aerosol generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a main body having an internal space formed on one side into which an aerosol-generating article is inserted, a susceptor housed within the main body for heating the aerosol-generating article, an induction coil surrounding the susceptor to generate an alternating magnetic field, and a control unit including at least one processor for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device, wherein the susceptor includes a hollow portion that increases the inductance of the susceptor when heated.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol generating devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Research into non-combustion cigarettes is ongoing. Aerosol generating devices generate aerosols by heating an aerosol-generating article. To heat cigarettes using induction heating, electronic cigarette devices can generate an alternating magnetic field using a coil to generate eddy currents in a susceptor adjacent to the cigarette. The eddy currents generated in the susceptor increase the temperature of the susceptor.

[0003] The above-mentioned background art is what the inventors possessed or learned in the process of deriving the present invention, and is not necessarily publicly known art that was disclosed to the general public prior to the filing of the present invention. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of one embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device that can increase the inductance change of a susceptor during induction heating.

[0005] An object of one embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device that can improve the accuracy of measuring the temperature of a susceptor during induction heating.

[0006] The problems to be solved by the embodiments are not limited to those mentioned above, and further problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a main body having an internal space formed on one side into which an aerosol-generating article is inserted, a susceptor housed within the main body for heating the aerosol-generating article, an induction coil surrounding the susceptor for generating an alternating magnetic field, and a control unit including at least one processor for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device, wherein the susceptor includes a hollow space that generates an increase in inductance due to heating.

[0008] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a main body having an internal space formed on one side into which an aerosol-generating article is inserted, a susceptor housed within the main body for heating the aerosol-generating article, an induction coil surrounding the susceptor to generate an alternating magnetic field, and a control unit including at least one processor for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device, wherein a thread is formed on the surface of the susceptor, and an increase in inductance occurs due to heating of the susceptor. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an aerosol generating device that can increase the inductance change of a susceptor during induction heating.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an aerosol generating device that can improve the accuracy of measuring the temperature of a susceptor during induction heating.

[0011] The effects of the aerosol generating device 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 description below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0013] [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0014] [Figure 3a] FIG. 3a shows a schematic diagram of a susceptor of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 3b] FIG. 3b shows a schematic diagram of a susceptor of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0015] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0016] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0017] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a susceptor of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0018] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows eddy current traces in a susceptor as indicated by the frequency of a signal according to one embodiment.

[0019] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0020] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0021] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0022] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, serve to facilitate a better understanding of the technical concept of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to only the matters depicted in such drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] The terms used in the embodiments have been selected as widely used terms as possible while taking into consideration the functions of the present invention, but this may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, the applicant may have arbitrarily selected terms, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined not simply as names of terms, but based on the meanings that the terms possess and the overall content of the present invention.

[0024] Throughout the specification, when any part "includes" any component, this does not exclude other components, but means that it further includes other components, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, terms such as "module" and "unit" used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this may be embodied in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0025] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0026] FIG. 1 shows an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 1 , an aerosol generator 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes at least one of a power source 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and a heater (susceptor) 18. At least one of the power source 11, the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the susceptor 18 is disposed inside a main body 10 of the aerosol generator 1. The main body 10 may have a space open on one side (e.g., the upper side) into which an aerosol-generating article, a stick S, can be inserted. The space open on the upper side is referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be recessed to a predetermined depth toward the inside of the main body 10 so that at least a portion of the stick S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space corresponds to the length of a region of the stick S containing the aerosol-generating substance and / or medium. The lower part of the stick S may be inserted into the main body 10, and the upper part of the stick S may protrude outside the main body 10. A user can inhale air by biting the exposed upper part of the stick S.

[0028] The susceptor 18 heats the stick S. The heater can extend long upward into the space in which the stick S is inserted.

[0029] The aerosol generating device 1 includes an induction coil 181 that surrounds a susceptor 18, which is a heater. The induction coil 181 heats the susceptor 18. The susceptor 18 is heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil 181. The magnetic field penetrates the susceptor 18 and can generate eddy currents within the susceptor 18. The current generates heat in the susceptor 18.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] The aerosol generator 1 includes a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and at least one heater 18, 24. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to that shown in Fig. 1. That is, it is understandable to a person skilled in the art of this embodiment that some of the components shown in Fig. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1.

[0032] The sensor 13 detects the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the state of the environment surrounding the aerosol generator 1, and transmits the detected information to the control unit 12. Based on the detected information, the control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, restricting smoking, determining whether the stick S and / or cartridge 19 is inserted, displaying notifications, etc.

