Heater assembly and aerosol-generating device comprising same

Abstract

This heater assembly comprises: an oscillation unit that generates microwaves; a resonance unit that comprises an insertion space in which an aerosol-generating article is accommodated, and that heats the aerosol-generating article by resonance of the microwaves; and a microwave output unit that transmits the microwaves generated by the oscillation unit to the resonance unit, wherein the microwave output unit connected to the oscillation unit is screw-coupled to one region of the resonance unit, thereby coupling the oscillation unit to the resonance unit.

Description

Heater assembly and aerosol generating device including the same

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a heater assembly and an aerosol generating device including the same, and more specifically, to a heater assembly in which an oscillating part is coupled to a resonating part through screw coupling and an aerosol generating device including the same.

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for systems that generate aerosols by heating cigarettes or aerosol-generating materials using an aerosol-generating device, rather than by burning cigarettes to produce aerosols. Accordingly, research on heated aerosol-generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] Meanwhile, among methods for heating objects, microwave heating technology utilizes the principle of dielectric heating to directly heat polar molecules such as water or organic solvents. Because microwaves allow for the selective heating of only the substances requiring heat, it offers the advantages of high energy efficiency and rapid heating speed. Continuous research on microwave heating technology is also being conducted in the field of aerosol generation devices as a new heating method.

[0004] An aerosol generating device that heats a cigarette (hereinafter, 'aerosol generating article' may be used with the same meaning) using microwave heating technology may generally include an oscillator that generates microwaves and a resonator that heats the aerosol generating article by resonating microwaves.

[0005] Small errors may occur during the fabrication process of the resonant section, which acts as a waveguide. To account for these manufacturing errors and ensure that all resonant sections deliver identical performance, the method of coupling the oscillator section to the resonant section is important.

[0006] In this case, energy can be concentrated at the connection point between the high-output oscillator and the resonator. Therefore, if the oscillator and the resonator are connected by methods such as soldering, the connection may be severed due to melting caused by high heat. Accordingly, a method is required to easily and precisely control the connection between the oscillator and the resonator.

[0007] The embodiments provide a heater assembly in which an oscillating part is coupled to a resonating part via a screw connection, and an aerosol generating device including the same.

[0008] In addition, the embodiments provide a heater assembly capable of adjusting the screw connection of the oscillating part and the resonating part even during the use phase rather than the manufacturing phase, and an aerosol generating device including the same.

[0009] The problems to be solved through the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0010] A heater assembly according to one embodiment may include an oscillator for generating microwaves, an insertion space for receiving an aerosol-generating article, a resonator for heating the aerosol-generating article by the resonance of microwaves, and a microwave output for transmitting microwaves generated from the oscillator to the resonator, and the microwave output connected to the oscillator may be screw-coupled to a region of the resonator to couple the oscillator to the resonator.

[0011] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a heater assembly according to one embodiment, a housing for accommodating the heater assembly, a driving unit for moving a microwave output unit, and a processor electrically connected to the heater assembly, and the processor may adjust the position of the microwave output unit through the driving unit so that the frequency of the microwave generated in the oscillation unit matches the frequency of the resonance unit.

[0012] According to the heater assembly and the aerosol generating device including the same according to the embodiments, the same heating performance can be achieved even though there is a physical variation in the resonance part for each heater assembly.

[0013] In addition, according to the heater assembly and the aerosol generating device including the same according to the embodiments, heating performance can be easily controlled by the user not only during the manufacturing stage but also during the usage stage.

[0014] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a heater assembly (dielectric heating part) according to one embodiment and an aerosol generating device including the same.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the heater assembly of FIG. 4.

[0020] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the microwave output section and surrounding parts applied to the heater assembly of Figure 5.

[0021] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of another example of a microwave output section and surrounding parts applied to a heater assembly according to another embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly according to another embodiment and an aerosol generating device including the same.

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numeral regardless of the drawing symbols, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar drawing symbols may be used for similar or related components.

[0024] The suffixes "module" and "unit" for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the sake of ease of drafting the specification, and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Meanwhile, the suffixes "module" or "unit" may include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. "Module" or "unit" may be a component formed as a whole, or the smallest unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, "module" or "unit" may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0025] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, such detailed description is omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings; it should be understood that the drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of this disclosure.

[0026] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0027] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0028] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0029] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory) that is readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)). For example, a processor (e.g., processor (170)) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0031] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device (1) may include a control unit (10), a source unit (20), and a radiating unit (30). The control unit (10) may refer to a circuit for controlling the basic operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The source unit (20) may refer to a circuit for generating an RF (Radio Frequency) signal under the control of the control unit (10). The radiating unit (30) may be a device for radiating the RF signal generated by the source unit (20) in the form of an electromagnetic wave into a space (hereinafter, insertion space) into which an aerosol generating article is inserted. The charges or ions of a dielectric (e.g., glycerin) contained in the aerosol generating article may vibrate or rotate due to the radiated electromagnetic wave (e.g., RF signal), and the aerosol generating article may be heated as the dielectric heats up due to the frictional heat generated during the process of the charges or ions vibrating or rotating. In other words, the aerosol generating device (1) may be a device that generates aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article using a dielectric heating method.

[0032] In one example, the control unit (10) may include a power connector (110), a charging circuit (120), a power source (130), a first power converter (140), a second power converter (150), a third power converter (160) and / or a processor (170). Additionally, the source unit (20) may include an RF signal generation circuit (210), a drive amplifier (220), a power amplifier (230), a directional coupler (240) and / or a temperature sensing circuit (250). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to this embodiment that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), some of the components shown in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0033] The power connector (110) may refer to a physical connection device used to transmit and receive power by being electrically connected to an electronic device or system (e.g., an external power source) outside the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the power connector (110) may receive power from an external power source and transmit the received power to a component that requires charging (e.g., a power source (130)). The power connector (110) may also provide a path for data transmission. In this case, the power connector (110) may be referred to as a data and power connector. The aerosol generating device (1) may transmit and receive data to and from an external electronic device or system (e.g., a smartphone, a computer, etc.) through the power connector (110). The power connector (110) may include a USB (Universal Serial Bus) power connector, a DC (Direct Current) power connector, etc. In one example, the power connector (110) may be a USB-C type connector capable of supplying a 9V DC voltage with a current of 1A, but is not necessarily limited thereto. The power connector (110) may also include an interface for wirelessly transmitting and receiving power.

[0034] The charging circuit (120) may refer to a circuit for charging the power source (130). The charging circuit (120) may charge the power source (130) using power delivered from the power connector (110). In one example, the charging circuit (120) may be implemented as a charger IC, which is an integrated circuit (IC) that performs functions for efficiently and safely charging the power source (130). The charging circuit (120) may monitor the charging status of the power source (130) or optimize the charging process by monitoring the voltage, current, and / or temperature of the power source (130). For example, the charging circuit (120) may detect the state of the power source (130) and prevent overcharging or over-discharging by providing an appropriate charging voltage and current.

[0035] The power source (130) can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The power source (130) may include one or more rechargeable batteries. The power source (130) can supply power to the radiating unit (30) so that the radiating unit (30) can radiate electromagnetic waves (e.g., RF signals) into the insertion space to heat the aerosol generating article. Here, power supply to the radiating unit (30) may have the same meaning as power supply to the source unit (20). Additionally, the power source (130) can supply power required for the operation of the processor (170), RF signal generating circuit (210), driving amplifier (220), power amplifier (230), temperature sensing circuit (250), etc. In one example, the power source (130) may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source (130) may be a replaceable type (detachable) battery (hereinafter, removable battery). The removable battery may be mounted in a battery housing provided within the aerosol generating device (1) or removed from the battery housing. The removable battery may be charged via wired and / or wireless connections.

[0036] The aerosol generating device (1) may include a power conversion circuit for converting power supplied from a power source (130) into power (e.g., voltage and / or current) suitable for other components. The power conversion circuit may include at least one of a buck converter, a buck-boost converter, a boost converter, a Zener diode, and a low-dropout regulator. Additionally, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter) as needed.

[0037] In one example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a first power converter (140), a second power converter (150), and a third power converter (160). The first power converter (140) is an LDO regulator for supplying power (e.g., DC 3.3V) suitable for a processor (170), the second power converter (150) is a buck-boost converter for supplying power (e.g., DC 5V) suitable for a temperature sensing circuit (250), an RF signal generating circuit (210), and a driving amplifier (220), and the third power converter (160) may be a boost converter for supplying power (e.g., DC 12V / 25W) suitable for a power amplifier (230).

[0038] However, the first power converter (140), the second power converter (150), and the third power converter (160) are not limited to the examples described above and may include other types of power converter circuits. Additionally, although FIG. 1 is illustrated as having three power converters, the aerosol generating device (1) may include more than three power converters or fewer power converters. In one example, at least some of the first power converter (140), the second power converter (150), and the third power converter (160) may be integrated into a single power converter.

[0039] The processor (170) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the processor (170) can directly or indirectly control the charging and discharging of the power supply (130) using the charging circuit (120). Additionally, the processor (170) can control the voltage and / or current output by the power conversion circuit by adjusting the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulse input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit. In addition to the components described above, the processor (170) can control the overall operation of other components to be described later.

[0040] The processor (170) may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose MCU (micro controller unit) (or microprocessor) and memory storing a program that can be executed on such MCU. Additionally, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment belongs that the processor (170) may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0041] The RF signal generation circuit (210) can generate an RF signal based on power delivered from the power supply (130) or the second power converter (150). The RF signal may mean a signal having a frequency within the range of 300 MHz to 300 GHz. In one example, the RF signal may have a frequency of 1 GHz to 100 GHz. Additionally, the RF signal may have a frequency in the Industrial Scientific and Medical Equipment (ISM) band, for example, 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, and / or 5.8 GHz.

[0042] The RF signal generation circuit (210) may include a Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO) that generates an RF signal having a different frequency depending on the input voltage. The RF signal generation circuit (210) may receive a control signal (e.g., a DC signal) from the processor (170) and generate an RF signal having a frequency corresponding to the received control signal. The processor (170) may store the control signal corresponding to the desired frequency in the form of a look-up table, or calculate the control signal corresponding to the desired frequency in real time through at least one operation.

[0043] In one example, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a digital-to-analog converter for converting a digital control signal output from a processor (170) into an analog control signal. An RF signal generating circuit (210) may receive an analog control signal and generate an RF signal having a frequency corresponding to the received analog control signal.

[0044] The driving amplifier (220) can amplify the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit (210). For example, the driving amplifier (220) can provide an input signal suitable for the next stage component (e.g., power amplifier (230)) by amplifying the signal level (e.g., amplitude) of the RF signal. The driving amplifier (220) can minimize signal distortion by maintaining high linearity. However, since the driving amplifier (220) is an amplifier focused on raising the signal level, it can provide relatively low output power.

[0045] The power amplifier (230) can amplify the power of the RF signal received from the driving amplifier (220). The power amplifier (230) may be an amplifier focused on providing sufficient power to the final output device (e.g., the radiator (30)). For example, the power amplifier (230) may provide a high-power RF signal to the radiator (30) so that the radiator (30) can radiate electromagnetic waves into the insertion space to heat the aerosol generating article. The power amplifier (230) may perform the amplification operation using power received through a third power converter (160) that provides higher power and / or voltage than the second power converter (150).

