Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device is disclosed. An aerosol-generating device includes a body and a radiating unit disposed in the body and providing an insertion space in which an aerosol-generating article is accommodated, where the radiating unit includes: an antenna surrounding the insertion space, the antenna configured to emit microwaves for dielectric heating of the aerosol-generating article; and a hollow dielectric portion disposed inside the antenna to support the antenna, the dielectric portion having an insertion space provided therein; and wherein the dielectric portion includes at least one of quartz, glass, ceramic, polyimide, or polytetrafluoroethylene.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] An aerosol generating device is an apparatus that extracts certain components from a medium or substance using aerosols. The medium can contain multiple components. These components can be multi-component flavoring agents. For example, the medium may contain nicotine, herbal ingredients, and / or caffeine. Various studies on aerosol generating devices have been conducted in recent years.

[0003] An aerosol generating apparatus for heating aerosol-generating materials via dielectric heating includes an antenna configured to radiate microwaves. The antenna surrounding the insertion space is implemented in the form of a thin film. In conventional aerosol generating apparatuses, the antenna is damaged when the smoke rod is inserted into or removed from the insertion space. Furthermore, the shape of the antenna deforms due to the heat generated by the smoke rod. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues The purpose of this disclosure is to resolve the above-mentioned problems and other issues.

[0005] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus having a dielectric portion disposed inside an antenna to support the antenna, and the dielectric portion being made of a heat-resistant and microwave-permeable material.

[0006] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus configured such that an antenna is printed on the outside of a dielectric portion or attached to the outside of a dielectric portion.

[0007] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus configured such that an antenna is curled together with a sheet on the outer peripheral surface of a dielectric portion.

[0008] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus configured such that the antenna and the sheet dielectric portion are rolled into a hollow shape.

[0009] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus having a bracket connected to each side of a radiating unit, and the bracket being made of a material highly permeable to microwaves.

[0010] Another object of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus having a shielding portion surrounding the exterior of an antenna.

[0011] Solution to the problem According to an aspect of this disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned objectives, an aerosol generating apparatus includes a body and provides an insertion space in which an aerosol generating article is accommodated, wherein the radiating unit includes: an antenna surrounding the insertion space, the antenna being configured to emit microwaves for dielectric heating of the aerosol generating article; and a hollow dielectric portion disposed inside the antenna to support the antenna, the dielectric portion having an insertion space disposed therein, and wherein the dielectric portion includes at least one of quartz, glass, ceramic, polyimide, or polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0012] Beneficial effects of the invention According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a dielectric portion is provided disposed inside the antenna to support the antenna, and the dielectric portion is made of a heat-resistant material, thereby preventing damage to the antenna during insertion and removal of the aerosol-generating article and preventing the shape of the antenna from being deformed by the heat generated by the aerosol-generating article.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a dielectric portion is provided, which is disposed inside the antenna to support the antenna, and the dielectric portion is made of a material that is highly permeable to microwaves, thereby preventing a reduction in the amount of microwave radiation reaching the insertion space.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna is printed on or attached to the outside of the dielectric portion, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the radiating element.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna is rolled together with the sheet on the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the radiating element and reducing the size or volume of the radiating element.

[0016] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna, together with the sheet dielectric portion, is rolled into a hollow shape, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the radiating element and reducing the size or volume of the radiating element.

[0017] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a bracket is provided that is coupled to each side of a radiating unit, and the bracket is made of a material that is highly permeable to microwaves, thereby preventing a reduction in the amount of microwave radiation reaching the insertion space due to the bracket.

[0018] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a shielding portion is provided surrounding the antenna to prevent microwaves radiated from the antenna from being emitted outside the radiating element.

[0019] Additional applications of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since those skilled in the art will clearly understand the various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of this disclosure, it should be understood that the detailed descriptions and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of this disclosure, are given by way of example only. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 A view showing an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of a radiating unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4 and Figure 5 A view showing the antenna of a radiating element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of a radiating element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from the side; Figure 7 This is a view showing the deployed state of the radiating element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from above; Figure 8 This is a view showing the deployed state of the radiating element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from the side; Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the radiating element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from the side; Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of a radiating element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from above; Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a radiating element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the side; and Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of a radiating element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from above. Detailed Implementation

[0021] In the following description, the embodiments disclosed herein will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Identical or similar elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, even if such elements are shown in different drawings, and therefore repeated descriptions of identical or similar elements will be omitted. For the purposes of describing the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements.

[0022] In the following description, the suffixes “module” and “unit” are used for ease of description only and do not have a distinguishing meaning or function. As used herein, the suffixes “module” or “unit” can include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware and are used interchangeably with other terms such as “logic,” “logic block,” “component,” or “circuit.” A “module” or “unit” can be a single integrated component or the smallest unit or part of that component suitable for performing one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” can be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0023] Furthermore, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations incorporated herein may be omitted where such descriptions would obscure the subject matter of the embodiments disclosed herein. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are provided only for the purpose of better understanding the embodiments disclosed herein and are not intended to limit the technical concepts disclosed herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives within the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

[0024] It should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used in this document to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another.

[0025] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as "connected to" or "connected to" another component, the component may be directly connected to or directly connected to the other component, or there may be intermediate components. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as "directly connected to" or "directly connected to" another component, there are no intermediate components.

[0026] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well.

[0027] The embodiments described herein can be implemented as software containing one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory 17) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1). For example, a processor (e.g., controller 12) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1) can invoke at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and can execute the at least one instruction. This allows the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the invoked at least one instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not include signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), but this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and cases where data is stored temporarily in the storage medium.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a controller 10, a source unit 20, and a radiation unit 30. The controller 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 that generates radio frequency (RF) signals under the control of the controller 10. The radiation unit 30 may be a device for radiating the RF signals generated by the source unit 20 in the form of electromagnetic waves to the space into which the aerosol generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space). The radiated electromagnetic waves (e.g., the RF signal) can cause the charges or ions of the dielectric parts (e.g., glycerol) contained in the aerosol generating article to vibrate or rotate, and the aerosol generating article can be heated when the dielectric parts are heated by the frictional heat generated during the vibration or rotation of the charges or ions. In other words, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may be a device for generating aerosols by heating the aerosol generating article using a dielectric heating method.

[0030] In the example, controller 10 may include a power connector 110, a charging circuit 120, a power supply 130, a first power converter 140, a second power converter 150, a third power converter 160, and / or a processor 170. Furthermore, 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 to which this disclosure pertains will understand that, according to the design of aerosol generating device 1, the following components may be omitted. Figure 1 Some of the components shown can be modified, or new components can be added.

[0031] The 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 transmitting and receiving power. For example, the power connector 110 can receive power from an external power source and can transmit the received power to a component that needs charging (e.g., power supply 130). The power connector 110 can provide a path for data transmission. The aerosol generating device 1 can transmit data to or receive data from an external electronic device or system (e.g., a smartphone or computer) via the power connector 110. The power connector 110 can include a Universal Serial Bus (USB) power connector and a DC power connector. In the example, the power connector 110 can be a USB-C type connector capable of providing 9 volts (V) DC voltage and 1 amp (A) current, but this disclosure is not necessarily limited to this. The power connector 110 can include an interface for wirelessly transmitting and receiving power.

[0032] Charging circuit 120 can refer to a circuit used to charge power supply 130. Charging circuit 120 can charge power supply 130 using power transmitted from power connector 110. In this example, charging circuit 120 can be implemented as a charger IC, which is an integrated circuit (IC) for efficiently and safely charging power supply 130. By monitoring the voltage, current, and / or temperature of power supply 130, charging circuit 120 can monitor the charging status of power supply 130 or optimize the charging process. For example, charging circuit 120 can detect the status of power supply 130 and provide appropriate charging voltage and current to prevent overcharging or over-discharging.

