Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol generating apparatus includes: an oscillator for generating microwaves; a resonator including a conductor defining a chamber for housing an aerosol generating article and resonating the microwaves; and a cooling coil for cooling the aerosol generating article, the cooling coil including: an inlet for allowing air to flow in from the outside; a winding portion including a flow path for the inflowing air and disposed inside the conductor; and an outlet for allowing air to flow out from the flow path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to an aerosol generating apparatus, and more particularly to a dielectric heating type aerosol generating apparatus including a cooling coil. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, the demand for aerosol generating devices has been gradually increasing. With this increasing demand, the related functions of aerosol generating devices have also been continuously developed. In particular, functions based on the types and characteristics of aerosol generating devices are constantly evolving. There is a growing need for a system that uses an aerosol generating device to heat aerosol-generating articles to generate aerosols, rather than generating aerosols by burning the articles. Electromagnetic wave heating technology is a technique that uses the principle of dielectric heating to heat objects. Electromagnetic wave heating technology can rapidly heat aerosol-generating articles. The above background technology was acquired or learned by the inventors during the invention process of this invention and should not be construed as necessarily being publicly known technology disclosed before the application for this invention. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The problem the invention aims to solve One aspect of this disclosure provides an aerosol generating apparatus including a cooling coil.

[0004] Technical means to solve the problem An aerosol generating apparatus includes: an oscillator for generating microwaves; a resonator including a conductor defining a chamber for housing an aerosol generating article and causing the microwaves to resonate; and a cooling coil for cooling the aerosol generating article, the cooling coil including: an inlet for allowing air to flow in from the outside; a winding portion including a flow path for the inflowing air and disposed inside the conductor; and an outlet for allowing air to flow out from the flow path.

[0005] At least a portion of the winding portion is configured to abut against at least a portion of the aerosol generating rod of the aerosol generating article.

[0006] The outer surface of the wound portion is made of metal.

[0007] The inlet is configured to be openable and closable.

[0008] The outlet is located inside the conductor.

[0009] The inlet extends from the outside of the resonator into the inside of the resonator.

[0010] The inlet extends from the outside of the chamber toward the center of the chamber.

[0011] The winding portion includes a double winding structure.

[0012] An aerosol generating apparatus includes: a sleeve defining an opening for inserting an aerosol generating article; an oscillator for generating microwaves; a resonator including a conductor defining a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating article and resonating the microwaves; and a cooling coil for cooling the aerosol generating article, the cooling coil including: an inlet for allowing air to flow in from the outside; a winding portion including a flow path for the inflowing air and disposed inside the sleeve; and an outlet for allowing air to flow out from the flow path.

[0013] At least a portion of the winding portion is configured to abut against at least a portion of the filter rod of the aerosol generating article.

[0014] The outer surface of the wound portion is made of metal.

[0015] The inlet is configured to be openable and closable.

[0016] The outlet is located in the sleeve.

[0017] The inlet extends from the outside of the resonator into the inside of the resonator.

[0018] The inlet extends from the outside of the sleeve toward the center of the sleeve.

[0019] Invention Effects According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus can cool the aerosol-generating article or aerosol. The effects of the aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent from the detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of an aerosol generating device.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the winding section.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the winding section.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the winding section. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals, the same or similar components will be assigned the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. Similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components in the description of the drawings.

[0030] The suffixes “module” and “unit” used in the following description for the purpose of drafting the specification are used interchangeably or for convenience only, and do not inherently have different meanings or functions. Furthermore, the suffixes “module” or “unit” can include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and can be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” can be a component that is integrally formed or the smallest unit or part of said component that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” can be implemented as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0031] Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of relevant well-known technologies will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the spirit of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification; the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the drawings and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and even substitutions included within the scope of the concepts and techniques of this disclosure.

[0032] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" can be used to describe multiple constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from other constituent elements.

[0033] When it is mentioned that a component is "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or directly coupled to the other component, but there may also be other components in between. Conversely, when it is mentioned that a component is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0034] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0035] Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in software that includes one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., a memory) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1). For example, a processor (e.g., processor 170) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1) can invoke at least one of the more than one instructions stored in the storage medium and execute that instruction. This enables the machine to operate in a manner that performs at least one function according to the invoked at least one instruction. The more than one instruction may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine can be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between semi-permanent and temporary storage of data in the storage medium.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a control unit 10, a source unit 20, and a radiating unit 30. The control unit 10 may refer to a circuit used to control the basic operation of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The source unit 20 may refer to a circuit that generates a radio frequency (RF) signal under the control of the control unit 10. The radiating unit 30 may refer to a device that radiates the RF signal generated by the source unit 20 in the form of electromagnetic waves into the space where the aerosol generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space). Through the radiated electromagnetic waves (e.g., RF signals), the charges or ions of the dielectric (e.g., glycerol) contained in the aerosol generating article can be caused to vibrate or rotate, and the frictional heat generated during the vibration or rotation of the charges or ions can heat the dielectric, thereby heating the aerosol generating article. In other words, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may be a device that generates aerosols by heating the aerosol generating article in a dielectric heating manner.

[0038] In one example, the control unit 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, the source unit 20 may include an RF signal generation circuit 210, a drive amplifier 220, a power amplifier 230, a directional coupler 240, and / or a temperature sensing circuit 250. However, those skilled in the art will understand that, according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1, this can be omitted. Figure 1 The elements shown are part of the constituent elements, or new constituent elements can be added.

[0039] Power connector 110 can refer to a physical connection device that electrically connects to an external electronic device or system (e.g., an external power source) for receiving and transmitting power. For example, power connector 110 can receive power from an external power source and deliver the received power to a component that needs charging (e.g., power supply 130). Power connector 110 can also provide a data transmission path. Aerosol generating device 1 can send and receive data with external electronic devices or systems (e.g., smartphones, computers, etc.) through power connector 110. Power connector 110 can include a Universal Serial Bus (USB) power connector, a Direct Current (DC) power connector, etc. In one example, power connector 110 can be a USB-C connector that provides 9V DC voltage at a current of 1A, but is not limited to this. Power connector 110 can also include an interface for wirelessly sending and receiving power.

