Aerosol generator equipped with a resonator having transmission lines

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generator (1) configured to generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating material (6), wherein the aerosol generator (1) comprises a cavity (5) configured to receive the aerosol generating material (6), an electromagnetic field generating unit (4) configured to generate a signal, and a resonator (10) disposed within the cavity (5) and electrically connected to the electromagnetic field generating unit (4) via at least one power supply unit (20, 21, 22), wherein the resonator (10) generates the signal The resonator (10) includes at least one transmission line (30) configured to receive a signal and generate an electromagnetic field for heating an aerosol generating material (6), the resonator (10) includes a resonator casing (24) that at least partially surrounds the at least one transmission line (30), the at least one transmission line (30) includes a first part (40) and a second part (41), the second part (41) being narrower than the first part (40), and at least one power supply section (20, 21, 22) being located in the first part (40).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device configured to generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating material, in particular.

Background Art

[0002] Aerosol generating devices, such as electronic cigarettes or heat-not-burn devices, are known. These are configured to heat a sample in fluid or solid form to emit an aerosol, which is then inhaled by the consumer.

[0003] Such devices are known, for example, from WO2022 / 128290A1 or WO2021 / 013477A1, the latter of which discloses an aerosol generating device for heating an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco plug, to generate an aerosol. The device comprises a substrate cavity configured to receive the aerosol-forming substrate and an electromagnetic field generator configured to generate a radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic field within the substrate cavity.

[0004] One problem associated with conventional known aerosol generating devices is that they heat the aerosol generating sample / substrate non-uniformly. Furthermore, with the conventional known RF electromagnetic fields used in the devices, the field distribution is non-uniform, and as a result, the efficiency and completeness with which the aerosol generating device heats a sample, such as a tobacco plug, are low. The low overall efficiency is particularly disadvantageous in handheld devices due to battery capacity limitations.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide an aerosol generating device that overcomes one or more of these deficiencies. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide an aerosol generating device configured to uniformly heat an aerosol generating material with improved efficiency.

[0006] This objective is achieved by the features of the independent claim. The dependent claims include advantageous embodiments of the present invention.

[0007] In particular, this objective is achieved by the aerosol generator described in claim 1. The aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating material, in particular a nicotine-containing aerosol generating material such as tobacco-containing material, in particular reconstituted tobacco. The aerosol generator comprises a cavity configured to receive the aerosol generating material, an electromagnetic field generating unit configured to generate a signal, and a resonator. The resonator is located within the cavity of the device and is electrically connected to the electromagnetic field generating unit via at least one power supply unit. The resonator includes at least one transmission line configured to receive a signal generated by the electromagnetic field generating unit. The at least one transmission line is further configured to generate an electromagnetic field for heating the aerosol generating material. Furthermore, the resonator includes a resonator casing that at least partially encloses the at least one transmission line. The at least one transmission line is positioned around the received aerosol generating material such that the generated electromagnetic field propagates through the received aerosol generating material into another portion of the at least one transmission line. For example, as will be described later in different embodiments and examples, at least one transmission line includes a first portion that radiates the generated electromagnetic field (of at least one transmission line) to a second portion (the same or different of at least one transmission line) that receives the generated electromagnetic field through the received aerosol-generating material. In other words, at least one transmission line includes a first portion and a second portion that are arranged around the received aerosol-generating material and configured to allow the propagation of the electromagnetic field through the aerosol-generating material. As those skilled in the art will understand, radiating and receiving an electromagnetic field refers to a representation (e.g., in the form of a vector, a diagram showing magnetic field lines, etc.) of the electromagnetic field that propagates from the first portion to the second portion while propagating through the aerosol-generating material. As will be described later in embodiments and examples, being arranged around the aerosol-generating material preferably includes being arranged in close proximity to and / or at least partially in contact with the aerosol-generating material.