[0033] The sensors 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 131 , a puff sensor 132 , an insertion detection sensor 133 , a reuse detection sensor 134 , a cartridge detection sensor 135 , a cap detection sensor 136 , and a motion detection sensor 137 .

[0034] The temperature sensor 131 detects the temperature to which the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 are heated. The aerosol generation device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 themselves may function as the temperature sensor.

[0035] The temperature sensor 131 outputs a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element whose resistance value changes in response to a change in temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The temperature sensor 131 may be implemented by a thermistor, which is an element that utilizes the property of changing resistance depending on temperature. Here, the temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be configured with a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Here, the temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0036] Temperature sensor 131 may be disposed around power supply 11 to monitor the temperature of power supply 11. Temperature sensor 131 may be disposed adjacent to power supply 11. For example, temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one side of the battery of power supply 11. For example, temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0037] The temperature sensor 131 is disposed inside the main body 10 and can detect the internal temperature of the main body 10 .

[0038] The puff sensor 132 detects a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 132 outputs a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor 132 may be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 132 outputs a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generation device. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generation device 1 corresponds to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 132 may be arranged in the aerosol generation device 1 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0039] The insertion detection sensor 133 detects the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect a signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The insertion detection sensor 133 may be provided around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick S in response to a change in the dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor 133 may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitive sensor.

[0040] The inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. For example, when a magnetic field changes around a coil through which a current flows, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the alternating current.

[0041] The inductive sensor outputs a signal corresponding to a characteristic of the current flowing through the coil. For example, the inductive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0042] The capacitive sensor includes a conductor. The conductor of the capacitive sensor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitive sensor may output a signal corresponding to a surrounding electromagnetic characteristic, e.g., the capacitance of the conductor. For example, when a stick S with a metallic wrapper is inserted into the insertion space, the wrapper of the stick S may change the electromagnetic characteristic of the conductor.

[0043] The reuse detection sensor 134 detects whether the stick S has been reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 may be a color sensor. The color sensor detects the color of the stick S. The color sensor can detect the color of a portion of the wrapper surrounding the outside of the stick S. The color sensor can detect a value for an optical property corresponding to the color of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical property may be the wavelength of light. The color sensor may be realized as a single component together with the proximity sensor, or may be realized as a separate component separate from the proximity sensor.

[0044] At least a portion of the wrapper constituting the stick S may change color due to the aerosol. The reuse detection sensor 134 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the position where at least a portion of the wrapper that changes color due to the aerosol is disposed when the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick S is used by a user, the color of at least a portion of the wrapper may be a first color. Here, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device 1 passes through the stick S, at least a portion of the wrapper becomes wet with the aerosol, causing the color of at least a portion of the wrapper to change to a second color. Meanwhile, after the color of at least a portion of the wrapper has changed from the first color to the second color, the color of at least a portion of the wrapper may remain the second color.

[0045] The cartridge detection sensor 135 can detect the installation and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge detection sensor 135 may be realized by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance-type sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC) using the Hall effect, or the like.

[0046] The cap detection sensor 136 detects the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the main body 10, the cartridge 19 and a part of the main body 10 that were covered by the cap are exposed to the outside. The cap detection sensor 136 may be realized by a contact sensor, a hall sensor (hall IC), an optical sensor, etc.

[0047] The motion detection sensor 137 detects the motion of the aerosol generating device and may be realized by at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0048] The sensor 13 may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor in addition to the above-described sensors 131 to 137. The function of the angle sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed explanation may be omitted.

[0049] The output unit 14 can output and provide to the user information regarding the status of the aerosol generating device 1. The output unit 14 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of a display 141, a haptic unit 142, and an audio output unit 143. When the display 141 and the touchpad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display 141 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0050] The display 141 can visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 can mean various information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generating device 1, the preheating status of the heater 18, the insertion / removal status of the stick S and / or cartridge 19, the attachment / removal status of a cap, or a status that restricts the use of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., abnormal item detection), and the display 141 can output the information to the outside. For example, the display 141 can be an LED light-emitting diode (LED) panel. For example, the display 141 can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0051] The haptic unit 142 can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus and provide a user with tactile information about the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the haptic unit 142 can generate a vibration corresponding to the completion of initial preheating when initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 for a set time. The haptic unit 142 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0052] The acoustic output unit 143 can audibly provide the user with information relating to the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the acoustic output unit 143 may convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0053] The power supply 11 can supply power used to operate the aerosol generating device 1. The power supply 11 can supply power to heat the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The power supply 11 also supplies power necessary for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generating device 1, such as the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17. The power supply 11 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 11 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to this.

