Aerosol generation device

Abstract

An aerosol generating apparatus includes: a housing portion capable of housing at least a portion of an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol source; an oscillator for emitting electromagnetic waves; a supply unit for supplying the electromagnetic waves emitted by the oscillator to the housing portion; and a control unit for controlling the oscillator, the control unit controlling at least one of the output intensity and frequency of the electromagnetic waves output by the oscillator based on a target temperature of the aerosol generating article housed in the housing portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an aerosol generating device. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, attention has been paid to heating systems for aerosol generating devices (such as heated tobacco) in which aerosol generating articles (such as capsules or rods) containing an aerosol source are heated by microwave radiation (see, for example, PTL 1).

[0003] Citation List

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] PTL 1: WO 2021 / 013477 A1 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention

[0007] Here, the heating method can be determined based on the aerosol-generating product, such as the temperature suitable for generating aerosols.

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus that can be heated in a way that is compatible with aerosol generating articles.

[0009] Solution to the problem

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes:

[0011] The containment portion is capable of containing at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol source.

[0012] An oscillator used to emit electromagnetic waves;

[0013] A supply unit for supplying the electromagnetic waves emitted by the oscillator to the receiving portion; and

[0014] The control unit is used to control the oscillator.

[0015] And its characteristics

[0016] The control unit controls at least one of the output intensity and frequency of the electromagnetic waves output by the oscillator based on the target temperature of the aerosol-generating article contained in the containment portion.

[0017] Advantages of the present invention

[0018] The present invention enables the provision of an aerosol generating apparatus capable of heating in a manner adapted to aerosol generating articles.

[0019] Other features and advantages of the invention will become clearer from the following description given with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that identical or similar parts are assigned the same reference numerals in the drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are included in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0021] [ Figure 1 [Illustration 1] is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of an aerosol generating device.

[0022] [ Figure 2 [Image] is a diagram illustrating the overall aerosol generation process.

[0023] [ Figure 3 ] is shown Figure 2 A detailed diagram of S202.

[0024] [ Figure 4 [Illustration 1] is a diagram showing an example of the frequency characteristics of a tobacco stick.

[0025] [ Figure 5 [ ] is a graph showing an example of a heating curve.

[0026] [ Figure 6 ] is shown Figure 2 A detailed diagram of S204.

[0027] [ Figure 7A [ ] is a graph showing the correspondence between target temperature and heating mode.

[0028] [ Figure 7B [ ] is a graph showing the correspondence between target temperature and heating mode.

[0029] [ Figure 8 [ ] is a graph showing an example of the time-varying frequency characteristics of a tobacco stick.

[0030] [ Figure 9 [ ] is a graph showing an example of a heating curve.

[0031] [ Figure 10 ] is shown Figure 2 A detailed diagram of S204. Detailed Implementation

[0032] In the following, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims, and not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are essential to the invention. Furthermore, two or more of the multiple features described in the embodiments can be combined in any manner. Additionally, identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numerals and their description will not be repeated.

[0033] <Hardware Configuration of Aerosol Generating Device>

[0034] Reference Figure 1 An aerosol generating apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the aerosol generating apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 1 The aerosol generating apparatus is shown after the aerosol generating article 40 and the nozzle 50 have been attached to the aerosol generating apparatus 10. The nozzle 50 can be detached from the aerosol generating apparatus 10. Figure 1 The orientation in the XYZ coordinate system is shown, in which the tobacco stick 40 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 10 in the -Z direction.

[0035] The aerosol generating device 10 is configured to heat the aerosol generating article 40 in response to an operation requesting the atomization of an aerosol source (also known as an atomization request) (such as a user inhalation action), and to provide the user with vapor containing aerosol or vapor containing aerosol and flavor substances. In the following description, the aerosol generating device 10 may be referred to as an inhaler (nebulizer), and the aerosol generating device 10 may be designated as "inhaler 10".

[0036] The aerosol generating article 40 is an article containing an aerosol source that generates an aerosol by heating and is detachably mounted in the inhaler 10 (mounted in an insertable / removable manner). In addition to the aerosol source, the aerosol generating article 40 may also include a flavor source that generates flavor substances when heated. The flavor source may be a plant other than tobacco, such as mint, herbal medicine, or other medicinal herbs. In this embodiment, the aerosol generating article 40 is configured as a tobacco stick in the form of a generally cylindrical rod, but it does not have to be stick-shaped and can also be capsule-shaped or cartridge-shaped. Furthermore, the aerosol generating article 40 may be in the form of a porous body (such as a nonwoven fabric) impregnated with a liquid (aerosol source, tobacco extract liquid). The aerosol generating article 40 may be referred to below as "tobacco stick 40".

[0037] The tobacco stick 40 may include, for example, an aerosol source filling portion 41, a mouthpiece portion 42, and a tipping paper 43 that integrally connects these components together. An aerosol generating source containing both an aerosol source and a flavor source is disposed in the aerosol source filling portion 41. In this embodiment, tobacco filling material containing tobacco leaves, tobacco leaf extracts, or processed articles thereof can be used as the aerosol generating source. The aerosol source filling portion 41 may be referred to hereinafter as "tobacco filling portion 41". The mouthpiece portion 42 is coaxially connected to the tobacco filling portion 41 by wrapping it with the tipping paper 43. Note that a filter for preventing tobacco filling material from falling off may also be disposed at the upstream end portion of the aerosol generating article 40 of the tobacco filling portion 41.

[0038] In this embodiment, the tobacco filling material comprises shredded tobacco. In another example, the tobacco filling material may be a liquid containing tobacco leaf extract, which will be described later. There are no particular limitations on the material of the shredded tobacco contained in the tobacco filling material, and known materials such as leaves or midribs can be used. Alternatively, tobacco dust can be formed by grinding dried tobacco leaves to an average particle size of 20 µm to 200 µm, and then the homogenized material can be processed into sheets (hereinafter also referred to as "homogenized sheets"), which are then shredded. In another example, the tobacco filling material may comprise tobacco leaves that have been gas-pressed (GP), extruded, or flaked. Additionally, tobacco stalks may be filled with material obtained by shredding homogenized sheets having a length similar to the length of the tobacco stalk in the longitudinal direction and substantially horizontally, thereby forming a so-called "filament-type" filling material. Additionally, the tobacco stalks can be filled with a material obtained by shredding homogenized sheets of similar length to the length of the tobacco stalks in the longitudinal direction and substantially horizontally, thereby forming a so-called "filament-type" filling material. Furthermore, the width of the shredded tobacco is preferably 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm to fill the tobacco filling portion 41. Moreover, there is no particular limitation on the content of dried tobacco leaves in the tobacco filling portion 41, but examples include between 200 mg / stalk portion and 800 mg / stalk portion, preferably between 250 mg / stalk portion and 600 mg / stalk portion. This range is particularly suitable if the tobacco filling portion 41 has a perimeter of 22 mm and a length of 20 mm.

[0039] For the tobacco leaves used in the production of shredded tobacco and homogenized sheets, various types of tobacco can be used. Examples that can be listed include yellow tobacco, burley tobacco, oriental tobacco or natural type, as well as other red and yellow tobacco varieties, and their blends. Suitable blends of the above varieties can be used in the mixture to achieve the desired flavor. Details about tobacco varieties are disclosed in "Encyclopedia of Tobacco, Tobacco Academic Studies Center, March 31, 2009". There are several conventional methods for producing homogenized sheets, namely, methods for grinding tobacco leaves and processing them into homogenized sheets. According to the first method, paper sheets are produced by using a papermaking process. According to the second method, a suitable solvent (such as water) is mixed with and homogenized with the ground tobacco leaves, and then the homogenized material is thinly cast onto a metal plate or strip and dried to produce cast sheets. According to the third method, a suitable solvent (such as water) is mixed with and homogenized with ground tobacco leaves, and the homogenized material is extruded into sheets and shaped to produce calendered sheets. Details regarding the types of homogenized sheets are disclosed in "Dictionary of Tobacco, Tobacco Academic Studies Center, March 31, 2009".

