Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device according to one aspect comprises: a source unit that generates an RF signal; a radiation unit that heats the aerosol-generating article by radiating an RF signal in the form of an electromagnetic wave into an insertion space into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted; a sensing unit that senses a change in moisture of the aerosol-generating article caused by heating by the radiating unit; and a control unit that controls the frequency and power of the RF signal output by the source unit on the basis of a change in moisture of the aerosol-generating article.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating apparatus that can adjust the microwave output according to the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternatives to overcome the drawbacks of regular cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for systems that generate aerosols by heating cigarettes (or aerosol-generating articles) rather than by burning cigarettes.

[0003] Furthermore, in existing aerosol generating devices, aerosol-generating articles are heated by resistance heating, induction heating, and ultrasonic heating. However, compared with dielectric heating, existing aerosol generating devices suffer from slow preheating speed and uneven heating.

[0004] Furthermore, while some existing aerosol generating devices use dielectric heating, this method tracks the matching frequency based on the consumption of aerosol-generating substances (e.g., moisture) without using a separate moisture sensor, and controls the oscillator output solely using the matching frequency. Since this method only considers optimal heating efficiency and not the user's actual smoking experience, user satisfaction may be reduced. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues The technical problem of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus in which, in a dielectric heating method, the absolute value of the moisture content contained in the aerosol-generated article can be obtained by a separate moisture sensing sensor, and the microwave output can be adjusted based on the moisture content.

[0006] The technical problems disclosed herein are not limited to those described above, and other technical problems can be inferred from the following embodiments.

[0007] Technical solution An aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect includes: a source unit that generates a radio frequency (RF) signal; a radiation unit that heats the aerosol generating article by radiating the RF signal in the form of electromagnetic waves into an insertion space into which the aerosol generating article is inserted; a sensing unit that senses changes in the moisture content of the aerosol generating article caused by the heating of the radiation unit; and a control unit that controls the frequency and power of the RF signal output from the source unit based on the changes in the moisture content of the aerosol generating article.

[0008] Beneficial effects The aerosol generating apparatus disclosed herein can directly obtain the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article from a separate moisture sensing sensor, and adjust the frequency and power of the source unit according to the change in the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article. In particular, the frequency and power can be experimentally set based on the moisture level, taking into account the user's experience with the aroma of cigarettes, thereby improving user satisfaction.

[0009] Furthermore, the aerosol generating device does not simultaneously increase or decrease the frequency and power of the source unit as the moisture level of the aerosol-generating item decreases; instead, it increases the frequency and decreases the power of the source unit as the moisture level decreases. This complementary control of the source unit's frequency and power reduces the power consumption of the aerosol generating device while improving the user's smoking experience.

[0010] Furthermore, according to the embodiment, the aerosol generating device can operate at maximum output frequency and power of the source unit during the initial phase of the preheating zone. Therefore, user satisfaction is improved through rapid preheating.

[0011] Furthermore, since the moisture sensing sensor of the aerosol generating device also performs the functions of insertion sensing and type recognition of aerosol generated items, no additional sensing sensor is required.

[0012] Furthermore, when the moisture content of aerosol-generating articles falls below or exceeds the expected level during manufacturing, transportation, and storage, the aerosol generating device can control the source in real time based on a matching frequency (rather than a preset control curve). Therefore, even if the aerosol-generating articles do not meet the prescribed standards, it will not significantly impair the user's enjoyment of the aroma when smoking.

[0013] The effects of this disclosure are not limited to those illustrated above, and various other effects may be further included in this specification. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the operation of a dielectric heating section according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly used to illustrate the arrangement of the sensing unit and antenna according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly used to illustrate the arrangement of the sensing unit and antenna according to another embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a method for controlling the frequency and power of a source unit in accordance with an embodiment of a method for controlling the frequency and power of a source unit in response to changes in the moisture level of an aerosol-generating article.

[0020] Figure 7 This is an example of a heating curve used to illustrate a method for controlling the frequency and power of the source in a portion of a preheating zone according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Best practice An aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect includes: a source unit that generates an RF signal; a radiation unit that heats the aerosol generating article by radiating the RF signal in the form of electromagnetic waves into an insertion space into which the aerosol generating article is inserted; a sensing unit that senses changes in the moisture content of the aerosol generating article caused by heating by the radiation unit; and a control unit that controls the frequency and power of the RF signal output from the source unit based on the changes in the moisture content of the aerosol generating article.

[0023] In addition, the sensing unit senses the moisture change of the aerosol-generating article in the preheating zone and the smoking zone after the preheating zone, and sends the sensing result to the control unit. The control unit: in at least a part of the preheating zone and the smoking zone, controls the frequency and power of the RF signal output by the source unit; when the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article is determined to be a first level, the output frequency and output power of the source unit are adjusted to a first frequency and a first power, respectively; when the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article is determined to be a second level less than the first level, the output frequency and output power of the source unit are adjusted to a second frequency greater than the first frequency and a second power less than the first power, respectively.

[0024] Furthermore, the control unit, in at least a portion of the preheating zone, independently of the sensing results of the sensing unit, adjusts the output frequency of the source unit to a third frequency greater than the first frequency and the second frequency, and adjusts the output power of the source unit to a third power greater than the first power and the second power.

[0025] In addition, the aerosol generating device further includes: a directional coupler for receiving reflected electromagnetic waves reflected from the insertion space, wherein the control unit sets the first frequency, the second frequency, and the third frequency independently of the matching frequency output by the source unit when the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves is within a reference power range.

[0026] Furthermore, the control unit: if the moisture level of the aerosol-generated article is within a preset reference end level range, cuts off the output of the source unit.

[0027] Furthermore, the sensing unit further senses the moisture change in the insertion space caused by the insertion of the aerosol-generating article, and the control unit further identifies the type of the aerosol-generating article based on the moisture change in the insertion space.

[0028] In addition, the aerosol generating apparatus further includes a memory that stores information about the output frequency and output power of the source unit corresponding to the moisture level of each aerosol generating article.

[0029] Furthermore, the control unit: when it is unable to identify the type of the aerosol-generating article, adjusts the output frequency of the source unit based on the matching frequency obtained from the reflected electromagnetic wave.

[0030] In addition, the sensing unit includes at least one capacitive sensor, and the control unit senses the moisture change of the aerosol-generating article based on the number of charging / discharging cycles per unit time of the capacitive sensor.

[0031] Furthermore, the capacitive sensor is manufactured to be flexible and is configured to surround at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the insertion space.

[0032] Furthermore, the capacitive sensor is arranged adjacent to the lower surface of the insertion space that is in contact with the aerosol-generating article.

[0033] Embodiments of the present invention Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals, the same or similar components will be assigned the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted. Similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components in the description of the drawings.