[0033] Power source 130 can supply power for the operation of aerosol generating apparatus 1. Power source 130 may include one or more rechargeable batteries. Power source 130 can supply power to radiation unit 30, enabling radiation unit 30 to radiate electromagnetic waves (e.g., RF signals) into the insertion space to heat the aerosol generating article. Here, supplying power to radiation unit 30 is equivalent to supplying power to source unit 20. In addition, power source 130 can also supply power for the operation of processor 170, RF signal generation circuit 210, drive amplifier 220, power amplifier 230, and temperature sensing circuit 250. In the example, power source 130 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery. Power source 130 may also be a replaceable (removable) battery (hereinafter referred to as a removable battery). The removable battery may be installed in a battery compartment disposed in aerosol generating apparatus 1, or the removable battery may be removed from the battery compartment. The removable battery may be charged in a wired and / or wireless manner.

[0034] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power conversion circuit for converting the power supplied from the 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 (LDO) regulator. Furthermore, the power conversion circuit may, if desired, include a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter).

[0035] In this 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 appropriate power (e.g., DC 3.3 V) to the processor 170, the second power converter 150 may be a buck-boost converter for supplying appropriate power (e.g., DC 5 V) to 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 appropriate power (e.g., DC 12 V / 25 W) to the power amplifier 230.

[0036] 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. Furthermore, although... Figure 1 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 shown includes three power converters, but the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include more or fewer than three power converters. In the example, at least some of the power converters, namely the first power converter 140, the second power converter 150, and the third power converter 160, may be combined into a single power converter.

[0037] Processor 170 can control the overall operation of aerosol generating device 1. For example, processor 170 can directly or indirectly control the charging and discharging of power supply 130 using charging circuit 120. Furthermore, processor 170 can adjust the voltage and / or current output by power conversion circuit by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of current pulses input to at least one switching element of power conversion circuit. In addition to the components described above, processor 170 can generally also control the operation of other components described below.

[0038] 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 a memory for storing programs that can be executed by the MCU. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that processor 170 may be implemented in other hardware forms.

[0039] The RF signal generation circuit 210 can generate an RF signal based on power supplied from the power source 130 or the second power converter 150. The RF signal can refer to a signal with a frequency in the range of 300 MHz to 300 GHz. In the example, the RF signal can have a frequency from 1 GHz to 100 GHz. Furthermore, the RF signal can have a frequency within the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band, such as 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, and / or 5.8 GHz.

[0040] The RF signal generation circuit 210 may include a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) for generating 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 it may calculate the control signals corresponding to the desired frequencies in real time through at least one operation.

[0041] In this example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a digital-to-analog (D / A) converter for converting digital control signals output from the processor 170 into analog control signals. The RF signal generation circuit 210 may receive the analog control signals and generate RF signals having a frequency corresponding to the received analog control signals.

[0042] The driver amplifier 220 amplifies the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit 210. For example, the driver amplifier 220 amplifies the signal level (e.g., amplitude) of the RF signal to provide a suitable input signal to components in the next step (e.g., power amplifier 230). The driver amplifier 220 can minimize signal distortion by maintaining high linearity. However, since the driver amplifier 220 is specifically designed to amplify the signal level, it may provide relatively low output power.

[0043] Power amplifier 230 can amplify the power of the RF signal received from drive amplifier 220. Power amplifier 230 can be an amplifier specifically designed to provide sufficient power to a terminal output device (e.g., radiating unit 30). For example, power amplifier 230 can provide a high-power RF signal to radiating unit 30, enabling radiating unit 30 to radiate electromagnetic waves into the insertion space to heat the aerosol-generating article. Power amplifier 230 can use power received through a third power converter 160, which provides higher power and / or voltage compared to the second power converter 150, for amplification operation.

[0044] Each of the driver amplifier 220 and the power amplifier 230 may include a transistor, such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or a vacuum tube. In this example, each of the driver amplifier 220 and the power amplifier 230 may be (but is not limited to) a gallium nitride (GaN) transistor capable of handling high efficiency, high speed, and high voltage. Each of the driver amplifier 220 and the power amplifier 230 may include an operational amplifier.

[0045] Although the driver amplifier 220 and the power amplifier 230 are in Figure 1 While shown as a single amplifier, driver amplifier 220 and power amplifier 230 can be combined into a single amplifier. Furthermore, driver amplifier 220 and / or power amplifier 230 may include multiple amplifiers connected in series, parallel, and / or series-parallel configurations.

[0046] The radiating element 30 may include at least one antenna for radiating electromagnetic waves into space. The at least one antenna may have dimensions and shape adapted to 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 formed as a tubular shape surrounding the cylindrical aerosol-generating article. Here, the tubular shape of the antenna may mean that the overall shape of the antenna is tubular. In other words, if the antenna is made of a metal (e.g., SUS) track, it may mean that the overall shape of the track is tubular. The shape of the at least one antenna is not limited to the examples above and may include various shapes, such as flat plate shapes and curved plate shapes.

[0047] Radiation unit 30 can radiate electromagnetic waves (e.g., amplified RF signals or emitted RF signals) into the insertion space to heat the aerosol-generating article. To maximize the heating efficiency of the aerosol-generating article, electromagnetic wave resonance must occur within the insertion space. The resonance conditions of the insertion space (e.g., the resonance frequency) can vary depending on the amount of dielectric material contained in the inserted aerosol-generating article. By adjusting the control signal input to the RF signal generation circuit 210, processor 170 can control the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit 210 to correspond to or approximate the resonance conditions of the insertion space. Processor 170 can use directional coupler 240 to acquire information related to the resonance conditions of the insertion space.

[0048] The directional coupler 240 can be a passive element with a waveguide structure capable of separating incident and reflected waves. The directional coupler 240 can receive RF signals transmitted from the power amplifier 230 toward the radiating unit 30, as well as electromagnetic waves reflected from the insertion space after being radiated by the radiated unit 30. The directional combiner 240 can separate the transmitted RF signals and reflected electromagnetic waves, and transmit both signals to the processor 170.

[0049] In this example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include an analog-to-digital (A / D) converter for converting the analog output of the directional coupler 240 into a digital output. This A / D converter may be embedded in the processor 170 or provided as a separate component external to 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 waves (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase, and / or frequency).

[0050] Based on the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal, the processor 170 can determine whether the operation of the source unit 20 is performed as expected. Furthermore, the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal can be combined with the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic waves to determine the heating efficiency of the source unit 20 or the radiating unit 30. The processor 170 can control the source unit 20 to maximize the heating efficiency of the source unit or the radiating unit. 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 waves. Minimizing the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves may mean that the frequency of the RF signal is close to 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.

[0051] Since electromagnetic wave resonance may occur within the insertion space depending on the frequency of the RF signal, the insertion space can be referred to as a resonant unit. At least a portion of the insertion space may be surrounded by at least one shielding member to prevent electromagnetic waves from leaking from the aerosol generating device 1. According to an embodiment, the insertion space may also include a physical structure for ensuring that resonance occurs within a controllable range of the processor 170. This physical structure may include at least one conductor, and the resonance conditions of the insertion space may vary depending on the position, thickness, and length of the conductor. Furthermore, the physical structure may also include a space for receiving a medium with a low electromagnetic wave absorption rate, independent of the medium contained in the aerosol generating article. A medium with a low electromagnetic wave absorption rate can alter the resonant frequency of the entire resonant unit without absorbing energy that must be transferred to the object to be heated. Therefore, even if the resonant unit is miniaturized, the resonance conditions can be determined to be within a controllable range of the processor 170.

[0052] The temperature sensing circuit 250 can be arranged in contact with or adjacent to the components included in the source unit 20 to measure the temperature of the source unit 20. For example, the temperature sensing circuit 250 can be arranged in contact with or adjacent to at least one of the RF signal generation circuit 210, the drive amplifier 220, and / or the power amplifier 230. During the generation and / or amplification of the RF signal, heat may be generated due to limited efficiency; if the heat is excessive, it may adversely affect the components in the source unit 20 or other components in the aerosol generation device 1. The temperature measured by the temperature sensing circuit 250 can be used to prevent the source unit 20 from overheating.

[0053] The processor 170 can receive a measured temperature (or a value corresponding to that temperature) from the temperature sensing circuit 250 and can interrupt the operation of the source unit 20 when it is determined that the source unit 20 is overheating. For example, the processor 170 can interrupt the operation of the source unit 20 by interrupting the power supply to the source unit 20 or by sending a control signal. Hereinafter, the term "power supply to the source unit 20" is used to indicate whether the source unit 20 is operating.

