electrical signal corresponding to light incident on the photodiode.

The light receiver RC may include a second light concentrator (not shown) that collects light reflected from an object (hereinafter referred to as reflected light). For example, reflected light collected by the second light concentrator may be transmitted to the photo diode included in the light receiver RC. At this time, the second light concentrator may include a lens that receives reflected light incident from a predetermined direction.

The light receiving unit RC may further include an optical filter (not shown) that restricts transmission of light in a specific wavelength range. For example, the optical filter may be an infrared band pass filter that restricts the passage of infrared rays with a wavelength of 780 nm to 1 mm.

The substrate SUB3 can mount a light emitting unit (EM) and a light receiving unit (RC). The coating layer (CT) may be composed of a polymer composite surrounding the light emitting part (EM), the light receiving part (RC), and the substrate (SUB3).

Meanwhile, light emitted from the light emitting unit (EM) in a preset direction may be reflected by moisture (WT) condensed on the coating layer (CT) and transmitted to the light receiving unit (RC). At this time, the light receiving unit RC may output an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of light incident on the photodiode.

Depending on the amount of moisture (WT) condensed on the coating layer (CT), the time difference between the time when light is irradiated from the light emitting unit (EM) and the time when the reflected light is incident on the light receiving unit (RC) may vary.

For example, when the amount of moisture (WT) condensed on the coating layer (CT) is large, light reflection due to the moisture (WT) can easily occur compared to when the amount of moisture (WT) is small. . At this time, the time difference between the time when light is irradiated from the light emitting unit (EM) and the time when the reflected light is incident on the light receiving unit (RC) may be shortened.

The humidity detection sensor HS1 may output an electrical signal corresponding to the amount and/or time difference of light incident on the light receiving unit RC to an external component (eg, the control unit 610). The humidity detection sensor HS1 detects a change in the amount of light and/or a change in the time difference of light incident on the light receiving unit RC, and sends an electrical signal corresponding to the detection result to an external component (e.g., the control unit 610). You can also print it out.

The control unit 610 may detect the amount of moisture condensed on the coating layer (CT) based on the signal received from the humidity detection sensor (HS1).

Referring to FIGS. 7A to 9C , the control unit 610 may classify the cigarette 2000 as a normal cigarette or an overly humid cigarette based on the amount of moisture detected by the humidity sensors HS1 and HS2.

According to one embodiment, the control unit 610 may compare the amount of moisture detected by the humidity detection sensors HS1 and HS2 with a preset threshold to determine the humidity state of the coil 2000. At this time, the preset threshold may be the minimum amount of moisture that allows the user to feel heat due to the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 when the user inhales the aerosol. For example, the control unit 610 may determine the cigarette 2000 as a regular cigarette when the moisture content is less than a threshold value, and determine the cigarette 2000 as an over-humidified cigarette when the moisture content is greater than the threshold value.

When the cigarette 2000 is determined to be a regular cigarette, the control unit 610 operates the heater 650 with a first temperature profile (TP1), and when the cigarette 2000 is determined to be an over-humidified cigarette, the control unit 610 operates the heater 650 with a second temperature profile (TP2). ) can operate the heater 650. Hereinafter, the first temperature profile TP1 and the second temperature profile TP2 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 10 .

Figure 10 is a graph to explain the temperature profile. At this time, the graph displayed with a solid line represents the first temperature profile for a regular cigarette, and the graph displayed with a dashed line represents the second temperature profile for an over-humidified cigarette.

Referring to FIG. 10, the first temperature profile TP1 represents temperature values over time optimized for a regular cigarette. The first temperature profile TP1 may be divided into a first section P1, which is a preheating section, and a second section P2, which is a smoking section.

The first section (P1) includes a section rising from the first temperature (T1), which is the outside temperature, to the second temperature (T2) at which aerosol-generating substances are volatilized, and a section falling to the third temperature (T3), which is the smoking start temperature. can do. The second section P2 may include a section dropping from the third temperature T3 to the fourth temperature T4, which is the maintenance temperature, and a section maintaining the fourth temperature T4. At this time, the second temperature (T2), the third temperature (T3), and the fourth temperature (T4) are above the temperature at which the aerosol-generating material volatilizes, and may vary depending on the type of the aerosol-generating material.

Meanwhile, the second temperature profile TP2 represents hourly temperature values optimized for over-humidified cigarettes. The second temperature profile TP2 may be divided into a third section P3, which is a preheating section, and a fourth section P4, which is a smoking section.