[0040] Charging circuit 120 can refer to a circuit that charges power supply 130. Charging circuit 120 can charge power supply 130 using power supplied from power connector 110. In one example, charging circuit 120 can be a charging IC (Charger IC), which is an integrated circuit (IC) capable of enabling efficient and safe charging of power supply 130. Charging circuit 120 can monitor the charging status of power supply 130 or optimize the charging process by monitoring the voltage, current, and / or temperature of power supply 130. For example, charging circuit 120 can prevent overcharging or over-discharging by monitoring the status of power supply 130 and providing appropriate charging voltage and current.

[0041] Power supply 130 can supply power for the operation of aerosol generating device 1. Power supply 130 may include one or more rechargeable batteries. Power supply 130 can supply power to radiating unit 30, causing radiating unit 30 to radiate electromagnetic waves (e.g., RF signals) into the insertion space to heat the aerosol generating article. Here, supplying power to radiating unit 30 and supplying power to source unit 20 have the same meaning. In addition, power supply 130 can supply the power required for the operation of processor 170, RF signal generation circuit 210, drive amplifier 220, power amplifier 230, temperature sensing circuit 250, etc. In one example, power supply 130 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. Power supply 130 may be a replaceable (detachable) battery (hereinafter, removable battery). Removable battery may be installed in a battery housing provided in aerosol generating device 1, or may be removed from the battery housing. Removable battery may be charged by wired and / or wireless means.

[0042] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power conversion circuit for converting the power supplied by 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 regulator (LDO). Furthermore, the power conversion circuit may, as needed, include a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter).

[0043] In one example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a first power converter 140, a second power converter 150, and a third power converter 160. The first power converter 140 may be a low-dropout regulator (LDO) for providing suitable power (e.g., DC 3.3V) to the processor 170. The second power converter 150 may be a buck-boost converter for providing suitable power (e.g., DC 5V) to the temperature sensing circuit 250, the RF signal generation circuit 210, and the drive amplifier 220. The third power converter 160 may be a boost converter for providing suitable power (e.g., DC 12V / 25W) to the power amplifier 230.

[0044] 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 different types of power conversion circuits. Furthermore, although in Figure 1The illustration shows an aerosol generating device 1 comprising three power converters, but the aerosol generating device 1 may include three or more power converters, or may include fewer power converters. In one example, at least a portion of the first power converter 140, the second power converter 150, and the third power converter 160 may be integrated into a single power converter.

[0045] The processor 170 can control the entire operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the processor 170 can directly or indirectly control the charging and discharging of the power supply 130 using the charging circuit 120. Furthermore, the processor 170 can regulate the voltage and / or current output by the power conversion circuit by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulses input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit. In addition to the components described above, the processor 170 can also control the operation of other components described later.

[0046] The processor 170 can be implemented by an array of multiple logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller (MCU) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program that can be executed in the MCU. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains that the processor 170 can also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0047] 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. An RF signal is a signal with a frequency in the range of 300 MHz to 300 GHz. In one example, the frequency of the RF signal can be from 1 GHz to 100 GHz. Furthermore, the frequency of the RF signal can be in the Industrial, Scientific and Medical equipment (ISM) band, for example, 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, and / or 5.8 GHz.

[0048] The RF signal generation circuit 210 may include a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) that generates RF signals with different frequencies based on the input voltage. The RF signal generation circuit 210 may receive control signals (e.g., DC signals) from the processor 170 and generate RF signals with frequencies corresponding to the received control signals. The processor 170 may store the control signals corresponding to the desired frequencies in the form of a lookup table, or calculate the control signals corresponding to the desired frequencies in real time through at least one operation.

[0049] In one 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 generating circuit 210 may receive the analog control signals and generate an RF signal having a frequency corresponding to the received analog control signals.

[0050] The driver amplifier 220 can amplify the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit 210. For example, the driver amplifier 220 can provide an input signal suitable for the next stage component (e.g., power amplifier 230) by amplifying the signal level (e.g., amplitude) of the RF signal. The driver amplifier 220 can minimize signal distortion by maintaining high linearity. However, the driver amplifier 220 is an amplifier focused on increasing the signal level and can provide relatively low output power.

[0051] Power amplifier 230 can amplify the power of the RF signal received from drive amplifier 220. Power amplifier 230 can be an amplifier focused on providing sufficient power to the final output device (e.g., radiator 30). For example, power amplifier 230 can provide a high-power RF signal to radiator 30 to cause radiator 30 to radiate electromagnetic waves into the insertion space to heat the aerosol generating article. Power amplifier 230 can perform amplification operation using power received from third power converter 160, which can provide power and / or voltage higher than that of second power converter 150.

[0052] The driver amplifier 220 and power amplifier 230 may include transistors such as bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), field-effect transistors (FETs), or vacuum tubes. In one example, the driver amplifier 220 and power amplifier 230 may be gallium nitride (GaN) transistors capable of handling high efficiency, high speed, and high voltage, but are not limited thereto. The driver amplifier 220 and power amplifier 230 may include operational amplifiers.

[0053] In addition, although Figure 1 The drive amplifier 220 and power amplifier 230 shown are separate amplifiers, but they can be integrated into a single amplifier. Furthermore, the drive amplifier 220 and / or power amplifier 230 can be composed of multiple amplifiers connected in series, in parallel, and / or in combinations thereof.

[0054] The radiating section 30 may include one or more antennas for radiating electromagnetic waves into space. The size and shape of the one or more antennas may be adapted to the size and shape of the aerosol-generating article. For example, if the aerosol-generating article is cylindrical, the one or more antennas may be tubular structures surrounding the cylindrical aerosol-generating article. The term "tubular shape" can refer to the overall shape of the antenna being tubular. In other words, when the antenna is formed as a metal (such as stainless steel) track, it can refer to the overall shape of the entire track being tubular. The shape of the one or more antennas is not limited to the above examples and may include various shapes such as flat plates and curved plates.