[0054] Temperature sensing circuit 250 may include at least one of thermocouple, resistance temperature detector (RTD), thermistor, semiconductor temperature sensor, and optical temperature sensor. In the example, temperature sensing circuit 250 may be implemented as a chip-type sensor (e.g., negative temperature coefficient (NTC) sensor) to minimize the footprint of temperature sensing circuitry, but this disclosure is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0055] At the same time, in addition to Figure 1 In addition to the components shown, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include other components. For example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a sensor unit, an output unit, an input unit, a communication unit, and a memory. Furthermore, if the aerosol generating apparatus 1 is a hybrid device that simultaneously uses both an aerosol generating product and a cartridge, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a cartridge heater. This cartridge heater can receive power from the power supply 130 to heat the medium and / or aerosol generating substance within the cartridge.

[0056] According to the embodiment, the sensor unit can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the state of the area near the aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the sensed 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 over-humidity detection sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, a cover detection sensor, and / or a motion detection sensor. Simultaneously, the sensor unit may also include various sensors, such as a liquid level sensor for detecting the liquid level inside the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for detecting whether the aerosol generating device 1 is flooded.

[0057] According to an embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article. The temperature sensor can be arranged 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 generator. Alternatively, the temperature sensor can be arranged spaced apart from the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article to indirectly (e.g., non-contactly) detect the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article. In an example, the temperature sensor may include an optical temperature sensor (e.g., an infrared temperature sensor).

[0058] According to an embodiment, the temperature sensor can sense the temperature of the power supply 130. The temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 130. For example, the temperature sensor can be attached to a surface of the power supply 130 (e.g., a battery), and / or the temperature sensor can be mounted on a surface of a printed circuit board. In an example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a protection circuit module (PCM), and the temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 130 together with the protection circuit module.

[0059] According to an embodiment, a temperature sensor can be arranged inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 1 to sense the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0060] According to the implementation method, the suction sensor can detect the user's suction.

[0061] In this example, the suction sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1, and the processor 170 can detect the user's suction based on the signal corresponding to the internal pressure. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 may correspond to the pressure along the airflow path. The suction sensor may be arranged within the aerosol generating device 1 to correspond to the airflow path.

[0062] In another example, the suction sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user inhales, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, insertion space, and aerosol generation device. The processor 170 can detect the user's inhalation based on a signal corresponding to the temperature output from the temperature sensor along the airflow path.

[0063] In another example, the suction sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor may measure a temperature used to calibrate the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. In this example, the suction sensor may calibrate the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the calibrated signal. In another example, the suction sensor may output both a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the suction sensor. In this case, the processor 170 may receive the signals and calibrate the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0064] In another example, the suction sensor may include a capacitive sensor. In this disclosure, a capacitive sensor may also be referred to as a capacitive sensor or a capacitive-type sensor. When a user suctions, the temperature and / or aerosol flow within the insertion space may change, causing a change in the dielectric constant within the insertion space. The processor 170 may detect the user's suction based on a signal output by the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant of the insertion space.

[0065] Suction sensors are not limited to the examples above; a variety of sensors can be used to detect a user's suction.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of aerosol-generated articles. The insertion detection sensor can be installed near the insertion space.

[0067] In the example, the insertion detection sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor, wherein the at least one conductor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When the aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor changes. The processor 170 may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant in the insertion space.

[0068] In another example, the insertion detection sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, wherein the at least one coil may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. If the aerosol-generating article (e.g., a package of the aerosol-generating article) includes a conductor, inserting or removing the aerosol-generating article into or from the insertion space may cause a change in the magnetic field around the coil through which 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 or sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, and impedance value of the alternating current). Alternatively, the aerosol-generating article (e.g., a dielectric unit of the aerosol-generating article) may include a sensor (SUS). Even in this case, the magnetic field around the coil may change based on inserting or removing the sensor into or from the insertion space, and the processor 170 may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on the current characteristics in the inductive sensor.

[0069] Insertion detection sensors are not limited to the examples described above, and various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors) can be used to detect the insertion and / or removal of aerosol-generated articles. Furthermore, insertion detection sensors can include any combination of the examples described above. According to an embodiment, the insertion detection sensor can include a switch for detecting pressure generated by the aerosol-generated article.

[0070] According to an embodiment, a reuse detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article has been reused. In an example, the reuse detection sensor can be a color sensor for detecting the color of the aerosol-generating article. When a user uses the aerosol-generating article, the generated aerosol or heating may cause a change in the color of a portion of the packaging surrounding the aerosol-generating article. The color sensor can output a signal based on light reflected from the packaging that corresponds to an optical characteristic (e.g., the wavelength of light) that corresponds to the color of the packaging. If a color change is detected in a portion of the packaging, the processor 170 can determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has been used.

[0071] According to an embodiment, an over-humidity detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generated article is too wet. For example, the over-humidity detection sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor arranged adjacent to the insertion space. The processor 170 can detect whether the aerosol-generated article is too wet based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant output from the capacitive sensor. In an example, the processor 170 may determine the level range of the signal level based on a lookup table and determine the moisture content in the aerosol-generated article based on that level range.

[0072] According to the implementation method, the cigarette identification sensor can detect whether the aerosol-generated product is genuine and / or detect the type of the aerosol-generated product.

[0073] In the example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an optical sensor for detecting an identification substance (or identification mark) located on the outer surface of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., packaging). The optical sensor may radiate light toward the identification substance (or identification mark) on the aerosol-generating article and detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating article based on the reflected light. For example, the identification substance may include a substance that emits light of a specific wavelength based on the radiated light. The processor 170 may detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating article based on this wavelength.

[0074] In another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The dielectric constant of the insertion space can vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The processor 170 can detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant of the insertion space.

[0075] In another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. If the packaging and / or interior (e.g., a dielectric unit) of the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space contains a conductor, the characteristics of the current detected by the inductive sensor (e.g., AC frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, and impedance value) when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the insertion space can change depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. Based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor, the processor 170 can detect the authenticity and / or type of the inserted aerosol-generating article.

[0076] Cigarette identification sensors are not limited to the examples described above, and can be implemented as various sensors to sense the authenticity and / or type of aerosol-generated articles. Furthermore, cigarette identification sensors can include any combination of the examples described above.

[0077] According to the implementation, the cartridge detection sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of the 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.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the cover detection sensor can detect the installation and / or removal of the cover. For example, the cover 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 cover may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge installed or inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or a structure that covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device 1. The cover detection sensor can output a signal corresponding to installation or removal when the cover is installed into or removed from the housing, and the processor 170 can detect the installation or removal of the cover based on the signal corresponding to installation or removal.

[0079] According to the embodiment, the motion detection sensor can detect the motion of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion detection sensor can be implemented as at least one of an accelerometer or a gyroscope.

[0080] According to the embodiments, in addition to the sensors described above, the sensor unit may also include at least one of a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor), or a proximity sensor. Those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor based on its name, therefore a detailed description will be omitted.

[0081] According to an embodiment, the output unit can output information related to the state of the aerosol generating device 1. The output unit may include, but is not limited to, a display, a tactile component, and / or an acoustic output component. For example, information related to 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 installation and / or removal state of the cover, or a state where the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., foreign objects are detected). The display can provide the user with information related to the state of the aerosol generating device 1 in a visual manner. For example, the display may include a light-emitting diode (LED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), or an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). If the display includes a touchpad, the display can be used as an input unit. The tactile component can provide the user with information related to the state of the aerosol generating device 1 in a tactile manner. For example, the tactile component may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device. The acoustic output component can provide the user with information related to the aerosol generating device 1 in an audible manner. For example, the acoustic output section can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output those acoustic signals to the outside.

[0082] According to the implementation, the input unit can receive information input by the user. For example, the input unit may include a touch screen, a button, a keyboard, a dome switch, a scroll wheel, or a rotary switch.