[0040] The amount of moisture contained in the tobacco filling material relative to the total weight can be listed as, for example, 10 wt% to 15 wt%, preferably 11 wt% to 13 wt%. Such a moisture content inhibits the formation of wrapping stains and improves rolling suitability during the production of the tobacco filling section 41. There are no particular limitations on the preparation size or method of the shredded tobacco contained in the tobacco filling material. For example, material obtained by shredding dried tobacco leaves to a width of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm can be used. Furthermore, when using material powder in homogenized sheets, dried tobacco leaves can be ground to an average particle size of about 20 µm to 200 µm, then homogenized and formed into sheets, which can then be shredded to a width of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm for use.

[0041] The tobacco filling material includes an aerosol base material for generating aerosol smoke. There are no particular limitations on the type of aerosol base material, and extracts and / or components from various types of natural products can be selected depending on the application. Examples of aerosol base materials include water, glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, and mixtures thereof. There are no particular limitations on the amount of aerosol base material contained in the tobacco filling portion 41, and from the viewpoint of generating sufficient aerosol and imparting a good flavor, this amount is typically at least 5 wt%, preferably at least 10 wt%, and typically up to 50 wt%, preferably at least 15 wt%, and up to 25 wt% relative to the total amount of tobacco filling material.

[0042] Tobacco filling materials may contain flavorings. There are no particular restrictions on the type of flavoring, and from the perspective of imparting a pleasant flavor, the following can be listed: p-methoxyacetophenone, acetophenone, acetylpyrazine, 2-acetylthiazole, alfalfa extract, pentanol, amyl butyrate, trans-anisole, star anise oil, apple juice, Peruvian gum oil, beeswax absolute, benzaldehyde, benzoin extract, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, benzyl propionate, 2,3-butanedione, 2-butanol, butyl butyrate, butyric acid, caramel, cardamom oil, carob absolute. β-Carotene, Carrot Juice, L-Carvone, β-Caulinone, Cinnamon Bark Oil, Cypress Oil, Celery Seed Oil, Chamomile Oil, Cinnamaldehyde, Cinnamic Acid, Cinnamyl Alcohol, Cinnamyl Cinnamate, Citronellol, DL-Citronellol, Sage Extract, Cocoa, Coffee, Concha Oil, Coriander Oil, Cuminaldehyde, Artemisia Oil, δ-Decanolactone, γ-Decanolactone, Decanoic Acid, Dill Oil, 3,4-Dimethyl-1,2-Cyclopentanedione, 4,5-Dimethyl-3-hydroxy-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-one, 3, 7-Dimethyl-6-octenic acid, 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, 2,6-dimethylpyrazine, ethyl 2-methylbutyrate, ethyl acetate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl hexanoate, ethyl isovalerate, ethyl lactate, ethyl laurate, ethyl acetopropionate, ethyl maltol, ethyl octanoate, ethyl oleate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl phenylacetate, ethyl propionate, ethyl stearate, ethyl valerate, ethyl vanillin, ethyl vanillin glucoside, 2-ethyl-3,(5 or 6)-dimethylpyrazine 5-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone, 2-Ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, eucalyptol, fenugreek oil, broom oil, gentian root extract, geraniol, geraniol acetate, grape juice, guaiacol, guava extract, γ-heptanolactone, γ-caprolactone, hexanoic acid, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, hexyl acetate, hexanol, hexyl phenylacetate, honey, 4-hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid lactone, 4-hydroxy-4-(3-hydroxy-1-butenyl)-3,5,5-Trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one, 4-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone, sodium 4-hydroxyundecanoate, immortelle absolute oil, β-ionone, isoamyl acetate, isoamyl butyrate, isoamyl phenylacetate, isobutyrate, isobutyl phenylacetate, jasmine absolute oil, kola nut extract, rockrose oil, terpene-free lemon oil, licorice extract, linalool, linalyl acetate, Angelica sinensis root oil, maltol, maple syrup, menthol, menthone, L-menthol acetate, p-methoxybenzaldehyde, methyl-2-pyrrolidone, Methyl anthranilate, methyl phenylacetate, methyl salicylate, 4'-methylacetophenone, methylcyclopentenolone, 3-methylvaleric acid, mimosa absolute oil, molasses, myristic acid, nerol, nerolidol, γ-nonalactone, myristole oil, δ-octanolide, octanal, caprylic acid, neroli oil, orange oil, orris root oil, palmitic acid, ω-pentadecanolactone, peppermint oil, Paraguayan orange leaf oil, phenethyl alcohol, phenylacetic acid, phenylacetic acid, piperaldehyde, plum extract, propenyl ethyl guaiacol, propionate, 3-propyl indolephthalide, plum Juice, pyruvic acid, raisin extract, rose oil, rum, sage oil, sandalwood oil, spearmint oil, styrax essential oil, marigold oil, tea distillate, α-terpinene ester, terpinene acetate ester, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinoxaline, 1,5,5,9-tetramethyl-13-oxehera (8.3.0.0(4.9))tridecane, 2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine, thyme oil, tomato extract, 2-tetranone, triethyl citrate, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1-cyclohexenyl)- 2-Buten-4-one, 2,6,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1,4-dione, 4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadienyl)-2-buten-4-one, 2,3,5-trimethylpyrazine, γ-undecyl lactone, γ-valerol lactone, vanilla extract, vanillin, veratral, violet leaf essential oil, N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carbamate (WS-3), and ethyl-2-(p-menthane-3-carbamate)acetate (WS-5), with menthol being particularly preferred. Furthermore, one type of these flavoring agents can be used alone, or two or more types can be used in combination.

[0043] There are no particular restrictions on the amount of flavoring agents contained in tobacco filling materials, and from the perspective of imparting a good flavor, the content is generally 10,000 ppm or more, preferably 20,000 ppm or more and more preferably 25,000 ppm or more, and generally 70,000 ppm or less, preferably 50,000 ppm or less, more preferably 40,000 ppm or less and even more preferably 33,000 ppm or less.

[0044] The inhaler 10 includes a housing 11 in which various components described below are mounted. The housing 11 is provided with: a receiving portion 12 capable of receiving a portion of a tobacco stick 40 already inserted through an opening 12a; a guide portion 13 for guiding the tobacco stick 40 through the opening 12a of the receiving portion 12; and an airflow path 14 communicating with the receiving portion 12 and allowing air to be introduced into the receiving portion 12. The inner surface of the receiving portion 12 may be configured with metal or the like to confine microwaves to the interior of the receiving portion 12. The airflow path 14 has an air inlet port 14a located on the exterior of the housing 11 and is configured to introduce air into the receiving portion 12 from the air inlet port 14a. The airflow path 14 may be provided with a microwave shield 14b that allows air to pass through while blocking microwaves. The airflow path 14 is not limited to... Figure 1 It is shown to be disposed on the side surface of the receiving portion 12, and it can also be disposed on the bottom surface or the top surface of the receiving portion 12.

[0045] In addition, the aerosol generating device 10 also includes a high-frequency oscillator 20, a first waveguide 21, a circulator 22, a second waveguide 23, an electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24, a third waveguide 25, a reflected wave detector 26, a control unit 30, a power supply unit 31, a notification unit 32, a communication unit 33, an object sensing unit 34, and a nozzle sensing unit 35. These components 20-26 and 30-34 are installed inside the housing 11.