[0008] The arrangement of at least one transmission line and cavity as defined above ensures that at least one transmission line is positioned around the aerosol-generating material when it is received into the cavity. Thus, as will be described in more detail below, it is possible to provide a uniform magnetic field distribution within the cavity so that a uniform magnetic field distribution can be provided within the received aerosol-generating material as the generated electromagnetic field propagates from a portion of at least one transmission line through the received aerosol-generating material to another portion of at least one transmission line. This then allows for uniform heating of the received aerosol-generating material, thereby improving heating efficiency. Aerosol-generating material (hereinafter: “material”) is a label used to mean a medium that generates aerosols or vapors when heated. This may be synonymous with vapor precursor material, aerosol generation, or generating medium, substrate, or material. Aerosol-generating materials typically include liquid or solid materials that provide volatile components upon heating, typically in the form of vapor or aerosol. Aerosol-generating materials may be non-tobacco-containing materials or tobacco-containing materials. The aerosol generating material may include, for example, one or more of the following: tobacco itself, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco extract, homogenized tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. The aerosol precursor material may also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. The aerosol generating material may also include one or more humectants, such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

[0009] As expected, and as will be described in detail in relation to the figures herein, throughout this application, the term “arranged around” means, for example, that at least one transmission line is in close proximity to the material, preferably wrapped around at least a portion of the material, and more preferably in at least partial contact with the material. Generally, each portion of the at least one transmission line may be arranged on opposing sides or surfaces of the material such that the generated electromagnetic field can propagate from one portion of the at least one transmission line through the material received by the other portion of the at least one transmission line. Preferably, portions of the at least one transmission line positioned on opposing sides of the material are at least partially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the resonator, which can improve the uniformity of the distribution of the electromagnetic field between them. It is more preferable that portions of the at least one transmission line be positioned within a cavity such that their respective faces having the maximum surface area face each other.

[0010] In particular, the term “in close proximity” implies, in certain embodiments, that at least one transmission line is positioned at least partially spaced away from the material, especially that there are no other elements between them, and the spacing is preferably as small as possible so that the material is wrapped around the at least one transmission line without the material entering into (preferably substantial) contact with the at least one transmission line. Furthermore, the term “near” in relation to “in close proximity” specifically refers to the distance between the at least one transmission line and the material, which, as described above, is as small as possible so that the at least one transmission line is wrapped around the material without the at least one transmission line entering into substantial contact with the material. In some embodiments, the distance implied by “closed” includes, for example, 50% or less, more preferably 33% or less (e.g., 2 / 3), or even more preferably 25% or less, or even more preferably 10% or less of the total width of the material (the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis / extension dimension of the material, e.g., the diameter when the cross section is circular), between portions of the at least one transmission line positioned around it. Furthermore, in some cases that can be combined with the above, at least one transmission line may be in at least partial contact with the material (i.e., only a portion of the material is in contact, or its side is in substantially complete contact). Thus, if at least one transmission line is in partial contact with the material, the non-contacting components may be in close proximity as described above. As will be considered in some of the following embodiments, it is preferable that at least one transmission line is in contact with the received material at the upper portion of at least one transmission line (upper being the portion closer to the user's mouth) and is in close proximity therefrom at the lower portion of at least one transmission line (spaced apart as described above). When referring to "in contact," it may be taken into consideration that manufacturing tolerances of the material and / or at least one transmission line cause a gap between them (as well as tolerances in the engagement between the material and at least one transmission line), particularly with respect to at least one specific portion of at least one transmission line. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the term "at least partially in contact" means, for example, that at least one transmission line is in at least partially direct contact with the material.In some embodiments, the contacts may be able to hold or enable the retention of the material by at least one transmission line.

[0011] In some embodiments, at least one transmission line may be at least one elongated strip or plate shape, or a wire having, for example, a rectangular cross-section. For example, a single elongated strip may be bent to form two transmission lines, or two plate-shaped strips positioned facing each other within a cavity. At least one transmission line may also include a conductive material. For example, at least one transmission line may include, or be made of, a material particularly suitable for carrying, in particular transmitting, and receiving the signals described in the following embodiments and examples with low loss. Such examples include gold, copper, and brass, as well as combinations thereof.

[0012] In some embodiments, the signal generated by the electromagnetic field generating unit is a radio frequency (RF) signal. In particular, the signal is an RF signal suitable for generating an electromagnetic field suitable for heating materials.

[0013] The frequency of the generated electromagnetic field is preferably a microwave frequency suitable for heating materials. For example, the microwave frequency may be 500 MHz (0.5 GHz) or higher, for example, 900 MHz. The frequency of the generated electromagnetic field may also be 2000 MHz to 3000 MHz, particularly 2400 MHz to 2500 MHz, the latter of which favorably satisfies the Type B ISM band regulations.