[0046] The driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) may include transistors such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or a field effect transistor (FET), or vacuum tubes. In one example, the driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) may be GaN (Gallium Nitride) transistors capable of handling high efficiency, high speed, and high voltage, but are not necessarily limited thereto. The driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) may also include an operational amplifier.

[0047] Meanwhile, in FIG. 1, the driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) are shown as separate amplifiers, but the driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) can be integrated into a single amplifier. Additionally, the driving amplifier (220) and / or the power amplifier (230) may be configured as a series connection, a parallel connection, and / or a combination thereof of a plurality of amplifiers.

[0048] The radiating member (30) may include at least one antenna for radiating electromagnetic waves into space. The at least one antenna may have a size and shape suitable for the size and shape of the aerosol generating article. For example, if the aerosol generating article is cylindrical, the at least one antenna may be tubular, surrounding the cylindrical aerosol generating article. Here, the fact that the shape of the antenna is tubular may mean that the overall shape of the antenna is tubular. In other words, if the antenna is formed from a metal (e.g., SUS) track, it may mean that the overall shape of the entire track is tubular. The shape of the at least one antenna is not limited to the examples described above and may include various shapes such as a flat plate shape, a curved plate shape, etc.

[0049] The radiating unit (30) can heat an aerosol generating article by radiating electromagnetic waves (e.g., amplified RF signal or transmitted RF signal) into the insertion space. In order for the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating article to be maximized, resonance of the electromagnetic waves must occur within the insertion space. The resonance condition of the insertion space (e.g., resonance frequency) may vary depending on the amount of dielectric material contained in the inserted aerosol generating article, etc. The processor (170) can control the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generating circuit (210) so that it corresponds to or approaches the resonance condition of the insertion space by adjusting the control signal input to the RF signal generating circuit (210). The processor (170) may use a directional coupler (240) to obtain information about the resonance condition of the insertion space.

[0050] The directional coupler (240) may refer to a passive element having a waveguide structure capable of separating incident waves and reflected waves. The directional coupler (240) can receive an RF signal transmitted from the power amplifier (230) toward the radiating unit (30) and an electromagnetic wave reflected from the insertion space after being radiated by the radiating unit (30), respectively. The directional coupler (240) can separate the transmitted RF signal and the reflected electromagnetic wave and transmit them to the processor (170).

[0051] In one example, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include an analog-to-digital converter for converting the analog output of a directional coupler (240) into a digital output. The A / D converter may be built into the processor (170) or may exist as a separate configuration outside the processor (170). By monitoring the output of the directional coupler (240), the processor (170) can analyze the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase and / or frequency) and the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic wave (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase and / or frequency).

[0052] The processor (170) can determine whether the operation of the source unit (20) is being performed as intended based on the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal. Additionally, the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal, along with the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic waves, can be used to determine the heating efficiency of the source unit (20) or the radiating unit (30). The processor (170) can control the source unit (20) so that the heating efficiency of the source unit (20) or the radiating unit (30) is maximized. For example, the processor (170) can adjust the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit (210) so that the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves is minimized. Minimizing the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves may mean that the frequency of the RF signal approaches the resonance condition of the insertion space. The characteristics of the transmitted RF signal can provide a criterion for whether the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves is minimized.

[0053] Since electromagnetic resonance may occur in the insertion space depending on the frequency of the RF signal, the insertion space may be referred to as a resonant section. At least a portion of the insertion space may be surrounded by at least one shielding member to prevent electromagnetic waves from leaking outside the aerosol generating device (1). According to one embodiment, the insertion space may further include a physical structure to ensure that the resonance condition is contained within a controllable range by the processor (170). The physical structure may include at least one conductor, and the resonance condition of the insertion space may vary depending on the arrangement, thickness, length, etc. of the conductor. Additionally, the physical structure may include a space for accommodating a dielectric with low electromagnetic wave absorption, separate from the dielectric included in the aerosol generating article. A dielectric with low electromagnetic wave absorption can change the resonance frequency of the entire resonant section without absorbing the energy that must be transferred to the heated body. Accordingly, even if the resonant section is miniaturized, the resonance condition can be determined within a controllable range by the processor (170).

[0054] A temperature sensing circuit (250) may be placed in contact with or adjacent to components included in the source section (20) to measure the temperature of the source section (20). For example, the temperature sensing circuit (250) may be placed in contact with or adjacent to at least one of the RF signal generation circuit (210), the driving amplifier (220), and the power amplifier (230). Heat may be generated due to limited efficiency during the generation and / or amplification of the RF signal, and if excessive heat is generated, it may have a negative effect on the components included in the source section (20) or other components included in the aerosol generating device (1). The temperature measured by the temperature sensing circuit (250) may be used to prevent overheating of the source section (20).

[0055] The processor (170) receives the temperature (or a value corresponding to the temperature) measured by the temperature sensing circuit (250) and can stop the operation of the source unit (20) if it is determined that the source unit (20) has overheated. For example, the processor (170) can stop the operation of the source unit (20) by stopping the power supply to the source unit (20) or by transmitting a control signal. In the following, the term "power supply to the source unit (20)" is used to mean controlling whether the source unit (20) operates.

[0056] The temperature sensing circuit (250) may include at least one temperature sensor among a thermocouple, an RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector), a thermistor, a semiconductor temperature sensor, and an optical temperature sensor. In one example, the temperature sensing circuit (250) may be implemented as a chip-type sensor (e.g., an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) sensor) to minimize the area occupied, but is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0057] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (1) may include additional components in addition to the components shown in FIG. 1. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a sensor unit, an output unit, an input unit, a communication unit, and a memory. Additionally, if the aerosol generating device (1) is a hybrid type device that uses both an aerosol generating article and a cartridge, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a cartridge heater. The cartridge heater can heat the medium and / or aerosol generating material within the cartridge by receiving power from the power source (130).

[0058] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit may detect the state of the aerosol generating device (1) or the state of the surroundings of the aerosol generating device (1) and transmit the detected information to the processor (170). For example, the sensor unit may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a reuse detection sensor, an overly moist detection sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, a cap detection sensor, and / or a motion detection sensor. Meanwhile, the sensor unit may further include various sensors, such as a liquid residue sensor for detecting the liquid residue in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for detecting the water immersion of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0059] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature of an insertion space or an aerosol-generating article. The temperature sensor may be positioned in contact with or adjacent to the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article to directly measure the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the temperature sensor may be positioned spaced apart from the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article to indirectly (e.g., non-contact) measure the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article. In one example, the temperature sensor may include an optical temperature sensor (e.g., an infrared temperature sensor).

[0060] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature of a power source (130). The temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power source (130). For example, the temperature sensor may be attached to one side of the power source (130) (e.g., a battery) or / or mounted on one side of a printed circuit board. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a protection circuit module (PCM), and the temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power source (130) together with the protection circuit module.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may be placed inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device (1) to detect the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0063] For example, the puff sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1), and the processor (170) may detect the user's puff based on the signal corresponding to the internal pressure. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1) may correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor may be positioned in the aerosol generating device (1) in correspondence with the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0064] As another example, the puff sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user's puff occurs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, insertion space, aerosol generating item, etc. The processor (170) can detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the temperature of the airflow path, etc. output from the temperature sensor.

[0065] As another example, the puff sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor may measure the temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an example, the puff sensor may correct a signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the puff sensor may output a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the puff sensor. In this case, the processor (170) may receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0066] As another example, the puff sensor may include a capacitance sensor. In the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor may also be referred to as a capacitive sensor. When a user's puff occurs, a temperature change and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space, and accordingly, the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may change. The processor (170) can detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0067] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0068] According to one embodiment, an insertion detection sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion detection sensor may be installed around the insertion space.

[0069] For example, the insertion detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor may change. The processor (170) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0070] As another example, the insertion detection sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and said at least one coil may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. If the aerosol generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space or removed from the insertion space, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil through which the current flows. The processor (170) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency of the alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.). Alternatively, a susceptor (e.g., SUS) may be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the medium portion of the aerosol generating article). In this case as well, a change in the magnetic field around the coil may occur based on the insertion or removal of a susceptor, etc., within the insertion space, and the processor (170) may detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article based on the characteristics of the current of the inductive sensor.

[0071] The insertion detection sensor is not limited to the examples described above and may be implemented as various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors, etc.) for detecting the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the insertion detection sensor may include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor may include a switch, etc., for detecting pressure caused by an aerosol-generating article.

[0072] According to one embodiment, a reuse detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is reused. For example, the reuse detection sensor may be a color sensor for detecting the color of the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article is used by a user, a change in color may occur in a part of the wrapper covering the outside of the aerosol-generating article due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor may output a signal corresponding to an optical characteristic (e.g., wavelength of light) corresponding to the color of the wrapper based on light reflected from the wrapper. When the processor (170) detects a change in color in a part of the wrapper, it may determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has already been used.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the over-humidity detection sensor can detect whether the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor disposed adjacent to an insertion space. The processor (170) can detect whether the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., output from the capacitance sensor. For example, the processor (170) can determine the level range in which the level of the signal is included based on a look-up table, and determine the amount of moisture for the aerosol generating article based on the confirmed level range.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine or / or detect the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0075] For example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a light sensor for detecting an identification material (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., wrapper) of an aerosol-generating article. The light sensor may irradiate light toward the identification material (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or of a specific type based on the reflected light. For example, the identification material may include a material that emits light of a specific band of wavelength based on the irradiated light. The processor (170) may detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or of a specific type based on the range of the wavelengths.

[0076] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating item inserted into the insertion space. The processor (170) can detect whether the aerosol-generating item is genuine and / or of the type based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitive sensor.

[0077] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. If a conductor is included in the wrapper and / or interior (e.g., the medium) of the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space, the characteristics of the current detected by the inductive sensor when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space (e.g., frequency of alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) may differ depending on the type of aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space. The processor (170) can detect whether the inserted aerosol generating article is genuine and / or of the type based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor.

[0078] The cigarette identification sensor is not limited to the examples described above and may be implemented as various sensors for detecting whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine or / or for detecting the type of an aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the cigarette identification sensor may include any combination of the examples described above.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the cartridge detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of a cartridge. For example, the cartridge detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0080] According to one embodiment, a cap detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of a cap. For example, the cap detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device (1). The cap detection sensor may output a signal corresponding to the mounting or removal when the cap is mounted on the housing or removed from the housing, and the processor (170) may detect the mounting or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the mounting or removal.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the motion detection sensor can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device (1). The motion detection sensor may be implemented as at least one of an accelerometer or a gyro sensor.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System, GPS), or a proximity sensor in addition to the aforementioned sensors. Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, a detailed description may be omitted.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the output unit may output information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1). The output unit may include a display, a haptic unit and / or an acoustic output unit, but is not limited thereto. For example, information regarding the aerosol generating device (1) may include the charging / discharging state of the power supply (130) of the aerosol generating device (1), the operating state of the source unit (20) or the radiation unit (30), the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the mounting and / or removal state of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal article). The display may visually provide information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the display may include an LED (light emitting diode) light-emitting element, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), an Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLED), etc. The display can also be used as an input unit if it includes a touch pad. The haptic unit can provide tactile information about the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the haptic unit may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electric stimulation device, etc. The acoustic output unit can provide auditory information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it externally.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the input unit can receive information input by a user. For example, the input unit may include a touch panel, a button, a keypad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the memory is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (1), and can store data processed by the processor (170) and data to be processed. For example, the memory may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), 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, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. For example, the memory may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the communication unit may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device (e.g., a portable electronic device). For example, the communication unit may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a wireless local area network (WLAN) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wireless Fidelity Direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Adaptive Network Topology (ANT)+ communication unit, a cellular network communication unit, an internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the temperature of the insertion space or aerosol generating article by controlling the amplification rate of the source unit (20) (e.g., power amplifier (230)). The processor (170) can control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) (e.g., power amplifier (230)) based on the temperature of the insertion space or aerosol generating article detected using a temperature sensor. The processor (170) can control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) (e.g., power amplifier (230)) based on a temperature profile and / or power profile stored in memory.