[0046] The high-frequency oscillator 20 is an example of an electromagnetic wave oscillation device that includes a semiconductor (solid-state) oscillator and generates high-frequency electromagnetic waves with a predetermined frequency. The semiconductor oscillator is configured with semiconductor elements such as LDMOS transistors, GaAs FETs, SiC MESFETs, or GaN HFETs. High-frequency electromagnetic waves refer to electromagnetic waves between 3 Hz and 3 THz. Microwaves refer to high-frequency electromagnetic waves between 300 MHz and 300 GHz. The high-frequency oscillator 20 is described below as an element for generating microwaves, but this is not limiting, as long as it is configured to generate the desired electromagnetic waves. The high-frequency oscillator 20 is capable of generating microwaves with a frequency suitable for heating the tobacco stick 40 (aerosol source), e.g., 2.40 GHz to 2.50 GHz. In this embodiment, the high-frequency oscillator 20 generates microwaves with a frequency of 2.45 GHz. Furthermore, the high-frequency oscillator 20 may include an amplifier for amplifying the high-frequency electromagnetic field. In the high-frequency oscillator 20, the semiconductor oscillator itself may function as an amplifier, or an amplifier may be provided with electronic components configured to be separate from the semiconductor oscillator. In one example, the high-frequency oscillator 20 outputs microwaves in the ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band. In one example, the high-frequency oscillator 20 outputs microwaves in the ranges of 902 MHz to 926 MHz (900 MHz band), 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz (2.45 GHz band), 5.725 GHz to 5.875 GHz (5.8 GHz band), and 24 GHz to 24.25 GHz (24.125 GHz band). The frequency and bandwidth of the microwaves output by the high-frequency oscillator 20 are controlled by the control unit 30, and, for example, signals including multiple bands (such as the 2.45 GHz band and the 5.8 GHz band) can be generated. Furthermore, the strength of the signal output by the high-frequency oscillator 20 is also controlled by the control unit 30.

[0047] It should be noted that the device used to generate the high-frequency electromagnetic field can also be a magnetron-type oscillator, but using a semiconductor oscillator as the high-frequency oscillator 20 allows for a more compact body compared to using a magnetron-type oscillator. Furthermore, compared to a magnetron-type oscillator, a semiconductor oscillator can operate at a lower voltage, thus achieving better frequency stability and output stability. However, the high-frequency oscillator 20 in this embodiment only needs to be able to generate a high-frequency electromagnetic field of a predetermined frequency, and therefore can therefore also be a magnetron-type oscillator.

[0048] The first waveguide 21 connects the high-frequency oscillator 20 and the circulator 22, the second waveguide 23 connects the circulator 22 and the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24, and the third waveguide 25 connects the circulator 22 and the reflected wave detector 26. The circulator 22 is a directional coupler used to transmit microwaves entering from the port on the first waveguide 21 side to the second waveguide 23 and to transmit microwaves entering from the port on the second waveguide 23 side to the third waveguide 25. This allows microwaves output from the high-frequency oscillator 20 to propagate to the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24, and allows microwaves propagating from the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24 along the direction of the circulator 22 to propagate to the reflected wave detector 26.

[0049] Microwaves generated by the high-frequency oscillator 20 are guided to the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24 via the first waveguide 21, circulator 22, and second waveguide 23. For example, waveguides or coaxial cables can be used as the first to third waveguides 21, 23, and 25. It should be noted that any one of the first to third waveguides 21, 23, and 25 can be omitted when at least any one of the circulator 22, high-frequency oscillator 20, electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24, and reflected wave detector 26 is directly connected. The electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24 emits (radiates) the microwaves guided by the second waveguide 23 into the receiving portion 12. Figure 1 In one example, the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24 is disposed on the side surface of the receiving portion 12, but this is not limiting, and the electromagnetic wave radiation unit can also be disposed on the bottom or top surface of the receiving portion 12, or inside the tobacco stick 40. In one example, multiple electromagnetic wave radiation units 24 are disposed. For example, when the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24 is disposed inside the tobacco stick 40, power can be supplied to the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24 by inserting a power cord into the tobacco stick 40. Alternatively, the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24 inside the tobacco stick 40 can be powered via capacitive coupling.

[0050] The reflected wave detector 26 includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and converts the input microwave into a digital electrical signal. The reflected wave detector 26 includes a local oscillator that performs both zero-difference and heterodyne detection and is configured to demodulate the microwave signal; in one example, demodulation can be performed using the high-frequency output of an oscillator shared with the high-frequency oscillator 20. Furthermore, the reflected wave detector 26 acquires the signal strength of the detected microwave and sends the detection result, including the signal strength, to the control unit 30. In another example, the reflected wave detector 26 may include detection results other than signal strength, such as the frequency and phase of the detected electromagnetic wave.

[0051] Furthermore, to protect the high-frequency oscillator 20, the first waveguide 21 may be provided with an isolator for absorbing reflected waves propagating from the circulator 22 toward the high-frequency oscillator 20. Similarly, the third waveguide 25 may be provided with an isolator for absorbing reflected waves propagating from the reflected wave detector 26 toward the circulator 22. Additionally, at least any one of the first waveguide 21, the second waveguide 23, and the third waveguide 25 may be provided with an impedance matching unit to match the impedance on the high-frequency oscillator 20 side with the impedance on the tobacco stick 40 side, thereby reducing the power of the reflected waves.

[0052] The control unit 30 includes a processor and a memory, serving as an arithmetic processing and control device, and controls the overall operation of the inhaler 10 according to various programs. Specifically, the control unit 30 can control the high-frequency oscillator 20 to emit microwaves from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24 according to the user's vaping request, thereby heating the tobacco stick 40. Furthermore, the control unit 30 can control the high-frequency oscillator 20 so that the tobacco stick 40 is heated according to a desired preset heating curve. The control unit 30 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 10 by means of a processor that executes programs stored in the memory, such as a CPU (central processing unit) or electronic circuitry (e.g., a microprocessor).

[0053] The power supply unit 31 supplies power to the high-frequency oscillator 20 based on control provided by the control unit 30. The power supply unit 31 is configured, for example, by a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion secondary battery). Providing such a power supply unit 31 enables the inhaler 10 to be portable.

[0054] The notification unit 32 notifies the user of information based on the control provided by the control unit 30. For example, the information notified to the user may include: information indicating that the tobacco stick 40 has been detected inserted into the receiving portion 12; information indicating that microwave heating of the tobacco stick 40 has begun; information indicating a transition to a state where aerosol can be inhaled; error messages; and information regarding the remaining capacity of the power supply unit 31 (battery remaining capacity). The notification unit 32 may be configured with a light-emitting element (such as an LED), a vibration element (such as a vibration motor), or a sound output element. The notification unit 32 may be configured with a display element (such as an LCD). The notification unit 32 may be a combination of two or more of the following elements: a light-emitting element, a vibration element, a sound output element, and a display element.

[0055] The communication unit 33 is used to acquire information related to the usage status of the inhaler 10 and send such information to an external data server or user mobile terminal device (hereinafter referred to as the data server, etc.), as well as an interface for receiving data from the data server, etc. The communication unit 33 can communicate with the data server, etc., via short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or long-range wireless communication such as LPWA (Low Power Wide Area). Note that the communication between the communication unit 33 and the data server, etc., is not limited to the aforementioned wireless communication, and can also be another form of wireless communication or wired communication.