[0014] Preferably, at least one transmission line radiates an electromagnetic field into the material. In the case of one possible transmission line, the electromagnetic field is radiated (through the material) into another part of the transmission line, preferably other components / parts of the resonator, particularly the resonator casing. This has the advantage that a compact aerosol generator can be achieved therein. In the alternative case of two or more transmission lines, the electromagnetic field is also radiated into at least one other transmission line and / or another part of the same transmission line, preferably other components / parts of the resonator, particularly the resonator casing. This has the advantage that the aerosol generator can be provided with a broader connection scheme for multiple transmission lines.

[0015] In one advantageous embodiment, the resonator includes two transmission lines, namely a first transmission line and a second transmission line.

[0016] Preferably, the first transmission line is electrically connected to the signal line of the first power supply unit of the at least one power supply unit. In this configuration, the second transmission line is electrically connected to the signal line of the second power supply unit of the at least one power supply unit. The signal line of the first power supply unit supplies a generated signal to the first transmission line. The signal line of the second power supply unit supplies a negative generated signal, which is a generated signal that is 180° phase-shifted relative to the second transmission line.

[0017] In one embodiment, the generated signal and the negative generated signal are generated by a single aforementioned electromagnetic field generating unit and output at its respective outputs. This has the advantage of providing a simple and energy-efficient configuration for generating an electromagnetic field. Alternatively, a phase-shift circuit including active and / or passive electronic or optical components is placed at least electrically between the output of the electromagnetic field generating unit that outputs the generated signal and a second transmission line.

[0018] Preferably, the generated signal and the negative generated signal are generated by different electromagnetic field generating units. In other words, it is preferable that the aerosol generator comprises two electromagnetic field generating units. This allows for an advantageous increase in the heating power of the aerosol generator.

[0019] In some preferred embodiments, at least one power supply unit includes a single power supply unit in which a first transmission line and a second transmission line are electrically connected to the single power supply unit. The first transmission line is connected to the signal line of the single power supply unit and receives the generated signal. The second transmission line is connected to the ground of the single power supply unit. This advantageously simplifies the connection scheme of the transmission lines to the electromagnetic field generating unit.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first and second transmission lines each contain a length of 1 / 4 or 1 / 2 the wavelength of the generated signal. Preferably, both transmission lines contain the same length (1 / 2 or 1 / 4 wavelength) or different lengths.

[0021] Preferably, the first and second transmission lines each have a length of half a wavelength. In this configuration, the first and second transmission lines are electrically connected to the resonator casing.

[0022] In one advantageous embodiment, at least one power supply unit includes one single power supply unit, the resonator includes one transmission line, and the resonator casing is electrically connected to the ground of the single power supply unit. Preferably, the entire aerosol generator comprises exactly one transmission line. More preferably, the entire aerosol generator comprises exactly one power supply unit.

[0023] The transmission line is preferably electrically connected to the signal line of a single power supply unit, from which the generated signal is electrically received.

[0024] The transmission line is preferably asymmetric with respect to the connection point of the transmission line to the signal line. The transmission line is preferably asymmetric with respect to the long axis of the resonator. In this case, the first length of the transmission line from the connection point to one end of the transmission line is preferably not equal to the second length from the connection point to the other end of the transmission line.

[0025] When a transmission line receives a generated signal from a signal line, it is preferable that one end of the transmission line is electrically connected to the resonator casing.

[0026] In one advantageous embodiment, the resonator casing is electrically connected to the signal line of the single power supply, in addition to being connected to the ground of the single power supply. In this embodiment, the resonator casing is configured to receive a generated signal from the signal line and to induce a current in the transmission line corresponding to the generated signal. In particular, the current in the transmission line is induced through induction by the resonator casing connected to the ground and signal lines of the single power supply, thereby forming a short-circuit loop.