[0034] The suffixes “module” and “unit” used in the following description for the purpose of drafting the specification are used interchangeably or for convenience only, and do not inherently have different meanings or functions. Furthermore, the suffixes “module” or “unit” can include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and can be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” can be a component that is integrally formed or the smallest unit or part of said component that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” can be implemented as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0035] Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of relevant well-known technologies will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the spirit of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification; the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the drawings and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and even substitutions included within the scope of the concepts and techniques of this disclosure.

[0036] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" can be used to describe multiple constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from other constituent elements.

[0037] When it is mentioned that a component is "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or directly coupled to the other component, but there may also be other components in between. Conversely, when it is mentioned that a component is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0038] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0039] Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in software that includes one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory 15) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1). For example, a processor (e.g., control unit 10) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1) can invoke at least one of the more than one stored instructions from the storage medium and execute the at least one instruction. This enables the machine to operate in a manner that performs at least one function according to the invoked at least one instruction. The more than one instruction may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine can be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored.

[0040] In this disclosure, the orientation of the aerosol generating device 1 can be defined using a Cartesian coordinate system as a reference. The x-axis direction in the Cartesian coordinate system can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0042] Reference Figure 1 According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include: a housing 100 capable of containing an aerosol generating article S; and a heater assembly 200 for heating the aerosol generating article S contained in the housing 100.

[0043] The housing 100 can form the overall appearance of the aerosol generating device 1, and the constituent elements of the aerosol generating device 1 can be arranged in the internal space (or "installation space") of the housing 100. For example, a heater assembly 200, a battery, a processor and / or a sensor can be arranged in the internal space of the housing 100, but the constituent elements arranged in the internal space are not limited to this.

[0044] An insertion space 100h may be formed in a region of the outer casing 100, and at least one region of the aerosol generating article S may be inserted into the interior of the outer casing 100 through the insertion space 100h. For example, the insertion space 100h may be formed in a region of the upper surface of the outer casing 100 (e.g., the surface in the z-direction), but the location of the insertion space 100h is not limited to this. In another embodiment, the insertion space 100h may also be formed in a region of the side surface of the outer casing 100 (e.g., the surface in the x-direction).

[0045] The heater assembly 200 can be arranged inside the housing 100 and can heat the aerosol generating article S inserted or contained inside the housing 100 via the insertion space 100h. For example, the heater assembly 200 is arranged to surround at least one region of the aerosol generating article S inserted or contained inside the housing 100 to heat the aerosol generating article S.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the heater assembly 200 can heat the aerosol-generating article S using dielectric heating. In this disclosure, "dielectric heating" refers to a method of heating a dielectric material, which is a body to be heated, using electromagnetic waves of microwave wavelengths. Microwaves, as an energy source for heating the body to be heated, are generated by high-frequency power; therefore, in the following text, microwaves and microwave power may be used interchangeably.

[0047] Inside the heater assembly 200, the charges or ions of the dielectric contained in the aerosol generating article S can be vibrated or rotated by microwaves, and heat can be generated in the dielectric by the frictional heat generated during the vibration or rotation of the charges or ions, thereby heating the aerosol generating article S.

[0048] As the aerosol generating article S is heated by the heater assembly 200, aerosols can be generated from the aerosol generating article S. In this disclosure, "aerosol" can refer to gaseous particles generated by mixing air with vapor generated as the aerosol generating article S is heated.

[0049] The aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article S can be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 through the aerosol generating article S or through the empty space between the aerosol generating article S and the insertion space 100h. A user can smoke by contacting their mouth with an area of ​​the aerosol generating article S exposed to the outside of the housing 100 and inhaling the aerosol discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a cover 100c movably disposed on the housing 100 and used to open or close the insertion space 100h. For example, the cover 100c may be slidably coupled to the upper surface of the housing 100 and may expose the insertion space 100h to the outside of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, or may cover the insertion space 100h to prevent it from being exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating apparatus 1.

[0051] In one example, the cover 100c can be in a first position (or "open position") to expose the insertion space 100h to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. With the aerosol generating device 1 exposed to the outside, the aerosol generating article S can be inserted into the interior of the housing 100 through the insertion space 100h.

[0052] In another example, cover 100c may cover insertion space 100h in a second position (or "closed position"), thereby preventing insertion space 100h from being exposed to the outside of aerosol generating device 1. In this case, cover 100c may prevent external foreign matter from flowing into the interior of heater assembly 200 through insertion space 100h when aerosol generating device 1 is not in use.

[0053] Although Figure 1 Only the aerosol generating apparatus 1 for heating solid aerosol generating article S is shown, but the aerosol generating apparatus 1 is not limited to the embodiment shown in the figure.

[0054] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 can generate aerosols by heating a liquid or gel-state aerosol generating substance, rather than a solid aerosol generating article S, through a heater assembly 200.

[0055] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include: a heater assembly 200 for heating the aerosol generating article S; and a cartridge (or "vaporizer") containing an aerosol generating substance in a liquid or gel state, and for heating the aerosol generating substance. The aerosol generated from the aerosol generating substance can move along an airflow channel connecting the cartridge and the aerosol generating article S toward the aerosol generating article S, mix with the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article S, and then pass through the aerosol generating article S to be delivered to the user.

[0056] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 10, a sensing unit 12, an output unit 13, an input unit 16, a communication unit 14, a memory 15, and / or a dielectric heating unit 17. However, those skilled in the art will understand that, according to the design of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, certain components may be omitted. Figure 1 The shown components may include some of the constituent elements, or new constituent elements may be added.

[0058] The sensing unit 12 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 10. For example, the sensing unit 12 may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a reuse sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge sensor, a cap sensor, and / or a motion sensor. In addition, the sensing unit 12 may also include various sensors such as a liquid level sensor for sensing the remaining liquid in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for sensing the immersion of the aerosol generating device 1 in water.

[0059] In one embodiment, the sensing unit 12 may include Figure 4 Moisture sensing sensor 121 is used in the insertion space. Moisture sensing sensor 121 can sense changes in moisture within the insertion space for 100 hours. Since the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article S (e.g., vegetable glycerin) contributes the most to the moisture content within the insertion space for 100 hours, the meaning of moisture sensing sensor 121 sensing changes in moisture within the insertion space for 100 hours can be the same as the meaning of moisture sensing sensor 121 sensing changes in moisture content of the aerosol-generating article S inserted into the insertion space for 100 hours.

[0060] The moisture sensing sensor 121 may include a capacitance-based sensor. In this disclosure, the capacitance-based sensor may also be referred to as a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space 100h, and the dielectric constant of the capacitive sensor may vary according to the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article S. The control unit 10 may receive the sensing result from the moisture sensing sensor 121 and control the dielectric heating unit 17 based on the sensing result. (Referring to the following...) Figure 6 The following describes a method for controlling moisture changes in article S generated from aerosols.