[0083] According to the embodiment, the memory is hardware used to store various data processed in the aerosol generating device 1, and the memory 17 can store data processed by the processor 170 and data to be processed by the processor 170. For example, the memory may include at least one of the following: flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro-memory, card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD 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 memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk. For example, the memory may store data related to the following: operating time of the aerosol generating device 1, maximum number of inhalations, current number of inhalations, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0084] According to an implementation, the communication unit may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices (e.g., portable electronic devices). 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 Wi-Fi 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, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit.

[0085] According to an 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 sensed using a temperature sensor. The processor 170 can also control the amplification rate of the source unit 20 (e.g., power amplifier 230) based on temperature profiles and / or power profiles stored in a memory.

[0086] Furthermore, the processor 170 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater by controlling the power supply from the power source 130 to the cartridge heater. The processor 170 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the power supply to the cartridge heater based on the temperature of the cartridge heater sensed using a temperature sensor. The processor 170 can also control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the power supply to the cartridge heater based on temperature profiles and / or power profiles stored in its memory.

[0087] According to an embodiment, the processor 170 can prevent the insertion space, aerosol generating article, and / or cartridge heater from overheating. For example, the processor 170 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to reduce or stop the power supply to the source unit 20 or cartridge heater based on the temperature of the insertion space, aerosol generating article, and / or cartridge heater exceeding a predetermined limit temperature.

[0088] According to an implementation, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the power source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on the results sensed by the sensor unit.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on the aerosol generating article being inserted into the insertion space and / or removed from the insertion space. For example, the processor 170 can perform control such that: when the insertion detection sensor determines that the aerosol generating article has been inserted into the insertion space, power is supplied to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater; when the insertion detection sensor determines that the aerosol generating article has been removed from the insertion space, the processor 170 can interrupt the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater. If the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol generating article is equal to or greater than a limit temperature, or if the slope of the temperature change of the insertion space or the aerosol generating article is equal to or greater than a set slope, the processor 170 can determine that the aerosol generating article has been removed from the insertion space.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the processor 170 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, when it is determined that the aerosol generating article is too wet using an over-humidity detection sensor, the processor 170 can increase the power supply time to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater (e.g., preheating time).

[0091] According to an 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, the processor 170 can interrupt the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater when it determines that the aerosol generating article has been used.

[0092] According to an implementation, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on the connection and / or removal of the cartridge. For example, when the cartridge detection sensor determines that the cartridge has been removed, the processor 170 can stop the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater, or the processor 170 can perform control such that no power is supplied to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater.

[0093] According to an 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 in the cartridge has been depleted. For example, if it is determined that the temperature of the cartridge heater exceeds a limit temperature during preheating (i.e., during the preheating period), the processor 170 can determine that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge has been depleted. Upon determining that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge has been depleted, the processor 170 can interrupt the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater.

[0094] According to an implementation, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on the availability of the cartridge. For example, if the processor 170 determines that the current number of puffs is equal to or greater than the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge based on data stored in the memory, the processor 170 can determine that the cartridge is unavailable. Alternatively, if the total heating time of the cartridge heater is equal to or greater than a preset maximum time, or if the total electrical power supplied to the cartridge heater is equal to or greater than a preset maximum electrical power, the processor 170 can determine that the cartridge is unavailable. In this case, the processor 170 can stop supplying power to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater, or the processor 170 can execute control such that no power is supplied to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater.

[0095] According to an implementation, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the power source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on the user's inhalation. For example, the processor 170 can use a snoring sensor to determine whether an inhalation has occurred and / or the intensity of the inhalation. When the number of inhalations reaches a preset maximum number of inhalations and / or when no inhalation is detected within a preset time period, the processor 170 can interrupt the power supply to the power source unit 20 or the cartridge heater. When an inhalation is detected, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the power source unit 20 or the cartridge heater.

[0096] According to an embodiment, processor 170 can control the power supply to source unit 20 or cartridge heater based on the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating product (or cartridge). For example, processor 170 can use a cigarette identification sensor to detect the authenticity and / or type of the aerosol-generating product. In an example, if a counterfeit aerosol-generating product (or cartridge) is detected, processor 170 can interrupt the power supply to source unit 20 or cartridge heater. If a genuine aerosol-generating product (or cartridge) is detected, processor 170 can control (e.g., activate) the power supply to source unit 20 or cartridge heater. In another example, processor 170 can control the power supply to source unit 20 or cartridge heater in different ways depending on the type of aerosol-generating product (or cartridge). More specifically, if the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be a first aerosol generating article (or first cartridge), 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 curve (or first power curve). If the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be a second aerosol generating article (or second cartridge), 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 second temperature curve (or second power curve).

[0097] According to an embodiment, the processor 170 can control the output unit based on the results sensed by the sensor unit. For example, the processor 170 can control the output unit to provide information, visually, tactilely, and / or audibly, that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to shut down when the number of puffs counted using the puff sensor reaches a preset number. For example, the processor 170 can control the output unit to provide information, visually, tactilely, and / or audibly, related to the temperature of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, or the cartridge heater.

[0098] According to an embodiment, the processor 170 can store and update a history of predetermined events in memory based on the occurrence of events. For example, events may include operations performed by the aerosol generating apparatus 1, such as detecting the insertion of an aerosol generating article, initiating heating of the aerosol generating article, detecting inhalation, terminating inhalation, detecting overheating, detecting overvoltage applied to the cartridge heater, terminating heating of the aerosol generating article, turning the aerosol generating apparatus 1 on / off, initiating charging of the power supply 130, detecting overcharging of the power supply 130, or terminating charging of the power supply 130. For example, the event history may include the date the event occurred or log data corresponding to the event. For example, if the predetermined event is detecting the insertion of an aerosol generating article, the log data corresponding to that event may include data related to the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor. For example, if the predetermined event is detecting overheating of the cartridge heater, the log data corresponding to that event may include data related to the temperature of the cartridge heater, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater, or the current flowing in the cartridge heater.

[0099] According to the implementation, the processor 170 can control the communication unit to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0100] According to an embodiment, when the processor 170 receives authentication-related data from an external device via a communication link, it can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function (e.g., heating function) of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the authentication-related data may include the user's birthday, a unique number indicating the user, or whether the user has completed authentication.

[0101] According to an embodiment, the processor 170 can transmit data related to the state of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 (e.g., the remaining capacity or operating mode of the power supply 130) to an external device via a communication link. The transmitted data can be output to a display on the external device.

[0102] According to the embodiment, when a request to search for the location of the aerosol generating device 1 is received from an external device via a communication link, the processor 170 can control the output unit to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the processor 170 can control the tactile part to vibrate, or it can control the display to output an object corresponding to the location search and search termination.

[0103] According to an implementation, the processor 170 can perform a firmware update when it receives firmware data from an external device via a communication link.

[0104] According to one embodiment, processor 170 can transmit data related to the sensed values ​​of at least one sensor unit to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and can receive and store a learning model generated by learning from the sensed values ​​using machine learning, such as deep learning. Processor 170 can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations, such as determining the user's inhalation pattern or generating a temperature profile.

[0105] Although Figure 1 Not shown, but the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a protection circuit module. This protection circuit module may include at least one switching element and may block the path to the power supply 130 in response to overcharging and / or over-discharging of the power supply 130.

[0106] The aerosol generating article mentioned in this disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium portion) and at least one filter rod. A radiating unit 30 may be arranged corresponding to at least one aerosol generating rod, and the radiating unit 30 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, aerosol generating material, and additives. For example, the aerosol generating material may include glycerol (e.g., vegetable glycerol (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may include various other substances. For example, the additives may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may include various other substances. For example, the aerosol generating rod may include an aerosol generating material (e.g., sheet) impregnated with liquid non-tobacco substances (e.g., aerosol generating material and / or nicotine) and / or solid tobacco substances (e.g., tobacco leaves or reconstituted tobacco). Tobacco substances may be contained in the aerosol generating rod in various forms, such as in the form of raw-cut tobacco, granules, or powder. According to embodiments, the additives in the aerosol generating stick may include alkaline substances. Based on the alkaline substances, the nicotine of the tobacco material contained in the aerosol generating stick may have an alkaline pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, free alkaline nicotine can be released from the aerosol generating stick even at low temperatures. According to embodiments, the aerosol generating stick may include two or more aerosol generating sticks, wherein each of the two or more aerosol generating sticks may include tobacco material and / or non-tobacco material. Meanwhile, although not shown, at least one aerosol generating stick and at least one filter stick may be packaged in at least one package, individually and / or in combination. In this disclosure, the aerosol generating article may be referred to as a tobacco stick.