[0027] In some embodiments, the transmission line includes at least one folded portion in its upper part. The folded portion preferably refers to a portion of the transmission line that includes a bend of 30° to 105°, more preferably at least 45°, and more preferably at least 90°. More preferably, the folded portion may include multiple bends adjacent to each other, each preferably within the aforementioned range. For example, the folded portion may include two bends, each 90°. Preferably, the term “adjacent to each other” means that they are each located within, for example, 10% of the total length of the transmission line. More preferably, “upper part” refers to a portion of the transmission line in the upper half of the substantial extension of the aerosol generator of the resonator. The substantial extension of the aerosol generator is preferably defined as the length of the aerosol generator along its long axis or longest axis. The transmission line preferably includes at least one such folded portion in its correspondingly defined lower part.

[0028] The resonator casing is preferably symmetric with respect to the connection point of the transmission line. Preferably, the transmission line and its connection point are arranged within the resonator casing such that the connection point is in the middle thereof, particularly in the middle in the width direction, and the width of the resonator casing is perpendicular to the substantial extension of the aerosol generator. The resonator casing is preferably axially symmetric with respect to the connection point, particularly with respect to the extension of the power supply section from the connection point. The resonator casing is preferably axially symmetric with respect to the longitudinal axis of the resonator.

[0029] In one advantageous embodiment, the resonator casing houses an opening configured to receive a material. Among them, at least one transmission line is configured to receive the material. At least one transmission line is preferably configured to hold the material via frictional engagement.

[0030] At least one transmission line is preferably formed in a shape configured to receive the material, particularly via a folded portion. Among them, at least one transmission line is preferably shaped to define an inner portion configured to receive the material, particularly to engage frictionally (i.e., sandwich).

[0031] In the case of a plurality of transmission lines, preferably only one, a plurality, or all of the transmission lines are configured to receive the material, particularly to engage frictionally. For example, one or more transmission lines are configured to receive the material, and one or more further transmission lines are configured to only radiate an electric field.

[0032] Each at least one power supply section preferably includes at least one signal line and is a coaxial cable including a ground shield as the ground of at least one power supply section.

[0033] The aerosol generator is preferably a handheld device. Further details, advantages, and features of the preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0034] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generator according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of the aerosol generator according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator within the cavity of the aerosol generator according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator within the cavity of an aerosol generator according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of the aerosol generator according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows a schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of the aerosol generator according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows a schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows a schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view and a 3D model of the resonator inside the cavity of an aerosol generator according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a cavity resonator of an aerosol generator according to ten embodiments of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0035] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generator 1 (hereinafter referred to as "device 1") according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In particular, Figure 1 shows the external appearance of device 1.

[0036] In this embodiment, Apparatus 1 is a handheld device. Apparatus 1 is configured to generate an aerosol for consumption by inhalation by a consumer. Apparatus 1 generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating material 6 (hereinafter: "Material 6"). Aerosol generating material (hereinafter: "Material") is a label used to mean a medium that generates an aerosol or vapor when heated. This may be synonymous with vapor precursor material, aerosol generation, or generating medium, substrate, or material. Aerosol generating material typically includes a liquid or solid material that provides components that volatilize upon heating, in the form of vapor or aerosol. Aerosol generating material may be a non-tobacco-containing material or a tobacco-containing material. Aerosol generating material may include, for example, one or more of the following: tobacco itself, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco extract, homogenized tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol precursor material may also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. Aerosol generating material may include one or more humectants, such as glycerol or propylene glycol. In particular, the material 6 of this embodiment is a tobacco stick containing a reconstituted tobacco packing as an aerosol generating material.

[0037] The apparatus 1 comprises an outer case 8, i.e., a cylindrical, or more particularly tubular, shape. Alternatively, the outer case 8 may be, for example, a square cylinder.

[0038] Apparatus 1 further comprises an electromagnetic field generating unit 4 (hereinafter: "RF unit 4") configured to generate a radio frequency (RF) signal. In this embodiment, the RF signal is, for example, a microwave signal in the range of 2400 MHz to 2500 MHz. Embodiments are not limited to RF unit 4 that generates a microwave signal in the range of 2400 MHz to 2500 MHz. For example, RF unit 4 may generate an RF signal above 500 MHz, commonly referred to as a microwave, which is suitable for heating material 6. The microwave signal is propagated to / through material 6 (as described below), thereby heating material 6 and generating and emitting aerosols therefrom.

[0039] The device 1 further comprises a battery module 2 electrically connected to the RF unit 4. The battery module 2 and the RF unit 4 are connected to a control module 3. The control module 3 is configured to control the RF unit 4 to generate an RF signal having a suitable frequency and / or amplitude.