[0088] Additionally, the processor (170) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater by controlling the supply of power from the power supply (130) to the cartridge heater. The processor (170) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the power supplied to the cartridge heater based on the temperature of the cartridge heater detected using a temperature sensor. The processor (170) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the power supplied to the cartridge heater based on a temperature profile and / or power profile stored in memory.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can prevent the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, and / or the cartridge heater from overheating. For example, the processor (170) can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to reduce the amount of power supplied to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater, or to stop the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater, based on the fact that the temperature of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, and / or the cartridge heater exceeds a preset limit temperature.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on the result detected by the sensor unit.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article into the insertion space. For example, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when it is determined, using an insertion detection sensor, that an aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space. The processor (170) may cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when it is determined, using an insertion detection sensor, that an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space. The processor (170) may also determine that an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article is above a limit temperature or if the temperature change slope of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article is above a set slope.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount for the source unit (20) or cartridge heater based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, the processor (170) can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) for the source unit (20) or cartridge heater if it is determined that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state using an over-humidity detection sensor.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating article is reused. For example, if the processor (170) determines that the aerosol generating article has been used, it can cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the cartridge is coupled and / or removed. For example, if the processor (170) determines using a cartridge detection sensor that the cartridge is separated, it can stop the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater or control the power supply so that power is not supplied to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted. For example, the processor (170) may determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted if it determines that the temperature of the cartridge heater exceeds a limit temperature while preheating the cartridge heater (i.e., during the preheating period). If it determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted, the processor (170) may cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the cartridge is usable. For example, the processor (170) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if, based on data stored in memory, the current number of puffs is determined to be greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge. Alternatively, the processor (170) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if the total time the cartridge heater is heated is greater than or equal to a preset maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater is greater than or equal to a preset maximum amount of power. In this case, the processor (170) may stop the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater, or control the supply so that power is not supplied to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on the user's puff. For example, the processor (170) can determine whether a puff has occurred and / or the intensity of the puff using a puff sensor. The processor (170) can cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs or / or when no puff is detected for a preset time or longer. The processor (170) may also control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when a puff is detected.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine and / or of a specific type. For example, the processor (170) may detect whether the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine and / or of a specific type using a cigarette identification sensor. For example, if the processor (170) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is counterfeit, it may cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater. If the processor (170) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine, it may control (e.g., initiate) the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater. For another example, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater differently depending on the specific type of the aerosol generating item (or cartridge). More specifically, the processor (170) can control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) or the temperature and / or power of the cartridge heater based on a first temperature profile (or a first power profile) when the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is detected to be a first aerosol generating item (or a first cartridge), and control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) or the temperature and / or power of the cartridge heater based on a second temperature profile (or a second power profile) when the aerosol generating item (or a second cartridge) is detected to be a second aerosol generating item (or a second cartridge).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the output unit based on the result detected by the sensor unit. For example, the processor (170) may control the output unit to provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information that the aerosol generating device (1) will soon be terminated when the number of puffs counted using the puff sensor reaches a preset number. For example, the processor (170) may control the output unit to provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information regarding the temperature of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, or the cartridge heater.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may store and update a history of the event that occurred in memory based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. For example, the event may include operations performed by the aerosol generating device (1), such as detection of insertion of an aerosol generating item, initiation of heating of the aerosol generating item, puff detection, puff termination, overheating detection, detection of overvoltage application to a cartridge heater, termination of heating of the aerosol generating item, power on / off of the aerosol generating device (1), initiation of charging of the power supply (130), detection of overcharging of the power supply (130), termination of charging of the power supply (130), etc. For example, the history of the event may include the time and date when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is detection of insertion of an aerosol generating item, the log data corresponding to the event may include data regarding the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating of the cartridge heater, the log data corresponding to the event may include data regarding the temperature of the cartridge heater, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater, the current flowing through the cartridge heater, etc.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the communication unit to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0102] According to one embodiment, when the processor (170) receives authentication data from an external device via a communication link, it may release the restriction on the use of at least one function (e.g., heating function) of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique number representing the user, whether the user's authentication is complete, etc.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can transmit data regarding the status of the aerosol generating device (1) (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply (130), operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The transmitted data can be output through a display of the external device, etc.

[0104] According to one embodiment, when a processor (170) receives a request to search for the location of an aerosol generating device (1) from an external device via a communication link, the processor (170) may control an output unit to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the processor (170) may control a haptic unit to generate vibrations or control a display to output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can perform a firmware update when firmware data is received from an external device through a communication link.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) transmits data regarding the sensing value of at least one sensor unit to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and receives and stores a learning model generated by learning the sensing value through machine learning, such as deep learning, from the server. The processor (170) can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0107] Although not illustrated in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit includes at least one switching element and can cut off the circuit to the power source (130) in response to overcharging and / or overdischarging of the power source (130).

[0108] The aerosol generating article mentioned in the present disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium part) and at least one filter rod. The spinning part (30) may be positioned to correspond to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating material, and an additive. For example, the aerosol generating material may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may include various other materials. For example, the additive may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may include various other materials. For example, the aerosol generating rod may comprise an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a non-tobacco substance in a liquid state (e.g., an aerosol generating substance and / or nicotine), and / or may comprise a tobacco substance in a solid state (e.g., leaf tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). The tobacco substance may be included in the aerosol generating rod in various forms, such as cut tobacco, granules, or powder. According to one embodiment, the additive of the aerosol generating rod may comprise a basic substance. Based on the basic substance, the nicotine in the tobacco substance included in the aerosol generating rod may have a basic pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, freebase nicotine may be released from the aerosol generating rod even at low temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod comprises two or more aerosol generating rods, and said two or more aerosol generating rods may each comprise a tobacco substance and / or a non-tobacco substance.Meanwhile, although not illustrated, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each and / or integrally be wrapped by at least one wrapper. In the present disclosure, the aerosol generating article may be referred to as a stick.

[0109] The cartridge mentioned in the present disclosure may contain an aerosol generating material having any one of the states, such as a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state. The aerosol generating material may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material containing a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. Meanwhile, the cartridge may include a storage portion containing the aerosol generating material and / or a liquid delivery means impregnated (containing) the aerosol generating material. For example, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as a cotton fiber, a ceramic fiber, a glass fiber, or a porous ceramic. A cartridge heater may be included in the cartridge in a coil-shaped structure that surrounds (or winds) the liquid delivery means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means. Alternatively, the cartridge heater may be included in an aerosol generating device (1) that is detachable from the cartridge.

[0110] Below, an embodiment is described in which microwaves are heated by forming microwaves within a resonant structure through a coupler, rather than by radiating microwaves using an antenna-shaped radiating part (30).

[0111] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a heater assembly (dielectric heating unit (2000)) according to one embodiment and an aerosol generating device including the same.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an input unit (1020), an output unit (1030), a sensor unit (1040), a communication unit (1050), a memory (1060), a battery (1070), an interface unit (1080), a power conversion unit (1090), and a dielectric heating unit (2000). However, the internal configuration of the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to that shown in FIG. 2. Depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), some of the configurations shown in FIG. 2 may be omitted, or new configurations may be added.

[0113] The input unit (1020) can receive user input. For example, the input unit (1020) may be provided as a single pressurized push button. As another example, the input unit (1020) may be a touch panel including at least one touch sensor. The input unit (1020) can transmit an input signal to the processor (1010). Based on the user input, the processor (1010) may supply power to the dielectric heating unit (2000) or control the output unit (1030) to output a user notification.

[0114] The output unit (1030) can output information regarding the status of the aerosol generating device (1). The output unit (1030) can output the charging / discharging status of the battery (1070), the heating status of the dielectric heating unit (2000), the insertion status of the aerosol generating item, and error information of the aerosol generating device (1). To this end, the output unit (1030) may include a display, a haptic motor, and an acoustic output unit.

[0115] The sensor unit (1040) can detect the state of the aerosol generating device (1) or the surrounding state of the aerosol generating device (1) and transmit the detected information to the processor (1010). Based on the detected information, the processor (1010) can control the aerosol generating device (1) so that various functions are performed, such as heating control of the dielectric heating unit (2000), smoking restriction, determination of whether to insert an aerosol generating item, and notification display.

[0116] The sensor unit (1040) may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion detection sensor.

[0117] The temperature sensor can detect the temperature inside the dielectric heating unit (2000) non-contactually or directly obtain the temperature of the resonator by contacting the dielectric heating unit (2000). According to an embodiment, the temperature sensor may also detect the temperature of an aerosol generating article. Additionally, the temperature sensor may be placed adjacent to the battery (1070) to obtain the temperature of the battery (1070). The processor (1010) can control the power supplied to the dielectric heating unit (2000) based on the temperature information from the temperature sensor.

[0118] The puff sensor can detect the user's puff. The puff sensor can detect the user's puff based on at least one of a change in temperature, a change in flow, a change in power, and a change in pressure. The processor (1010) can control the power supplied to the dielectric heating unit (2000) based on the puff information from the puff sensor. For example, the processor (1010) can count the number of puffs and cut off the power supplied to the dielectric heating unit (2000) when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs. As another example, the processor (1010) can cut off the power supplied to the dielectric heating unit (2000) if no puff is detected for more than a preset time.

[0119] An insertion detection sensor is positioned inside or adjacent to the insertion space to detect the insertion and removal of an aerosol-generating article received through the insertion port. For example, the insertion detection sensor may include an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor. The processor (1010) may supply power to the dielectric heating unit (2000) when an aerosol-generating article is inserted into the insertion port.

[0120] According to an embodiment, the sensor unit (1040) may additionally include a reuse detection sensor, a motion detection sensor, a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a cover detachment detection sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor. Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred from its name, a detailed description is omitted.

[0121] The communication unit (1050) may include at least one communication module for communication with an external electronic device. The processor (1010) may control the communication unit (1050) to transmit information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the external electronic device. Alternatively, the processor (1010) may receive information from the external electronic device through the communication unit (1050) to control the components included in the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the transmitted information between the communication unit (1050) and the external electronic device may include user authentication information, firmware update information, and user smoking pattern information.

[0122] The memory (1060) is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (1), and can store data processed by the processor (1010) and data to be processed. For example, the memory (1060) can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0123] The battery (1070) can supply power to the dielectric heating unit (2000) so that the aerosol generating article can be heated. Additionally, the battery (1070) can supply power necessary for the operation of other components provided within the aerosol generating device (1). The battery (1070) may be a rechargeable battery or a detachable battery.