[0061] The control unit 10 can also determine whether the aerosol generating article S has been inserted based on the change in moisture content in the insertion space 100h. When the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the insertion space 100h, the dielectric constant of the moisture sensing sensor 121 may change. The control unit 10 can determine whether the aerosol generating article S has been inserted based on the change in the dielectric constant of the moisture sensing sensor 121. In the example where the control unit 10 determines whether the aerosol generating article S has been inserted based on the change in moisture content in the insertion space 100h, the moisture sensing sensor 121 can be used as the insertion sensing sensor described above.

[0062] Furthermore, the control unit 10 can identify the aerosol-generating article S based on changes in moisture content within the insertion space 100h. The aerosol-generating article S may have an inherent range of moisture content, and the control unit 10 can also identify the aerosol-generating article S based on this inherent range of moisture content. In an example where the control unit 10 identifies the type of aerosol-generating article S based on changes in moisture content within the insertion space 100h, the moisture sensing sensor 121 can be used as the aforementioned cigarette identification sensor.

[0063] Output unit 13 can output information about the status of aerosol generating device 1. Output unit 13 may include, but is not limited to, a display, a haptic unit, and / or a sound output unit. For example, information about aerosol generating device 1 may include the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11 of aerosol generating device 1, the preheating status of the dielectric heating unit 17, the insertion / removal status of aerosol generating articles and / or cartridges, the installation and / or removal status of the cap, or the status of restricted use of aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., abnormal articles detected). The display can provide the user with information about the status of aerosol generating device 1 in a visual manner. For example, the display may include a light-emitting diode (LED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), etc. If the display includes a touchpad, the display may also be used as an input unit 16. The haptic unit can provide the user with information about the status of aerosol generating device 1 in a haptic manner. For example, the tactile part may include a vibrating motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulation device, etc. The sound output part can provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 in an auditory manner. For example, the sound output part can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0064] The power source 11 can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The power source 11 may include one or more batteries. The power source 11 can supply power to enable the dielectric heating unit 17 to operate. Furthermore, the power source 11 can supply power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating apparatus 1, such as the control unit 10, sensing unit 12, output unit 13, input unit 16, communication unit 14, and memory 15. The power source 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source 11 can be a replaceable (detachable) battery (hereinafter, a removable battery). The removable battery can be installed in a battery housing provided within the aerosol generating apparatus 1, or it can be removed from the battery housing. The removable battery can be charged via wired and / or wireless means.

[0065] The dielectric heating unit 17 can heat the aerosol-generated article S by means of dielectric heating. The dielectric heating unit 17 may include Figure 1 Some components of the heater assembly 200. The dielectric heating unit 17 can heat the aerosol-generating article S using electromagnetic waves of microwave wavelength. The heating method of the dielectric heating unit 17 can include microwave radiation or microwave resonance. The dielectric heating unit 17 can output high-frequency microwaves to the insertion space 100h. The microwaves can be electrical current permitted for heating in the Industrial Scientific and Medical Equipment (ISM) band, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0066] An aerosol-generating article S can be inserted into an insertion space of 100h, and the dielectric material in the aerosol-generating article S can be heated by microwaves. For example, the aerosol-generating article S may include a polar material, and the molecules within the polar material can undergo polarization within the insertion space of 100h. The molecules can vibrate or rotate due to polarization, and the aerosol-generating article S can be heated by frictional heat or the like generated in this process. (See below for reference.) Figure 3 The operation method of the dielectric heating unit 17 is described in more detail.

[0067] The input unit 16 can receive information input by the user. For example, the input unit 16 may include a touch panel, a button, a keyboard, a dome switch, a jog wheel, or a jog switch.

[0068] The memory 15 is hardware used to store various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1, and can store data processed in the control unit 10 and data to be processed. For example, the memory 15 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card micro, card-type memory (e.g., SD (Secure Digital) or XD (Extreme Digital) memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. For example, the memory 15 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 data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0069] The communication unit 14 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices (e.g., portable electronic devices). For example, the communication unit 14 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 Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ (Adaptive Network Topology) communication unit, a Cellular Network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a Computer Network (e.g., a Local Area Network (LAN) or a Wide Area Network (WAN)) communication unit, etc.

[0070] The control unit 10 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the control unit 10 may include at least one processor (e.g., Figure 3(170). The control unit 10 can be implemented by an array of multiple logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller unit (MCU) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program that can be executed in the MCU. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains that the control unit can also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the control unit 10 can control the temperature of the dielectric heating unit 17 by controlling the output frequency and output power of the microwave. The control unit 10 can control the temperature of the dielectric heating unit 17 and / or the power supplied to the dielectric heating unit 17 based on the temperature of the dielectric heating unit 17 sensed by a temperature sensor (e.g., sensing unit 12). The control unit 10 can also control the temperature of the dielectric heating unit 17 and / or the power supplied to the dielectric heating unit 17 based on temperature curves and / or power curves stored in the memory 15.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit 10 can control the power supplied to the dielectric heating unit 17 based on the sensing results of the sensing unit 12. Furthermore, the control unit 10 can control the output unit 13 based on the sensing results of the sensing unit 12. For example, if the number of suctions counted by the suction sensor (e.g., the sensing unit 12) reaches a preset number, the control unit 10 can control the output unit 13 to provide information that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to end its operation in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner. For example, the control unit 10 can control the output unit 13 to provide information about the temperature of the dielectric heating unit 17 in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner.

[0073] The control unit 10 can store and update the history of events that have occurred in the memory 15 based on the occurrence of predetermined events. For example, events may include operations performed in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 such as sensing the insertion of the aerosol generating article, starting the heating of the aerosol generating article, sensing suction, ending suction, sensing overheating of the dielectric heating unit 17, sensing the application of overvoltage to the dielectric heating unit 17, ending the heating of the aerosol generating article, turning the power supply of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 on / off, starting charging of the power supply 11, sensing overcharging of the power supply 11, ending charging of the power supply 11, etc.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the control unit 10 can control the communication unit 14 to form a communication link with an external device such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0075] According to one embodiment, if authentication data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 10 can remove usage restrictions on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., heating function). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique phone number representing the user, and whether the user has completed authentication.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the control unit 10 can send data about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply 11, operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The sent data can be output through a display or the like on the external device.

[0077] The aerosol generating article S mentioned in this disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium section) and at least one filter rod. The dielectric heating section 17 may be arranged corresponding to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may contain at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating substance, and additives. For example, the aerosol generating substance may contain glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the additive may contain flavoring agents and / or organic acids, or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the aerosol generating rod may contain an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco substance (e.g., the aerosol generating substance and / or nicotine), and / or may contain solid tobacco substances (e.g., tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). Tobacco substances can be contained in the aerosol generating rod in various forms such as shreds, granules, and powder. According to one embodiment, the additives in the aerosol generating rod may contain an alkaline substance. Based on the alkaline substance, the nicotine in the tobacco substances contained in the aerosol generating rod can have an alkaline pH value (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, the aerosol generating rod can release free base nicotine even at lower temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod may comprise two or more aerosol generating rods, and the two or more aerosol generating rods may each contain tobacco substances and / or non-tobacco substances. Additionally, although not shown, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each be wrapped by at least one wrapper, and / or wrapped together by at least one wrapper. In this disclosure, the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as a stick.