[0056] The object sensing unit 34 senses whether the tobacco stick 40 is inside the receiving portion 12. In this way, the control unit 30 can determine whether the tobacco stick 40 is contained (inserted) inside the receiving portion 12 based on the detection result from the object sensing unit 34, and can control the microwave emission from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24 according to this determination. For example, when the control unit 30 has determined based on the detection result from the object sensing unit 34 that the tobacco stick 40 is not contained inside the receiving portion 12, the control unit 30 prohibits the emission of microwaves from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24. Conversely, when the control unit 30 has determined based on the detection result from the object sensing unit 34 that the tobacco stick 40 is contained (inserted) inside the receiving portion 12, the control unit 30 permits the emission of microwaves from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24. The object sensing unit 34 can be configured as a capacitive proximity sensor, but this is not limiting, and the object sensing unit can also be configured as a contact sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor) or a photoelectric sensor, etc. It should be noted that in Figure 1 In one example, the object sensing unit 34 is disposed on the bottom surface (inner surface on the -Z direction side) of the receiving portion 12, but it can also be disposed on the side surface or the top surface of the receiving portion 12, or on the guide portion 13.

[0057] also, Figure 1 The illustration shows only one object sensing unit 34, but two or more object sensing units can also be provided. Furthermore, in addition to detecting the presence or absence of the tobacco stick 40, the object sensing unit 34 can also detect the type of the tobacco stick 40. For example, if the object sensing unit 34 includes two electrodes, it can detect the type or condition (e.g., the electrical characteristics of the tobacco stick 40) of the tobacco stick 40 by applying a voltage while in contact with it and detecting the conduction state (e.g., the amount of current flowing between the electrodes). For example, to enable the tobacco stick 40 to be sensed by the object sensing unit 34, circuit elements (e.g., predetermined resistive elements) can be provided, and the type of the tobacco stick 40 can then be identified based on the resistance value detected by the object sensing unit 34.

[0058] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, a mouthpiece 50, held in the mouth by a user for inhaling vapor (aerosol-containing vapor) from the receiving portion 12, can be attached to the inhaler 10 of this embodiment. The mouthpiece 50 can be attached to the guide portion 13 of the inhaler 10 to cover the portion of the tobacco stick 40 protruding from the inhaler 10 (receiving portion 12) (mouthpiece portion 42). The mouthpiece 50 is then provided with a microwave shield 51 to prevent microwaves from leaking from the receiving portion 12 to the outside through the opening portion 12a and the guide portion 13. The microwave shield 51 can be configured with a metal mesh or the like, allowing vapor to pass through while blocking microwaves.

[0059] When using a mouthpiece 50 including a microwave shield 51, the inhaler 10 may be equipped with a mouthpiece sensing unit 35 for sensing whether the mouthpiece 50 is attached. This allows the control unit 30 to control the emission of microwaves from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24 based on the sensing results from the mouthpiece sensing unit 35. For example, when the control unit 30 has determined based on the sensing results from the mouthpiece sensing unit 35 that the mouthpiece 50 is not attached, the control unit 30 prohibits the emission of microwaves from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24. Conversely, when the control unit 30 has determined based on the sensing results from the mouthpiece sensing unit 35 that the mouthpiece 50 is attached, the control unit 30 permits the emission of microwaves from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24. Note that the inhaler 10 may be configured such that the user can directly hold the mouthpiece portion 42 of the tobacco stick 40 in their mouth without using the mouthpiece 50. In this case, a microwave shield, such as a metal mesh, may be provided on the mouthpiece portion 42 of the tobacco stick 40 to block microwaves.

[0060] Here, the tobacco stick 40 can be composed of different types of aerosol sources or different types of flavor sources. In this case, the microwave frequency that is efficiently absorbed varies depending on the type of aerosol source and flavor source. Therefore, the microwave absorption efficiency of the tobacco filling portion 41 can be improved by changing the frequency of the microwaves emitted from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24. Furthermore, different aerosol inhalation experiences can be provided to the user by changing the temperature and temperature change mode of the tobacco stick 40. Moreover, even among aerosol sources of the same type, differences in dryness levels may mean different efficient absorption frequencies, or different temperatures or temperature change modes may be required. Therefore, upon receiving an instruction to heat the tobacco stick 40, the aerosol generating device 10 according to this embodiment determines the type of the tobacco stick 40 and performs heating using a heating mode adapted to the determined type.

[0061] <Aerosol generation and treatment>

[0062] Figure 2 The aerosol generation process is illustrated. Figure 2The process shown is performed when the aerosol generating device 10 has received a heating command, and the process is performed by a processor in the control unit 30, which executes a program stored in a memory.

[0063] In S201, the control unit 30 determines whether microwaves can be emitted from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24. For example, when the control unit 30 has determined that the mouthpiece 50 is attached based on the output of the mouthpiece sensing unit 35, the control unit 30 determines that microwaves can be emitted. In another example, the control unit 30 may determine that microwaves can be emitted when it has determined that the tobacco stick 40 is housed inside the receiving portion 12 based on the output of the object sensing unit 34 and has also determined that the mouthpiece 50 is attached based on the output of the mouthpiece sensing unit 35, and may otherwise determine that microwaves cannot be emitted. When the control unit 30 has determined that microwaves can be emitted (yes in S201), the process proceeds to S202, and when the control unit 30 has determined that microwaves cannot be emitted (no in S201), ... Figure 2 The process shown terminates. It should be noted that when the control unit 30 has determined that microwave emission is not permitted (No in S201), it can notify the user via the notification unit 32 that heating will not be performed. Figure 2 The process shown has terminated.

[0064] In S202, the control unit 30 determines the type of tobacco stick 40 housed inside the receiving portion 12. (See later...) Figure 3 Describe the details of S202.

[0065] In S203, the control unit 30 retrieves a pre-prepared heating profile associated with the type of tobacco stick 40 determined in S202 from its memory. (See later...) Figure 5 Describe the heating curve.

[0066] In S204, the control unit 30 performs a heating process on the tobacco stick 40 by using the interior of the microwave radiation receiving portion 12 according to the heating curve obtained in S203. (See below for further details.) Figure 6 Describe the details of S204.

[0067] <Processing to determine tobacco stick type>

[0068] Next, we will refer to Figure 3 The process described is the determination of the handling of the tobacco stick 40 by the control unit 30. Figure 3 The processing flow shown is in Figure 2This is implemented within S202. This embodiment describes an example of determining two types of tobacco sticks 40, wherein heating treatment is performed using a heating curve adapted to the determined type. However, the embodiments to which the invention can be applied are not limited to determining two types of tobacco sticks 40, and may also allow determining three or more types of tobacco sticks 40. Furthermore, regarding the heating curve, different heating curves can be prepared for the number of determined types, or a common heating curve can be prepared for two or more types of tobacco sticks 40. Additionally, the type of tobacco stick 40 and the corresponding heating curve can then be added to the memory in the control unit 30.

[0069] First, in S301, the control unit 30 initiates the emission of microwaves from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24. For the microwaves emitted in S301, in one example, a frequency scan can be performed to change the frequency of the microwaves emitted at predetermined time intervals, or a broadband signal can be transmitted. Furthermore, the output intensity of the microwaves emitted in S301 can be lower than the output intensity of the microwaves emitted in S204. In other words, the microwaves emitted in S301 can be microwaves used to determine the type and state of the tobacco stick 40, and can have a lower intensity than the microwaves emitted in S204 for heating, and the emission mode (including emission interval, frequency, and bandwidth) can also be different.