[0124] The interface unit (1080) may include a connection terminal that can be physically connected to an external electronic device. The connection terminal may include at least one of an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector) or a combination thereof. The interface unit (1080) may transmit and receive information to and from an external electronic device or charge power through the connection terminal.

[0125] The power conversion unit (1090) can convert direct current power supplied from the battery (1070) into alternating current power. Additionally, the power conversion unit (1090) can provide the converted alternating current power to the dielectric heating unit (2000). The power conversion unit (1090) may be an inverter including at least one switching element, and the processor (1010) can convert direct current power into alternating current power by controlling the ON / OFF of the switching element included in the power conversion unit (1090). The power conversion unit (1090) may be configured as a full-bridge or a half-bridge.

[0126] The dielectric heating unit (2000) can heat an aerosol-generating article by a dielectric heating method. The dielectric heating unit (2000) may be a configuration corresponding to the heater assembly (2000) to be described later.

[0127] The dielectric heating unit (2000) can heat an aerosol generating article using microwaves and / or a microwave electric field (hereinafter referred to as microwaves or microwave power where there is no need to distinguish).

[0128] As mentioned above, the heating method of the dielectric heating unit (2000) may be a method of heating the object to be heated by forming microwaves within a resonant structure, rather than a method of radiating microwaves using an antenna.

[0129] The dielectric heating unit (2000) can output high-frequency microwaves to the resonant unit (2200). The microwaves may be power in the ISM (Industrial Scientific and Medical Equipment) band permitted for heating, but are not limited thereto. The resonant unit (2200) may be designed considering the wavelength of the microwaves so that the microwaves can resonate within the resonant unit (2200).

[0130] The aerosol generating article is inserted into the resonance section (2200), and the dielectric material within the aerosol generating article can be heated by the resonance section (2200). For example, the aerosol generating article may contain a polar material, and molecules within the polar material may be polarized inside the resonance section (2200). The molecules may vibrate or rotate due to the polarization phenomenon, and the aerosol generating article may be heated by frictional heat generated during this process. A more detailed description of the dielectric heating section (2000) will be provided later.

[0131] The processor (1010) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The processor (1010) may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program that can be executed on the microprocessor. It may also be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0132] The processor (1010) can control the DC power supplied from the battery (1070) to the power converter (1090) and / or the AC power supplied from the power converter (1090) to the dielectric heating unit (2000) according to the power requirements of the dielectric heating unit (2000). In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) includes a converter that steps up or steps down the DC power, and the processor (1010) can control the converter to adjust the magnitude of the DC power. Additionally, the processor (1010) can control the AC power supplied to the dielectric heating unit (2000) by adjusting the switching frequency and duty cycle of the switching element included in the power converter (1090).

[0133] The processor (1010) can control the heating temperature of an aerosol-generating article by controlling the microwave power of the dielectric heating unit (2000) and the resonance frequency of the dielectric heating unit (2000). Accordingly, the oscillation unit (2100), isolation unit (2400), power monitoring unit (2500), and matching unit (2600) described later may be part of the processor (1010).

[0134] The processor (1010) can control the microwave power of the dielectric heating unit (2000) based on temperature profile information stored in the memory (1060). In other words, the temperature profile includes information about the target temperature of the dielectric heating unit (2000) over time, and the processor (1010) can control the microwave power of the dielectric heating unit (2000) over time.

[0135] The processor (1010) can adjust the frequency of the microwave so that the resonance frequency of the dielectric heating unit (2000) is constant. The processor (1010) can track the change in the resonance frequency of the dielectric heating unit (2000) in real time due to the heating of the object to be heated, and control the dielectric heating unit (2000) so that a microwave frequency corresponding to the changed resonance frequency is output. In other words, the processor (1010) can change the microwave frequency in real time regardless of a pre-stored temperature profile.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 2, the dielectric heating unit (2000) may include an oscillation unit (2100), an isolation unit (2400), a power monitoring unit (2500), a matching unit (2600), a microwave output unit (2300), and a resonance unit (2200). However, the internal configuration of the dielectric heating unit (2000) is not limited to that shown in FIG. 2. Depending on the design of the dielectric heating unit (2000), some of the configurations shown in FIG. 2 may be omitted, or new configurations may be added.

[0137] The oscillator (2100) may correspond to the same configuration as the source unit (e.g., source unit (20) of FIG. 1) described in FIG. 1. The oscillator (2100) may generate high-frequency microwave power by receiving AC power from the power converter (1090). In this case, depending on the embodiment, the power converter (1090) may be a configuration included in the oscillator (2100). The microwave power may be selected from the 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, and 5.8 GHz frequency bands included in the ISM bands.

[0138] The oscillation unit (2100) includes a solid-state based RF generation device and can generate microwave power using it. The solid-state based RF generation device can be implemented as a semiconductor. When the oscillation unit (2100) is implemented as a semiconductor, the dielectric heating unit (2000) can be miniaturized, and there is an advantage of increasing the device lifespan.

[0139] The oscillator (2100) can output microwave power toward the resonator (2200). The oscillator (2100) includes a power amplifier that increases or decreases microwave power, and the power amplifier can adjust the magnitude of the microwave power under the control of the processor (1010). For example, the power amplifier can decrease or increase the amplitude of the microwave. As the amplitude of the microwave is adjusted, the microwave power can be adjusted.

[0140] The processor (1010) can adjust the magnitude of the microwave power output from the oscillator (2100) based on a pre-stored temperature profile. For example, the temperature profile includes target temperature information according to a preheating section and a smoking section, and the oscillator (2100) can supply microwave power at a first power during the preheating section and supply microwave power at a second power smaller than the first power during the smoking section.

[0141] The isolation unit (2400) can block microwave power input from the resonance unit (2200) toward the oscillation unit (2100). Most of the microwave power output from the oscillation unit (2100) is absorbed by the object being heated, but depending on the heating pattern of the object being heated, some of the microwave power may be reflected by the object being heated and transmitted back toward the oscillation unit (2100). This is because the impedance viewed from the oscillation unit (2100) toward the resonance unit (2200) changes as polar molecules are depleted due to the heating of the object being heated. The phrase "the impedance viewed from the oscillation unit (2100) toward the resonance unit (2200) changes" may have the same meaning as "the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200) changes." When microwave power reflected from the resonance unit (2200) is input to the oscillation unit (2100), not only is the oscillation unit (2100) prone to failure, but the expected output performance cannot be achieved. The isolation unit (2400) can absorb the microwave power reflected from the resonance unit (2200) by guiding it in a predetermined direction, rather than sending it back to the oscillation unit (2100). To this end, the isolation unit (2400) may include a circulator and a dummy load.

[0142] The power monitoring unit (2500) can monitor the microwave power output from the oscillation unit (2100) and the reflected microwave power reflected from the resonance unit (2200), respectively. The power monitoring unit (2500) can transmit information regarding the microwave power and the reflected microwave power to the matching unit (2600).

[0143] The matching unit (2600) can match the impedance viewed from the oscillator (2100) toward the resonator (2200) and the impedance viewed from the resonator (2200) toward the oscillator (2100) so that the reflected microwave power is minimized. Impedance matching may have the same meaning as matching the frequency of the oscillator (2100) with the resonant frequency of the resonator (2200). Therefore, the matching unit (2600) can vary the frequency of the oscillator (2100) to match the impedance. In other words, the matching unit (2600) can adjust the frequency of the microwave power output from the oscillator (2100) so that the reflected microwave power is minimized. The impedance matching of the matching unit (2600) can be performed in real time regardless of the temperature profile.

[0144] Meanwhile, the aforementioned oscillation unit (2100), isolation unit (2400), power monitoring unit (2500), and matching unit (2600) are separate components distinct from the microwave output unit (2300) and resonance unit (2200) described later, and can be implemented as a microwave source in the form of a chip (chip0). Additionally, according to an embodiment, the aforementioned oscillation unit (2100), isolation unit (2400), power monitoring unit (2500), and matching unit (2600) may also be implemented as part of the processor (1010).

[0145] The microwave output unit (2300) is configured to input microwave power to the resonant unit (2200) and may be a configuration that can be expressed as a 'coupler'. The microwave output unit (2300) may be implemented in the form of an SMA, SMB, MCX, or MMCX connector. For example, the microwave output unit (2300) may connect a chip-type microwave source and the resonant unit (2200) to each other to transmit microwave power generated from the microwave source to the resonant unit (2200).

[0146] The resonant section (2200) can heat a body to be heated by generating microwaves within the resonant structure. The resonant section (2200) includes an insertion space in which an aerosol generating article is received, and the aerosol generating article can be exposed to microwaves and dielectric heated. For example, the aerosol generating article may contain a polar material, and molecules within the polar material may be polarized by microwaves inside the resonant section (2200). The molecules may vibrate or rotate due to the polarization phenomenon, and the aerosol generating article may be heated by frictional heat generated during this process.

[0147] The resonance section (2200) includes at least one internal conductor so that microwaves can resonate, and microwaves can resonate within the resonance section (2200) depending on the arrangement, thickness, and length of the internal conductor.

[0148] The resonant section (2200) can be designed with consideration of the wavelength of the microwave so that the microwave can resonate within the resonant section (2200). For the microwave to resonate within the resonant section (2200), a short end with a closed cross section and an open end with at least one region of the cross section open in the direction opposite to the short end are required. Additionally, the length between the short end and the open end must be set as an integer multiple of 1 / 4 of the microwave wavelength. The resonant section (2200) of the present disclosure selects a length of 1 / 4 of the microwave wavelength for device miniaturization. In other words, the length between the short end and the open end of the resonant section (2200) can be set to a length of 1 / 4 of the microwave wavelength.

[0149] The resonant section (2200) may include a dielectric receiving space. The dielectric receiving space is configured to be distinct from the insertion space of the aerosol generating article, and a material capable of miniaturizing the resonant section (2200) by changing the overall resonant frequency of the resonant section (2200) is disposed therein. In one embodiment, a dielectric with low microwave absorption may be received in the dielectric receiving space. This is to prevent the phenomenon in which energy that should be transferred to the body to be heated is transferred to the dielectric, causing the dielectric itself to generate heat. Microwave absorption may be expressed as a loss tangent, which is the ratio of the imaginary part to the real part of the complex dielectric constant. In one embodiment, a dielectric having a loss tangent less than or equal to a preset size may be received in the dielectric receiving space, and the preset size may be 1 / 100. For example, the dielectric may be at least one of quartz, tetrafluoroethylene, and aluminum oxide, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0150] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 3, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a housing (1100) capable of receiving an aerosol generating article (2) and a heater assembly (2000) for heating the aerosol generating article (2) received in the housing (1100).

[0152] The housing (1100) may form the overall exterior of the aerosol generating device (1), and components of the aerosol generating device (1) may be placed in the internal space (or 'mounting space') of the housing (1100). For example, a heater assembly (2000), a battery, a processor and / or a sensor may be placed in the internal space of the housing (1100), but the components placed in the internal space are not limited thereto.

[0153] An insertion opening (1100h) may be formed in a portion of the housing (1100), and at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (2) may be inserted into the interior of the housing (1100) through the insertion opening (1100h). For example, the insertion opening (1100h) may be formed in a portion of the top surface (e.g., the surface facing the z-direction) of the housing (1100), but the location where the insertion opening (1100h) is formed is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the insertion opening (1100h) may be formed in a portion of the side surface (e.g., the surface facing the x-direction) of the housing (1100).