The third section (P3) is a section that rises from the first temperature (T1), which is the outside temperature, to the second temperature (T2) at which aerosol-producing substances are volatilized, a section that maintains the second temperature (T2), and a fourth section that is the smoking start temperature. It may include a section where the temperature drops to T4. The fourth section P4 may include a section maintaining the fourth temperature T4.

At this time, the time taken to reach the second temperature (T2) in response to the second temperature profile (TP2) is the time taken to reach the second temperature (T2) in response to the first temperature profile (TP1) due to the moisture contained in the cigarette (2000). ) may be longer than the time it takes to reach.

In addition, after the second temperature profile TP2 reaches the second temperature T2, at least a portion of the moisture contained within the cigarette 2000 may evaporate while remaining constant at the second temperature T2. You can. Because of this, the initial heat sensation can be alleviated. On the other hand, when the amount of moisture contained within the cigarette 2000 is less than the threshold, it is unlikely that the user will feel hot due to the moisture contained within the cigarette 2000, so the first temperature profile TP1 The section for evaporating the moisture contained within the cigarette (2000) can be omitted. That is, the preheating section P3 of the second temperature profile TP2 is longer than the preheating section P1 of the first temperature profile TP1, and the third temperature T3, which is the smoking start temperature of a regular cigarette, is the smoking start temperature of an overhumidified cigarette. It may be higher than the fourth temperature (T4), which is the starting temperature.

Figure 11 is a flowchart explaining a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

6 to 11, the operating method of the aerosol generating device includes heating a cigarette 2000 by a heater 650 (S100), using humidity detection sensors HS1 and HS2, and heating a cigarette 2000 using a heater 650. ) measuring the amount of moisture condensed on (S200), comparing the measured moisture amount with a preset threshold (S300), determining the humidity state of the cigarette (2000) (S400), and the determined cigarette (2000) It may include a step (S500) of operating the heater 650 with a temperature profile corresponding to the humidity state.

At this time, the aerosol generating device 1000 is coupled to the case 1100 and the case 1100 including a receiving passage 1004h into which the cigarette 2000 is inserted, and is connected to the receiving passage 1004h in the thickness direction. It may include a cover 1002 including an overlapping external hole 1002p.

Specifically, in the step of heating the cigarette 2000 (S100), if moisture is contained in the cigarette 2000, the moisture may evaporate and condense on the upper surface of the cover 1002 when the cigarette 2000 is heated. If there is a lot of moisture contained in the cigarette, more moisture evaporates compared to a dry regular cigarette, so more condensation may occur on the upper surface of the cover 1002. That is, the amount of moisture condensed on the upper surface of the cover 1002 may be proportional to the amount of moisture contained in the cigarette 2000.

In the step (S200) of measuring the amount of moisture condensed on the cover 1002 using the humidity detection sensors (HS1, HS2), the humidity detection sensors (HS1, HS2) detect condensation in the aerosol generating device (1000 of eh 7a). It can be placed in a location where the phenomenon is likely to occur.

For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the cover 1002 may include an external hole 1002p that overlaps the receiving passage (1004h in FIG. 7A) in the thickness direction. The humidity detection sensor HS1 may be arranged along the outline of the external hole 1002p. At this time, the outline of the external hole 1002p may have a circular shape, and the humidity detection sensor HS1 may have a ring shape.

For another example, as shown in FIG. 8B, the cover 1002 may include a door 1003 that can be slidably moved along its upper surface. The humidity detection sensor HS2 may be placed on the upper surface of the door 1003. At this time, the upper surface of the door 1003 has a circular shape, and the humidity sensor HS2 may be formed on the entire upper surface of the door 1003.

At this time, the humidity detection sensor HS1 may be one of an electrical resistance type, a capacitance type, and an optical type.

In the step of determining the humidity state of the cigarette 2000 (S400) by comparing the measured moisture amount with a preset threshold (S300), the control unit 610 determines the moisture amount detected by the humidity detection sensors HS1 and HS2. Based on this, cigarettes (2000) can be classified into regular cigarettes or over-humidified cigarettes. The control unit 610 may compare the amount of moisture detected by the humidity detection sensors HS1 and HS2 with a preset threshold to determine the humidity state of the coil 2000. At this time, the preset threshold may be the minimum amount of moisture that allows the user to feel heat due to the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 when the user inhales the aerosol. For example, if the moisture content is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the control unit 610 may determine the cigarette 2000 to be an over-humidified cigarette (S410), and if the moisture content is less than the threshold value, the control unit 610 may determine the cigarette 2000 to be a regular cigarette (S410). S410).