[0078] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the operation of a dielectric heating section according to one embodiment.

[0079] Reference Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 1 may include a control unit 10, a source unit 20, and a radiation unit 30. Figure 3 The source section 20 and the radiating section 30 may include Figure 2 The dielectric heating unit 17 is a part of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The control unit 10 may refer to a circuit for controlling the basic operation of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The source unit 20 may refer to a circuit for generating a radio frequency (RF) signal under the control of the control unit 10. The radiation unit 30 may be a device for radiating the RF signal generated by the source unit 20 in the form of electromagnetic waves into the space into which the aerosol generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as "insertion space 100h"). The charge or ions of the dielectric (e.g., glycerol) included in the aerosol generating article may vibrate or rotate due to the radiated electromagnetic waves (e.g., RF signal), and the aerosol generating article may be heated by the frictional heat generated by the dielectric during the vibration or rotation of the charge or ions. In other words, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may be a device for generating aerosols by heating the aerosol generating article by dielectric heating.

[0080] In one embodiment, the control unit 10 may include a power connector 110, a charging circuit 120, a power supply 11, 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, those skilled in the art will understand that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1, this can be omitted. Figure 3 Some of the constituent elements shown are provided, or new constituent elements can be added.

[0081] Power connector 110 can refer to a physical connection device that is electrically connected to an electronic device or system (e.g., an external power source) outside the aerosol generating device 1 and is used for receiving and transmitting power. For example, power connector 110 can receive power from an external power source and transmit the received power to a component that needs charging (e.g., power supply 11). Power connector 110 can also provide a path for data transmission. In this case, power connector 110 can be referred to as a data and power connector. Aerosol generating device 1 can send data to and receive data from external electronic devices or systems (e.g., smartphones, computers, etc.) through power connector 110. Power connector 110 may include a Universal Serial Bus (USB) power connector, a Direct Current (DC) power connector, etc. In one example, power connector 110 may include, but is not limited to, a USB-C connector capable of supplying a 9V DC voltage at a current of 1A. Power connector 110 may also include an interface for wirelessly receiving and transmitting power.

[0082] Charging circuit 120 can refer to circuitry used to charge power supply 11. Charging circuit 120 can charge power supply 11 using power supplied from power connector 110. In one example, charging circuit 120 can be implemented as a charger IC, which is an integrated circuit (IC) that performs functions for effectively and safely charging power supply 11. Charging circuit 120 can monitor the charging status of power supply 11 or optimize the charging process by monitoring the voltage, current, and / or temperature of power supply 11. For example, charging circuit 120 can sense the state of power supply 11 and prevent overcharging or over-discharging by providing appropriate charging voltage and current.

[0083] Power supply 11 can supply power to the radiating section 30 so that the radiating section 30 radiates electromagnetic waves (e.g., RF signals) into the insertion space 100h to heat the aerosol generating article. Here, the power supply to the radiating section 30 can have the same meaning as the power supply to the source section 20. In addition, power supply 11 can supply the power required for the operation of the processor 170, RF signal generation circuit 210, drive amplifier 220, power amplifier 230, temperature sensing circuit 250, etc.

[0084] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power conversion circuit for converting the power supplied from the power source 11 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, if desired, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter).

[0085] 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 may be an LDO regulator for supplying power (e.g., 3.3V DC) suitable for the processor 170, the second power converter 150 may be a buck-boost converter for supplying power (e.g., 5V DC) suitable for the temperature sensing circuit 250, the RF signal generation circuit 210, and the drive amplifier 220, and the third power converter 160 may be a boost converter for supplying power (e.g., 12V / 25W DC) suitable for the power amplifier 230.

[0086] 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 conversion circuits. Additionally, although... Figure 3 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 shown includes three power converters, but the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include more than three power converters or may include 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.

[0087] 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 11 using the charging circuit 120. Additionally, the processor 170 can control the voltage and / or current output by the power conversion circuit by controlling the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulses input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit. Besides the aforementioned components, the processor 170 can also control the overall operation of other components, which will be described later.

[0088] Processor 170 may be implemented as an array of logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller unit (MCU) (or microprocessor) and memory storing programs that can be executed in the MCU. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that processor 170 may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0089] The RF signal generation circuit 210 can generate an RF signal based on power supplied from the power supply 11 or the second power converter 150. An RF signal can refer to a signal having a frequency in the range of approximately 300 MHz to approximately 300 GHz. In one example, the RF signal can have a frequency of approximately 1 GHz to approximately 100 GHz. Additionally, the RF signal can have a frequency in the Industrial Scientific and Medical equipment (ISM) band, such as 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, and / or 5.8 GHz.

[0090] The RF signal generation circuit 210 may include a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) that generates RF signals with different frequencies based on the input voltage. The RF signal generation circuit 210 may receive control signals (e.g., DC signals) from the processor 170 and generate RF signals with frequencies corresponding to the received control signals. The processor 170 may store the control signals corresponding to the desired frequencies in the form of a lookup table, or calculate the control signals corresponding to the desired frequencies in real time through at least one operation.

[0091] In one example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a digital-to-analog converter (D / A converter) for converting digital control signals output from the processor 170 into analog control signals. The RF signal generation circuit 210 can receive the analog control signals and generate an RF signal having a frequency corresponding to the received analog control signals.

[0092] Driver amplifier 220 can amplify the RF signal generated by RF signal generation circuit 210. For example, driver amplifier 220 can provide an input signal suitable for a next-stage component (e.g., power amplifier 230) by amplifying the signal level (e.g., amplitude) of the RF signal. Driver amplifier 220 can minimize signal distortion by maintaining high linearity. However, since driver amplifier 220 is an amplifier focused on increasing the signal level, it can provide relatively low output power.

[0093] Power amplifier 230 can amplify the RF signal received from drive amplifier 220. Power amplifier 230 can be an amplifier focused on providing sufficient power to the final output device (e.g., radiator 30). For example, power amplifier 230 can provide a high-power RF signal to radiator 30, allowing radiator 30 to radiate electromagnetic waves into insertion space 100h to heat aerosol-generating articles. Power amplifier 230 can perform amplification by using power received via third power converter 160, which provides higher power and / or voltage than second power converter 150.

[0094] The driver amplifier 220 and power amplifier 230 may include transistors, such as bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), field-effect transistors (FETs), or vacuum tubes. In one example, the driver amplifier 220 and power amplifier 230 may be, but are not limited to, gallium nitride (GaN) transistors configured to perform high-efficiency, high-speed, and high-voltage processing. The driver amplifier 220 and power amplifier 230 may also include operational amplifiers.