[0054] 2, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power supply protection circuit. The power supply protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and may include a switching element.

[0055] The power supply protection circuit can cut off the electrical path to the power supply 11 according to a predetermined condition. For example, the power supply protection circuit can cut off the electrical path to the power supply 11 when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than a first voltage corresponding to overcharging. For example, the power supply protection circuit can cut off the electrical path to the power supply 11 when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is lower than a second voltage corresponding to overdischarging.

[0056] The heater 18 receives power from the power supply 11 and heats the medium or aerosol-generating substance in the stick S. Although not shown in Fig. 2, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the power supply 11 and supplies it to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 1 generates aerosol using an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power of the power supply 11 into AC power.

[0057] The control unit 12, the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17 can function by receiving power from the power supply 11. Although not shown in FIG. 2, the power supply 11 may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power from the power supply 11 and supplies it to each component. Also, although not shown in FIG. 2, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter includes at least one inductor and capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter corresponds to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The low-pass filter can prevent high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensors 13, such as the insertion detection sensor 133.

[0058] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 may be formed from any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Additionally, the heater 18 may be implemented as, but not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate having an electrically conductive track disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0059] In other embodiments, heater 18 may be an induction heater. For example, heater 18 may include a susceptor that generates heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0060] The input unit 15 receives information input by a user and outputs information to a user. For example, the input unit 15 may be a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor that detects a touch. For example, the touch sensor may include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc.

[0061] The display 141 and the touch panel can be realized by one panel. For example, the touch panel may be inserted (on-cell type or in-cell type) into the display 141. For example, the touch panel may be an add-on type on the display panel 141.

[0062] Meanwhile, the input unit 15 includes, but is not limited to, a button, a keypad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, and the like.

[0063] The memory 17 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data that has been processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. The memory 17 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from the group consisting of flash memory, hard disk, micro multimedia card, card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The memory 17 may store the operating time of the aerosol generator 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0064] The communication unit 16 includes at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0065] The short-range wireless communication unit includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an IrDA (Infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (Ultra Wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0066] The wireless communication unit includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (eg, LAN or WAN) communication unit, and the like.

[0067] Although not shown in FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can be connected to other external devices via the connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0068] The control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be realized as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executed by the microprocessor. Those skilled in the art will understand that the controller 12 may also be realized in other forms of hardware.

[0069] The control unit 12 controls the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the supply of power from the power source 11 to the heater 18. The control unit 12 controls the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 detected by the temperature sensor 131. The control unit 12 adjusts the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 may determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0070] The aerosol generating device 1 includes a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11 between the power supply 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, the heater 18, or the induction coil 181. The power supply circuit includes at least one switching element. The switching element may be realized by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 12 can control the power supply circuit.

[0071] The control unit 12 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts DC power output from the power supply 11 into AC power. For example, the inverter may be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements.

[0072] The control unit 12 may turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power supply 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The control unit 12 may turn off the switching element so that power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 is cut off. The control unit 12 can adjust the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulse input to the switching element to adjust the current supplied by the power supply 11.

[0073] The control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit converts the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter that boosts the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit is realized using a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, etc.

[0074] The control unit 12 controls the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit to adjust the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit. When the switching element is kept on, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit corresponds to the level of the voltage output from the power source 11. The duty ratio of the on / off operation of the switching element corresponds to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power source 11. As the duty ratio of the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit decreases. The heater 18 can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0075] The control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heater 18 using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0076] For example, the control unit 12 may use a PWM method to control current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can adjust the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulses to control the power supplied to the heater 18.

[0077] For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature based on the temperature profile. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the temperature of the heater 18 and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0078] The control unit 12 prevents the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 may control the operation of the power conversion circuit to interrupt the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 may reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by a certain rate when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 may determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 19 has been consumed when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, and may interrupt the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24.

[0079] The control unit 12 controls the charging / discharging of the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can check the temperature of the power supply 11 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0080] When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator 1, the control unit 12 checks whether the temperature of the power source 11 is equal to or higher than a first limit temperature, which is a criterion for cutting off charging of the power source 11. When the temperature of the power source 11 is lower than the first limit temperature, the control unit 12 controls the power source 11 to be charged based on a preset charging current. When the temperature of the power source 11 is equal to or higher than the first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can cut off charging of the power source 11.