[0055] The radiating section 30 can radiate electromagnetic waves (e.g., amplified or reflected 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 needs to be generated within the insertion space. The resonance conditions of the insertion space (e.g., resonant frequency) may vary due to factors such as the dielectric content in the inserted aerosol-generating article. The processor 170 can adjust the control signal input to the RF signal generation circuit 210 to control the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit 210 to correspond to or approach the resonance conditions of the insertion space. The processor 170 can obtain information about the resonance conditions in the insertion space using the directional coupler 240.

[0056] The directional coupler 240 can refer to a passive device having a waveguide structure capable of separating incident and reflected waves. The directional coupler 240 can receive RF signals transmitted from the power amplifier 230 to the radiating section 30 and electromagnetic waves reflected from the insertion space after radiation by the radiating section 30. The directional coupler 240 can separate the reflected RF signals and reflected electromagnetic waves and transmit them to the processor 170.

[0057] In one example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include an analog-to-digital (A / D) converter for converting the analog output of the directional coupler 240 into a digital output. The A / D converter may be integrated into the processor 170 or exist externally to the processor 170. The processor 170 can analyze the characteristics of the reflected RF signal (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase, and / or frequency) and the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic wave (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase, and / or frequency) by monitoring the output of the directional coupler 240.

[0058] The processor 170 can confirm whether the source unit 20 is operating as expected based on the characteristics of the reflected RF signal. Furthermore, the characteristics of the reflected RF signal, together with the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic wave, can be used to determine the heating efficiency of the source unit 20 or the radiating unit 30. The processor 170 controls the source unit 20 to maximize the heating efficiency of the source unit 20 or the radiating unit 30. For example, the processor 170 can adjust the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit 210 to minimize the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave. Minimizing the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave can mean that the frequency of the RF signal is close to the resonance condition of the insertion space. The characteristics of the reflected RF signal can provide a reference for whether the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave has been minimized.

[0059] Depending on the frequency of the RF signal, electromagnetic wave resonance may occur in the insertion space; therefore, the insertion space can be referred to as a resonant section. At least a portion of the insertion space is surrounded by at least one shielding component to prevent electromagnetic waves from leaking to the outside of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. According to one embodiment, the insertion space may further include a physical structure that keeps the resonance conditions within the controllable range of the processor 170. The physical structure may include at least one conductor, and the resonance conditions of the insertion space may vary depending on the arrangement, thickness, and length of the conductor. Furthermore, the physical structure, distinct from the dielectric contained in the aerosol generating article, may include a space for accommodating a dielectric with low electromagnetic wave absorption. A dielectric with low electromagnetic wave absorption can change the resonant frequency of the entire resonant section without absorbing the energy to be transferred to the heated object. Therefore, even with miniaturization of the resonant section, the resonance conditions can be determined within the controllable range of the processor 170.

[0060] The temperature sensing circuit 250 can be arranged in contact with or adjacent to the components included in the source section 20 to measure the temperature of the source section 20. For example, the temperature sensing circuit 250 can be arranged in contact with or adjacent to at least one of the RF signal generation circuit 210, the drive amplifier 220, and the power amplifier 230. During the generation and / or amplification of the RF signal, heat is generated due to limited efficiency. If excessive heat is generated, it may negatively affect the components included in the source section 20 or other components included in the aerosol generation apparatus 1. The temperature measured by the temperature sensing circuit 250 can be used to prevent the source section 20 from overheating.

[0061] The processor 170 receives a measured temperature (or a value corresponding to the temperature) from the temperature sensing circuit 250. When it determines that the source unit 20 is overheating, it can stop the operation of the source unit 20. For example, the processor 170 can stop the operation of the source unit 20 by stopping the power supply to the source unit 20 or by sending a control signal. In the following text, supplying power to the source unit 20 refers to controlling whether the source unit 20 is running.

[0062] The temperature sensing circuit 250 may include at least one of the following sensors: a thermocouple, a resistance temperature detector (RTD), a thermistor, a semiconductor temperature sensor, and an optical temperature sensor. In one example, the temperature sensing circuit 250 may be a chip-type sensor (e.g., a negative temperature coefficient (NTC)) to minimize its footprint, but is not limited thereto.

[0063] In addition to the components shown in the accompanying drawings, 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, when the aerosol generating apparatus 1 is a hybrid device that simultaneously uses an aerosol generating article and a cartridge, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a cartridge heater. The cartridge heater receives power from the power source 130 to heat the medium and / or aerosol generating substance within the cartridge.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the sensed information to the processor 170. For example, the sensor unit may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a reuse sensor, an overly moist sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge sensor, a cap sensor, and / or a motion sensor. In addition, the sensor unit may also include various sensors such as a liquid level sensor for sensing the remaining liquid in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for sensing the immersion of the aerosol generating device 1 in water.

[0065] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature of an insertion space or an aerosol-generating article. The temperature sensor can be arranged to contact or be adjacent to the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article to directly measure its temperature. Alternatively, the temperature sensor can be arranged spaced apart from the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article and to indirectly (e.g., non-contactly) measure its temperature. In one example, the temperature sensor may include an optical temperature sensor (e.g., an infrared temperature sensor).

[0066] According to one embodiment, a 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 mounted on a surface of a printed circuit board. As an example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power protection circuit (PCM), and the temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 130 together with the power protection circuit.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may also be arranged inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 1 to sense the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0068] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0069] As an 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 aforementioned signal corresponding to the internal pressure. The internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 may correspond to the pressure of the gas flow channel. The suction sensor may be arranged in the aerosol generating device 1 corresponding to the gas flow channel.

[0070] As another example, the suction sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user performs suction, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow channel, insertion space, aerosol-generating material, etc. The processor 170 can detect the user's suction based on a signal output from the temperature sensor corresponding to the temperature of the airflow channel, etc.

[0071] As another example, the suction sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor can measure the temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an example, the suction sensor can correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the suction sensor can 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 can receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0072] As another example, the suction sensor may include a capacitive sensor. In this disclosure, a capacitive sensor may also be referred to as a cap sensor or capacitive sensor. When a user performs suction, temperature changes and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space, thereby potentially changing the dielectric constant inside the insertion space. The processor 170 can detect the user's suction based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0073] The suction sensor is not limited to the examples above and can be implemented by a variety of sensors used to sense a user's suction.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor is capable of sensing the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion sensing sensor may be disposed around the perimeter of the insertion space.