[0107] The cartridges mentioned in this disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating substance in one of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid comprising tobacco substances, a liquid comprising volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid comprising non-tobacco substances. The cartridge may also include a reservoir and / or a liquid delivery device, the reservoir comprising the aerosol-generating substance and the liquid delivery device impregnated with (containing) the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the liquid delivery device may include a core, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. A cartridge heater may be included in the cartridge in a coil-like structure that surrounds (or winds around) the liquid delivery device or contacts one side of the liquid delivery device. Alternatively, the cartridge heater may be included in an aerosol-generating device 1 that is separable from the cartridge.

[0108] Figure 2A view showing an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a housing 11, a controller 10, a source unit 20, and a radiation unit 30. However, the components included in the aerosol generating device 1 are not limited to those described above. Figure 2 The components shown in this disclosure, and as will be understood by those skilled in the art, may be omitted or new components may be added. Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 shown can be referred to as an "externally heated" aerosol generating device, wherein the exterior of the aerosol generating product 2 is heated. In the following figure, details will be omitted. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Repeated description.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the housing 11 may be provided with an upwardly open space into which the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted. In this disclosure, the upwardly open space may be referred to as the insertion space IS. The insertion space IS may be formed to be recessed into the interior of the housing 11 to a predetermined depth, such that at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 can be inserted into the insertion space IS. The depth of the insertion space IS may be equal to or greater than the length of the region of the aerosol generating article 2 that includes the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the aerosol generating article 2 may be inserted into the housing 11, while the upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 may protrude outward from the housing 11. The user can inhale the aerosol while holding the exposed upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 in their mouth.

[0111] According to the embodiment, the radiation unit 30 can heat the aerosol-generating article 2. (Refer to...) Figure 2 The radiating unit 30 can have an external heating structure.

[0112] According to an embodiment, the radiation unit 30 can extend upward around the space (i.e., the insertion space) in which the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted. For example, the radiation unit 30 can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space IS. In an example, the radiation unit 30 may include a tubular shape (e.g., a cylindrical shape) in which a hollow portion may be included. The radiation unit 30 may include a shape that includes and surrounds the hollow portion. In this case, the radiation unit 30 can be supported by a polyimide film. The radiation unit 30 can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space IS. The radiation unit 30 can heat the exterior of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the hollow portion.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the radiating unit 30 may include a dielectric heating type heater. The aerosol generating device 1 may include an antenna formed in a tubular shape surrounding the insertion space IS. Meanwhile, an insulating material may be disposed on the exterior of the radiating unit 30. This can reduce the heat radiated from the radiating unit 30 in a radially outward direction and applied to the exterior of the housing 11.

[0114] According to an embodiment, the radiating element 30 may be a plurality of heaters, and the first antenna and the second antenna may be arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction, such that each antenna surrounds at least a portion of the insertion space IS. The first antenna and the second antenna may operate as dielectric heating type heaters and may radiate electromagnetic waves sequentially or simultaneously.

[0115] and Figure 2 As shown, the antenna of the radiating element 30 can be wound around a rod-shaped or needle-shaped structure and inserted into the aerosol generating article 2 through the lower portion of the aerosol generating article 2. In this case, electromagnetic waves radiated from the antenna can propagate from the inside of the aerosol generating article 2 to the outside and heat the aerosol generating article 2.

[0116] According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may be provided with an airflow channel in which air flows. For example, the housing 11 may include a structure (e.g., a hole) through which air can be introduced into the housing 11 from the outside. The air introduced into the housing 11 can enter the aerosol generating article 2 through its lower end (i.e., upstream side). The aerosol generated by heating the aerosol generating article 2 can be inhaled into the user's mouth along with the introduced air through its upper end (i.e., downstream side).

[0117] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the radiation unit 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] Reference Figure 3 The radiation unit 30 can be arranged within the body 11 (e.g., housing 11). The radiation unit 30 can be referred to as a heater assembly. The radiation unit 30 can have a tubular or cylindrical shape, which includes a hollow portion. The radiation unit 30 can provide an insertion space. The radiation unit 30 can heat the aerosol-generating article 2 inserted into the insertion space 11.

[0119] The radiating element 30 may include an antenna 320 and a dielectric portion 330. The antenna 320 may surround the insertion space IS. The antenna 320 may transmit the RF signal generated by the source element 20 (see [link to source element 320]). Figure 1 and Figure 2It is radiated into the insertion space IS in the form of microwaves. Here, microwaves can refer to electromagnetic waves with frequencies from 300 MHz to 300 GHz.

[0120] The dielectric portion 330 can be disposed inside the antenna 320 to support the antenna 320. The dielectric portion 330 can have a hollow shape, and an insertion space IS can be provided in the dielectric portion 330.

[0121] The dielectric portion 330 can be made of a heat-resistant material that is highly permeable to microwaves. For example, the loss tangent of the material constituting the dielectric portion 330 can be 0.01 or less. Here, the loss tangent can be defined as the ratio of the imaginary part to the real part of the complex permittivity. The degree to which the dielectric material absorbs microwaves can be proportional to the loss tangent value. In other words, the smaller the loss tangent value of the dielectric material, the lower the degree to which microwaves are absorbed by the dielectric material.

[0122] The dielectric part 330 may include at least one of quartz, glass, ceramic, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene or polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

[0123] The dielectric portion 330 can be disposed inside the antenna 320 to support the antenna 320, thereby preventing damage to the antenna 320 during the insertion and removal of the aerosol generation article 2. Furthermore, since the dielectric portion 330 disposed inside the antenna 320 is made of a heat-resistant material, the shape of the antenna can be prevented from deforming due to the heat generated by the aerosol generation article. Moreover, since the dielectric portion 330 disposed inside the antenna 320 is made of a material with high microwave permeability, microwaves radiated from the antenna 320 can be absorbed by the dielectric portion 330 and prevented from being radiated into the insertion space IS.

[0124] Pairs of brackets 350a and 350b can be attached to or connected to the radiation unit 30. The pairs of brackets 350a and 350b can be connected to an opening at one end and an opening at the other end of the hollow radiation unit 30, respectively. The pairs of brackets 350a and 350b can be connected to the radiation unit 30 to support it.

[0125] The casing 360 may be attached to or coupled to the radiating unit 30. The casing 360 may include a first casing 360a surrounding a portion of the side surface of the radiating unit 30 and a second casing 360b surrounding the remaining portion of the side surface of the radiating unit 30. The first casing 360a and the second casing 360b may be coupled to surround the side surface of the radiating unit 30. The first casing 360a and the second casing 360b may be coupled to brackets 350a and 350b coupled to the radiating unit 30.

[0126] The housing 360 and brackets 350a and 350b can be connected to house the radiation unit 30 internally. Therefore, the radiation unit 30 can be protected from the outside and rigidly supported, ensuring the rigidity of the radiation unit 30.

[0127] The radiating element 30 may also include a shielding portion 340. The shielding portion 340 may surround the exterior of the antenna 320. The shielding portion 340 may include a metal sheet or metal mesh having a plurality of holes formed therein. If the shielding portion 340 is made of metal mesh, the holes formed in the metal mesh can be designed with the wavelength of the microwaves radiated by the antenna 320 in mind. For example, the diameter of the holes may be equal to or less than 1 / 2 the wavelength of the microwaves radiated from the antenna 320. For example, the diameter of the holes may be equal to or less than 1 / 4 the wavelength of the microwaves radiated from the antenna 320.

[0128] The shielding portion 340 may include a highly conductive metallic material. For example, the shielding portion 340 may include at least one of copper, silver, or aluminum. The shielding portion 340 can prevent microwaves radiated by the antenna 320 from being emitted outside the radiating element 30.