[0070] Next, in S302, the control unit 30 detects the signal strength (detection strength) of the microwave detected by the reflected wave detector 26. Here, when the control unit 30 detects a signal strength spanning multiple frequencies, the control unit 30 controls the reflected wave detector 26 to associate the detected microwave frequencies with the detection strength, and stores the associated data in the memory unit of the control unit 30. If only the detection strength at one frequency is detected in S302, only that detection strength needs to be detected and stored. Furthermore, the control unit 30 can identify the reflection coefficient, which indicates the detection strength of the reflected wave relative to the output strength of the microwave, based on the detection strength of the microwave detected by the reflected wave detector 26.

[0071] Next, in S303, the control unit 30 stops emitting microwaves from the high-frequency oscillator 20, and in S304, the control unit 30 determines the type of tobacco stick 40 disposed inside the receiving portion 12 based on the detection intensity detected in S302.

[0072] Here, we will refer to Figure 4 A description is given of an example of the characteristics of the reflected wave detected by means of the reflected wave detector 26 when the frequency of the microwave emitted from the antenna 22 into the receiving portion 12 is scanned within a defined frequency range. Figure 4The horizontal axis represents the frequency of the reflected wave, and the vertical axis represents the reflection coefficient.

[0073] Line 401 in the graph shows the reflection coefficient of the reflected wave detected by the reflected wave detector 26 at each frequency when a first type of tobacco stick 40 (hereinafter referred to as "stick A") is placed in the receiving portion 12, and line 402 shows the reflection coefficient at each frequency when a second type of tobacco stick 40 (hereinafter referred to as "stick B") is placed in the receiving portion 12. Line 403 shows the reflection coefficient at each frequency when no tobacco stick 40 is placed in the receiving portion.

[0074] When the tobacco stick 40 is housed inside the housing portion 12, a reflection coefficient peak with the lowest reflection coefficient is generated within a predetermined frequency range, such as... Figure 4 As shown by lines 401 and 402. Simultaneously, when no tobacco stick 40 is contained within the receiving portion 12, reflected wave peaks are generated outside the predetermined frequency range, such as... Figure 4 As shown by line 403. Therefore, the control unit 30 is able to sense whether a tobacco stick is inside the receiving portion 12 based on the peak frequency of the reflected wave detected by means of the reflected wave detector 26.

[0075] As mentioned above, depending on the differences in the materials of the aerosol source and flavor source, as well as the differences in the amount of these materials, the absorption efficiency of the tobacco rod 40 at the same frequency can vary. Therefore, different frequency characteristics can be exhibited, such as... Figure 4 As shown. Therefore, the control unit 30 can determine the type of tobacco stick 40 disposed in the receiving portion 12 based on the detection intensity obtained in S302. It should be noted that by incorporating any one or more of the aforementioned aerosol base material and flavoring agent as markers into the tobacco stick 40, the frequency characteristics can be changed for each type of tobacco stick 40.

[0076] For example, the control unit 30 can determine that rod A is placed in the receiving portion 12 when the reflection coefficient at frequency f1 is less than the threshold Th1 (yes in S304), and the control unit can determine that heating treatment will be performed in S204 using the heating curve A corresponding to rod A. It should be noted that, regarding this... Figure 4 The given description assumes that the type of tobacco stick 40 is identified based on whether the reflection coefficient at a predetermined frequency is less than a predetermined threshold. In one instance, the type of tobacco stick 40 can be identified based on whether the frequency (peak frequency) with the lowest reflection coefficient in the scanned frequency band is within a predetermined frequency range.

[0077] Furthermore, when the reflection coefficient at frequency f1 is equal to or greater than the threshold Th1 (no in S304), the control unit 30 will proceed to S306, and when the reflection coefficient at frequency f2 is less than the threshold Th1 (yes in S306), the control unit 30 can determine that the rod B is placed in the receiving portion 12, and can determine that the heating process will be performed in S204 using the heating curve B corresponding to the rod B.

[0078] When the reflection coefficient at frequency f2 is equal to or greater than the threshold Th1 (yes in S306), the control unit 30 then proceeds to S308 and terminates the process after notifying the user of the failure to identify the type of tobacco stick 40. Figure 3 The processing in the process. In one instance, it can be determined in S308 that a default heating curve will be used. Alternatively, the user can be notified that the predetermined type of tobacco stick 40 has not been set in the receiving part 12, or that the determination of the type of tobacco stick 40 has failed, and Figure 2 The aerosol generation process shown may be terminated due to an error.

[0079] Furthermore, in S304 to S307, the control unit 30 can determine that rod A is disposed in the receiving portion 12 when the reflection coefficient at frequency f1 is less than the threshold Th1 and the reflection coefficient at frequency f2 is equal to or greater than the threshold Th1. Then, it can determine that rod B is disposed in the receiving portion 12 when the reflection coefficient at frequency f1 is equal to or greater than the threshold Th1 and the reflection coefficient at frequency f2 is equal to or greater than the threshold Th1. When the reflection coefficients at frequencies f1 and f2 are each equal to or greater than Th1, or when they are each less than Th1, it can be determined that different tobacco rods 40 are disposed. That is, the control unit 30 can determine the type of tobacco rod 40 disposed in the receiving portion 12 based on conditions related to multiple reflection coefficients at multiple frequencies.

[0080] Furthermore, it is possible that the frequency with the lowest reflection coefficient is close to the frequency of several types of tobacco sticks 40, and the type of tobacco stick 40 cannot be identified by the peak frequency alone. Therefore, in one instance, when the reflection coefficient at frequency f1 is less than the threshold Th2 (which is less than the threshold Th1), it can be determined that stick A is located in the receiving portion 12, and when the reflection coefficient at frequency f1 is less than the threshold Th1 and is also equal to or greater than the threshold Th2, it can be determined that a third type of tobacco stick (hereinafter "stick C") is located in the receiving portion 12.

[0081] In another example, when the reflection coefficient at a predetermined frequency f3 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold Th3, it can be determined that no tobacco stick 40 is provided, or that the provided tobacco stick does not meet the standard. Furthermore, when the reflection coefficient at a predetermined frequency f4 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold Th4, it can be determined that a metallic object or other foreign object is present in the receiving portion 12. In one example, f3 < f1 and f3 < f2, and f1 < f4 and f2 < f4.

[0082] In another example, the control unit 30 may determine the type of tobacco stick 40 disposed in the receiving portion 12 based on predetermined statistical values ​​(such as the average or median of the reflection coefficients at multiple frequencies).

[0083] As a variant example, the tobacco stick 40 may have a structure for determining the type of refill material. Variant examples related to the structure for determining the type of tobacco stick 40 will be described below.

[0084] (Variant Instance 1)

[0085] Although the metal (conductor) reflects most of the radiated microwaves, some microwaves are converted into an electric current on the metal through induction heating, etc., and energy is consumed. The amount of energy consumed and the frequency of the microwaves converted into an electric current depend on the type of metal. Therefore, different metal films are provided corresponding to the type of tobacco stick 40. Thus, each tobacco stick 40 can exhibit different frequency characteristics of a conductor. Note that this variant example describes the case of metal, but different types of dielectrics can be arranged on the tobacco stick 40. That is, in this variant example, the tobacco stick 40 includes electromagnetic wave absorbing components different from those of the aerosol source and flavor source, thereby allowing the frequency characteristics of the tobacco stick 40 to vary for each tobacco stick 40.