[0075] As an example, the insertion sensing sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor may change. The processor 170 may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., within the insertion space.

[0076] As another example, the insertion sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and the at least one coil may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When the aerosol generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, a change in the magnetic field may be generated around the coil through which the current flows if the aerosol generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space. The processor 170 may sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the alternating current). Alternatively, an inductive heating element (SUS) may also be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the dielectric portion of the aerosol generating article). Even in this case, a change in the magnetic field around the coil may be generated based on the insertion or removal of the heating element or the like in the insertion space, and the processor 170 is able to sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article based on the current characteristics of the inductive sensor.

[0077] The insertion sensing sensor is not limited to the examples described above, and can be implemented by various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors) used to sense the insertion and / or removal of aerosol-generating articles. Furthermore, the insertion sensing sensor can also include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor may also include a switch, etc., for sensing pressure generated by the aerosol-generating article.

[0078] According to one embodiment, a reuse sensing sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generated article has been reused. As an example, the reuse sensing sensor can be a color sensor for sensing the color of the aerosol-generated article. If a user uses the aerosol-generated article, the color of a portion of the outer casing of the article may change due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor can output a signal corresponding to the optical characteristics (e.g., wavelength of light) of the color of the outer casing based on light reflected from it. If a color change is detected in a portion of the outer casing, the processor 170 can determine that the aerosol-generated article inserted into the insertion space has been used.

[0079] According to one embodiment, an over-humidity sensing sensor can sense whether an aerosol-generating article is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity sensing 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-generating article is in an over-humid state based on the level of a signal corresponding to a dielectric constant, etc., output from the capacitive sensor. As an example, the processor 170 can determine the level range into which the signal level falls according to a lookup table, and determine the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article based on the determined level range.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0081] As an example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a light sensor for sensing an identification substance (or identification mark) located on the outer surface of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a packaging component). The light sensor may illuminate the identification substance (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the reflected light. For example, the identification substance may include a substance that emits light of a specific wavelength based on the illuminated light. The processor 170 may detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the range of said wavelengths.

[0082] As another example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into it. The processor 170 can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0083] As another example, a cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. When the packaging and / or interior (e.g., the dielectric portion) of the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space includes a conductor, the characteristics of the current sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The processor 170 can detect whether the inserted aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor.

[0084] Cigarette identification sensors are not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented using various sensors for sensing whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or for sensing the type of aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, cigarette identification sensors can also include any combination of the examples described above.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the cartridge sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of the cartridge. For example, the cartridge sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall effect sensor (Hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0086] According to one embodiment, a cap sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of a cap. For example, the cap sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall effect sensor (HAL IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device 1. If the cap is installed in or removed from the housing, the cap sensing sensor may output a signal corresponding to the installation or removal, and the processor 170 may sense the installation or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the installation or removal.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the motion sensing sensor is capable of sensing the motion of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion sensing sensor can be implemented by at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

[0088] According to one embodiment, 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)), or a proximity sensor. Since a person skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the output unit can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. The output unit may include, but is not limited to, a display, a haptic unit, and / or an audio output unit. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 may include the charging / discharging status of the power supply 130, the preheating status of the source unit 20 or the radiation unit 30, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the installation and / or removal status of the cover, or a status where the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., abnormal object detected). The display can visually provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the display may include a light-emitting diode (LED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), etc. If the display includes a touchpad, the display can also be used as an input unit. The haptic unit can tactilely provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the tactile part may include a vibrating motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulation device, etc. The sound output part can provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 in an auditory manner. For example, the sound output part can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the input unit can receive information input by a user. For example, the input unit may include a touch panel, buttons, a keyboard, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the memory is hardware used to store various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1, and can store data processed in the processor 170 and data to be processed. For example, the memory may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card micro, card-type memory (e.g., SD (Secure Digital) or XD (Extreme Digital) memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. For example, the memory may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0092] According to one embodiment, 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 Ant+ (Adaptive Network Topology) communication unit, a Cellular Network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, or a Computer Network (e.g., a Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN)) communication unit, etc.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can control the temperature of the insertion space or aerosol-generating article by controlling the amplification rate of the source unit 20 (e.g., power amplifier 230). The processor 170 can control the amplification rate of the source unit 20 (e.g., power amplifier 230) based on the temperature of the insertion space or aerosol-generating article sensed by 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.

[0094] Furthermore, the processor 170 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater by supplying power to the cartridge heater via the control power supply 130. The processor 170 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the power supplied to the cartridge heater based on the temperature of the cartridge heater sensed by a temperature sensor. The processor 170 can also control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the power supplied to the cartridge heater based on temperature and / or power curves stored in memory.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can prevent overheating of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, and / or the cartridge heater. For example, the processor 170 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit based on the temperature of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, and / or the cartridge heater exceeding a preset limit temperature, thereby reducing the power supplied to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater or interrupting the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can control the power supplied to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on the results sensed by the sensor unit.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article relative to the insertion space. For example, if the insertion sensing sensor determines that the aerosol generating article has been inserted into the insertion space, the processor 170 can control the supply of power to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater. If the insertion sensing sensor determines that the aerosol generating article has been removed from the insertion space, the processor 170 can cut off 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 above a limit temperature or the slope of the temperature change of the insertion space or the aerosol generating article is above a set slope, the processor 170 can determine that the aerosol generating article has been removed from the insertion space.