[0095] In addition, although Figure 3 The drive amplifier 220 and power amplifier 230 are shown as separate amplifiers, but they can be integrated into a single amplifier. Alternatively, the drive amplifier 220 and / or power amplifier 230 can be configured as a series connection, a parallel connection, and / or a series-parallel connection of multiple amplifiers.

[0096] The radiating section 30 may include at least one antenna for radiating electromagnetic waves into space. The at least one antenna may have dimensions and shape suitable for the size and shape of the aerosol-generating article. For example, if the aerosol-generating article is cylindrical, then the at least one antenna may be a tube surrounding the cylindrical aerosol-generating article. Here, the shape of the antenna being tubular can mean that the overall shape of the antenna is tubular. In other words, if the antenna is formed from a metallic (e.g., SUS) trace, this can mean that the overall shape of the entire trace is tubular. The shape of the at least one antenna is not limited to the examples above and may include various shapes, such as a flat plate shape, a bent plate shape, etc.

[0097] The radiating section 30 heats the aerosol-generating article by radiating electromagnetic waves (e.g., an amplified or transmitted RF signal) into the insertion space 100h. To maximize the heating efficiency of the aerosol-generating article, electromagnetic wave resonance needs to occur within the insertion space 100h. The resonance conditions (e.g., resonance frequency) of the insertion space 100h can vary depending on the amount of dielectric material contained in the inserted aerosol-generating article. The processor 170 can control the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit 210 by adjusting the control signal input to the RF signal generation circuit 210 to correspond to or approximate the resonance conditions of the insertion space 100h. The processor 170 can use the directional coupler 240 to obtain information about the resonance conditions of the insertion space 100h.

[0098] The directional coupler 240 can refer to a passive element having a waveguide structure that separates the incident wave and the reflected wave from each other. The directional coupler 240 can receive RF signals transmitted from the power amplifier 230 toward the radiating section 30, as well as electromagnetic waves reflected from the insertion space 100h after being radiated by the radiating section 30. The directional coupler 240 can separate the transmitted RF signals and the reflected electromagnetic waves and provide them to the processor 170.

[0099] In one example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include an analog-to-digital converter (A / D converter) for converting the analog output of the directional coupler 240 into a digital output. The A / D converter may be integrated into the processor 170 or may exist as a separate component external to the processor 170. 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 waves (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase, and / or frequency) by monitoring the output of the directional coupler 240.

[0100] The processor 170 can determine whether the operation of the source section 20 is performed as expected based on the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal. Furthermore, the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal, together with the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic wave, can be used to determine the heating efficiency of the source section 20 or the radiating section 30. The processor 170 can control the source section 20 to maximize the heating efficiency of the source section 20 or the radiating section 30. For example, the processor 170 can adjust the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit 210 to minimize the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave. Minimizing the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave indicates that the frequency of the RF signal is closer to the resonance condition of the insertion space 100h. The characteristics of the transmitted RF signal can provide a criterion for whether the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave is minimized.

[0101] Since electromagnetic wave resonance can occur in the insertion space 100h according to the frequency of the RF signal, the insertion space 100h can be referred to as a resonant section. At least a portion of the insertion space 100h can be surrounded by at least one shielding member to prevent electromagnetic waves from leaking to the outside of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. In one embodiment, the insertion space 100h may also include a physical structure for ensuring that the resonance conditions are within the controllable range of the processor 170. The physical structure may include at least one conductor, and the resonance conditions of the insertion space 100h may vary depending on the arrangement, thickness, and length of the conductor. In addition, the physical structure may include a space for accommodating a dielectric with low electromagnetic wave absorption, which is different from the dielectric contained in the aerosol generating article. A dielectric with low electromagnetic wave absorption can change the resonant frequency of the entire resonant section without absorbing the energy to be transferred to the heated body. Therefore, even if the size of the resonant section is reduced, the resonance conditions can be determined to be within the controllable range of the processor 170.

[0102] The temperature sensing circuit 250 can be arranged in contact with or near the components included in the source section 20 to measure the temperature of the source section 20. For example, the temperature sensing circuit 250 can be arranged in contact with or near at least one of the RF signal generation circuit 210, the drive amplifier 220, and the power amplifier 230. Due to the limited efficiency in generating and / or amplifying the RF signal, heat may be generated, and if excessive heat is generated, this heat may negatively affect the components included in the source section 20 or other components included in the aerosol generation device 1. The temperature measured by the temperature sensing circuit 250 can be used to prevent the source section 20 from overheating.

[0103] The processor 170 can receive the temperature (or a value corresponding to the temperature) measured from the temperature sensing circuit 250, and if it determines that the source unit 20 is overheating, the processor 170 can stop the operation of the source unit 20. For example, the processor 170 can stop the operation of the source unit 20 by cutting off the power supply to the source unit 20 or by sending a control signal. In the following text, the term "power supply to the source unit 20" is used to indicate whether the source unit 20 is operating.

[0104] The temperature sensing circuit 250 may include at least one temperature sensor selected from thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), thermistors, semiconductor temperature sensors, and optical temperature sensors. In one example, the temperature sensing circuit 250 may be implemented as a chip-type sensor (e.g., a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) sensor) to minimize the area occupied, but is not limited thereto.

[0105] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly used to illustrate the arrangement of the sensing unit and antenna according to one embodiment.

[0106] Reference Figure 4 The heater assembly 200 can be arranged within the housing 100. The overall shape of the heater assembly 200 can be a tube shape or a cylinder shape with an internal cavity. The cavity of the heater assembly 200 can be referred to as the insertion space 100h, and the aerosol generating article S can be inserted into the insertion space 100h to be heated.

[0107] The heater assembly 200 may include a conductor 410 providing a cavity and a support member 420 supporting the conductor 410. According to one embodiment, the heater assembly 200 may include a heat-insulating member or a shielding member located outside the conductor 410.

[0108] The support member 420 can be coupled to the housing 100. The conductor 410 can be attached to or press-fitted to the support member 420. The insertion space 100h can be formed by the coupling of the conductor 410 and the support member 420. The conductor 410 can be coupled to the support member 420 and can extend in the vertical direction along the aerosol generating device 1. At least a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the conductor 410 can contact the outer peripheral surface of the aerosol generating article S inserted into the insertion space 100h. The conductor 410 can be made of stainless steel, aluminum, or an alloy, but is not limited thereto.

[0109] Antenna 310 may surround at least a portion of the inner peripheral surface of conductor 410. In one example, antenna 310 may be configured as a flexible patch antenna and may be attached to the inner peripheral surface of conductor 410. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and antenna 310 may also be configured to surround at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of conductor 410. In this case, conductor 410 may also include a slot at the location where antenna 310 is attached.