[0040] As can be seen in Figure 1, the apparatus 1 comprises a cavity 5 configured to house a resonator 10. The resonator 10 receives material 6 in the form of, for example, an aerosol generating (and emitting) material 6. The resonator 10 is connected to an RF unit 4 and configured to propagate RF signals from there to / through the material 6.

[0041] The apparatus 1, particularly the internal portion of the outer case 8, is provided with at least one through-hole 9 for connecting the resonator 10 to the RF unit 4 so that the RF signal is propagated into / through the cavity 5 into the material 6. The number of through-holes 9 may correspond to several power supply sections 20, 21, 22, which will be discussed below.

[0042] The following embodiments of Apparatus 1 describing the resonator 10 within the cavity 5 for heating the material 6 will be described with reference to a 3D model of the resonator 10. In other words, the following embodiments showing the configuration and connection scheme of the resonator 10 may be advantageously combined with or included in Apparatus 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0043] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] The resonator 10 of this embodiment includes a resonator casing 24. As can be seen particularly from the perspective view in Figure 3, the resonator casing 24 is substantially cylindrical, in particular tubular, and includes an opening 11 through which a material 6 (not shown here) can be inserted into the resonator 10.

[0045] Furthermore, the resonator 10 of this embodiment includes two transmission lines 30. Each transmission line 30 is connected to a power supply unit 20. In particular, one transmission line 30 is connected to a first power supply unit 21, and the other transmission line 30 is connected to a second power supply unit 22. The power supply units 21 and 22 extend through through holes 9 shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, the device 1 may have multiple through holes 9, in particular two through holes 9, one for each power supply unit 21 and 22. As can be seen from the perspective view in Figure 3, each transmission line 30 includes an elongated plate shape and a bent plate shape.

[0046] In this embodiment, the power supply units 21 and 22 are coaxial cables that each include a signal line 25 and a grounding shield 23 that functions as ground. The resonator casing 24 is connected to ground via the grounding shields 23 of the power supply units 21 and 22.

[0047] As can be seen from Figures 2 and 3, the two transmission lines 30 are connected integrally, particularly at the midpoint 13. Even when connected integrally, they are still defined as two separate transmission lines 30 because they are individually connected to the feed point 20 and thus act as individual antennas.

[0048] The length 12 of each transmission line 30 from its bottom to each endpoint 15 along the substantial extension direction 16 of the device 1 (compared to Figure 1) is 1 / 4 of the wavelength of the RF signal generated from the RF unit 4. The length 12 should be understood, in particular, as the antenna length of each transmission line 30.

[0049] In this regard, the length 12 of each transmission line 30 is defined as not including the transverse connection portion, which includes the midpoint 13. This connection portion does not significantly contribute to the antenna effect of the transmission line 30, particularly with respect to the electric field distribution 35 propagating between the transmission lines 30. The connection portion has the advantage of simplifying the fixing of the transmission lines 30 within the resonator casing 24. In particular, the two transmission lines 30 can be easily manufactured by bending elongated strips together with the connection portion.

[0050] Furthermore, each of the transmission lines 30 includes a lower first portion 40 and an upper second portion 41 along the substantial extension direction 16 of the device 1. In particular, the upper second portion 41 is positioned substantially in the extension direction 16 to at least the upper half, preferably at least the upper quarter, of the resonator casing 24. Preferably, the lower first portion 40 is positioned corresponding to at most the lower half, preferably at most three-quarters, of the resonator casing 24.

[0051] Here, the second portion 41 is tapered relative to the first portion 40. For example, the width 18 of the second portion 41 is approximately 60% of the width 18 of the first portion 40. The width 18 is along the width direction 17 perpendicular to the extension direction 16 and essentially describes the distance between the two transmission lines 30. This taper allows the material 6 to be held by the transmission lines 30 due to the reduced distance between the transmission lines 30 and also has a favorable effect with respect to a higher electric field strength. Furthermore, by providing the corresponding non-tapered first portion 40 of the transmission line 30, the airflow for extraction of the generated aerosol is favorably enhanced, while at the same time providing strong retention of the material 6 and a higher electric field strength.