[0098] According to one 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, if the processor determines that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state using an over-humidity sensing sensor, the processor 170 can increase the power supply time to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater (e.g., preheating time).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating article has been reused. For example, if the processor 170 determines that the aerosol generating article has been used, it can cut off the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on whether the cartridge is attached and / or removed. For example, if the cartridge sensing sensor determines that the cartridge is in a detached state, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater to be interrupted or not to be supplied with power to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge is depleted. For example, if the processor 170 determines that the temperature of the cartridge heater exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period of the cartridge heater (i.e., the preheating interval), it can determine that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge is depleted. In the case that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge is determined to be depleted, the processor 170 can cut off the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on whether the cartridge is available. For example, based on data stored in the memory, if the processor 170 determines that the current number of puffs exceeds the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge, it can determine that the cartridge cannot be used. Alternatively, the processor 170 can determine that the cartridge cannot be used if the total heating time of the cartridge heater exceeds a preset maximum time or the total electrical power supplied to the cartridge heater exceeds a preset maximum electrical power. In this case, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater to be interrupted or not to be supplied with power to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater based on the user's inhalation. For example, the processor 170 can use a vaping sensor to determine whether an inhalation has occurred and / or the intensity of the inhalation. If the number of inhalations has reached a preset maximum number of inhalations and / or no inhalation is detected for a preset time, the processor 170 can cut off the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater. When an inhalation is sensed, the processor 170 can control the power supply to the source unit 20 or the cartridge heater.

[0104] According to one embodiment, processor 170 can control the power supply to source unit 20 or cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is genuine and / or its type. For example, processor 170 can use a cigarette recognition sensor to detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type. As an example, if the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be counterfeit, processor 170 can cut off the power supply to source unit 20 or cartridge heater. If the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be genuine, processor 170 can control (e.g., start) the power supply to source unit 20 or cartridge heater. As 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 article (or cartridge). More specifically, if the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as 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 second cartridge) is detected as 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).

[0105] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can control the output unit based on the results sensed by the sensor unit. For example, if the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor reaches a preset number, the processor 170 can control the output unit to provide information that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to end its operation in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner. For example, the processor 170 can control the output unit to provide information about the temperature of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, or the cartridge heater in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can store and update the history of events that have occurred in the memory based on the occurrence of predetermined events. For example, events may include operations performed in the aerosol generating device 1 such as sensing the insertion of an aerosol generating article, starting heating of the aerosol generating article, sensing inhalation, ending inhalation, sensing overheating, sensing overvoltage applied to the cartridge heater, ending heating of the aerosol generating article, turning the power supply of the aerosol generating device 1 on / off, starting charging of the power supply 130, sensing overcharging of the power supply 130, and ending charging of the power supply 130. For example, the event history may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is sensing the insertion of an aerosol generating article, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the sensing value of the insertion sensing sensor. For example, if the predetermined event is sensing overheating of the cartridge heater, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the temperature of the cartridge heater, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater, and the current flowing in the cartridge heater.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can control the communication unit to form a communication link with an external device such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0108] According to one embodiment, if authentication data is received from an external device via a communication link, the processor 170 can remove usage restrictions on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., heating function). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique phone number representing the user, and whether the user has completed authentication.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can send data about the status of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply 130, operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The sent data can be output through a display or the like on the external device.

[0110] According to one embodiment, if a location search request for 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 unit to vibrate, or control the display to output objects corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0111] According to one embodiment, if firmware data is received from an external device via a communication link, the processor 170 can perform a firmware update.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the processor 170 can send data about the detection 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 the detection values ​​through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The processor 170 can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0113] Although Figure 1 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may include at least one switching element and may disconnect the circuit of the power supply 130 in response to overcharging and / or over-discharging of the power supply 130.

[0114] The aerosol generating article mentioned in this disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium section) and at least one filter rod. The radiating section 30 may be arranged corresponding to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may contain at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating substance, and additives. For example, the aerosol generating substance may contain glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the additive may contain flavoring agents and / or organic acids, or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the aerosol generating rod may contain an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco substance (e.g., the aerosol generating substance and / or nicotine), and / or may contain solid tobacco substances (e.g., tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). Tobacco substances can be contained in the aerosol generating rod in various forms such as shreds, granules, and powder. According to one embodiment, the additives in the aerosol generating rod may contain an alkaline substance. Based on the alkaline substance, the nicotine in the tobacco substances contained in the aerosol generating rod can have an alkaline pH value (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, the aerosol generating rod can release free base nicotine even at lower temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod may comprise two or more aerosol generating rods, and the two or more aerosol generating rods may each contain tobacco substances and / or non-tobacco substances. Additionally, although not shown, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each be wrapped by at least one wrapper, and / or wrapped together by at least one wrapper. In this disclosure, the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as a stick.

[0115] The cartridge mentioned in this disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may comprise a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing substances found in tobacco (including volatile tobacco flavor components) or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. Additionally, the cartridge may include a storage section for containing the aerosol-generating substance and / or a liquid delivery member for impregnating (containing) the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the liquid delivery member may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The cartridge heater may be included in the cartridge in the form of a coil surrounding (or winding) the liquid delivery member or in a structure contacting one side of the liquid delivery member. Alternatively, the cartridge heater may also be included in an aerosol-generating device 1 that can be separated from the cartridge.

[0116] Those skilled in the art will understand that terms such as “substantially,” “approximately,” “usually,” and “about” used in this specification when referring to a given parameter, property, or condition mean that the given parameter, property, or condition satisfies a small degree of variance, such as manufacturing tolerance. For example, substantially satisfying any particular parameter may mean satisfying at least 90%, 95%, or 99%.

[0117] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of an aerosol generating device.

[0118] Reference Figure 2 The aerosol generating apparatus 300 can be understood as a configuration for generating aerosols from the aerosol generating article 2. The aerosol generating article 2 may include one or more aerosol generating rods 2a (e.g., a medium section) and one or more filter rods 2b. The aerosol generating apparatus 300 may include a housing 310 for housing the aerosol generating article 2; and a heater assembly 400 for heating the aerosol generating article 2 housed within the housing 310.

[0119] The housing 310 can form the overall appearance of the aerosol generating device 300, and the components of the aerosol generating device 300 can be arranged in the internal space (or "mounting space") of the housing 310. For example, the heater assembly 400, battery, processor and / or sensor can be arranged in the internal space of the housing 310, but the components arranged in the internal space of the housing 310 are not limited to this.

[0120] A region of the housing 310 may form a housing opening 310h. At least one region of the aerosol generating article 2 may be inserted into the interior of the housing 310 through the housing opening 310h. For example, the housing opening 310h may be formed in a region of the upper end face of the housing 310 (e.g., the +Z normal direction face), but the location of the housing opening 310h is not limited to this.