[0086] (Variant Instance 2)

[0087] According to this variant example, a thin metal film with slits at a predetermined angle is disposed on the outermost surface of the tobacco stick 40. Microwaves attenuate according to the relationship between polarization and the slit angle; therefore, disposing the metal film on the tobacco stick 40 such that the slits are positioned facing the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24 allows the tobacco stick 40 to absorb microwaves emitted from the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24. The slit angle can be determined based on the polarization characteristics (e.g., horizontal, vertical, and elliptical polarization) of the microwaves emitted from the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24. In one example, the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24 emits elliptical polarized microwaves, and in one type of tobacco stick 40, the slits are arranged in the vertical direction (Z direction) to block horizontal polarization, while in another type of tobacco stick 40, the slits are arranged in the horizontal direction (X or Y direction) to block horizontal polarization. By changing the polarization characteristics of each tobacco stick 40 in this way, the signal strength of the reflected wave detected by the reflection wave detector 26 of each tobacco stick 40 can be changed.

[0088] (Variant Example 3)

[0089] According to this variant example, a thin metal film with slits of predetermined length is provided on the outermost surface of the tobacco stick 40. The effect of the slits in blocking electromagnetic waves is enhanced if the length of the slits is no greater than half the microwave wavelength. For example, when the radiated frequencies are 2450 MHz and 5800 MHz, the corresponding wavelengths are approximately 122 mm and approximately 51 mm, respectively. Therefore, the frequency of the blocked microwaves can be varied by setting different slit lengths according to the type of tobacco stick 40.

[0090] For example, a metal film with a slit length of less than 25 mm is arranged on a first tobacco rod 40 containing a first type of aerosol source. Furthermore, a metal film with a slit length of 25 mm or more but less than 60 mm is arranged on a second tobacco rod 40 containing a second type of aerosol source. Furthermore, a metal film with a slit length of 60 mm or more is arranged on a third tobacco rod 40 containing a third type of aerosol source. In this case, the first tobacco rod 40 produces relatively strong attenuation of microwaves at 2450 MHz and 5800 MHz. Furthermore, the second tobacco rod 40 produces relatively strong attenuation of microwaves at 2450 MHz, but relatively weak attenuation of microwaves at 5800 MHz. Furthermore, the third tobacco rod 40 produces relatively weak attenuation of microwaves at 2450 MHz and 5800 MHz. Therefore, the type of tobacco rod 40 can be determined by detecting the amount of attenuation of microwaves at 2450 MHz and 5800 MHz based on the signal strength detected by the reflected wave detector 26.

[0091] <Heating Curve Structure>

[0092] Next, we will refer to Figure 5 Describe the heating curve of tobacco stick 40. Figure 5 In the diagram, the horizontal axis represents the time t elapsed since the start of heating, and the vertical axis represents the target temperature Temp.

[0093] For example, as shown in line 501, heating curve A for rod A indicates heating at the target temperature Temp 1 until time T1, then from time T1 to T2 the target temperature changes to Temp 2, and Temp 2 is maintained until time T3. That is, the heating curve is associated with the type of tobacco rod 40, and the target temperature of the tobacco rod 40 should be specified based on the time elapsed since heating began. Similarly, as shown in line 502, in heating curve B for rod B, heating is performed at the target temperature Temp 3 until time T4, then from time T4 to T5 the target temperature changes to Temp 2, and then from time T2 to T6 the target temperature changes back to Temp 3.

[0094] Therefore, each tobacco stick 40 is pre-programmed with a heating curve, and can be heated according to... Figure 3 In S302, the type of tobacco stick 40 is identified, a heating curve is obtained, and heating is performed to apply a suitable heating scheme to each tobacco stick 40.

[0095] <Heat Treatment>

[0096] Next, we will refer to Figure 6 Describe the heat treatment of tobacco stick 40. Figure 6 Detailed demonstration Figure 2 The processing of S204 in the process.

[0097] Control unit 30 starts a timer in S601 and obtains the target temperature after time t has elapsed since the start of the heating process in S602.

[0098] In S603, the control unit 30 then determines the output mode for transmitting microwaves based on the heating curve. For example, the control unit 30 can store the transmission power or duty cycle in association with the target temperature in the heating curve, and can determine the transmission power or duty cycle based on the target temperature at the current point in time. Figure 5 In this example, the target temperature is Temp 1 at time T1, so microwaves can be emitted with a transmit power Y [W] corresponding to Temp 1. Alternatively, when the target temperature is Temp 1, this can be associated with the duty cycle, such as emitting microwaves at maximum output Y [W] with a 50% duty cycle. Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, the control unit 30 can store the target temperature in association with the output mode, and can read out the output mode based on the target temperature. Figure 7A In the above, the target temperature [°C] is related to the transmit power [W], and... Figure 7B In this context, the target temperature [°C] is associated with the transmit power [W] and duty cycle [%]. The control unit 30 can identify the transmit power and duty cycle based on the corresponding target temperature. In other words, the output mode includes microwave output parameters such as transmit power.

[0099] In another example, the control unit 30 determines the microwave output mode based on the target temperature in the heating curve and the detected intensity of the microwaves detected by the reflected wave detector 26. Figure 8 The frequency characteristics (horizontal axis: frequency, vertical axis: signal strength) of the same tobacco stick 40 are shown to change over time. When a tobacco stick 40 is heated, its frequency characteristics can change depending on the evaporation of moisture contained in the tobacco stick 40, the vaporization of flavor sources, or the degradation of aerosol sources.

[0100] For example, Figure 8 Line 801 in the diagram illustrates the initiation of the heating process immediately following the setting rod A (e.g., Figure 5 The frequency characteristics of the reflection coefficient after time T1 in the diagram; and line 802 shows the time elapsed since the setting of rod A and the start of the heating process (e.g., after a predetermined time). Figure 5 The frequency characteristics of the reflection coefficient at time T2 are shown. Furthermore, line 803 shows the reflection coefficient detected by the reflection wave detector 26 when the tobacco stick 40 is not positioned correctly.

[0101] Based on line 801, the reflection coefficient of the microwave emitted from the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24 is ΔP1 [dB] at frequency f1. That is, depending on the presence of the tobacco stick 40, there is a difference of ΔP1 in the intensity detected by the reflected wave detector 26, and it can be determined that the microwave has been absorbed by the tobacco stick 40. Simultaneously, the frequency with the minimum reflection coefficient changes to frequency f1' over time, and the reflection coefficient becomes ΔP2 [dB]. For example, this type of frequency characteristic change may occur due to state changes (such as moisture evaporation).

[0102] In other words, immediately after the heating process begins, the tobacco rod 40 absorbs power corresponding to ΔP1. However, as time progresses, the tobacco rod 40 absorbs only power corresponding to ΔP2, which is less than ΔP1, and the amount of microwaves absorbed by the tobacco rod 40 decreases. Therefore, the control unit 30 can increase the microwave output power over time. In one example, besides Figure 3In addition to the type of tobacco stick 40 determined in S302, the control unit 30 can also determine the microwave output power based on a preset signal strength and the state of the tobacco stick 40 detected in S606. Furthermore, the control unit 30 can detect the detection intensity of microwaves at multiple frequencies in S302 and S605, compare this detection intensity with the intensity detected by the reflected wave detector 26 when the tobacco stick 40 is not in use, and determine that heating will be performed using a frequency with a large attenuation. This allows heating to be performed by selecting the frequency at which microwaves are absorbed by the tobacco stick 40. Therefore, the control unit 30 controls the impedance matching circuit (not depicted) connected to the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24, or controls the output frequency of the high-frequency oscillator 20, thereby achieving heating adapted to changes in the state of the tobacco stick 40. Furthermore, even if the frequency characteristics of the tobacco stick 40 are as follows... Figure 8 Despite the changes shown, heating can still be performed by adaptively selecting a frequency with good microwave absorption efficiency.