In the step (S500) of operating the heater 650 with a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette 2000, if the cigarette 2000 is determined to be a regular cigarette, the control unit 610 operates the first temperature profile TP1 ), and when the cigarette 2000 is determined to be an overhumidified cigarette, the heater 650 may be operated using the second temperature profile TP2. The first temperature profile TP1 may be divided into a first section P1, which is a preheating section, and a second section P2, which is a smoking section. The second temperature profile TP2 may be divided into a third section P3, which is a preheating section, and a fourth section P4, which is a smoking section. At this time, the preheating section P3 of the second temperature profile TP2 may be longer than the preheating section P1 of the first temperature profile TP1. Because of this, at least a portion of the moisture contained inside the cigarette 2000 may evaporate and the initial heat sensation may be alleviated.

Those skilled in the art related to the present embodiment will understand that the above-described substrate can be implemented in a modified form without departing from the essential characteristics. Therefore, the disclosed methods should be considered from an explanatory rather than a restrictive perspective. The scope of the present invention is indicated in the claims, not the foregoing description, and all differences within the equivalent scope should be construed as being included in the present invention.

600: Aerosol generating device
610: Control unit
628: Humidity detection sensor
1002: Cover
1003: door
1100: case
HS1, HS2: Humidity sensor
2000: Cigarettes

Claims (15)

A case including a receiving passage into which a cigarette is inserted;
A cover coupled to the case;
a heater that heats the cigarette;
a humidity detection sensor disposed on the upper surface of the cover; and
An aerosol generating device comprising a control unit that compares the amount of moisture detected by the humidity sensor with a preset threshold to determine the humidity state of the reel. According to claim 1,
The humidity sensor is an aerosol generating device that measures the amount of moisture based on moisture condensed on the cover by heating the cigarette. According to claim 1,
The cover includes an external hole that overlaps the receiving passage in the thickness direction,
The humidity detection sensor is an aerosol generating device disposed along the outline of the external hole. According to clause 3,
An aerosol generating device wherein the outline of the external hole has a circular shape, and the humidity detection sensor has a ring shape. According to claim 1,
The cover includes a door that can be slidably moved along the upper surface,
The humidity detection sensor is an aerosol generating device disposed on the upper surface of the door. According to clause 5,
An aerosol generating device wherein the upper surface of the door has a circular shape, and the humidity detection sensor is formed on the entire upper surface of the door. According to claim 1,
The humidity detection sensor is an aerosol generating device that is one of an electrical resistance type, a capacitance type, and an optical type. According to claim 1,
The heater is disposed in the receiving passage, and is an aerosol generating device that heats the cigarette by induction heating. According to claim 1,
The control unit determines the cigarette as a regular cigarette when the moisture content is less than the threshold value, and determines the cigarette as an over-humidified cigarette when the moisture content is greater than the threshold value. According to clause 9,
The control unit operates the heater with a first temperature profile when the cigarette is determined to be the regular cigarette, and operates the heater with a second temperature profile when the cigarette is determined to be the over-humidified cigarette. An aerosol generating device. According to claim 10,
The preheating section of the second temperature profile is longer than the preheating section of the first temperature profile. In the method of operating the aerosol generating device,
Heating the cigarette by a heater;
determining the humidity state of the cigarette by comparing the amount of moisture detected by the humidity sensor with a preset threshold; and
Operating the heater with a temperature profile corresponding to the determined humidity state of the cigarette,
The aerosol generating device includes a case including a receiving passage into which the cigarette is inserted, and a cover coupled to the case and including an external hole overlapping the receiving passage in the thickness direction,
A method of operating an aerosol generating device, wherein the humidity sensor is disposed on the upper surface of the cover. According to claim 12,
The step of determining the humidity state of the cigarette is a method of operating an aerosol generating device in which the amount of moisture is measured based on moisture condensed on the cover by heating the cigarette. According to claim 12,
The cover includes a door that can be slidably moved along the upper surface,
The humidity detection sensor is a method of operating an aerosol generating device disposed on the upper surface of the door. According to claim 12,
The humidity detection sensor is a method of operating an aerosol generating device, which is one of an electrical resistance type, a capacitance type, and an optical type.

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