[0121] The heater assembly 400 is disposed within the interior space of the housing 310 and heats the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into or housed within the housing 310 through the housing opening 310h. For example, the heater assembly 400 may surround at least one region of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into or housed within the housing 310, thereby heating the aerosol generating article 2.

[0122] The heater assembly 400 can heat the aerosol-generating article 2 using dielectric heating. In this document, "dielectric heating" refers to a method of heating a dielectric material, the object to be heated, using the resonance of microwaves and / or microwave electric fields (or including magnetic fields). Microwaves, as the energy source for heating the object, are generated by high-frequency electricity; in the following text, "microwaves" may be used interchangeably with microwave electricity.

[0123] Based on the microwave resonance inside the heater assembly 400, the charges or ions of the dielectric contained inside the aerosol generating article 2 will vibrate or rotate. The frictional heat generated during the vibration or rotation of the charges or ions will generate heat in the dielectric, thereby heating the aerosol generating article 2.

[0124] When the heater assembly 400 heats the aerosol generating item 2, the aerosol generating item 2 generates aerosols. In this document, "aerosol" may refer to gaseous particles formed by the mixture of vapor and air generated when the aerosol generating item 2 is heated.

[0125] The aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article 2 can pass through the aerosol generating article 2 or be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 300 through the gap between the aerosol generating article 2 and the housing opening 310h. The user smokes by contacting an area of ​​the aerosol generating article 2 exposed to the outside of the housing 310 through his mouth and inhaling the aerosol discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 300.

[0126] The aerosol generating device 300 may include a cover 311, which is movably disposed on the housing 310 to open or close the housing opening 310h. The cover 311 is slidably coupled to the upper end face (e.g., the +Z normal direction face) of the housing 310 to expose the housing opening 310h to the outside of the aerosol generating device 300, or to cover the housing opening 310h so that the housing opening 310h is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 300.

[0127] When the cover 311 is in the first position (e.g., the open position), the housing opening 310h can be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 300. When the aerosol generating device 300 is exposed to the outside, the aerosol generating article 2 can be inserted into the interior of the housing 310 through the housing opening 310h.

[0128] When the cover 311 is in the second position (e.g., the closed position), the housing opening 310h is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 300. In this way, when the aerosol generating device 300 is not in use, the cover 311 can prevent external foreign objects from flowing into the interior of the heater assembly 400 through the housing opening 310h.

[0129] Although Figure 1 Only an aerosol generating apparatus 300 for heating the solid aerosol generating article 2 is shown, but the aerosol generating apparatus 300 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. The aerosol generating apparatus 300 can also generate aerosols by heating liquid or gel-state aerosol generating substances via a heater assembly 400, and is not limited to the solid aerosol generating article 2. The aerosol generating apparatus 300 may include a heater assembly 400 for heating the aerosol generating article 2, and may also include a cartridge (or “vaporizer”) containing liquid or gel-state aerosol generating substances for heating the aerosol generating substances. The aerosol generated by the aerosol generating substances can move along an airflow channel connecting the cartridge and the aerosol generating article 2, and after mixing with the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article 2, is delivered to the user via the aerosol generating article 2.

[0130] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly.

[0131] Reference Figure 3 The heater assembly 400 can generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating article 2 via dielectric heating. The heater assembly 400 may include an oscillator 410 for generating electromagnetic waves (e.g., oscillator 410 for generating electromagnetic waves). Figure 1The electromagnetic waves generated by the oscillator 410 can be transmitted to the space containing the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., chamber 424C). For example, the oscillator 410 can output microwave power to the resonator 420. The shape of the space used to contain the aerosol generating article 2 can be a shape that allows the electromagnetic waves to resonate effectively. The electromagnetic waves can be microwaves. For example, the wavelength of the microwaves can be between 1 millimeter (mm) and 1 meter (m). The electromagnetic waves escaping from the resonator 420 can enter the chamber 424C, and the escaping electromagnetic waves can heat the aerosol generating article 2.

[0132] The resonator 420 can be formed based on a first wall 421, a second wall 422 opposite to the first wall 421, a sidewall 423 between the first wall 421 and the second wall 422, and an internal conductor 424. The first wall 421, the second wall 422, the sidewall 423, and the internal conductor 424 may contain metal. The sidewall 423 may function as an outer conductor. The resonator 420 can generate an amplified electromagnetic field by causing supplied microwaves to resonate. At least a portion of the electromagnetic field generated by microwave resonance can heat an aerosol generating rod (e.g., inserted inside the resonator 420) Figure 2 Aerosol generating rod 2a) is used to generate aerosol. Resonator 420 can be a 1 / 4 wavelength resonator. The first end of resonator 420 (e.g., the -Z direction end) can be short-circuited through the metal wall, and the second end opposite to the first end (e.g., the +Z direction end) can be open-circuited.

[0133] The sidewall 423 shown in the figure has a square cross-section, but its shape can be changed to various other shapes. For example, the structure of the sidewall 423 can be changed to have a rectangular, elliptical, or circular cross-section. The sidewall 423 can extend relatively long in one direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction). The inner conductor 424 shown in the figure has a circular cross-section, but its shape can be changed to various other shapes. The cross-sectional shape of the inner conductor 424 can correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating article 2. The resonator 420 can be formed by a cavity between the rectangular sidewall 423 and the inner conductor 424.

[0134] The inner surface of the inner conductor 424 may define a chamber 424C for housing the aerosol-generating article 2. The heater assembly 400 may include a heater opening 440h connected to the chamber 424C. The heater assembly 400 may include a sleeve 440 defining the heater opening 440h and extending through the second wall 422. The material of the sleeve 440 may contain a material capable of preventing the propagation of electromagnetic fields from inside the heater assembly 400 to the outside. The sleeve 440 may also include a material that does not affect the propagation of electromagnetic fields.

[0135] The internal conductor 424 can be connected to the first end (e.g., the -Z direction end) of the resonator 420 via the first wall 421. The internal conductor 424 may not be connected to other metals and may include an open end 425. The internal conductor 424 and the heater assembly 400 may be formed inside the heater assembly 400 such that at least a portion of the aerosol generating rod 2a inserted into the heater assembly 400 may be located at the open end 425, and at least a portion of the filter rod 2b may be located inside the sleeve 440 (or the heater opening 440h).