[0129] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a view showing the antenna 320 of the radiating element 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0130] Reference Figure 4 Antenna 320 can have a thin and wide shape. Antenna 320 can also be circular to form a hollow structure (see [link]). Figure 3 Antenna 320 can be formed by laser etching of a thin metal film.

[0131] Antenna 320 may include a radiating track 321 and a connecting portion 322. Antenna 320 may be a meandering antenna extending in two directions.

[0132] Radial track 321 may include at least one track. For example, radial track 321 may include two tracks extending in different directions (e.g., +x direction and -x direction). Each track may include at least one curved portion and may have a meandering, curved shape. The tracks may be symmetrical. The tracks may be connected to each other at one end and form free ends 3201 and 3202 at the other end.

[0133] The connecting portion 322 may protrude outward from one side of the radiation track 321. The connecting portion 322 may be formed integrally with the radiation track 321. The connecting portion 322 may be connected to the source unit 20 and may receive RF signals from the source unit 20.

[0134] Antenna 320 may have a rectangular shape having a length L1 and a width W1. Antenna 320 is generally rectangular in its flat, deployed state. The length L1 of antenna 320 can be defined as the distance between one end 3203 and the other end 3204 of radiation track 321 in a direction (e.g., the x-direction) when antenna 320 is deployed. The width W1 of antenna 320 can be defined as the distance between one end 3205 and the other end 3206 of radiation track 321 in a direction perpendicular to said one direction (e.g., the z-direction) when antenna 320 is deployed.

[0135] Reference Figure 5 The antenna 320 may have a helical structure. The antenna 320 may include a helical track 323 and a connecting portion 324.

[0136] The helical track 323 may have a shaped element in which an elongated wire is wound in a helical manner to form multiple turns. One end of the helical track 323 may be connected to a connecting portion 324. The connecting portion 324 may protrude outward from one side of the helical track 323. The connecting portion 324 may be formed integrally with the helical track 323. The connecting portion 324 may be connected to the source unit 20 and may receive RF signals from the source unit 20.

[0137] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the radiation unit 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed from the side.

[0138] and Figure 5 Refer to together Figure 6 The antenna 320 can surround the outside of the dielectric portion 330 along the radial direction of the insertion space IS. The antenna 320 can contact the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330.

[0139] Antenna 320 can be printed on or attached to the outer peripheral surface of dielectric part 330.

[0140] For example, antenna 320 can be made of a metallic material and can have the shape of an elongated wire. Antenna 320 can be wound around and attached to the outer peripheral surface of dielectric portion 330 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 5A recessed groove 331 may be formed in the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330. The groove 331 may be formed in a spiral shape that wraps around the outer peripheral surface multiple times. The antenna 320 may be wound spirally along the groove 331 in the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330. In another example, the antenna 320 may have a meandering shape in its unfolded state, and the groove 331 may be formed in a shape corresponding to a meandering antenna. The antenna 320 may be wound along the groove 331 in the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330 and may be attached to the groove 331.

[0141] Since the antenna 320 is wound around or attached to the groove 331 of the dielectric portion 330, the antenna 320 can be prevented from being twisted in shape during the process of attaching the antenna 320 to the dielectric portion 330, and the antenna 320 can be stably connected to the dielectric portion 330.

[0142] For example, the antenna 320 can be directly printed onto the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330 using conductive ink containing metallic materials. In another example, the antenna 320 can be printed onto a non-conductive printed sheet using conductive ink containing metallic materials, and the antenna 320 can be attached to the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330 by attaching the printed sheet to the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330 and removing the printed sheet from the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330.

[0143] Therefore, the antenna 320 can be printed on the outside of the dielectric part 330 or attached to the outside of the dielectric part 330, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the radiating unit 30.

[0144] The dielectric portion 330 may have a hollow shape, and an insertion space IS may be provided therein. The inner surface of the antenna 320 may face the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the insertion space IS. At least a portion of the dielectric portion 330 may be in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the insertion space IS.

[0145] The width W2 of the dielectric portion 330 can be greater than the width W1 of the antenna 320. The width of each of the dielectric portion 330 and the antenna 320 can be defined in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space IS. In the longitudinal direction of the insertion space IS, the dielectric portion 330 can extend upward and downward longer than the antenna 320. The upper end of the dielectric portion 330 can be arranged higher than the upper end of the antenna 320, while the lower end of the dielectric portion 330 can be arranged lower than the lower end of the antenna 320. In other words, the dielectric portion 330 can surround the entire interior of the antenna 320.

[0146] Therefore, the dielectric part 330 can prevent the antenna 320 from being exposed to the insertion space IS, thereby preventing damage to the antenna 320 during the insertion and removal of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0147] Furthermore, the antenna 320 can be attached to the outside of the dielectric part 330 and supported by the dielectric part 330, so that the antenna 320 can be formed into a thin film and the size or volume of the radiating element 30 can be reduced.

[0148] In addition, it can prevent the heat generated by the heated aerosol generating article 2 from being directly transferred to the antenna 320, thereby preventing the shape of the antenna 320 from being deformed due to the heat generated by the aerosol generating article 2.

[0149] Brackets 350a and 350b can be connected to one end and the other end of the hollow radiating unit 30, respectively. Brackets 350a and 350b may include a first bracket 350a and a second bracket 350b, wherein the first bracket 350a is attached to or connected to one side of the radiating unit 30 corresponding to the opening of the insertion space IS, and the second bracket 350b is attached to or connected to the other side of the radiating unit 30.

[0150] The first bracket 350a may include a first bracket body 351 and an annular rib 352. The first bracket body 351 has an integral cylindrical shape, and the annular rib 352 protrudes downward from the first bracket body 351 and extends in the circumferential direction of the first bracket body 351. At least a portion of the rib 352 may be attached to or press-fitted to one end of the radiation unit 30. The first bracket body 351 may be provided with an insertion opening 354, which is formed to extend upward and downward through the central portion of the first bracket body 351.

[0151] The first bracket body 351 may have a connecting part 355 on one side (see...). Figure 3 The connecting portion 355 may be an alignment recess formed in a radially inward direction or an alignment protrusion formed in a radially outward direction. The alignment recess or alignment protrusion may have a shape corresponding to a protrusion or recess provided on the body 11. The alignment recess or alignment protrusion may be connected to a protrusion or recess provided on the body 11. The connecting portion 355 prevents the radiation unit 30 from rotating relative to the body 11, and the radiation unit 30 can be stably connected to the body 11.

[0152] The second bracket 350b may include a second bracket body 356 and an annular rib 357. The second bracket body 356 has an integral cylindrical shape, and the annular rib 357 protrudes upward from the second bracket body 356 and extends in the circumferential direction of the second bracket body 356. At least a portion of the rib 357 may be attached to or press-fitted to the other end of the radiation unit 30. The second bracket body 356 may be provided with a hole 358 formed to pass through the central portion of the second bracket body 356 both upward and downward.

[0153] The insertion opening 354 of the first bracket 350a can communicate with the open side of the insertion space IS. The hole 358 of the second bracket 350b can communicate with the other side of the insertion space IS. The aerosol generating article 2 can be inserted into the insertion space IS through the insertion opening 354. External air can be introduced into the aerosol generating article 2 from the outside of the radiation unit 30 through the hole 358 via the end of the aerosol generating article 2. The inner circumferential surface of the first bracket body 351 can support at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the insertion space IS. The upper surface 3591 of the second bracket body 356 can support at least a portion of the lower end of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the insertion space IS.

[0154] Therefore, both ends of the radiating element 30, including the antenna 320 and the dielectric part 330, can be stably fixed, thereby ensuring the rigidity of the radiating element 30.

[0155] Each of the brackets 350a and 350b may be made of a heat-resistant and microwave-permeable material. For example, each of the first bracket 350a and the second bracket 350b may comprise at least one of quartz, glass, ceramic, polyimide, polytetrafluoroethylene, or polyetheretherketone.

[0156] Therefore, it is possible to prevent at least some of the microwaves radiated from the antenna 320 from being absorbed by the brackets 350a and 350b and thus not radiated into the insertion space IS.