[0081] When the aerosol generator 1 is powered on, the control unit 12 checks whether the temperature of the power source 11 is equal to or higher than a second limit temperature, which is a criterion for cutting off the discharge of the power source 11. If the temperature of the power source 11 is lower than the second limit temperature, the control unit 12 controls the power source 11 to use the power stored in the power source 11. If the temperature of the power source 11 is equal to or higher than the second limit temperature, the control unit 12 can stop the use of the power stored in the power source 11.

[0082] The control unit 12 calculates the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power source 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power source 11 based on the detected voltage and / or current value of the power source 11.

[0083] The control unit 12 determines whether or not the stick S is inserted into the insertion space via the insertion detection sensor 133. The control unit 12 determines whether the stick S has been inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor 133. If it determines that the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 controls the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 may supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0084] The control unit 12 determines whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 may determine whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space via the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, the control unit 12 determines that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater 18 is equal to or higher than a limit temperature, or when the slope of the temperature change of the heater 18 is equal to or higher than a set slope. When it is determined that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0085] The control unit 12 controls the time and / or amount of power supply to the heater 18 according to the state of the stick S detected by the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can check the level range that includes the level of the signal from the capacitance sensor based on a lookup table. The control unit 12 can determine the amount of moisture in the stick S based on the checked level range.

[0086] When the stick S is in an overly humid state, the control unit 12 controls the time for which power is supplied to the heater 18, and can increase the preheating time of the stick S compared to when the stick S is in a normal state.

[0087] The control unit 12 determines whether the stick S inserted into the insertion space can be reused via the reuse detection sensor 134. For example, the control unit 12 compares the detection value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor with a first reference range that includes a first color, and determines that the stick S has not been used if the detection value is within the first reference range. For example, the control unit 12 compares the detection value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor with a second reference range that includes a second color, and determines that the stick S has been used if the detection value is within the second reference range. If it is determined that the stick S has been used, the control unit 12 can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0088] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 can be connected and / or removed via the cartridge detection sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 can be connected and / or removed based on the detection value of the signal of the cartridge detection sensor.

[0089] The control unit 12 determines whether the aerosol generating material in the cartridge 19 has decreased. For example, the control unit 12 applies power to preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, determines whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period, and determines that the aerosol generating material in the cartridge 19 has been consumed if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature. If it determines that the aerosol generating material in the cartridge 19 has been consumed, the control unit 12 may cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0090] The control unit 12 determines whether the cartridge 19 is usable. For example, the control unit 12 determines that the cartridge 19 is unusable if the current number of puffs is equal to or greater than the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge 19 based on data stored in the memory 17. For example, the control unit 12 determines that the cartridge 19 is unusable if the total time that the heater 24 has been heated is equal to or greater than a preset maximum time or if the total amount of power supplied to the heater 24 is equal to or greater than a preset maximum amount of power.

[0091] The control unit 12 can determine whether the user is inhaling via the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the detected value of the signal from the puff sensor. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the strength of the puff based on the detected value of the signal from the puff sensor. If the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs, or if no puffs are detected for a preset time or longer, the control unit 12 can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0092] The control unit 12 determines whether the cap is attached and / or removed via the cap detection sensor 136. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed based on the detection value of the signal of the cap detection sensor.

[0093] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results detected by the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 132 reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can notify the user via at least one of the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the audio output unit 143 that the aerosol generating device 1 will soon be shut down. For example, the control unit 12 may notify the user via the output unit 14 based on a determination that the stick S is not present in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 may notify the user via the output unit 14 based on a determination that the stick S is not present in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 may notify the user via the output unit 14 based on a determination that the cartridge 19 and / or cap are not attached. For example, the control unit 12 may communicate information regarding the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 to the user via the output unit 14.

[0094] The control unit 12 stores and updates a history of events that have occurred in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. The events may include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1, such as detection of insertion of the stick S, start of heating of the stick S, detection of puffing, end of puffing, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, detection of overvoltage application to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, end of heating of the stick S, operations such as turning the power of the aerosol generator 1 on / off, start of charging the power supply 11, detection of overcharging of the power supply 11, and end of charging the power supply 11. The history of the event may include the date and time when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is detection of insertion of the stick S, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the detection value of the insertion detection sensor 133, etc. For example, if a given event is the detection of overheating of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the voltage applied to cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the current flowing through cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, etc.