[0136] The resonator 420 may be formed from a first end of a first wall 421 based on the heater assembly 400 and a portion of an inner conductor 424. That is, the resonator 420 may be a ring around the center of the inner conductor 424.

[0137] The first end of the resonator 420 can be formed as a closed end where the outer conductor (or wall) and the center conductor are connected. The second end of the resonator 420, opposite the first end, can be formed as an open end where the outer conductor (or wall) and the center conductor are not connected and are separated from each other, so that the resonator 420 has 1 / 4 of the microwave wavelength. The length between the first end and the second end can be an integer multiple of 1 / 4 of the microwave wavelength within the resonator 420. When microwaves are confined to a closed space such as the resonator 420, their wavelength will differ from the microwave wavelength radiated in free space. For example, the microwave wavelength can vary based on the structural factors of the resonator 420. As another example, the microwave wavelength in the dielectric within the resonator 420 will shorten as the dielectric constant of the dielectric increases.

[0138] The user can insert the aerosol generating rod 2a through the heater opening 440h, such that the aerosol generating rod 2a is adjacent to the first end based on the first wall 421 and the open end 425 of the inner conductor 424 located on the opposite side. The aerosol generating rod 2a can be a tobacco medium. For example, the aerosol generating rod 2a can contain an aerosol forming agent, such as glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0139] The heater assembly 400 may include a microwave coupler 430 configured to supply electromagnetic waves to a resonator 420. The microwave coupler 430 supplies microwaves to the cavity of the heater assembly 400, and the microwaves resonate through the resonator 420. The resonating microwaves form an amplified electromagnetic field within the resonator 420, and at least a portion of the electromagnetic field can heat the aerosol generating rod 2a.

[0140] By using the open end 425, which is not connected to the internal conductor 424 and the heater opening 440h, at least a portion of the electromagnetic field can also act on the aerosol generating rod 2a through the open end 425. In particular, the aerosol generating rod 2a is more easily heated due to the strong electromagnetic field formed around the open end 425. For example, the strongest electromagnetic field can be generated at the open end 425 where a resonance peak is formed on the side of the resonator 420. A portion of the formed electromagnetic field escapes to the aerosol generating rod 2a adjacent to the resonator 420, and the escaped electromagnetic field can heat the aerosol generating rod 2a. In other words, the method of heating the aerosol generating rod 2a described above does not directly heat the aerosol generating matrix located within the resonator 420, but rather heats the aerosol generating matrix based on the electromagnetic field escaping through the open end 425.

[0141] Furthermore, based on the structure of the resonator 420, leakage of the electromagnetic field towards the heater opening 440h, which is not within the region of the resonator 420, can be prevented. In other words, the electromagnetic field escaping to the aerosol generating rod 2a will only heat the aerosol generating rod 2a and will not propagate outwards (e.g., towards the user's mouth). Since the electromagnetic field will not propagate (or leak) into spaces outside the resonator 420 region, the aerosol generating device 300 does not need to have a separate function or structure for shielding the electromagnetic field.

[0142] The diameter of the heater opening 440h can be less than half the microwave wavelength. If the diameter of the heater opening 440h is less than half the microwave wavelength, the microwave that causes resonance can be cut off.

[0143] The user can inhale the aerosol generated by the heated aerosol generating rod 2a through the aerosol generating item 2.

[0144] The cavity of resonator 420 can be filled with a low-loss dielectric (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene, quartz, alumina, etc.). Filling the cavity with a low-loss dielectric can further reduce the size of resonator 420.

[0145] Although referenced Figure 3An aerosol generating apparatus 300 is described that uses a resonator 420 formed based on a heater assembly 400 to generate microwave resonance, but the method of generating microwave resonance is not limited to the method described above. For example, the sleeve 440 may include a conductor to serve as an additional internal conductor. The region formed between the sidewall 423, which serves as an outer conductor, and the sleeve 440, which serves as an internal conductor, can be used as a second resonator, which can generate an electric field through microwave resonance. The sleeve 440, which serves as an internal conductor, can be coupled to the internal conductor 424 (e.g., capacitive coupling), and when the internal conductor 424 generates an electric field, an induced electric field is also generated on the side of the sleeve 440. For example, when microwaves generated by the oscillator 410 are transmitted to the internal conductor 424, an electric field is generated around the internal conductor 424 due to resonance, and an induced electric field is generated in the region formed by the sidewall 423, which serves as an outer conductor, and the sleeve 440, which serves as an internal conductor and is coupled to the internal conductor 424.

[0146] The aerosol generating apparatus 300 may include a cooling coil 500 for cooling the aerosol generating article 2. The cooling coil 500 may include an inlet 510 that allows air to flow in from the outside. The inlet 510 may be configured to be openable and closable. For example, the inlet 510 may include a valve 511, which a user can adjust to open or close the inlet 510. The inlet 510 may extend from the outside of the resonator 420 to the inside of the resonator 420. The inlet 510 may also extend from the outside of the chamber 424C toward the center of the chamber 424C.

[0147] The cooling coil 500 may include a flow path for incoming airflow and a wound portion 520 disposed inside the internal conductor 424. The wound portion 520 may include a shape wound relative to an axis (e.g., the Z-axis or the central axis of the aerosol generating article 2). At least a portion of the wound portion 520 may abut against a portion of the aerosol generating article 2. For example, the portion of the wound portion 520 facing its central axis may abut against a portion of the aerosol generating rod 2a. When the aerosol generating article 2 is received in the chamber 424C, the aerosol generating rod 2a may be inserted into the wound portion 520.

[0148] The outer surface of the winding portion 520 may contain metal. The outer surface of the winding portion 520 may be configured to scatter electromagnetic waves. Even if the winding portion 520 is arranged inside the inner conductor 424, overheating of the aerosol generating rod 2a can be reduced or prevented while heating the aerosol generating article 2.