[0157] In the accompanying drawings, antenna 320 is shown to have a meandering or spiral shape, but the shape of antenna 320 is not limited to this, and antenna 320 may include a loop antenna, a planar inverted F-shaped antenna (PIFA), a monopole antenna, or a dipole antenna.

[0158] The shielding portion 340 may surround the exterior of the antenna 320. The shielding portion 340 may extend upward and downward beyond the antenna 320. The upper end of the shielding portion 340 may be arranged above the upper end of the antenna 320, and the lower end of the shielding portion 340 may be arranged below the lower end of the antenna 320. In other words, the shielding portion 340 may completely surround the exterior of the antenna 320.

[0159] The shielding portion 340 can be arranged to be spaced apart from the dielectric portion 330 and the antenna 320 in the radial direction of the insertion space IS. A space can be formed between the shielding portion 340 and the antenna 320. An insulator can be arranged in this space.

[0160] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the shielding portion 340 from being electrically connected to the antenna 320. In addition, it is possible to minimize the heat generated and transferred to the shielding portion 340 by the aerosol-generating article 2 or the antenna 320.

[0161] The housing 360 may be attached to or coupled to the exterior of the shielding portion 340. The shielding portion 340 may be disposed inside the housing 360. Alternatively, the shielding portion 340 may be integrally formed with the housing 360, and a metallic material may be applied to or coated on the inner surface of the housing 360.

[0162] Meanwhile, at least one of the first bracket 350a and the second bracket 350b may include a metallic component. The metallic component may include at least one of copper, silver, or aluminum. For example, the metallic material may be applied or coated onto the upper surface 353 of the first bracket body 351 exposed outside the radiation unit 30. For example, the metallic material may be applied or coated onto the lower surface 3592 of the second bracket body 356 exposed outside the radiation unit 30.

[0163] Therefore, the rigidity of the radiating element 30 can be ensured by the first bracket 350a and the second bracket 350b, and at the same time, microwaves radiated by the antenna 320 can be prevented from being emitted outside the radiating element 30 through the insertion space IS and / or the brackets 350a and 350b.

[0164] Figure 7 and Figure 8 The views shown illustrate the deployed state of the radiation unit 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, as viewed from above and the side, respectively. Figure 9 and Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the radiating element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the side and top, respectively. Details will be omitted. Figures 7 to 10 The shown with Figure 5 and Figure 6 The same features shown are described in detail.

[0165] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The sheet 310 may extend in one direction (e.g., the x-direction). The sheet 310 may include a flat first surface 311 and a second surface 312, the second surface 312 being opposite to the first surface 311 in the thickness direction. An antenna 320 may be attached to the sheet 310. The antenna 320 may be arranged on the first surface 311 of the sheet 310. The sheet 310 may be rolled up such that the first surface 311 faces the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330 or faces the insertion space IS (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 8 The radiating element 30 may be formed by rolling the antenna 320 together with the sheet 310 on the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330. In another example, the antenna 320 and the sheet 310 may be rolled together to form a hollow antenna structure, and the radiating element 30 may be formed by fitting the dielectric portion 330 inside the hollow antenna structure.

[0166] Therefore, the manufacturing process of the radiation unit 30 can be simplified, and the size or volume of the radiation unit 30 can be reduced.

[0167] The sheet 310 can be formed in multiple layers within the hollow radiating element 30. The sheet 310 can be formed as at least one layer surrounding the antenna 320 on the outside of the antenna 320.

[0168] Sheet 310 is a flexible sheet, and sheet 310 may be made of heat-resistant materials. Sheet 310 may include, but is not limited to, polyimide or polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and may include other elastic, heat-resistant and electrically insulating materials.

[0169] The sheet 310 may include a first portion 310a, a second portion 310b, and a third portion 310c. The antenna 320 may be disposed on the first portion 310a. The second portion 310b may be disposed to the left of the first portion 310a in the longitudinal direction of the mounting portion 40 and may be connected to the first portion 310a. The third portion 310c may be disposed to the right of the first portion 310a in the longitudinal direction of the sheet 40, and opposite to the second portion 310b relative to the first portion 310a. The sheet 310 may be rolled in a direction from one end 313 of the second portion 310b to one end 314 of the third portion 310c.

[0170] Antenna 320 can be arranged in the longitudinal direction of sheet 310 to be spaced apart from one end 313 of sheet 310. In the longitudinal direction of sheet 310, one end 3203 of antenna 320 can be arranged to be spaced apart from one end 313 of sheet 310 by a first distance A1. In other words, one end 325 of antenna 320 and one end 313 of sheet 310 can be spaced apart from each other by the length A1 of the second portion 310b of sheet 310.

[0171] The length L1 of the antenna 320 defined in the longitudinal direction of the sheet 310 can be less than or equal to the first distance A1. Due to the structural features of the antenna 320, the second part 310b of the sheet 310 can surround the interior of the antenna 320 in the hollow radiating element 30.

[0172] Antenna 320 can be arranged to be spaced apart from the two ends of sheet 310 in the width direction (e.g., the z-direction) of sheet 310.

[0173] Antenna 320 can be attached to sheet 310 by thermofusion. Antenna 320 can be disposed on the first surface 311 of the second portion 310b of sheet 310, and antenna 320 can be attached to sheet 310 by heating sheet 310 and antenna 320 to a certain temperature or higher.

[0174] Therefore, the assembly structure of the radiation unit 30 can be simplified.

[0175] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 The hollow radiating unit 30 can be configured such that: a dielectric part 330, a second part 310b of sheet 310, an antenna 320, a first part 310a of sheet 310 and a third part 310c of sheet 310 are formed sequentially in a direction radially outward from the insertion space IS.

[0176] In the hollow radiating element 30, at least one layer 310b may be arranged in the antenna 320. A second portion 310b of the sheet 310 may contact the antenna 320 and may surround the interior of the antenna 320. This layer may be referred to as a protective layer. The protective layer 310b arranged in the antenna 320 can prevent damage to the antenna 320 during the process of curling or mounting the antenna 320 on the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330.

[0177] Antenna 320 may be spaced apart from the upper and lower ends of sheet 310 in the width direction of sheet 310 or in the longitudinal direction of insertion space IS. In the hollow radiating element 30, the upper end of the second portion 310b and the lower end of the first portion 310a may contact each other. The upper end of the second portion 310b and the lower end of the first portion 310a may contact each other, and sheet 310 may be rolled up to seal antenna 320 from the outside.

[0178] At least a portion of the sheet 310 may be formed as at least one layer disposed outside the antenna 320 in the radial direction of the radiating element 30 or in the radial direction of the insertion space IS. A first portion 310a of the sheet 310 may contact the antenna 320 and may surround the exterior of the antenna 320. A third portion 310c of the sheet 310 may surround the exterior of the first portion 310a. This layer may be referred to as an insulating layer.

[0179] In the radial direction of the insertion space IS, the number of layers surrounding the outside of the antenna 320 can be greater than the number of layers arranged inside the antenna 320. For example, one or two layers can be arranged inside the antenna 320, while two to four layers can be arranged on the outside of the antenna 320.

[0180] Because the sheet 310 wraps around the outside of the antenna 320 multiple times, as described above, heat dissipation from the radiating element 30 can be minimized. Furthermore, electrical short circuits between the antenna 320 and the shielding portion 340 can be prevented.

[0181] Figure 11 and Figure 12 Cross-sectional views of the radiating element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the side and from above, respectively. Details will be omitted. Figure 11 and Figure 12 The shown with Figures 5 to 10 The same features shown are described in detail.

[0182] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 The dielectric portion 330 can be in the form of a single sheet extending in one direction. The radiating element 30 can be formed by arranging the antenna 320 on one surface of the dielectric portion 330 and rolling the dielectric portion 330 into a hollow shape. That is, in this embodiment, the dielectric portion 330 can be understood as corresponding to Figures 7 to 10 The sheet 310 of the embodiment shown.

[0183] The dielectric portion 330 may include a first portion 330a, a second portion 330b, and a third portion 330c. The antenna 320 may be arranged in the first portion 330a. The hollow radiating element 30 may be configured such that the second portion 330b of the dielectric portion 330, the antenna 320, the first portion 330a of the dielectric portion 330, and the third portion 330c of the dielectric portion 330 are formed sequentially in a direction radially outward from the insertion space IS.