[0095] The control unit 12 controls the establishment of a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication-related data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 may remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. Here, the authentication-related data may include data indicating completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. The user may perform user authentication via the external device. The external device determines whether user data is valid based on the user's birthday, a unique number identifying the user, etc., and receives data regarding usage authorization for the aerosol generating device 1 from an external server. The external device transmits data indicating completion of user authentication to the aerosol generating device 1 based on the data regarding usage authorization. Upon completion of user authentication, the control unit 12 may remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, upon completion of user authentication, the control unit 12 may remove restrictions on the use of a heating function that supplies power to the heater 18.

[0096] The control unit 12 transmits data on the status of the aerosol generator 1 to the external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the operating mode, etc., via a display of the external device.

[0097] The external device can send a location search request to the aerosol generation device 1 based on an input initiating a location search of the aerosol generation device 1. When receiving a location search request from an external device, the control unit 12 can control at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, the haptic unit 142 can generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 can output objects corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0098] When the control unit 12 receives firmware data from an external device, it controls to perform a firmware update. The external device can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generation device 1 and determine whether a new version of the firmware exists. When the external device receives an input requesting a firmware download, it receives firmware data of the new version and transmits the firmware data of the new version to the aerosol generation device 1. By receiving the firmware data of the new version, the control unit 12 can control to perform a firmware update of the aerosol generation device 1.

[0099] The control unit 12 transmits data on the detection values ​​of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16 and receives and stores a learning model generated by learning the detection values ​​through machine learning, such as deep learning, from the server. The control unit 12 can perform operations such as determining a user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile using the learning model received from the server. The control unit 12 stores the detection value data of at least one sensor 13 and data for training an artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 may store a database for each component included in the aerosol generating device 1, weights and biases for the artificial neural network (ANN) structure, and other information for training the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 12 can learn the data on the detection values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, the temperature profile, and other information stored in the memory 17, and generate at least one learning model used for determining a user's inhalation pattern, generating a temperature profile, and so on.

[0100] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a detection unit 23. The detection unit 23 may include an RGB sensor capable of detecting color or color tone. For example, the detection unit 23 may include a light-emitting sensor and a light-receiving sensor facing the outer surface of the stick S, and the light-emitting sensor and the light-receiving sensor may be arranged to face the insertion space of the main body 10 and / or may be arranged at the upper part of the main body 10 and face the stick S exposed to the outside of the main body 10.

[0101] Referring again to FIG. 1, the susceptor 18 includes a hollow 182 that increases the inductance generated when the susceptor 18 heats up.

[0102] In one embodiment, the susceptor 18 includes a rod that protrudes toward the opening of the internal space. The rod may protrude upward from an end of the internal space. For example, the rod may be tubular, plate-like, needle-like, or rod-like.

[0103] A hollow 182 is formed inside the rod along the longitudinal direction of the rod (e.g., the X direction in FIG. 1). The susceptor 18 has the hollow 182, and the width of the susceptor 18 increases as the susceptor 18 is heated. Here, the width of the susceptor 18 is defined as the length in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the susceptor 18 (e.g., the Y direction in FIG. 1).

[0104] 3a and 3b show schematic cross sections of the susceptor 18 of the aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment. Fig. 3a shows the state of the susceptor 18 before heating, and Fig. 3b shows the state of the susceptor 18 after heating and the temperature has increased.

[0105] Referring to Fig. 3a, the susceptor 18 includes a hollow 182 therein, and before heating, the susceptor 18 has a first width D1. Referring to Fig. 3b, when the susceptor 18 is heated by the induction coil 181, the hollow 182 causes the susceptor 18 to expand, increasing the width of the susceptor 18. Here, the susceptor 18 has a second width D2, which is greater than the first width D1.

[0106] As the temperature of the susceptor 18 increases, the inductance and / or resistance of the susceptor 18 may increase. If the inductance of the susceptor 18 increases, the natural frequency of the susceptor at that temperature decreases. If the natural frequency of the susceptor 18 decreases, the eddy current locus shown at room temperature shifts to the left of the frequency axis. This increases the amount of current change and improves the accuracy of temperature measurement. The hollow 182 in the susceptor 18 significantly increases the width D2 of the susceptor 18, and the increased second width D2 of the susceptor 18 significantly increases the inductance of the susceptor 18 compared to a susceptor 18 having a first width D1. This will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 6.

[0107] In one embodiment, the susceptor 18 may be made of a magnetic material. For example, the susceptor 18 may be made of a ferromagnetic material. A change in the inductance of the susceptor 18 may occur through a change in magnetism due to heat.