[0110] Antenna 310 can be arranged on the lower side of conductor 410 (in the -z direction). The lower side in this disclosure can refer to the side opposite to the opening provided by the insertion space 100h. Antenna 310 can be arranged spaced apart from the support 420 located on the lower side of conductor 410 by a predetermined interval. When antenna 310 is arranged in the direction of the far end of the opening, external exposure to electromagnetic waves can be reduced.

[0111] Antenna 310 can radiate electromagnetic waves into the insertion space 100h. The aerosol generating rod SS of the aerosol generating article S can be heated by the electromagnetic waves radiated into the insertion space 100h. In the embodiment where the aerosol generating article S is heated by using the resonance of electromagnetic waves, conductor 410 and support 420 can be referred to as resonators.

[0112] As described above, since the conductor 410, the support member 420 and the antenna 310 help to heat the aerosol generating article S, these components can be part of the dielectric heating section 17.

[0113] Moisture sensing sensor 121 may surround at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of conductor 410. In one example, moisture sensing sensor 121 may be configured as a capacitive sensor, and the capacitive sensor may be made flexible and attached to the outer peripheral surface of conductor 410. Since moisture sensing sensor 121 is disposed on the outside of conductor 410 rather than inside conductor 410, noise caused by electromagnetic waves can be reduced.

[0114] A moisture sensing sensor 121 can be arranged on the upper side (in the +z direction) of the conductor 410. "Upper side" in this disclosure can refer to the direction of the opening provided by the insertion space 100h. The moisture sensing sensor 121 can be arranged at a predetermined interval from the opening located on the upper side of the conductor 410. The predetermined interval can be set based on the length of the aerosol generating rod SS. The moisture sensing sensor 121 can be arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the conductor 410 at a position corresponding to a portion of the aerosol generating rod SS.

[0115] In an embodiment where the moisture sensing sensor 121 is configured as a capacitive sensor, the dielectric constant of the moisture sensing sensor 121 can vary according to the moisture changes in the insertion space 100h. Therefore, the number of charge / discharge cycles per unit time of the capacitive sensor can be varied. The control unit 10 can sense the moisture changes in the insertion space 100h and / or the aerosol generating article S based on the number of charge / discharge cycles per unit time of this capacitive sensor. The control unit 10 can control the output of the source unit 20 based on the moisture changes in the insertion space 100h and / or the aerosol generating article S. Furthermore, the control unit 10 can determine the insertion of the aerosol generating article S based on the moisture changes in the insertion space 100h and / or the aerosol generating article S. Furthermore, the control unit 10 can identify the type of the aerosol generating article S based on the moisture changes in the insertion space 100h and / or the aerosol generating article S.

[0116] Additionally, as described below Figure 5 different, Figure 4The moisture sensing sensor 121 is arranged on the upper side of the conductor 410 adjacent to the opening. Compared to the case where the moisture sensing sensor 121 is arranged on the lower side of the conductor 410, this arrangement can detect moisture changes in the insertion space 100h and / or the aerosol-generating article S earlier. Furthermore, compared to the case where the moisture sensing sensor 121 is arranged on the lower side of the conductor 410, this arrangement can detect moisture changes in the insertion space 100h and / or the aerosol-generating article S for a longer period. Therefore, in embodiments where the moisture sensing sensor 121 also functions as an insertion sensing sensor, Figure 4 The arrangement within can improve sensing accuracy.

[0117] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly used to illustrate the arrangement of the sensing unit and antenna according to another embodiment.

[0118] Figure 5 An example of a moisture sensing sensor 121 arranged adjacent to the lower surface of the insertion space 100h is shown. Figure 5 In the middle, to and Figure 4 The same constituent elements are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0119] Reference Figure 5 The moisture sensing sensor 121 can be arranged at the lower part of the insertion space 100h. The moisture sensing sensor 121 can be arranged outside the insertion space 100h, adjacent to the lower surface of the insertion space 100h that contacts the aerosol generating article S. Because the moisture sensing sensor 121 is arranged outside the conductor 410 rather than inside the conductor 410, noise caused by electromagnetic waves can be reduced.

[0120] The moisture sensing sensor 121 can be disposed inside the support member 420 by injection molding. However, this disclosure is not limited to such manufacturing method as long as the moisture sensing sensor 121 is disposed on the outside of the insertion space 100h adjacent to the lower surface of the insertion space 100h.

[0121] and Figure 4 different, Figure 5 The moisture sensing sensor 121 is arranged adjacent to the lower surface of the insertion space 100h in the direction opposite to the opening. In this state, the lower surface of the insertion space 100h can be the area in contact with the aerosol generating article S. Thus, when the aerosol generating article S contacts the lower surface of the insertion space 100h, the sensing noise value caused by moisture existing between the aerosol generating article S and the inner peripheral surface of the insertion space 100h can be reduced when determining the moisture change of the aerosol generating article S. In other words, Figure 5 The arrangement can make it easier to judge the moisture changes of the aerosol-generating item S itself.

[0122] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a method for controlling the frequency and power of a source unit in accordance with an embodiment of a method for controlling the frequency and power of a source unit in response to changes in the moisture level of an aerosol-generating article.

[0123] Figure 6 A graph 610 is shown illustrating the change in moisture level caused by heating of the aerosol-generated article S. Furthermore, Figure 6 A graph 620 showing the output frequency of the source unit 20 and a graph 630 showing the output power of the source unit 20, representing the change in moisture content of the aerosol-generated article S. However, Figure 6 The graphs are merely an example to illustrate the method of controlling the moisture changes of article S generated by aerosols, and the slope of each graph can vary depending on the experiment.

[0124] Reference Figure 6 The moisture in the aerosol-generating article S can be provided by glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), flavorings, organic acids, etc. This moisture content can gradually decrease as the aerosol-generating article S is heated.

[0125] As the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article S decreases, the control unit 10 can increase the output frequency of the source unit 20 and decrease the output power of the source unit 20.

[0126] In one example, the control unit 10 can obtain information about the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S from the sensing unit 12 at a first time point t1. The control unit 10 can determine that the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S at the first time point t1 is a first level s1. When the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S is determined to be the first level s1, the control unit 10 can adjust the output frequency of the source unit 20 to a first frequency f1 and adjust the output power of the source unit 20 to a first power w1.

[0127] The control unit 10 can obtain information about the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S from the sensing unit 12 at a second time point t2 after the first time point t1. The control unit 10 can determine that the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S at the second time point t2 is a second level s2. When the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S is determined to be the second level s2, the control unit 10 can adjust the output frequency of the source unit 20 to a second frequency f2 and adjust the output power of the source unit 20 to a second power w2. In this state, the second frequency f2 can be greater than the first frequency f1, and the second power w2 can be less than the first power w1.

[0128] in addition, Figure 6 This is an exemplary diagram illustrating how the output of source unit 20 is controlled based on changes in the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S, and this control can be performed substantially in real time. In other words, the time interval between the first time point t1 and the second time point t2 can be set to within 100 ms.