[0149] The cooling coil 500 may include an outlet 530 for air to flow out from the flow path. The outlet 530 may be arranged inside the conductor 424. An airflow channel connecting the inlet 510 to the outlet 530 via the flow path of the winding portion 520 can be defined when the user inhales the aerosol generating article 2. When the user needs to cool (overheated) the aerosol generating article 2 (i.e., the aerosol generating rod 2a) by inhaling aerosol, the inlet 510 can be opened by the valve 511, thereby inhaling the aerosol generating article 2 in an open state, at which time the air flowing in the airflow channel can cool the aerosol generating article 2.

[0150] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly.

[0151] Reference Figure 4 Aerosol generating devices (e.g.: Figure 2 The aerosol generating apparatus 300 may include a cooling coil 500-1 for cooling the aerosol generating article 2. The cooling coil 500-1 may include an inlet 510-1 for allowing air to flow in from the outside. The inlet 510-1 may extend from the outside of the resonator 420 to the inside of the resonator 420. The inlet 510-1 may extend from the outside of the sleeve 440 toward the center of the sleeve 440.

[0152] The cooling coil 500-1 may include a flow path for incoming airflow and may include a winding portion 520-1 disposed inside the sleeve 440. At least a portion of the winding portion 520-1 may abut against a portion of the filter rod 2b. For example, the portion of the winding portion 520-1 facing its central axis may abut against a portion of the filter rod 2b. When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the heater opening 440h, the filter rod 2b may be inserted into the winding portion 520-1.

[0153] The winding portion 520-1 can reduce or prevent overheating of the filter rod 2b. When the user feels that the aerosol inhaled from the aerosol generating article 2 is too hot, the cooling coil 500 can be used to cool the filter rod 2b and reduce the temperature of the inhaled aerosol.

[0154] The cooling coil 500-1 may include an outlet 530-1 disposed inside the sleeve 440 for allowing air to flow out of the flow path.

[0155] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly.

[0156] Reference Figure 5The cooling coil 500-2 may include an inlet 510-2 for allowing air to flow in from the outside. The inlet 510-2 may extend from the outside of the resonator 420 to the inside of the resonator 420 from the periphery of the open end 425. The inlet 510-2 may extend from the outside of the cavity 424C toward the center of the cavity 424C from the periphery of the open end 425.

[0157] The cooling coil 500-2 may include a flow path for incoming airflow and may include a winding portion 520-2 disposed inside the inner conductor 424. The winding portion 520-2 may be wound relative to an axis (e.g., the Z-axis or the central axis of the aerosol generating article 2). The winding shape of the winding portion 520-2 may include a double winding structure, that is, first winding along one direction (e.g., the -Z direction or the direction from the filter rod 2b toward the aerosol generating rod 2a), and then folding back winding at a specific position (e.g., adjacent to the closed end (e.g., the -Z direction end)) in the opposite direction (e.g., the +Z direction or the direction from the aerosol generating rod 2a toward the filter rod 2b).

[0158] This double-wound structure allows the inlet 510-2 and outlet 530-2 to be arranged adjacent to each other along the length direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) of the aerosol-generating article 2, thus enabling uniform cooling of the aerosol-generating article 2. The winding portion 520-2 with the double-wound structure can cool the aerosol-generating article 2 more effectively. Although the start and end points of the winding portion 520-2 are described as being located around the open end 425, this is not a limitation; the start and end points of the winding portion 520-2 can also be located around the closed end.

[0159] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the winding section.

[0160] Reference Figure 6 The cooling coil 500 may include a winding portion 520 having a circular cross-section. Although the cross-section of the winding portion 520 shown in the figure is circular, its cross-sectional shape can be of various shapes. For example, the cross-section of the winding portion 520 can be other shapes such as polygons or ellipses.

[0161] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the winding section.

[0162] Reference Figure 7 The cooling coil 500-3 may include a plurality of external protrusions 521 arranged on the outer surface of the winding portion 520. The plurality of external protrusions 521 may increase the surface area of ​​the outer surface of the winding portion 520.

[0163] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the winding section.

[0164] Reference Figure 8 The cooling coil 500-4 may include a plurality of internal protrusions 522 arranged on the inner surface of the winding portion 520. The plurality of internal protrusions 522 may increase the surface area of ​​the inner surface of the winding portion 520.

[0165] The embodiments of this disclosure described above, or other embodiments, are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. The constituent elements or functions of the embodiments of this disclosure described above, or other embodiments, can be used together or combined with each other.

[0166] For example, this means that component A illustrated in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with component B illustrated in other embodiments and / or drawings. That is, this means that even if the combination between components is not directly described, they can be combined except where it is stated that combination is impossible.

[0167] The detailed description above should be considered exemplary in all respects and not construed as restrictive. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: An oscillator, used to generate microwaves; A resonator comprising a conductor defining a chamber for containing an aerosol-generating article, and causing the microwaves to resonate; as well as Cooling coils, which are used to cool the aerosol-generating articles. The cooling coil includes: Inlet, which allows air to flow in from the outside; The winding portion includes a flow path for incoming airflow and is arranged inside the conductor; and An outlet is provided for air to flow out from the flow path.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the winding portion is configured to abut against at least a portion of the aerosol generating rod of the aerosol generating article.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer surface of the wound portion is made of metal.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inlet is configured to be openable and closable.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outlet is located inside the conductor.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inlet extends from the outside of the resonator into the inside of the resonator.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The inlet extends from the outside of the chamber toward the center of the chamber.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The winding portion includes a double winding structure.

9. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: A sleeve that defines an opening for inserting an article that generates aerosols; An oscillator, used to generate microwaves; A resonator comprising a conductor defining a chamber for housing the aerosol-generating article and causing the microwaves to resonate; and Cooling coils, which are used to cool the aerosol-generating articles. The cooling coil includes: Inlet, which allows air to flow in from the outside; The winding portion includes a flow path for the incoming airflow and is arranged inside the sleeve; and An outlet is provided for air to flow out from the flow path.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, At least a portion of the winding portion is configured to abut against at least a portion of the filter rod of the aerosol generating article.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The outer surface of the wound portion is made of metal.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The inlet is configured to be openable and closable.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The outlet is located in the sleeve.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The inlet extends from the outside of the resonator into the inside of the resonator.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that, The inlet extends from the outside of the sleeve toward the center of the sleeve.

Images