[0052] As indicated by the symbols "+" and "-" in Figure 2, one transmission line 30 receives a generated signal from the RF unit 4 from each signal line 25. Furthermore, each other transmission line 30 receives a negative generated RF signal from each other signal line 25, which is generated by phase-shifting the generated RF signal by 180°. In other words, the signal received by one transmission line 30 is phase-shifted by 180° with respect to the signal received by the other transmission line 30. The RF unit 4 preferably includes a phase-shift circuit and / or active and / or passive components for phase-shifting the RF signal.

[0053] At midpoint 13, the phase-shift signal interferes destructively. As a result, the short circuit at the midpoint is not physically realized and remains floating, thus creating a so-called virtual ground.

[0054] The endpoint 15 of the transmission line 30 is not electrically (directly) connected to the grounded resonator casing 24. This converts the zero impedance of the ground surface into a so-called open circuit with high impedance. The effective length of the transmission line 30 depends on the dielectric properties of the material 6, because the material 6 capacitively couples the two transmission lines 30, thereby electrically extending the transmission line.

[0055] The principal electric field distribution of the RF field radiated by the transmission line 30 is shown via the magnetic field lines 35 (hereinafter: "electric field distribution 35" or "electric field 35"). As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the electric field distribution 35 achieved by the transmission line 30 is advantageously uniform. Furthermore, as is evident from the comparison of Figure 1 with Figure 2 or Figure 3, the transmission line 30 is positioned around the material 6. Thus, in this embodiment, the generated electric field 35 propagates from one transmission line 30 through the material 6 to a portion of the other transmission line 30. In this specification, as shown in the comparison of Figure 3 with Figure 1, the term "positioned around" means that the transmission line 30 partially surrounds the inserted and received material 6. Furthermore, the received material 6 is in contact with the tapered second portion 41 as described above. Thus, in the exemplary embodiment, the transmission line 30 is in partial contact with the material 6. In areas without direct contact, the material 6 is spaced apart from the first portion 40 of each transmission line 30, and the distance between the material 6 and each transmission line 30 is preferably about 33% of the total width 18 of the material 6, i.e., the width 18 of the second portion 41 (based on the above embodiment where the second portion 41 has a width 18 that is 60% of the first portion 40). Thus, the first portion 40 of the transmission line 30 is considered to be in close proximity to the material 6, in particular, with no other elements between them.

[0056] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] In this embodiment, the transmission lines 30 are further short-circuited, i.e., electrically connected, to the resonator casing 24 which is grounded at their endpoints 15. Furthermore, each length 12 of the transmission line 30 is half the wavelength of the RF signal generated from the RF unit 4.

[0058] Furthermore, each transmission line 30 includes a first portion 40, a second portion 41, and a third portion 42. Preferably, the widths 18 of the first portion 40 and the third portion 42 are approximately equal. Preferably, the width 18 of the second portion 41 is approximately 60% of the widths 18 of the first portion 40 and the third portion 42. In this embodiment, the transmission line 30 is positioned around the material 6 received in the second portion 41, and in partial contact with the received material 6, while the first portion 40 and the third portion 42 are spaced apart from it.

[0059] This increases the length 12 of the transmission line 30, which leads to a larger surface area of ​​the electric field distribution 35 and therefore the heating of the material 6. As a result, longer sections of the material 6 can be heated (more evenly).

[0060] Figure 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] In this embodiment, both transmission lines 30 are connected to a single power supply unit 20. In Figure 6, for visibility and ease of understanding, the connection points 14 are at different heights, and they are provided at the same height on the transmission lines 30, as shown by the perspective view in Figure 7.

[0062] Within this configuration, the transmission lines 30 are connected to the signal line 25 and the grounding shield 23 of a single power supply unit 20, respectively. In particular, one transmission line 30 is connected to the signal line 25. The other transmission line 30 is connected to the grounding shield 23 of the same single power supply unit 20. This generates a virtual ground at their midpoint 13, as will also be apparent with respect to the second embodiment.

[0063] Furthermore, the transmission lines 30 are short-circuited, or electrically connected, to the resonator casing 24 at their endpoints 15. The length 12 of the transmission lines 30 is half the wavelength of the RF signal. This makes it possible to achieve an electric field distribution 35 similar to that of the third embodiment with only one single power supply unit 20.