[0129] The output frequency and output power of the source unit 20, based on the change in moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S, can be determined experimentally, independent of the matching frequency. Specifically, the directional coupler 240 can separate the RF signal transmitted from the radiating unit 30 and the reflected electromagnetic wave reflected from the insertion space 100h, and send them to the control unit 10. The control unit 10 can analyze the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic wave (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase, and / or frequency). The control unit 10 can obtain the output frequency of the source unit 20 when the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave becomes minimal. Thus, the output frequency of the source unit 20 when the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave becomes minimal can be referred to as the matching frequency. Figure 6 In this configuration, the control unit 10 can adjust the output frequency and output power of the source unit 20 independently of the matching frequency, based on the moisture level of the aerosol generating article S. Information regarding the output frequency and output power of the source unit 20 corresponding to the moisture level of each aerosol generating article S can be stored in the memory 15. The aerosol generating article S can be identified using the humidity detection sensor 121 for controlling the output of the source unit 20 for each aerosol generating article S.

[0130] Thus, the aerosol generating device 1 does not simultaneously increase or decrease the output frequency and output power of the source unit 20 as the moisture level of the aerosol generating article S decreases. Instead, it increases the output frequency of the source unit 20 and decreases the output power of the source unit 20 as the moisture level decreases. Due to the complementary control of the output frequency and output power of the source unit 20, the power consumption of the aerosol generating device 1 can be reduced while improving the user's smoking experience.

[0131] Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article S may not meet the expected moisture content during manufacturing, transportation, and storage. For example, depending on the humid or dry environment, the aerosol-generating article S may not reach or exceed the expected moisture content. When the aerosol-generating article S does not meet the expected moisture content, the control unit 10 may not be able to identify the type of the aerosol-generating article S. Thus, when the control unit 10 cannot identify the type of the aerosol-generating article S, the control unit 10 can adjust the output frequency of the source unit 20 in real time according to the matching frequency obtained based on the reflected electromagnetic wave. In other words, the control unit 10 can adjust the output frequency of the source unit 20 to minimize the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave. In addition, when the control unit 10 cannot identify the type of the aerosol-generating article S, the control unit 10 can control the output power of the source unit 20 according to a preset power curve. For example, the preset control curve may include a first power for a first time period and a second power for a second time period after the first time period. In this state, the first time period may be 10 seconds, the second time period may be 280 seconds, and the first power may be 10W and the second power may be 5W, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0132] Figure 7 This is an example of a heating curve used to illustrate a method for controlling the frequency and power of the source in a portion of a preheating zone according to an embodiment.

[0133] Reference Figure 7 The heating curve 710 disclosed herein may include a preheating zone and a smoking zone following the preheating zone. For example, the control unit 10 may heat the aerosol generating article S to a target preheating temperature Ta above the vaporization temperature up to a preset preheating time tp, and maintain the aerosol generating article S above the vaporization temperature from the preheating time tp to the end time.

[0134] Additionally, the end time can be determined based on a preset end time and / or the moisture level of the aerosol-generated article S. In embodiments that simultaneously consider the preset end time and the moisture level of the aerosol-generated article S, the control unit 10 can cut off the output of the source unit 20 when at least one of the end time and end level conditions is met. For example, the control unit 10 can cut off the output of the source unit 20 after 290 seconds from the start of preheating. Furthermore, the control unit 10 can cut off the output of the source unit 20 when the moisture level of the aerosol-generated article S is within a preset reference end level range. In this state, the reference end level is set based on the volume ratio of moisture per unit volume relative to the medium section, and the reference end level can be selected within a range of 10%. The control unit 10 can automatically cut off the output of the source unit 20 based on the moisture level of the aerosol-generated article S only when the type of aerosol-generated article S is identified. In other words, when the type of aerosol-generating article S cannot be identified, the control unit 10 can cut off the output of the source unit 20 based on a preset end time, and when the type of aerosol-generating article S is identified, the control unit 10 can cut off the output of the source unit 20 based on a preset end time and a preset reference end level range.

[0135] like Figure 6 As shown, throughout the preheating and smoking zones, the control unit 10 can increase the output frequency of the source unit 20 and decrease the output power of the source unit 20 in response to a decrease in the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S. However, according to one embodiment, the control unit 10 can, within a portion of the preheating zone, increase the output frequency of the source unit 20 and decrease the output power of the source unit 20 in response to a decrease in the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S. Figure 6 Different control methods are used to control the output of source unit 20.

[0136] Specifically, the control unit 10 can perform operations related to the initial zone of the preheating zone. Figure 6 Different controls. Control unit 10 can independently adjust the output frequency of source unit 20 to a third frequency greater than the first and second frequencies, from the start of preheating to the first sub-preheating time tps, regardless of the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S, and adjust the output power of source unit 20 to a third power greater than the first and second powers. The third frequency and third power can be optimally determined experimentally, and can be... Figure 6 The third frequency is adjusted independently of the matching frequency, as shown. For example, the third frequency and the third power can be set within a range of 70% to 100% of the maximum frequency and maximum power that the source unit 20 can output. This control up to the first sub-preheating time tps is performed independently of the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S, and can therefore be called so-called positive control. Conversely, the control after the first sub-preheating time tps is determined based on the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S, and can therefore be called so-called feedback control.

[0137] Thus, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 of this disclosure operates at a relatively high frequency and with a power-controlled source 20 during the first sub-preheating time tps, thereby facilitating rapid preheating.

[0138] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation method of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0139] Reference Figure 8 In step S810, the sensing unit 12 can sense the change in moisture in the insertion space 100h caused by the insertion of the aerosol-generated article S.

[0140] The sensing unit 12 may include a moisture sensing sensor 121, and the moisture sensing sensor 121 may be configured as a capacitive sensor. Therefore, when the aerosol generating article S is inserted into the insertion space 100h, the dielectric constant of the moisture sensing sensor 121 may change. The control unit 10 may determine whether the aerosol generating article S has been inserted based on the change in the dielectric constant of the moisture sensing sensor 121.

[0141] In step S820, the control unit 10 can identify the type of aerosol generating article S.

[0142] The aerosol-generating article S may have an inherent moisture content range, and the control unit 10 can identify the aerosol-generating article S based on this inherent moisture content range. In this state, the inherent moisture content can represent the moisture level included in the aerosol-generating article S before preheating begins. In one example, the memory 15 may store the inherent moisture content range of the aerosol-generating article S, and the control unit 10 may compare the data stored in the memory 15 with the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S sensed by the sensing unit 12. In step S830, the data on moisture content stored in the memory 15 can be used to determine whether identification is possible.

[0143] In step S830, the control unit 10 can determine whether the type of aerosol generating article S can be identified.

[0144] When the moisture level sensed by the sensing unit 12 is within the inherent moisture content range stored in the memory 15, the control unit 10 can determine that it can identify the type of aerosol generating article S and can execute the subsequent steps of step S840.