[0108] FIG. 4 shows an aerosol generating device 2 according to one embodiment.

[0109] The aerosol generating device 2 includes at least one of a power source 21, a control unit 22, a sensor 23, and a heater (susceptor) 28. At least one of the power source 21, the control unit 22, the sensor 23, and the susceptor 28 is disposed inside a main body 20 of the aerosol generating device 2. The main body 20 may provide a space that is open on one side (e.g., the upper side) so that a stick S, which is an aerosol-generating article, can be inserted. The susceptor 28 may heat the stick S. The aerosol generating device 2 includes an induction coil 281 that surrounds the susceptor 28, which is a heater.

[0110] In one embodiment, the susceptor 28 includes threads 283 on its surface, which increase the inductance created when the susceptor 28 is heated.

[0111] The susceptor 28 may include a rod that protrudes toward the opening of the internal space, and a screw thread 283 may be formed on the outer surface of the rod along the longitudinal direction of the rod (e.g., the X direction in FIG. 4).

[0112] When a current is generated in the susceptor 28 by the induction coil 281, the current flows largely along the outer surface of the susceptor 28 due to the skin effect. Here, the current flows along the threads 283 formed on the outer surface of the susceptor 28, and the current flows along the longitudinal direction around the outer periphery of the susceptor 28. This is simulated as if the current were flowing through a coil, and the number of turns of the threads corresponds to the number of turns of the coil.

[0113] The susceptor 28 with the threads 283 can increase inductance through the skin effect of induced current compared to a susceptor without the threads 283. The increase in inductance increases the amount of current change, and the accuracy of temperature measurement increases.

[0114] FIG. 5 shows an aerosol generating device 3 according to one embodiment.

[0115] The aerosol generating device 3 includes at least one of a power source 31, a control unit 32, a sensor 33, and a heater (susceptor) 38. At least one of the power source 31, the control unit 32, the sensor 33, and the susceptor 38 is disposed inside a main body 30 of the aerosol generating device 3. The main body 30 may provide a space that is open on one side (e.g., the upper side) so that a stick S, which is an aerosol-generating article, can be inserted. The susceptor 38 heats the stick S. The aerosol generating device 3 includes an induction coil 381 that surrounds the susceptor 38, which is a heater.

[0116] In one embodiment, the susceptor 38 includes a hollow 382 that increases the inductance generated when the susceptor 38 is heated, and threads 383 formed on the surface of the susceptor 38. The hollow 382 of the susceptor 38 increases the width of the susceptor 38 when the susceptor 38 is heated, which can increase the inductance of the susceptor 38, and the threads 383 of the susceptor 38 can also increase the inductance generated when the susceptor 38 is heated.

[0117] 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a susceptor 38 of an aerosol generating device 3 according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6, the susceptor 38 includes a hollow 382 and a thread 383, which maximizes the increase in inductance when the susceptor 38 is heated.

[0118] FIG. 7 shows eddy current traces in a susceptor as indicated by the frequency of a signal according to one embodiment.

[0119] Since the susceptor is electrically isolated from the induction coil, it is difficult to measure the susceptor temperature directly. In this case, the susceptor temperature can be estimated through the current.

[0120] In one embodiment, the electrical characteristic 404 of the unheated susceptor is different from the electrical characteristic 402 of the heated susceptor. For example, the first natural frequency 414 of the unheated susceptor and the natural frequency 412 of the heated susceptor may be different, resulting in a first eddy current locus 404 of the unheated susceptor and a second eddy current locus 402 of the heated susceptor, as indicated by the frequency of the provided signal.

[0121] As the temperature of the susceptor increases, the susceptor's inductance and / or resistance increases. As the susceptor's inductance increases, the natural frequency of the susceptor at that temperature decreases. As the natural frequency of the susceptor decreases, the eddy current locus shown at room temperature shifts to the left relative to the frequency axis. This results in a decrease in the eddy current value in the heated susceptor compared to the eddy current value in the susceptor before heating (at room temperature). At a specific frequency 420, the eddy current locus shifts to the left, indicating a change in current ΔI. Since the temperature change is proportional to the current change ΔI, the larger the current change ΔI, the larger the temperature change, resulting in higher accuracy in temperature measurement.

[0122] The degree Δf by which the eddy current locus is shifted to the left with respect to the frequency axis is proportional to the increase in inductance of the susceptor.