[0154] A heater assembly (2000) is positioned in the internal space of a housing (1100) and can heat an aerosol generating article (2) inserted or received inside the housing (1100) through an insertion port (1100h). The heater assembly (2000) may include an insertion space for receiving the aerosol generating article (2). When the aerosol generating article (2) inserted or received inside the housing (1100) is received in the insertion space of the heater assembly (2000), the heater assembly (2000) is positioned to surround at least one area of ​​the aerosol generating article (2) so as to heat the aerosol generating article (2).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the heater assembly (2000) can heat an aerosol-generating article (2) by a dielectric heating method. In this disclosure, "dielectric heating method" refers to a method of heating a dielectric material that is a heating object by utilizing the resonance of microwaves and / or the electric field (or magnetic field) of microwaves (hereinafter referred to as microwaves or microwave power unless there is a need for distinction). Since microwaves are an energy source for heating a heating object and are generated by high-frequency power, microwaves may be used interchangeably with microwave power in the following description. Ultimately, the heater assembly (2000) is configured to heat an aerosol-generating article (2) contained in an insertion space through microwaves.

[0156] The charges or ions of the dielectric material contained within the aerosol generating article (2) can vibrate or rotate due to microwave resonance inside the heater assembly (2000), and heat can be generated in the dielectric material by frictional heat generated during the process of the charges or ions vibrating or rotating, thereby heating the aerosol generating article (2).

[0157] As the aerosol generating article (2) is heated by the heater assembly (2000), an aerosol may be generated from the aerosol generating article (2). In the present disclosure, 'aerosol' may refer to gaseous particles generated by mixing steam and air as the aerosol generating article (2) is heated.

[0158] The aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article (2) can pass through the aerosol generating article (2) or be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1) through the empty space between the aerosol generating article (2) and the insertion port (1100h). The user can smoke by contacting the mouth to a part of the aerosol generating article (2) exposed to the outside of the housing (1100) and inhaling the aerosol discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0159] An aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may further include a cover (1110) movably disposed in a housing (1100) to open or close an insertion port (1100h). For example, the cover (1110) may be slidably coupled to the upper surface of the housing (1100) and may expose the insertion port (1100h) to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1), or cover the insertion port (1100h) so that the insertion port (1100h) is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0160] In one example, the cover (1110) may allow the insertion opening (1100h) to be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1) at a first position (or 'open position'). When the insertion opening (1100h) is exposed to the outside, an aerosol generating article (2) may be inserted into the inside of the housing (1100) through the insertion opening (1100h).

[0161] In another example, the cover (1110) can cover the insertion port (1100h) in a second position (or 'closed position') so that the insertion port (1100h) is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1). At this time, the cover (1110) can prevent external foreign matter from entering the interior of the heater assembly (2000) through the insertion port (1100h) when the aerosol generating device (1) is not in use.

[0162] FIG. 3 illustrates only an aerosol generating device (1) for heating a solid state aerosol generating article (2), but the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

[0163] According to another embodiment, an aerosol generating device may generate an aerosol by heating a liquid or gel-state aerosol generating material, rather than a solid-state aerosol generating article (2), through a heater assembly (2000).

[0164] According to another embodiment, an aerosol generating device may include a heater assembly (2000) for heating an aerosol generating article (2) and an aerosol generating material in a liquid or gel state, and may also include a cartridge (or 'vaporizer') for heating the aerosol generating material. The aerosol generated from the aerosol generating material may travel to the aerosol generating article (2) along an airflow passage communicating the cartridge and the aerosol generating article (2), mix with the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article (2), and then pass through the aerosol generating article (2) to be delivered to the user.

[0165] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a heater assembly (2000) according to one embodiment.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 4, a heater assembly (2000) according to one embodiment may include an oscillation part (2100) and a resonance part (2200). FIG. 4 may be an embodiment of the heater assembly (2000) and dielectric heating part (2000) described above, and redundant descriptions below will be omitted.

[0167] The oscillator (2100) can generate microwaves of a specified frequency band as power is supplied. The microwaves generated by the oscillator (2100) can be transmitted to the resonator (2200) through a microwave output unit (not shown) connected to the oscillator (2100). The microwave output unit can be coupled to the resonator (2200) through a bracket (2700).

[0168] The resonance unit (2200) may include an insertion space (2200h) for accommodating at least one region of the aerosol generating article (2), and the aerosol generating article (2) may be heated by a dielectric heating method by resonating the microwave generated from the oscillation unit (2100). For example, the charges of glycerin contained in the aerosol generating article (2) may vibrate or rotate due to the resonance of the microwave, and heat may be generated in the glycerin due to the frictional heat generated when the charges vibrate or rotate, thereby heating the aerosol generating article (2).

[0169] According to one embodiment, the resonant part (2200) may be formed of a material with a low microwave absorption rate to prevent microwaves generated in the oscillating part (2100) from being absorbed by the resonant part (2200).

[0170] Below, with reference to FIG. 5, we will examine the specific structure of the resonance part (2200) of the heater assembly (2000).

[0171] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the heater assembly (2000) of FIG. 4.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 5, a heater assembly (2000) according to one embodiment may include an oscillation unit (2100), a resonance unit (2200), and a microwave output unit (2300). The components of the heater assembly (2000) may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly (2000) of FIG. 4, and redundant descriptions below will be omitted.

[0173] The oscillation unit (2100) can generate microwaves of a specified frequency band as an alternating voltage is applied, and the microwaves generated by the oscillation unit (2100) can be transmitted to the resonance unit (2200) through the microwave output unit (2300).

[0174] The microwave output unit (2300) is configured to transmit microwaves generated in the oscillation unit (2100) to the resonance unit (2200). At this time, the microwave output unit (2300) may be described as a 'coupler'. The microwave output unit (2300) connected to the oscillation unit (2100) may be coupled to a region of the resonance unit (2200). Thus, the microwave output unit (2300) can couple the oscillation unit (2100) to the resonance unit (2200).

[0175] At this time, the microwave output unit (2300) can be coupled to a part of the resonance unit (2200) by screw coupling. The screw coupling can firmly support the part of the microwave output unit (2300) coupled to the resonance unit (2200) so that it does not shake. As a result, during the use of the aerosol generating device (1), the oscillation unit (2100) connected to the microwave output unit (2300) can be prevented from shaking or separating from the resonance unit (2200).

[0176] Additionally, the screw connection allows the microwave output section (2300) to move along the screw threads relative to the resonant section (2200). Accordingly, the manufacturer can adjust the position of the microwave output section (2300) or the oscillation section (2100) relative to the resonant section (2200) by adjusting the screw connection. Furthermore, by adjusting the screw connection, the manufacturer can adjust the degree to which the oscillation section (2100) is connected to the resonant section (2200).

[0177] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment, the screw connection can be adjusted not only during the manufacturing process of the heater assembly (2000) but also during the process of using the heater assembly (2000). Therefore, not only the manufacturer but also the user can adjust the position and degree of connection of the microwave output unit (2300) to the oscillation unit (2100) by adjusting the screw connection.

[0178] As illustrated, the thickness of one region of the resonance section (2200) to which the microwave output section (2300) is coupled is relatively thin compared to the length of the microwave output section (2300). In this case, even if the microwave output section (2300) is screw-coupled to one region of the resonance section (2200), the other part of the microwave output section (2300) exposed to the outside of the resonance section (2200) may be relatively larger than the part of the microwave output section (2300) coupled to the resonance section (2200). Therefore, the microwave output section (2300) may not be firmly fixed to the resonance section (2200).

[0179] According to one embodiment, the heater assembly (2000) may further include a bracket (2700) so that the microwave output section (2300) can be stably coupled to the resonant section (2200). The other part of the microwave output section (2300) exposed to the outside of the resonant section (2200) can be stably coupled to the resonant section (2200) by being supported by a bracket (2700) that protrudes along the x-axis direction in one area of ​​the resonant section (2200).

[0180] However, the embodiments are not limited to the placement of a bracket (2700). According to the embodiments, the microwave output section (2300) can be stably coupled to a region of the resonance section (2200) without the bracket (2700). In this case, the length of the microwave output section (2300) or the thickness of the region of the resonance section (2200) to which the microwave output section (2300) is coupled can be designed to have appropriate dimensions.

[0181] Meanwhile, although the drawing only illustrates an embodiment in which the microwave output unit (2300) is fixed in a region facing the x direction of the resonant unit (2200), the location of the microwave output unit (2300) is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. In other embodiments, the microwave output unit (2300) may be fixed in another region facing the -z direction of the resonant unit (2200).

[0182] According to one embodiment, the oscillation unit (2100) is connected to the microwave output unit (2300) and coupled to the resonance unit (2200) through the microwave output unit (2300), so that the oscillation unit (2100) does not need to be directly coupled to the resonance unit (2200). Accordingly, the degree of freedom of the shape or form of the oscillation unit (2100) can be improved.

[0183] Meanwhile, as described, the oscillation unit (2100) is directly connected to the microwave output unit (2300) and can be coupled to the resonance unit (2200) through the microwave output unit (2300). However, according to the embodiment, the oscillation unit (2100) may be electrically connected to the microwave output unit (2300) through a wire. The oscillation unit (2100) may be connected to the resonance unit (2200) through the microwave output unit (2300) even if it is not placed in an area adjacent to the resonance unit (2200). Accordingly, the degree of freedom in the placement of the oscillation unit (2100) within the aerosol generating device (1) can be improved.

[0184] In this case, the oscillator (2100) is not physically coupled to the resonator (2200), but the oscillator (2100) is connected to the resonator (2200) to transmit microwaves. In this way, even when the oscillator (2100) is connected to the resonator (2200) to transmit microwaves, it can be said that the oscillator (2100) is coupled to the resonator (2200).

[0185] That is, the meaning that the oscillator (2100) is coupled to the resonator (2200) may include not only a physical connection but also an electrical connection or a connection capable of transmitting electromagnetic waves. However, in the present disclosure, the expression "the oscillator (2100) is coupled to the resonator (2200)" is used, focusing on the meaning that the oscillator (2100) is physically connected to the resonator (2200).

[0186] The resonance section (2200) is positioned to surround at least one area of ​​the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device (1), and can heat the aerosol generating article (2) through microwaves generated from the oscillation section (2100). For example, dielectric materials contained in the aerosol generating article (2) can generate heat by the electric field generated inside the resonance section (2200) by microwaves, and the aerosol generating article (2) can be heated by the heat generated from the dielectric materials.

[0187] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating article (2) may include a tobacco rod (21) and a filter rod (22).

[0188] The tobacco rod (21) comprises an aerosol-generating material and may be made into a sheet or a strand, or the tobacco sheet may be made into finely cut tobacco. 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, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the tobacco rod (21) may contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Additionally, a flavoring liquid, such as menthol or a humectant, may be added to the tobacco rod (21) by spraying it onto the tobacco rod (21).

[0189] The 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 type rod or a tubular type rod containing a hollow interior. Additionally, the filter rod (22) may be a recessed type rod. If the filter rod (22) is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

[0190] At least some of the aerosol generating material (e.g., glycerin) contained in the aerosol generating article (2) may be a dielectric having polarity in an electric field, and at least some of such aerosol generating material may generate heat by dielectric heating to heat the aerosol generating article (2).