[0184] In the hollow radiating element 30, at least one layer 330b formed by the dielectric portion 330 can be disposed in the antenna 320. A second portion 330b of the dielectric portion 330 can contact the antenna 320 and can surround the interior of the antenna 320. This layer can be referred to as a protective layer. The protective layer 330b disposed in the antenna 320 can prevent at least a portion of the inner surface of the antenna 320 from being exposed to the insertion space IS.

[0185] At least a portion of the dielectric portion 330 may be formed in at least one layer outside the antenna 320 in the radial direction of the radiating element 30 or in the radial direction of the insertion space IS. A first portion 330a of the dielectric portion 330 may contact the antenna 320 and may surround the exterior of the antenna 320. A third portion 330c of the dielectric portion 330 may surround the exterior of the first portion 330a.

[0186] Therefore, the antenna 320 can be rolled into a hollow shape together with the sheet dielectric part 330, which simplifies the manufacturing process of the radiating element 30 and reduces the size or volume of the radiating element 30.

[0187] As described above, in at least one embodiment of the embodiments according to the present disclosure, a dielectric portion is provided, which is disposed inside the antenna to support the antenna, and the dielectric portion is made of a heat-resistant material, thereby preventing damage to the antenna during insertion and removal of the aerosol generating article and preventing the shape of the antenna from being deformed by the heat generated by the aerosol generating article.

[0188] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a dielectric portion is provided, which is disposed inside the antenna to support the antenna, and the dielectric portion is made of a material that is highly permeable to microwaves, thereby preventing a reduction in the amount of microwave radiation reaching the insertion space.

[0189] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna is printed on or attached to the outside of the dielectric portion, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the radiating element.

[0190] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna is rolled together with the sheet on the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the radiating element and reducing the size or volume of the radiating element.

[0191] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the antenna, together with the sheet dielectric portion, is rolled into a hollow shape, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the radiating element and reducing the size or volume of the radiating element.

[0192] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a bracket is provided that is coupled to each side of a radiating unit, and the bracket is made of a material that is highly permeable to microwaves, thereby preventing a reduction in the amount of microwave radiation reaching the insertion space due to the bracket.

[0193] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a shielding portion is provided surrounding the antenna to prevent microwaves radiated from the antenna from being emitted outside the radiating element.

[0194] Reference Figures 1 to 12 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a body 11 and a radiating unit 30 disposed therein. The radiating unit 30 is disposed in the body 11 and provides an insertion space IS in which the aerosol generating article 2 is accommodated. The radiating unit 30 may include: an antenna 320 surrounding the insertion space IS, the antenna being configured to emit microwaves for dielectric heating of the aerosol generating article 2; and a hollow dielectric portion 330 disposed inside the antenna 320 to support the antenna 320, the dielectric portion having an insertion space disposed therein. The dielectric portion 330 may include at least one of quartz, glass, ceramic, polyimide, or polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0195] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the material constituting the dielectric portion 330 may have a loss tangent of 0.01 or less.

[0196] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the width W2 of the dielectric portion 330 defined in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space IS can be greater than the width W1 of the antenna 320, and in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space IS, the upper end of the dielectric portion 330 can be arranged higher than the upper end of the antenna 320, and the lower end of the dielectric portion 330 can be arranged lower than the lower end of the antenna 320.

[0197] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the antenna 320 may be printed on or attached to the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330.

[0198] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the antenna 320 can be wound along a groove 331 formed on the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330.

[0199] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the radiating element 30 can be configured such that the antenna 320 is arranged on a surface 311 of a single sheet 311 that is elongated in one direction, and the antenna 320 and the sheet 310 are wound together around the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion 330.

[0200] According to another aspect of this disclosure, sheet 310 may include polyimide, and dielectric portion 330 may include at least one of quartz, glass, ceramic, or polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0201] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the dielectric portion 330 may be in the form of a single sheet extending in one direction, and the radiating element 30 may be configured such that the antenna 320 is arranged on one surface of the dielectric portion 330, and the dielectric portion 330 is rolled into a hollow shape.

[0202] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the radiating element 30 may include at least one layer formed by a dielectric portion 330, said at least one layer being arranged inside and outside the antenna 320 in the radial direction of the insertion space IS.

[0203] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include: a first bracket 350a connected to a side of the radiation unit 30 corresponding to the opening of the insertion space IS, the first bracket having an insertion opening communicating with the insertion space IS; and a second bracket 350b connected to the other side of the radiation unit 30, the second bracket blocking at least a portion of the other side of the insertion space.

[0204] According to another aspect of this disclosure, each of the first bracket 350a and the second bracket 350b may comprise at least one of quartz, glass, ceramic, polyimide, or polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0205] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the radiating element 30 may include a shielding portion 340 configured to prevent microwaves from being emitted outside the radiating element 30, wherein the shielding portion 340 may surround the exterior of the antenna 320 and be spaced apart from the antenna 320 in the radial direction of the insertion space IS.

[0206] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the shielding portion 340 may include a metallic material.

[0207] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the antenna may include a meandering antenna or a helical antenna.

[0208] The embodiments of this disclosure described above, or other embodiments thereof, are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. Any or all elements of the embodiments of this disclosure described above may be combined with other elements in configuration or function, or may be combined with each other.

[0209] For example, configuration "A" described in one embodiment of this disclosure and the accompanying drawings can be combined with configuration "B" described in another embodiment of this disclosure and the accompanying drawings. That is, although combinations between configurations are not directly described, they can be combined unless a situation where combination is impossible is described.

[0210] While embodiments have been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that those skilled in the art will envision many other modifications and embodiments that fall within the scope of the principles of this disclosure. More specifically, various changes and modifications can be made to the components and / or arrangement of the target combination structure within the scope of this disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to changes and modifications to the components and / or arrangement, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: ontology; as well as A radiation unit is arranged within the body and provides an insertion space, in which an aerosol-generating article is housed. The radiation unit includes: An antenna surrounding the insertion space, the antenna being configured to emit microwaves for dielectric heating of the aerosol-generating article; and A hollow dielectric portion, disposed inside the antenna to support the antenna, the dielectric portion having the insertion space disposed within the dielectric portion; and The dielectric component includes at least one of quartz, glass, ceramic, polyimide, or polytetrafluoroethylene.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The material constituting the dielectric portion has a loss tangent of 0.01 or less.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The width defined by the dielectric portion in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space is greater than the width of the antenna, and In the longitudinal direction of the insertion space, the upper end of the dielectric part is arranged higher than the upper end of the antenna, and the lower end of the dielectric part is arranged lower than the lower end of the antenna.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The antenna is printed on the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion, or the antenna is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The antenna is wound along a groove formed on the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The radiating element is configured such that the antenna is arranged on one surface of a single sheet that is elongated in one direction, and the antenna and the sheet are wound together around the outer peripheral surface of the dielectric portion.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The sheet comprises polyimide; and The dielectric component includes at least one of quartz, glass, ceramic, or polytetrafluoroethylene.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The dielectric portion has the form of a single sheet extending in one direction, and The radiating element is configured such that the antenna is arranged on one surface of the dielectric portion, which is rolled into a hollow shape.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The radiating element includes at least one layer formed by the dielectric portion, the at least one layer being arranged inside and outside the antenna in the radial direction of the insertion space.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: A first bracket is connected to a side of the radiating unit corresponding to the opening of the insertion space, and the first bracket has an insertion opening communicating with the insertion space. as well as A second bracket is connected to the other side of the radiating unit, and the second bracket blocks at least a portion of the other side of the insertion space.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, Each of the first bracket and the second bracket comprises at least one of quartz, glass, ceramic, polyimide, or polytetrafluoroethylene.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The radiating element includes a shielding portion configured to prevent the microwaves from being emitted outside the radiating element. The shielding portion surrounds the outside of the antenna and is spaced apart from the antenna in the radial direction of the insertion space.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, wherein, The shielding portion comprises metallic materials.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The antenna includes a meandering antenna or a spiral antenna.

Images