[0123] As described above, when the susceptor 18 according to one embodiment includes a hollow 182, the susceptor 28 according to one embodiment includes a thread 283, or the susceptor 38 according to one embodiment includes a hollow 382 and a thread 383, the inductance of the susceptors 18, 28, and 38 increases during heating, increasing the degree to which the eddy current locus is shifted to the left based on the frequency axis, Δf. As a result, the change in current ΔI increases, the amount of temperature change increases, and the accuracy of susceptor temperature measurement increases.

[0124] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device 5 according to one embodiment.

[0125] 8, the aerosol generating device 5 includes at least one of a power source 51, a control unit 52, a sensor 53, and a heater (susceptor) 58. At least one of the power source 51, the control unit 52, the sensor 53, and the susceptor 58 is disposed inside a main body 50 of the aerosol generating device 5. The main body 50 may provide a space that is open on one side (e.g., the upper side) so that a stick S serving as an aerosol-generating article can be inserted. The aerosol generating device 5 may include an induction coil 581 surrounding the susceptor 58 serving as a heater.

[0126] The susceptor 58 is contained inside the stick S, and the susceptor 58 inside the stick S is heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through an induction coil 581. The susceptor 58 is disposed inside the stick S and may not be electrically connected to the aerosol generator. The susceptor 58 may be inserted into the insertion space together with the stick S and removed from the insertion space together with the stick S. The stick S is heated by the susceptor 58 inside the stick S. Here, the aerosol generator may not be provided with a heater.

[0127] In one embodiment, the susceptor 58 includes a rod formed along the longitudinal direction of the stick S (e.g., the X direction in FIG. 8), and a hollow 582 is formed inside the rod along the longitudinal direction of the rod. The hollow 582 of the susceptor 58 can increase the width of the susceptor 58 when the susceptor 58 is heated, thereby increasing the inductance of the susceptor 58.

[0128] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device 6 according to one embodiment.

[0129] 9, the aerosol generating device 6 may include at least one of a power supply 61, a control unit 62, a sensor 63, and a heater (susceptor) 68. At least one of the power supply 61, the control unit 62, the sensor 63, and the susceptor 68 is disposed inside the main body 60 of the aerosol generating device 6. The main body 60 may provide a space that is open on one side (e.g., the upper side) so that a stick S, which is an aerosol-generating article, can be inserted. The aerosol generating device 6 includes an induction coil 681 that surrounds the susceptor 68, which is a heater.

[0130] The susceptor 68 is included inside the stick S, and the susceptor 68 inside the stick S is heated by a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through an induction coil 681. The susceptor 68 is disposed inside the stick S and may not be electrically connected to the aerosol generator. The susceptor 68 may be inserted into the insertion space together with the stick S and removed from the insertion space together with the stick S. The stick S is heated by the susceptor 68 inside the stick S. Here, the aerosol generator does not need to be equipped with a heater.

[0131] In one embodiment, the susceptor 68 includes a rod formed along the longitudinal direction of the stick S (e.g., the X direction in FIG. 9), and a hollow 682 is formed inside the rod along the longitudinal direction of the rod. A screw thread 683 is formed on the surface of the rod. The hollow 682 of the susceptor 68 increases the width of the susceptor 68 when the susceptor 68 is heated, thereby increasing the inductance of the susceptor 68, and the screw thread 683 of the susceptor 68 can also increase the inductance generated when the susceptor 68 is heated.

[0132] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device 7 according to one embodiment.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 10 , the aerosol generation device 7 includes at least one of a power supply 71, a control unit 72, a sensor 73, and a susceptor 78. At least one of the power supply 71, the control unit 72, the sensor 73, and the susceptor 78 is disposed inside a main body 70 of the aerosol generation device 7. The main body 70 may provide a space that is open at the top so that a stick S, which is an aerosol product, can be inserted. The susceptor 78 may extend upward around the space into which the stick S is inserted. For example, the susceptor 78 may be tubular and hollow inside. The susceptor 78 is disposed around the insertion space. The susceptor 78 may be disposed so as to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The aerosol generation device 7 includes an induction coil 781 that surrounds the susceptor 78. The induction coil 781 can generate heat in the susceptor 78.

[0134] In one embodiment, the susceptor 78 includes a hollow 782 that increases the inductance generated when the susceptor 78 is heated. The hollow 782 in the susceptor 78 can increase the width of the susceptor 78 when the susceptor 78 is heated, thereby increasing the inductance of the susceptor 78.