[0191] According to one embodiment, the resonant part (2200) may include an outer conductor (2210), a first inner conductor (2230), and a second inner conductor (2250).

[0192] The outer conductor (2210) can form the overall exterior of the resonance section (2200) and is formed in a hollow shape with an empty interior so that the components of the resonance section (2200) can be placed inside the outer conductor (2210). The outer conductor (2210) may include an insertion space (2200h) in which an aerosol generating article (2) can be received, and the aerosol generating article (2) can be inserted into the interior of the outer conductor (2210) through the insertion space (2200h).

[0193] According to one embodiment, the outer conductor (2210) may include a first surface (2210a), a second surface (2210b) positioned to face the first surface (2210a), and a side (2210c) surrounding the empty space between the first surface (2210a) and the second surface (2210b). At least some of the components of the resonance member (2200) (e.g., a first inner conductor (2230), a second inner conductor (2250)) may be positioned in the internal space of the resonance member (2200) formed by the first surface (2210a), the second surface (2210b), and the side (2210c).

[0194] The first inner conductor (2230) may be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape extending from the first surface (2210a) of the outer conductor (2210) toward the inner space of the outer conductor (2210).

[0195] As described, the microwave output unit (2300) is screw-coupled to a portion of the outer conductor (2210) and can penetrate the outer conductor (2210). At this time, one end of the microwave output unit (2300) may be positioned to be in contact with the oscillation unit (2100), and the other end may be positioned to be in contact with a portion of the first inner conductor (2230). Accordingly, microwaves generated from the oscillation unit (2100) can be transmitted to the first inner conductor (2230) through the microwave output unit (2300).

[0196] In this case, the embodiment is not limited to the other end of the microwave output unit (2300) contacting a region of the first inner conductor (2230). Since the microwave output unit (2300) also contacts the outer conductor (2210) through screw connection, the arrangement structure of the microwave output unit (2300) is not limited to this as long as the microwave generated from the oscillation unit (2100) can be transmitted into the interior of the resonance unit (2200).

[0197] A first region formed between the outer conductor (2210) and the first inner conductor (2230) can operate as a 'first resonator' that generates an electric field through microwave resonance. The first region may refer to a space formed by the first surface (2210a), side surface (2210c) of the outer conductor (2210) and the first inner conductor (2230), and within the first region, microwaves transmitted through the microwave output unit (2300) can resonate to generate an electric field.

[0198] The second inner conductor (2250) may be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape extending from the second surface (2210b) of the outer conductor (2210) toward the inner space of the outer conductor (2210). The second inner conductor (2250) may be spaced apart from the first inner conductor (2230) by a predetermined distance in the inner space of the outer conductor (2210), and a gap (2260) may be formed between the first inner conductor (2230) and the second inner conductor (2250).

[0199] A second region formed between an outer conductor (2210) and a second inner conductor (2250) can operate as a 'second resonator' that generates an electric field through microwave resonance. The second inner conductor (2250) can be coupled (e.g., capacitive coupling) with the first inner conductor (2230), and an induced electric field can be generated within the second region when an electric field is generated within the first region due to the coupling relationship described above. In this disclosure, 'capacitive coupling' may refer to a coupling relationship in which energy can be transferred by the capacitance between two conductors.

[0200] For example, as microwaves generated from the oscillation unit (2100) are transmitted to the first inner conductor (2230), an electric field may be generated inside the first region by resonance, and an induced electric field may be generated inside the second region formed by the outer conductor (2210) and the second inner conductor (2250) coupled to the first inner conductor (2230).

[0201] According to one embodiment, the first region and the second region of the resonance section (2200) can operate as a resonator having a length of 1 / 4 wavelength (λ) of microwave.

[0202] In one example, one end of the first region (e.g., the end in the -z direction) may be formed as a short end as the cross section of the first region is closed by the first surface (2210a) of the outer conductor (2210), and the other end of the first region (e.g., the end in the z direction) may be formed as an open end as the cross section is open as the first surface (2210a) is not positioned. In another example, one end of the second region (e.g., the end in the -z direction) may be formed as an open end as the cross section is open, and the other end of the second region (e.g., the end in the z direction) may be formed as a short end as the cross section of the second region is closed by the second surface (2210b) of the outer conductor (2210).

[0203] That is, the first region and the second region can be formed in an overall “C” shape including a closed end and an open end when viewed on the xz plane, and through the structure described above, the first region and the second region can operate as resonators having a wavelength of 1 / 4 of a microwave.

[0204] According to one embodiment, the first inner conductor (2230) and the second inner conductor (2250) may be formed to have the same length with respect to the z-axis so that the first region and the second region are symmetrical to each other, but are not limited thereto.

[0205] An aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the inner space of the outer conductor (2210) through the insertion space (2200h) can be heated by a dielectric heating method surrounded by the first inner conductor (2230) and the second inner conductor (2250).

[0206] At least a portion of the electric field generated by the resonance of microwaves in the first region and / or the second region may propagate toward the interior of the first inner conductor (2230) and / or the second inner conductor (2250) through the gap (2260) between the first inner conductor (2230) and the second inner conductor (2250), and the aerosol generating article (2) surrounded by the first inner conductor (2230) and the second inner conductor (2250) may be heated by the propagated electric field. For example, the dielectric contained in the aerosol generating article (2) may generate heat by the electric field propagating through the gap (2260), and the aerosol generating article (2) may be heated by the heat generated from the dielectric.

[0207] A heater assembly (2000) according to one embodiment can prevent an electric field propagated into the first inner conductor (2230) and / or the second inner conductor (2250) from leaking to the outside of the heater assembly (2000) or the resonant part (2200) by making the diameters of the first inner conductor (2230) and the second inner conductor (2250) less than a specified value. In the present disclosure, 'specified value' may mean a diameter value at which the electric field begins to leak to the outside of the first inner conductor (2230) and / or the second inner conductor (2250). For example, if the diameter of the first inner conductor (2230) and / or the second inner conductor (2250) is greater than a specified value, a situation may occur in which a portion of the electric field introduced into the first inner conductor (2230) and / or the second inner conductor (2250) leaks out of the resonant section (2200). On the other hand, the heater assembly (2000) according to one embodiment can prevent the electric field from propagating out of the resonant section (2200) through a structure in which the diameter of the first inner conductor (2230) and the second inner conductor (2250) is less than a specified value, and as a result, the electric field can be prevented from leaking out of the heater assembly (2000) or the resonant section (2200) without a separate shielding member.

[0208] According to one embodiment, when an aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the interior of a resonant part (2200) through an insertion space (2200h), the tobacco rod (21) of the aerosol generating article (2) may be positioned at a location corresponding to the gap (2260) between the first inner conductor (2230) and the second inner conductor (2250).

[0209] As the electric field generated in the first region and the electric field generated in the second region flow into the interior of the first inner conductor (2230) and / or the second inner conductor (2250) through the gap (2260), the strongest electric field can be generated in the area surrounding the gap (2260) among the internal regions of the resonant part (2200). In a heater assembly (2000) according to one embodiment, the heating efficiency (or 'dielectric heating efficiency') of the heater assembly (2000) can be improved by placing a tobacco rod (21) containing a dielectric that generates heat by the electric field at a position corresponding to the gap (2260) where the electric field is strongest.

[0210] According to one embodiment, the resonant member (2200) may further include a closing member (2240) located inside the first inner conductor (2230) and closing the cross-section of the first inner conductor (2230) to restrict the flow direction of the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article (2). For example, the closing member (2240) may close the cross-section of the first inner conductor (2230) to block the flow of the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article (2) in the -z direction.

[0211] If an aerosol generated from an aerosol generating article (2) or a droplet generated as the aerosol is liquefied flows in the -z direction and enters another component of an aerosol generating device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1), it may cause malfunction or damage to the components of the aerosol generating device. On the other hand, a heater assembly (2000) according to one embodiment can prevent malfunction or damage to the components of the aerosol generating device by restricting the flow direction of the aerosol through a closed portion (2240).

[0212] According to one embodiment, the resonant member (2200) may further include a dielectric receiving space (2270) for receiving a dielectric (DM). The dielectric receiving space (2270) may refer to an empty space between the outer conductor (2210), the first inner conductor (2230), and the second inner conductor (2250), and a dielectric (DM) with low microwave absorption may be received in the dielectric receiving space (2270). For example, the dielectric (DM) may be at least one of quartz, tetrafluoroethylene, and aluminum oxide, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0213] A heater assembly (2000) according to one embodiment can generate an electric field of the same level as the electric field generated in a resonant part that does not include a dielectric (DM) while reducing the overall size of the resonant part (2200) by placing a dielectric (DM) inside a dielectric receiving space (2270). That is, the heater assembly (2000) according to one embodiment can reduce the size of the resonant part (2200) through the dielectric (DM) placed inside the dielectric receiving space (2270), thereby reducing the mounting space of the resonant part (2200) within the aerosol generating device, and as a result, the aerosol generating device can be miniaturized.

[0214] Below, with reference to FIG. 6, the microwave output unit (2300) and its surrounding structure will be described in detail.

[0215] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the microwave output section (2300) and surrounding parts applied to the heater assembly (2000) of FIG. 5.

[0216] Referring to FIG. 6, a heater assembly (2000) according to one embodiment may include an oscillation unit (2100), a resonance unit (2200), a microwave output unit (2300), and a bracket (2700).

[0217] The resonant section (2200) may include a hole (2210h) through which a microwave output section (2300) passes. The hole (2210h) may be placed in a region of the outer conductor (2210). As illustrated, the hole (2210h) may be formed on the side (2210c) of the outer conductor (2210). Accordingly, the microwave output section (2300) may be placed on the side of the resonant section (2200).

[0218] A screw thread to which a microwave output unit (2300) is screw-coupled may be disposed in a region of the resonant part (2200) or outer conductor (2210) surrounding the hole (2210h). The microwave output unit (2300) can be inserted into the interior of the resonant part (2200) by rotating and translating along the screw thread formed in the hole (2210h).

[0219] The microwave output section (2300) may include a rod shape extending in the direction in which the hole (2210h) is opened. At this time, one end of the microwave output section (2300) may be inserted into the resonance section (2200) through the hole (2210h) formed in the outer conductor (2210). The other end of the microwave output section (2300) may be connected to the oscillation section (2100).

[0220] At this time, the position of one end of the microwave output unit (2300) can be adjusted according to the extent that the microwave output unit (2300) is inserted into the resonant unit (2200) by screw coupling. That is, the position of one end of the microwave output unit (2300) can be determined as the microwave output unit (2300) rotates and translates along the screw threads formed in the hole (2210h).

[0221] Depending on the position of one end of the microwave output section (2300) or the degree to which the microwave output section (2300) is inserted into the resonance section (2200), the degree to which the oscillation section (2100) is coupled to the resonance section (2200) may vary.

[0222] Additionally, if the user adjusts the position of one end of the microwave output unit (2300) or the degree to which the microwave output unit (2300) is inserted into the resonant unit (2200), the degree to which the microwave output unit (2300) contacts one area of ​​the resonant unit (2200) (e.g., one area of ​​the outer conductor (2210) in which the hole (2210h) is placed) may change. This may affect the resonant frequency of the resonant unit (2200). Accordingly, the user can adjust the resonant frequency of the resonant unit (2200) by rotating the microwave output unit (2300) to move along the screw threads.