[0103] The aerosol generating device 10 may further include a fluorescent fiber thermometer or an infrared sensor, neither of which is depicted. In this case, the intensity of the microwave output from the high-frequency oscillator 20 can be modified according to the target temperature.

[0104] Next, the control unit 30 proceeds to S604 and emits microwaves in the determined output mode until a predetermined time has elapsed. Afterward, the control unit 30 detects the intensity of the microwaves (S605). In S606, the control unit 30 then determines the state of the tobacco stick 40 based on the detected intensity of the microwaves in S605. In S605, as referenced... Figure 8 As described, the attenuation of the transmitted signal can be determined as the state of the tobacco stick 40 based on the detection intensity at a predetermined frequency f1. Alternatively, when the detection intensity at multiple frequencies is detected in S605, as referenced... Figure 8 As described in lines 801 to 803, the detection intensity at multiple frequencies can be determined as the state of the tobacco stick 40. Then, the control unit 30 advances the process to S607 and determines whether to terminate heating. In one example, when it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since heating began and the predetermined time has not yet elapsed (no in S607), the control unit 30 returns the process to S602 and terminates the process when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (yes in S607). Figure 6 The process is illustrated. Here, the heating termination time can vary depending on each heating curve and can be determined based on the relevant heating curve.

[0105] It should be noted that, in another example, the control unit 30 may decide in S607 whether to terminate heating based on the state of the tobacco stick 40 determined in S606. For example, it may be determined that heating will be terminated when the detection intensity at a specific frequency is equal to or greater than a threshold. For example, this allows heating to be terminated when the amount of moisture contained in the tobacco stick 40 is equal to or less than a predetermined amount.

[0106] Furthermore, the frequency variations of the microwaves output by the high-frequency oscillator 20 can be stored, and it can be determined that heating will terminate when the microwaves output by the high-frequency oscillator 20 have reached a predetermined frequency. For example, the control unit 30 can store in its memory the peak reflection coefficient frequency when a reflected wave is detected by a tobacco stick 40 without refill material placed in the receiving portion 12, for each type of tobacco stick 40. This allows the termination of heating to be determined based on the presence or absence of components inside the refill material, regardless of the aerosol inhalation rhythm or the amount inhaled. Therefore, even if the first user inhales at a longer interval (slower rhythm) than the second user, the first user will still be able to inhale a comparable number of times as the second user.

[0107] It should be noted that in S603, the output mode can be determined based on the state of the tobacco stick 40 determined in S606. For example, based on... Figure 8 Based on the frequency characteristics of the tobacco stick 40 shown, the control unit 30 can determine to emit microwaves at a frequency that results in a greater difference in detection intensity compared to when the tobacco stick 40 is not present. This enables heating treatment to be performed at a frequency at which the microwaves are efficiently absorbed by the tobacco stick 40.

[0108] <Examples of Heating Curve Variations>

[0109] Figure 9 An example heating curve based on this variant is shown. Figure 9 The horizontal axis of the graph shown represents the elapsed time, and the vertical axis represents the target temperature [°C].

[0110] like Figure 9 As shown, the heating curve includes information related to the frequency band of the microwaves emitted from the electromagnetic radiation unit 24. Therefore, even if the frequency characteristics of the tobacco stick 40 change with the heating process, the tobacco stick 40 can still be heated efficiently by specifying a frequency with high absorption efficiency in the heating curve.

[0111] It should be noted that Figure 9 The frequency band-related information shown is depicted as the channel number of the frequency band emitted from the electromagnetic wave radiating unit 24, but this information can also be a combination of the center frequency and bandwidth, as long as the information allows the frequency of the microwave output from the high-frequency oscillator 20 to be determined.

[0112] also, Figure 9 The example shown illustrates a heating curve with one frequency associated with each elapsed time, but two or more frequencies can be associated with each elapsed time. For instance, the heating curve can be associated with a frequency scan range, such as scanning the 2.45 GHz and 5.8 GHz bands in the ISM band from heating start to time T1, and scanning the 2.45 GHz, 5.8 GHz, and 24.125 GHz bands from time T2 to T3. Furthermore, when the heating curve is associated with a frequency scan range, it can also be associated with a frequency switching period.

[0113] <Process for determining the state of the tobacco stick during heat treatment>

[0114] refer to Figure 6 The described heating process is based on the assumption that a signal is detected by the reflected wave detector 26 during microwave heating and the state of the tobacco stick 40 is determined based on the detected signal strength. In one example, the period for emitting heating microwaves can be separated from the period for emitting microwaves used to determine the state of the tobacco stick 40.

[0115] Figure 10 An example of a process for determining the state of a tobacco stick during heat treatment is shown. Similar to... Figure 6 , Figure 10 The processing shown demonstrates Figure 2 Details of the processing in S204.

[0116] Processing and references in S601 to S603 Figure 6 The process described is the same and will therefore not be described again. In S1001, the control unit 30 emits microwaves in the output mode set in S603 until a predetermined time has elapsed. The emission intensity and / or frequency of the microwaves emitted in S1001 are determined based on the output mode determined in S603.

[0117] Next, the control unit 30 proceeds to S1002, where it determines whether the timing for measuring the state of the tobacco stick 40 has been reached. For example, the measurement timing can be preset so that the control unit 30 measures the state of the tobacco stick at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 10 seconds) when heating of the tobacco stick 40 has been initiated. Alternatively, the measurement timing can be preset so that the state of the tobacco stick is measured according to a predetermined number of inhalations by the user (e.g., once every three inhalations).

[0118] If it has been determined that the timing for measuring the state of the tobacco stick 40 has been reached (Yes in S1002), the control unit 30 will proceed to S1003 and temporarily stop the emission of the heating microwave. If it has been determined that the timing for measuring the state of the tobacco stick 40 has not yet been reached (No in S1002), the control unit 30 will proceed to S606. The processing in S606 is the same as... Figure 6 The processing is the same as in S606, and therefore will not be described again.

[0119] In S1003, the control unit 30 determines the microwave's transmission state for a predetermined duration. In one example, the frequency and intensity of the microwave are determined independently of the heating curve in S1003. For instance, in S1003, the control unit 30 transmits microwaves at a lower intensity than the heating microwaves. Furthermore, in one example, the control unit 30 transmits microwaves in S1003 while switching frequencies. Here, the control unit 30 can transmit microwaves while switching between multiple frequency bands.

[0120] Next, the process proceeds to S1004, where the reflected wave detector 26 detects the state to determine the microwave, and the control unit 30 determines the state of the tobacco stick in S1005. The processes in S1004 and S1005 are the same as those in S605 and S606, and therefore will not be described again. Then, in S607, it is determined whether to terminate heating. The process in S607 is similar to... Figure 6 The processing of S607 is the same, and therefore will not be described again.

[0121] As described above, the state of the tobacco stick 40 is determined by means of microwaves having a different frequency and / or emission intensity than the heating microwaves, according to the processing of this embodiment. Using microwaves with a different frequency than the heating microwaves to determine the state of the tobacco stick 40 allows the frequency to which the heating microwaves should switch to to be determined during heating. Furthermore, using microwaves with a fixed emission intensity to determine the state of the tobacco stick 40 reduces the computational load required for determining the state of the tobacco stick 40, as it eliminates the need to adjust the detection intensity to match the emission signal intensity. Moreover, using microwaves with a lower emission intensity than the heating microwaves to determine the state of the tobacco stick 40 means that the reflected wave detector 26 no longer needs to absorb a relatively large amount of power. Therefore, for example, a communication circuitry system can be applied to the reflected wave detector 26, thereby allowing for a reduction in the size of the reflected wave detector 26.