[0135] An aerosol generating device 1, 3, 5, 6, 7 according to one embodiment includes a main body 10, 30, 50, 60, 70 having an internal space formed on one side into which an aerosol-generating article (stick S) is inserted, a susceptor 18, 38, 58, 68, 78 housed within the main body and heating the aerosol-generating article, an induction coil 181, 381, 581, 681, 781 surrounding the susceptor to generate an alternating magnetic field, and a control unit 12, 32, 52, 62, 72 that controls the operation of the aerosol generating device and includes at least one processor, and the susceptor includes a hollow 182, 382, ​​582, 682, 782 that increases the inductance of the susceptor when heated.

[0136] In one embodiment, the susceptor includes a rod housed in the internal space, the rod protruding toward an opening of the internal space, the hollow formed inside the rod along the longitudinal direction of the rod, and heating the susceptor can increase the width of the susceptor.

[0137] The rod may have a cylindrical shape.

[0138] The rod may have threads 383, 683 formed on its surface.

[0139] The threads may be formed along the length of the rod.

[0140] In one embodiment, the rod may be made of a ferromagnetic material.

[0141] In one embodiment, the susceptors 58, 68 may be contained within the aerosol-generating article.

[0142] The susceptor may include a rod formed along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article, the hollow being formed inside the rod along the longitudinal direction of the rod, and the width of the susceptor may increase when the susceptor is heated.

[0143] The surface of the rod may be formed with a screw thread 683 extending along the length of the rod.

[0144] In one embodiment, the susceptor 78 is configured to surround at least a portion of the outside of the internal space and extend along the longitudinal direction of the insertion space, the hollow 782 is formed inside the susceptor along the longitudinal direction of the susceptor, and the outer diameter of the susceptor may increase upon heating the susceptor.

[0145] An aerosol generating device 2, 3 according to one embodiment includes a main body 20, 30 having an internal space formed on one side into which an aerosol-generating article (stick S) is inserted, a susceptor 28, 38 housed within the main body and heating the aerosol-generating article, an induction coil 281, 381 surrounding the susceptor and generating an alternating magnetic field, and a control unit 22, 32 that controls the operation of the aerosol generating device and includes at least one processor, and a screw thread 283, 383 may be formed on the surface of the susceptor, so that inductance increases when the susceptor is heated.

[0146] The susceptor may include a hollow 382 that creates an increased inductance.

[0147] Any of the embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct, and any of the embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination with or in combination with each other in their respective configurations or functions.

[0148] For example, it means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. In other words, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that the combination is possible, excluding cases where it is described that the combination is impossible.

[0149] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in all respects, but should be considered as illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: a body having an internal space formed on one surface into which an aerosol-generating article is inserted; a susceptor housed within the body for heating the aerosol-generating article; an induction coil surrounding the susceptor to generate an alternating magnetic field; a control unit that controls the operation of the aerosol generating device and includes at least one processor; Including, The aerosol generating device, wherein the susceptor includes a hollow that increases the inductance of the susceptor when heated.

2. the susceptor includes a rod accommodated in the internal space, the rod protruding toward an opening of the internal space, and the hollow formed inside the rod along a longitudinal direction of the rod; 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the width of the susceptor perpendicular to the longitudinal direction increases upon heating.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , wherein the rod has a cylindrical shape.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3 , wherein the rod has a surface formed with a screw thread.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4 , wherein the screw thread is formed along the longitudinal direction.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , wherein the rod is made of a ferromagnetic material.

7. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the susceptor is contained within the aerosol-generating article.

8. the susceptor includes a rod formed along a longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article, and the hollow is formed inside the rod along the longitudinal direction; 8. The aerosol generating device of claim 7, wherein the width of the susceptor perpendicular to the longitudinal direction increases upon heating.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8 , wherein the rod has a surface formed with a screw thread extending along the longitudinal direction.

10. the susceptor is configured to surround at least a portion of the outside of the internal space and extend along a longitudinal direction of the internal space; the hollow is formed inside the susceptor along the longitudinal direction, 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the outer diameter of the susceptor increases upon heating.

11. An aerosol generating device, comprising: a body having an internal space formed on one surface into which an aerosol-generating article is inserted; a susceptor housed within the body for heating the aerosol-generating article; an induction coil surrounding the susceptor to generate an alternating magnetic field; a control unit that controls the operation of the aerosol generating device and includes at least one processor; Including, The aerosol generating device, wherein a thread is formed on the surface of the susceptor, and inductance is increased when the susceptor is heated.

12. 12. The aerosol generating device of claim 11, wherein the susceptor includes a hollow that increases inductance.

Images