[0223] Meanwhile, the outer conductor (2210) can perform the function of shielding so that microwaves output inside the resonant part (2200) do not leak to the outside. At this time, since a hole (2210h) is placed in the outer conductor (2210), there is a risk that microwaves may leak through the hole (2210h). However, according to the embodiment, since the screw threads formed in the microwave output part (2300) engage with the screw threads formed in the hole (2210h), the gap through which microwaves can leak can be minimized. In addition, even if there is a small gap between the two engaging screw threads, since the gap is formed along the shape of the screw threads, microwaves may not easily leak through the gap of the complex structure.

[0224] A bracket (2700) is coupled to the outside of a resonant section (2200) and is a configuration used to couple a microwave output section (2300) to the resonant section (2200). As illustrated, the bracket (2700) may be placed on the side (2210c) of an outer conductor (2210). At this time, the bracket (2700) may be firmly coupled to the resonant section (2200). Accordingly, the microwave output section (2300) supported by the bracket (2700) may also be fixed without moving.

[0225] The bracket (2700) may include a hollow (2700h) through which the microwave output section (2300) passes. The microwave output section (2300) may extend in the direction in which the hollow (2700h) opens and penetrate the bracket (2700). Since the bracket (2700) and the resonance section (2200) are in contact with each other, the microwave output section (2300) may penetrate the bracket (2700) and be coupled to the resonance section (2200).

[0226] In order for the microwave output section (2300) to be coupled to the resonant section (2200), it must penetrate the hollow (2700h) of the bracket (2700) and be inserted into the hole (2210h) of the outer conductor (2210). Therefore, the hollow (2700h) and the hole (2210h) can be aligned in a direction from the outside to the inside of the resonant section (2200) (e.g., x-axis direction) so that they are connected to each other.

[0227] By arranging the hollow (2700h) to be aligned with the hole (2210h), the microwave output section (2300) having a rod shape extending in one direction can pass through the hollow (2700h) and the hole (2210h) that are in contact with each other at once.

[0228] At this time, screw threads for screw coupling with the microwave output unit (2300) may be arranged on the inner surface of the bracket (2700) surrounding the hollow (2700h). If the screw threads arranged in the hole (2210h) are referred to as the first screw threads and the screw threads arranged in the hollow (2700h) are referred to as the second screw threads, the microwave output unit (2300) can be inserted into the inside of the resonance unit (2200) by being screw-coupled sequentially to the first screw threads and the second screw threads starting from the outside of the resonance unit (2200).

[0229] According to one embodiment, since the microwave output unit (2300) is screw-coupled to the bracket (2700) as well as the resonant unit (2200), the entire outer surface area of ​​the microwave output unit (2300) can be firmly supported by being coupled to the resonant unit (2200) and the bracket (2700). That is, the microwave output unit (2300) and the oscillation unit (2100) connected thereto can be coupled to the resonant unit (2200) without moving or shaking due to the presence of the bracket (2700).

[0230] However, the embodiment is not limited to having screw threads arranged on the inner surface of the bracket (2700). According to the embodiment, even if there are no screw threads on the inner surface of the bracket (2700) surrounding the hollow (2700h), the outer surface of the microwave output unit (2300) can be firmly supported by contacting the inner surface of the bracket (2700).

[0231] Meanwhile, the embodiment is not limited to the arrangement of the microwave output unit (2300) and the bracket (2700). The microwave output unit (2300) may be positioned below the resonance unit (2200) (e.g., in the -z direction relative to the resonance unit (2200)). Additionally, the microwave output unit (2300) may be directly coupled to the resonance unit (2200) without a separate bracket (2700).

[0232] When the microwave output section (2300) penetrates the outer conductor (2210) through the hole (2210h), one end of the microwave output section (2300) may be located in the space between the outer conductor (2210) and the first inner conductor (2230). Since the outer conductor (2210) is spaced apart from the first inner conductor (2230) and surrounds the first inner conductor (2230), the end of the microwave output section (2300) that penetrates the outer conductor (2210) may move further by the distance that the outer conductor (2210) is spaced apart from the first inner conductor (2230).

[0233] In this case as well, the microwave output section (2300) can move along a screw thread positioned in a region of the outer conductor (2210) or the resonant section (2200) surrounding the hole (2210h) and move toward the first inner conductor (2230).

[0234] If the outer conductor (2210) is configured to shield the microwave output inside the resonant part (2200) so that it does not leak to the outside, the first inner conductor (2230) is configured to resonate the microwave to heat the aerosol generating article (2).

[0235] At this time, when one end of the microwave output unit (2300) that has moved toward the first inner conductor (2230) comes into contact with the outer surface of the first inner conductor (2230), the microwave output unit (2300) can directly transmit microwaves to the first inner conductor (2230).

[0236] However, even if one end of the microwave output unit (2300) does not come into contact with the first inner conductor (2230), the microwave output unit (2300) is coupled to the outer conductor (2210) through a screw connection, so microwaves can be transmitted indirectly to the first inner conductor (2230) by transmitting microwaves to the outer conductor (2210).

[0237] As previously mentioned, the resonance frequency of the resonance section (2200) may vary depending on the degree to which the microwave output section (2300) contacts the resonance section (2200). Just as the resonance frequency of the resonance section (2200) varies depending on the degree to which the microwave output section (2300) is inserted into the hole (2210h) of the outer conductor (2210), in this case, the resonance frequency of the resonance section (2200) may vary depending on whether the microwave output section (2300) contacts the first inner conductor (2230). Accordingly, the user can adjust the resonance frequency of the resonance section (2200) by rotating the microwave output section (2300) to move along the screw threads.

[0238] According to one embodiment, one end of a microwave output section (2300) located between the outer conductor (2210) and the first inner conductor (2230) and penetrating the outer conductor (2210) may come into contact with a dielectric (DM) contained in a dielectric receiving space (2270). In this case, the dielectric (DM) may fill up to the portion adjacent to the first surface (2210a) of the outer conductor (2210) and the microwave output section (2300) inserted inside the resonant section (2200) as illustrated.

[0239] The dielectric (DM) can be positioned so as not to interfere with the movement of the microwave output unit (2300) in one direction (e.g., the x-axis direction). As a result, the microwave output unit (2300) can be inserted between the outer conductor (2210) and the first inner conductor (2230) without interference from the dielectric (DM) and can come into contact with the first inner conductor (2230). At this time, at least a portion of the microwave output unit (2300) inserted into the interior of the resonant unit (2200) can come into contact with the dielectric (DM) through its outer surface.

[0240] At this time, the resonance frequency of the resonance section (2200) may vary depending on the degree to which the microwave output section (2300) comes into contact with the dielectric (DM). The degree to which the microwave output section (2300) comes into contact with the dielectric (DM) may vary depending on the position of one end of the microwave output section (2300) within the dielectric receiving space (2270) or the degree to which the microwave output section (2300) is inserted into the resonance section (2200). Accordingly, the user can adjust the resonance frequency of the resonance section (2200) by rotating the microwave output section (2300) to move along the screw threads.

[0241] As illustrated, the dielectric (DM) extends from the first surface (2210a) to the second surface (2210b) of the outer conductor (2210) and is accommodated in the entire area of ​​the dielectric receiving space (2270), but the embodiment is not limited to that illustrated. According to the embodiment, the dielectric (DM) accommodated in the dielectric receiving space (2270) may be spaced apart from the microwave output unit (2300) in the longitudinal direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the resonant unit (2200) so as not to come into contact with the microwave output unit (2300).

[0242] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of a microwave output section (2300) and surrounding parts applied to a heater assembly (2000) according to another embodiment.

[0243] Referring to FIG. 7, a heater assembly (2000) according to another embodiment may include an oscillation unit (2100), a resonance unit (2200), and a microwave output unit (2300). Regarding the configuration and effects of the heater assembly (2000), detailed descriptions that overlap with FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 will be omitted.

[0244] According to another embodiment, the oscillating part (2100) may be positioned on the outer surface of the resonating part (2200). Specifically, the oscillating part (2100) may be positioned to be in contact with the side (2210c) of the outer conductor (2210) of the resonating part (2200).

[0245] The oscillation unit (2100) may include a hollow (2100h) that passes through the microwave output unit (2300). The microwave output unit (2300) may pass through the oscillation unit (2100) through the hollow (2100h).

[0246] At this time, a screw thread for screwing a microwave output unit (2300) may be arranged on the inner surface of the oscillation unit (2100) surrounding the hollow (2100h). The microwave output unit (2300) may be inserted into the inside of the resonance unit (2200) by being screwed sequentially from the outside of the resonance unit (2200) to the screw thread formed on the oscillation unit (2100) and the screw thread formed on the resonance unit (2200).

[0247] According to this, the microwave output unit (2300) passes through the oscillation unit (2100) and the outer conductor (2210) at once and is screw-coupled, so that the oscillation unit (2100) and the resonance unit (2200) in contact with each other can be coupled by the microwave output unit (2300).

[0248] The microwave output section (2300) may include a protruding portion (2300p) protruding from the oscillation section (2100). For example, one end of the microwave output section (2300) may be inserted into the interior of the resonance section (2200), and the other end of the microwave output section (2300) may protrude from the oscillation section (2100). In this case, the protruding portion (2300p) may include the other end of the microwave output section (2300).

[0249] A heater assembly (2000) according to another embodiment may further include a fastening part (2800) for screw-coupled with a protruding part (2300p) of a microwave output part (2300) and for pressing the oscillating part (2100) toward the resonating part (2200). In this case, the relationship between the microwave output part (2300) and the fastening part (2800) may be similar to the relationship between a bolt and a nut.

[0250] As the connecting portion (2800) engages with the protruding portion (2300p) and moves toward one end of the microwave output portion (2300), the connecting portion (2800) can come into contact with the oscillating portion (2100). As the connecting portion (2800) moves toward the resonating portion (2200), the oscillating portion (2100) can be pressed toward the resonating portion (2200) by the connecting portion (2800). Accordingly, the oscillating portion (2100) can be firmly coupled to the resonating portion (2200).

[0251] Meanwhile, as illustrated, a separate bracket (e.g., the bracket (2700) of FIG. 6) is not placed, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. Depending on the embodiment, a bracket may be placed between the resonance part (2200) and the oscillation part (2100) or between the oscillation part (2100) and the fastening part (2800).

[0252] According to the foregoing description, the oscillating unit (2100) may be coupled to the resonating unit (2200) through a microwave output unit (2300) that is screw-coupled to the resonating unit (2200). The principle is not limited to the resonating unit (2200) and heater assembly (2000) according to the present disclosure. That is, the principle described above may be applied to heater assemblies of various structures including an oscillating unit, a resonating unit, and a microwave output unit.

[0253] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly (2000) according to another embodiment and an aerosol generating device (1) including the same.

[0254] Referring to FIG. 8, an aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment may include a housing (1100), a processor (1200), a driving unit (1300), and a heater assembly (2000). Regarding the configuration and effects of the aerosol generating device (1), detailed descriptions that overlap with the above descriptions will be omitted.