[0122] <Other Embodiments>

[0123] In one instance, the type of tobacco stick 40, the state of the tobacco stick 40, and the presence or absence of the tobacco stick 40 can be determined based on the ratio of the reflected wave to the emitted wave (S11) within a predetermined frequency range. For example, the type of tobacco stick 40 can be determined based on the frequency with the lowest absolute value of S11 |S11| within a predetermined frequency range (e.g., 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz).

[0124] Furthermore, for example, the state of the tobacco stick 40 can be determined based on the minimum value of the absolute value of S11, |S11|, at 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz. For example, when the minimum value of |S11| is less than -15 dB, it can be determined that the tobacco stick 40 is preheating; when the minimum value of |S11| is less than -12 dB and equal to or greater than -15 dB, it can be determined that the tobacco stick 40 is in a first state immediately following heating; and when the minimum value of |S11| is less than -6 dB and equal to or greater than -12 dB, it can be determined that the tobacco stick 40 is in a second state in which the aerosol source has been heated to a greater extent than in the first state. In this case, the power of the microwaves delivered to the receiving portion 12 is lower in the second state than in the first state, thus increasing the output intensity of the microwaves compared to the first state, so that the power applied to the tobacco stick 40 can be maintained.

[0125] Furthermore, it can be determined that no tobacco stick 40 is inserted if |S11| is not below a predetermined value (e.g., below -6 dB) at any frequency in the range of 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz.

[0126] Furthermore, the high-frequency oscillator 20 may include a reflected wave detection circuit for detecting reflected waves. In this case, the high-frequency oscillator 20 can be used as a detector, so the first waveguide 21 can connect the high-frequency oscillator 20 and the electromagnetic wave radiation unit 24, and the circulator 22, the second waveguide 23, the third waveguide 25, and the reflected wave detector 26 can be omitted. In this case, the control unit 30 can be implemented based on the detected intensity of the reflected wave obtained from the high-frequency oscillator 20. Figure 3 The processing of S202 in the process.

[0127] According to this embodiment, the type of tobacco stick can be determined based on the state of the tobacco stick (including its moisture content level). For example, different types of tobacco sticks can be determined so that tobacco stick A with high moisture content stored in a high humidity environment and tobacco stick A with low moisture content stored in a dry environment are heated using different heating profiles. This allows for the use of a suitable heating profile based on the dryness state of the tobacco stick 40.

[0128] This embodiment describes an instance where the aerosol generating device 10 determines the type of tobacco stick in order to specify the heating profile to be used. However, when the aerosol generating device 10 includes a user interface for accepting user operations, the tobacco stick can be heated using a heating profile specified by the user. In this case, the aerosol generating device 10 does not need to be based on, for example... Figure 3 The detection intensity shown determines the type of tobacco stick. Furthermore, when the aerosol generating device 10 includes a user interface for accepting user input, instructions regarding the type of tobacco stick 40 can be received from the user, and the tobacco stick 40 can be heated using a heating profile adapted to the accepted type.

[0129] Furthermore, this embodiment describes a case where the type of tobacco stick is determined based on the detection intensity in order to specify the heating profile to be used. However, determining the type of tobacco stick based on the detection intensity can be used for other purposes, such as determining whether the tobacco stick 40 can be heated by the aerosol generating device 10.

[0130] Furthermore, updates can be made based on data received by the control unit 30 from an external device via the communication unit 33, such as... Figure 5 and Figure 9 The heating curve shown, and Figure 7A and Figure 7B The heating mode corresponding to the target temperature shown, and Figure 3 The thresholds and frequencies shown are used to determine the type of tobacco stick 40. This allows for the detection and heating of new types of tobacco sticks 40 using updated parameters.

[0131] In one example, the control unit 30 can send information related to the type or state of the tobacco stick 40 determined in S202 to an external device via the communication unit 33. Then, the control unit 30 can acquire a heating curve from the external device via the communication unit 33. In this case, the control unit 30 can send a heating curve request signal to the external device via the communication unit 33, which includes information related to the type or state of the tobacco stick 40. For example, if it has been determined based on the type or state of the tobacco stick determined in S202 or S606 that a heating curve corresponding to the type or state of the tobacco stick 40 is not stored in the memory, the control unit 30 can send information related to the type or state of the tobacco stick 40 to the external device to acquire a heating curve from the external device. This allows for the acquisition of a heating curve corresponding to a new tobacco stick 40, or the updating of an already acquired heating curve.

[0132] The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be modified or altered in various ways within the scope of the essential points of the present invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device comprising: The containment portion is capable of containing at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol source. An oscillator used to emit electromagnetic waves; A supply unit for supplying the electromagnetic waves emitted by the oscillator to the housing portion; as well as The control unit is used to control the oscillator. Its features are, The control unit controls at least one of the output intensity and frequency of the electromagnetic waves output by the oscillator based on the target temperature of the aerosol-generating article contained in the containment portion.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 1, comprising: A reflected wave detector, used to detect reflected waves returned from the supply unit. The control unit is characterized in that it further controls at least one of the output strength and frequency of these electromagnetic waves based on the signal strength of the reflected waves detected by the reflected wave detector.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 2, comprising: A memory unit for storing information related to the output intensity of these electromagnetic waves in relation to the target temperature. The characteristic feature is that the control unit obtains information related to the output intensity of these electromagnetic waves from the memory unit based on the target temperature.

4. The aerosol generating device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The memory unit stores curve information in which the target temperature of the aerosol-generating article is correlated with the length of time elapsed since the start of the heat treatment of the aerosol-generating article. The control unit determines the target temperature of the aerosol-generating product contained in the containment section based on the curve information obtained from the memory unit.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The control unit identifies the type of aerosol generating product contained in the containment portion based on the signal intensity of the electromagnetic wave detected by the reflected wave detector, and acquires curve information corresponding to the identified type of aerosol generating product.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 5, characterized in that, When the intensity of the first frequency signal of the electromagnetic wave detected by the reflected wave detector is greater than the first threshold, the control unit determines that the first aerosol generating article is contained in the containing portion, and when the intensity of the first frequency signal of the electromagnetic wave detected by the reflected wave detector is equal to or less than the first threshold, the control unit determines that a second aerosol generating article different from the first aerosol generating article is contained in the containing portion.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The control unit controls at least one of the output intensity and frequency of the electromagnetic waves output by the oscillator based on the detection intensity of electromagnetic waves at a predetermined frequency that are repeatedly detected by the reflected wave detector when the aerosol generating article is contained in the containing portion.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that, The control unit controls at least one of the output intensity and frequency of the electromagnetic waves output by the oscillator based on the detection intensity of the electromagnetic waves detected by the reflected wave detector at multiple different frequencies when the aerosol generating article is contained in the containing portion.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising an object sensing unit for detecting the aerosol generating article placed in the receiving portion, characterized in that, The control unit determines at least one of the type and state of the aerosol-generating product based on the sensing results from the object sensing unit.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a user operation receiving unit for receiving user operations, characterized in that, The control unit determines at least one of the type and state of the aerosol-generating article based on the user operation received by the user operation receiving unit.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus as described in claim 9 or 10, comprising a communication unit, characterized in that, The control unit sends a signal via the communication unit requesting a heating curve corresponding to the determined type and state of the aerosol generating article, or sends a signal related to the determined type and state of the aerosol generating article.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The oscillator includes a semiconductor (solid-state) oscillator.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, These electromagnetic waves are microwaves.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The oscillator includes an isolator for absorbing reflected waves.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The oscillator includes an impedance matching unit.

16. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The control unit controls the oscillator by adjusting the transmit power or duty cycle.

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