[0145] Furthermore, even when the aerosol-generating article S is manufactured by the same manufacturer, its moisture content can vary significantly depending on the surrounding environment during the manufacturing, transportation, and storage stages. In other words, the aerosol-generating article S may not meet the expected moisture content during the manufacturing, transportation, and storage stages. Thus, when the aerosol-generating article S does not meet the expected moisture content, the moisture level sensed by the sensing unit 12 may not be within the inherent moisture content range stored in the memory 15. When the moisture level sensed by the sensing unit 12 is not within the inherent moisture content range stored in the memory 15, the control unit 10 can determine that it cannot identify the type of aerosol-generating article S and execute the subsequent steps of step S870.

[0146] In step S840, when it is determined that the type of aerosol generating article S can be identified, the control unit 10 can adjust the frequency and power of the source unit 20 based on the control data stored in the memory 15.

[0147] In one embodiment, as the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article S decreases, the control unit 10 can increase the output frequency of the source unit 20 and decrease the output power of the source unit 20. However, target values ​​for the output frequency and output power can be set experimentally, regardless of the matching frequency. Complementary control of the output frequency and output power based on the decrease in moisture content of the aerosol-generating article S can be performed throughout the entire preheating and smoking zones.

[0148] According to one embodiment, the control unit 10 can perform complementary control of the output frequency and output power based on the decrease in moisture content of the aerosol-generating article S in a portion of the preheating zone and throughout the entire smoking zone. The control unit 10 can fix the output frequency and output power of the source unit 20 in the initial phase of the preheating zone, regardless of the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S. For example, the control unit 10 can set the output frequency and output power within a range of 70% to 100% of the maximum frequency and maximum power that the source unit 20 can output. This is to facilitate rapid preheating.

[0149] In step S850, the control unit 10 can determine whether the reference end time has been reached or whether it is within the reference end level range.

[0150] The control unit 10 may include a timer and monitor the time elapsed since the start of preheating. If a preset reference end time has not elapsed since the start of preheating, the control unit 10 may execute step S840 again. Optionally, if a preset reference end time has elapsed since the start of preheating, the control unit 10 may cut off the output of the source unit 20 in step S860.

[0151] Optionally, the memory 15 may store a reference end level for the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S used to stop heating. The sensing unit 12 may send the moisture change of the aerosol-generating article S to the control unit 10 in real time, and the control unit 10 may execute step S840 until the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S is within the preset reference end level range. When the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article S is within the preset reference end level range, in step S860, the control unit 10 may cut off the output of the source unit 20.

[0152] Thus, if the type of aerosol-generating article S is identified, the control unit 10 can cut off the output of the source unit 20 when either the reference end time condition or the end level condition is met.

[0153] In step S870, when it is determined that the type of aerosol generating article S cannot be identified, the control unit 10 can adjust the frequency and power of the source unit 20 according to the matching frequency obtained based on the reflected electromagnetic wave and the preset power curve.

[0154] In one embodiment, the control unit 10 can track in real time the matching frequency of the source unit 20 that minimizes the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave, and adjust the output frequency of the source unit 20 based on the matching frequency.

[0155] Furthermore, while adjusting the output frequency of the source unit 20 according to the matching frequency, the control unit 10 can control the output power of the source unit 20 according to a preset power curve. For example, the preset power curve may be a first power for a first time period and a second power with a smaller magnitude for a second time period after the first time period.

[0156] In step S880, the control unit 10 can determine whether the reference end time has been reached.

[0157] Unlike step S850, when the type of aerosol-generating article S cannot be identified, the control unit 10 can simply determine whether the reference end time is met. This is because when the type of aerosol-generating article S cannot be identified, the output frequency and output power of the source unit 20 cannot be controlled based on changes in moisture content.

[0158] If the preset reference end time has not elapsed since the start of preheating, the control unit 10 may execute step S870 again. Optionally, if the preset reference end time has elapsed since the start of preheating, the control unit 10 may cut off the output of the source unit 20 as in step S860.

[0159] The embodiments or other embodiments of this disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. The embodiments or other embodiments of this disclosure described above can be used together or combined with their respective constituent elements or functions.

[0160] For example, this means that component A illustrated in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with component B illustrated in other embodiments and / or drawings. That is, this means that even without a direct description of the combination between components, they can be combined except where it is stated that combination is impossible.

[0161] The detailed description above should be considered exemplary in all respects and not construed as limiting. The scope of the invention should 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 aerosol generating apparatus, comprising: The source section generates radio frequency signals; The radiating section heats the aerosol generating article by radiating the radio frequency signal in the form of electromagnetic waves into the insertion space into which the aerosol generating article is inserted. The sensing unit senses the change in moisture content of the aerosol-generating article caused by heating from the radiating unit; as well as The control unit controls the frequency and power of the radio frequency signal output by the source unit based on the moisture changes of the aerosol-generating article.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The sensing unit senses the moisture change of the aerosol-generating article in the preheating zone and the smoking zone following the preheating zone, and sends the sensing results to the control unit. The control unit: in at least a portion of the preheating zone and the smoking zone, controls the frequency and power of the radio frequency signal output by the source unit; when the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article is determined to be a first level, the output frequency and output power of the source unit are adjusted to a first frequency and a first power, respectively; when the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article is determined to be a second level less than the first level, the output frequency and output power of the source unit are adjusted to a second frequency greater than the first frequency and a second power less than the first power, respectively.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The control unit: In at least a portion of the preheating zone, independently of the sensing result of the sensing unit, adjusts the output frequency of the source unit to a third frequency greater than the first frequency and the second frequency, and adjusts the output power of the source unit to a third power greater than the first power and the second power.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3 further includes: A directional coupler receives reflected electromagnetic waves from the insertion space. The control unit sets the first frequency, the second frequency, and the third frequency independently of the matching frequency output by the source unit when the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave is within the reference power range.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The control unit: cuts off the output of the source unit when the moisture level of the aerosol-generated article is within a preset reference end level range.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The sensing unit further senses changes in moisture content in the insertion space caused by the insertion of the aerosol-generated article. The control unit further identifies the type of aerosol-generating article based on changes in moisture content within the insertion space.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising: The memory stores information about the output frequency and output power of the source unit corresponding to the moisture level of each of the aerosol-generating articles.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The control unit adjusts the output frequency of the source unit based on the matching frequency obtained from the reflected electromagnetic wave when it is unable to identify the type of the aerosol generating article.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The sensing unit includes at least one capacitive sensor. The control unit senses the moisture changes of the aerosol-generating article based on the number of charge / discharge cycles per unit time of the capacitive sensor.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The capacitive sensor is manufactured to be flexible and surrounds at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the insertion space.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The capacitive sensor is arranged adjacent to the lower surface of the insertion space that is in contact with the aerosol-generating article.

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