[0255] The processor (1200) may correspond to the same configuration as the processor (170) described through FIG. 1 and the processor (1010) described through FIG. 3. The processor (1200) can control its internal configuration so that the frequency of the microwave generated by the oscillator (e.g., the oscillator (2100) of FIG. 5) matches the resonant frequency of the resonator (2200).

[0256] For example, the processor (1200) can monitor the microwave power output from the oscillating unit (2100) and the reflected microwave power reflected from the resonating unit (2200) toward the oscillating unit (2100) through the power monitoring unit (e.g., the power monitoring unit (2500) of FIG. 3).

[0257] The processor (1200) can match the impedance viewed from the oscillator (2100) toward the resonator (2200) and the impedance viewed from the resonator (2200) toward the oscillator (2100) through a matching section (e.g., the matching section (2600) of FIG. 3) so that the reflected microwave power is minimized. Impedance matching may have the same meaning as matching the frequency of the oscillator (2100) with the resonant frequency of the resonator (2200).

[0258] The processor (1200) can match the impedance by varying the frequency of the oscillation unit (2100) through the matching unit (2600). Accordingly, the frequency of the microwave power output from the oscillation unit (2100) can be adjusted so that the reflected microwave power is minimized. At this time, impedance matching through the matching unit (2600) can be performed whenever power is supplied again to the aerosol generating device (1) after it has been cut off.

[0259] That is, the processor (1200) can maintain the heating performance of the heater assembly (2000) in the best state by matching the frequency of the oscillating unit (2100) with the resonant frequency of the resonating unit (2200) whenever the user reboots the aerosol generating device (1) or turns on the power-off aerosol generating device (1).

[0260] Meanwhile, the frequency of the oscillation unit (2100) is an electronically set value, and the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200) is a mechanically set value. That is, the frequency of the oscillation unit (2100) can be adjusted electronically, and the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200) can be adjusted mechanically.

[0261] According to the above description, the user can control the frequency of the microwave generated in the oscillator (2100) to match the resonant frequency of the resonator (2200) through an electronic control method via the processor (1200). Conversely, the user can also control the resonant frequency of the resonator (2200) to match the frequency of the microwave generated in the oscillator (2100) through a mechanical control method.

[0262] That is, if the above description was about matching the frequency of the oscillating unit (2100) to the resonant frequency of the resonating unit (2200), then below, the description of matching the resonant frequency of the resonating unit (2200) to the frequency of the oscillating unit (2100) will be explained.

[0263] According to another embodiment, the resonance frequency of the resonance section (2200) may vary depending on the extent to which the microwave output section (e.g., the microwave output section (2300) of FIG. 5) is inserted into the interior of the resonance section (2200).

[0264] As previously mentioned, the extent to which the microwave output section (2300) is inserted into the interior of the resonance section (2200) can be controlled by the manufacturer during the manufacturing process or by the user during the use process. However, to operate the heater assembly (2000) for this purpose, it is necessary to disassemble the aerosol generating device (1).

[0265] However, if there is a configuration capable of generating mechanical movement within the aerosol generating device (1), the user can move the microwave output unit (2300) without disassembling the aerosol generating device (1) by controlling the configuration through the processor (1200).

[0266] An aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment may include a driving unit (1300) electrically connected to a processor (1200). The driving unit (1300) is configured to move a microwave output unit (e.g., a microwave output unit (2300) of FIG. 5). The driving unit (1300) may include one or more actuators. The actuators may include various configurations that perform mechanical work using electricity, hydraulics, compressed air, etc. For example, the actuators may include motors. The actuators can perform rotational motion as well as linear motion, so that components connected to the actuators can be rotated and / or linearly moved.

[0267] According to another embodiment, the driving unit (1300) can rotate and translate the microwave output unit (2300) along the screw threads to which the microwave output unit (2300) is engaged. Accordingly, the driving unit (1300) can adjust the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200) by controlling the degree to which the microwave output unit (2300) is inserted into the interior of the resonance unit (2200).

[0268] The user can control the driving unit (1300) electronically through the processor (1200). As previously described, the processor (1200) monitors the microwave power output from the oscillation unit (2100) and the reflected microwave power reflected from the resonance unit (2200), respectively. Based on this, if it determines that the frequency of the oscillation unit (2100) and the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200) do not match, the user can control the driving unit (1300) to adjust the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200).

[0269] Specifically, the processor (1200) can adjust the position of the microwave output unit (2300) through the driving unit (1300) so that the frequency of the microwave generated in the oscillation unit (2100) matches the frequency of the resonance unit (2200), thereby matching the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200) with the frequency of the oscillation unit (2100).

[0270] According to the above description, in order to determine the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200), the processor (1200) can perform power monitoring through the power monitoring unit (2500). If the above method is an electronic method for determining the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200), the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200) can also be determined by a mechanical method.

[0271] An aerosol generating device (1) according to another embodiment may further include a vibration generating unit (1400) for generating vibration in a resonant part (2200) of a heater assembly (2000). The vibration generating unit (1400) can apply impact to the resonant part (2200) by operation by a user.

[0272] Specifically, the vibration generating part (1400) may include a striking member (1410) and a fixing member (1420). One end of the striking member (1410) may be coupled to the outer conductor (2210) of the resonance part (2200) by the fixing member (1420). The other end of the striking member (1410) may be exposed to the outside of the housing (1100) through an open part of the housing (1100). The striking part of the striking member (1410) may come into contact with the outer conductor (2210).

[0273] The striking member (1410) may include an elastic material. As a result, the striking member (1410) may function like a leaf spring, with one end fixed by a fixing member (1420).

[0274] When no operation is applied to the striking member (1410), the other end and the striking portion of the striking member (1410) may come into contact with the outer conductor (2210). At this time, if the user pulls the other end of the striking member (1410) downward and then releases it, the striking member (1410), which had moved away from the outer conductor (2210), may move toward the outer conductor (2210) by means of an elastic restoring force.

[0275] At this time, since one end of the striking member (1410) is fixed to the outer conductor (2210) by the fixed member (1420), the remaining part of the striking member (1410) can move toward the outer conductor (2210) with the one end of the striking member (1410) as the center of rotation. Accordingly, the striking part of the striking member (1410) can strike the outer conductor (2210), and vibration can occur in the resonance part (2200).

[0276] The processor (1200) can determine the frequency of the resonance unit (2200) based on the frequency of the vibration generated in the resonance unit (2200) by the vibration generating unit (1400). In this case, if the frequency of the oscillation unit (2100) and the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200) do not match each other, the processor (1200) can adjust the position of the microwave output unit (2300) through the driving unit (1300) so that the frequency of the microwave generated in the oscillation unit (2100) matches the frequency of the resonance unit (2200), thereby matching the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200) with the frequency of the oscillation unit (2100).

[0277] In this way, the processor (1200) can maintain the heating performance of the heater assembly (2000) in an optimal state by matching the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (2200) with the frequency of the oscillation unit (2100).

[0278] According to the heater assembly and the aerosol generating device including the same according to the embodiments, the same heating performance can be achieved even though there is a physical variation in the resonance part for each heater assembly.

[0279] In addition, according to the heater assembly and the aerosol generating device including the same according to the embodiments, heating performance can be easily controlled by the user not only during the manufacturing stage but also during the usage stage.

[0280] Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinct from one another. Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or combined for their respective configurations or functions.

[0281] For example, this means that configuration A described in a specific embodiment and / or drawing and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing can be combined. That is, it means that even if the combination between configurations is not directly described, combination is possible except in cases where it is described that combination is impossible.

[0282] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An oscillator that generates microwaves; A resonant member for heating the aerosol-generating article by microwave resonance, comprising an insertion space for receiving the aerosol-generating article; and Microwave output unit for transmitting microwaves generated in the above oscillation unit to the above resonance unit; including A heater assembly in which the microwave output unit connected to the above-mentioned oscillator is screw-coupled to a region of the above-mentioned resonator to couple the above-mentioned oscillator to the above-mentioned resonator.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above resonant part includes a hole that passes through the microwave output part, and A heater assembly having a screw thread for screw coupling of the microwave output part disposed in a region of the resonance part surrounding the hole.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above microwave output unit includes a rod shape extending in the direction in which the hole is opened, and One end of the above microwave output section is a heater assembly inserted into the above resonance section.

4. In Paragraph 3, A heater assembly in which the position of the one end of the microwave output section is adjustable according to the degree to which the microwave output section is inserted into the resonance section by screw coupling.

5. In Paragraph 3, The other end of the microwave output section is a heater assembly connected to the oscillation section.

6. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned oscillating part is disposed on the outer surface of the above-mentioned resonating part, and The above microwave output section is a heater assembly penetrating the above oscillation section.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above oscillator includes a hollow that passes through the microwave output unit, and On the inner surface of the oscillating part surrounding the above hollow, screw threads are arranged for screw coupling of the microwave output part, and A heater assembly in which the microwave output section is sequentially screw-coupled to the threads of the oscillation section and the threads of the resonance section from the outside of the resonance section and inserted into the inside of the resonance section.

8. In Paragraph 6, The above microwave output unit includes a protruding portion protruding from the oscillation unit, and A heater assembly comprising a screw-coupled portion of the protruding portion of the microwave output portion and further including a fastening member for pressing the oscillating portion toward the resonance portion.

9. In Paragraph 1, It includes a hollow that passes through the microwave output section, and further includes a bracket coupled to the outside of the resonance section to couple the microwave output section to the resonance section. A heater assembly in which the microwave output portion extends in the direction in which the hollow is opened, penetrates the bracket, and is coupled to the resonance portion.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above resonant part includes a hole that passes through the microwave output part, and A heater assembly in which the above-mentioned hollow is positioned to be aligned with the above-mentioned hole.

11. In Paragraph 10, A first screw thread is disposed in a region of the resonance portion surrounding the hole to which the microwave output portion is screw-coupled, and A second screw thread is disposed on the inner surface of the bracket surrounding the above hollow, to which the microwave output part is screw-coupled, and A heater assembly in which the microwave output section is sequentially screw-coupled to the first screw thread and the second screw thread from the outside of the resonance section and inserted into the inside of the resonance section.

12. In Paragraph 2, The above resonant member includes an inner conductor for heating the aerosol generating article by resonating microwaves, and an outer conductor spaced apart from the inner conductor, surrounding the inner conductor, and having the hole disposed therein. A heater assembly in which the microwave output portion is movable toward the inner conductor by moving along the screw threads disposed in a region of the resonance portion surrounding the hole.

13. In Paragraph 12, The dielectric receiving space between the outer conductor and the inner conductor is further included, A heater assembly in which at least a portion of the microwave output portion inserted into the interior of the resonance portion is capable of contacting the dielectric accommodated in the dielectric accommodation space.

14. The heater assembly according to paragraph 1; A housing for accommodating the above heater assembly; A driving unit for moving the above microwave output unit; and A processor electrically connected to the heater assembly; comprising, The above processor is an aerosol generating device that adjusts the position of the microwave output section through the driving section so that the frequency of the microwave generated in the oscillation section matches the frequency of the resonance section.

15. In Paragraph 14, It further includes a vibration generating unit for generating vibration in the above-mentioned resonant unit, and The above processor determines the frequency of the resonance section based on the frequency of the vibration generated in the resonance section by the vibration generating section, and adjusts the position of the microwave output section through the driving section so that the frequency of the microwave generated in the oscillation section matches the frequency of the resonance section.

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