[0064] As shown in Figure 6, the transmission lines 30 are not short-circuited to the resonator casing 24 at their bottom surfaces at the midpoint 13. In addition to being supported by their connections to the resonator casing 24 at their endpoints 15, they may be supported by insulating or dielectric material and / or supports within the resonator casing 24.

[0065] On the other hand, if the transmission lines 30 are not short-circuited to the resonator casing 24 at their endpoints 15, the length 12 of the transmission lines 30 can be reduced to 1 / 4 of the RF signal wavelength, as shown in Embodiment 2.

[0066] Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] In this embodiment, the resonator 10 includes a single transmission line 30. In this specification, the transmission line 30 is not short-circuited to the resonator casing 24 and therefore has a length 12 that is one-quarter of the wavelength of the RF signal.

[0068] Furthermore, the transmission line 30 includes outwardly curved portions 43 at each of its two ends located at its upper surface. Thus, the width 18 of the end portion of the transmission line is approximately equal to the width 18 of the first portion 40.

[0069] In this embodiment, the transmission line 30 is connected only to the signal line 25 of a single power supply unit 20. Furthermore, the resonator casing 24 is grounded via the grounding shield 23 of the single power supply unit 20. A virtual ground is generated at the midpoint 13 of the transmission line 30.

[0070] The RF electric field 35 is generated between the portions of a single transmission line 30 into which the material 6 (not shown) is inserted. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the electric field 35 also propagates from the transmission line 30 to the resonator casing 24. The electrical losses that may be caused by this are advantageous in this case because they heat the resonator 10, and thereby heat the aerosol-generating material 6 as well.

[0071] The position of the single power supply unit 20 may be preferably changed. For example, the single power supply unit 20 may be positioned on the side of the resonator casing 24, as shown in Figure 7.

[0072] The transmission line 30 is positioned around the received material 6. In particular, the tapered second portion 41 shown is in contact with the received material 6, and the first portion 40 and the outwardly curved portion 43 are close to the received material 6, with no further elements in between.

[0073] Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] In this embodiment, a single transmission line 30 having a length 12 of half a wavelength is provided within the resonator 10. The transmission line 30 is connected only to the signal line 25 of a single power supply unit 20. The resonator casing 24 is grounded via the grounded shield 23 of the single power supply unit 20.

[0075] Furthermore, the endpoint 15 of the transmission line 30 is electrically connected to the resonator casing 24 and therefore also grounded. A virtual short circuit occurs at the lower midpoint 13 of the transmission line 30. The electric field 35 of the RF signal is generated between the portions of the transmission line 30 and between the transmission line 30 and the resonator casing 24, as shown in Figure 11.

[0076] Furthermore, as shown, the transmission line 30 includes two folded portions 44 in its upper portion 45. Each folded portion 44 refers to a portion of the transmission line 30 that includes two adjacent 90° bends 46. Preferably, the term “adjacent” means that they are each located within, for example, 10% of the total length of the transmission line 30. In this specification, the upper portion 45 refers to a portion of the transmission line 30 in the upper half of the resonator 10 relative to the substantial length 16 of the apparatus 1.

[0077] The lower portion 47 of the transmission line 30 in the lower half of the resonator 10 also includes two bends 46, each at 90°. The bends 46 at the bottom of the lower portion 47 (in the plane of the midpoint 13) are defined as not being adjacent to each other, in contrast to the bends of the upper portion 45, which together define a single folded portion 44.

[0078] Advantageously, the effective length of the resonator 10 is reduced through the folded portion 44 and the bend 46. Furthermore, a single power supply 20 can therefore be introduced asymmetrically with respect to the length of the resonator casing 24 along the extension direction 16.

[0079] In this specification, the material 6 is inserted into the transmission line 30 between two folded portions 44 located in its upper portion 45. The transmission line 30 is thus positioned around the received material 6. Specifically, the transmission line 30 is in contact with the received material 6 at its upper portion 4 and spaced apart from it at its lower portion 47.

[0080] Figure 12 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] In this specification, as in the sixth embodiment, the resonator 10 includes a single transmission line 30 having a folded portion 44 in its upper portion 45, where each of the folded portions 44 includes a continuous semicircular shape, i.e., a single bend 46 bent at 180°.

[0082] Furthermore, the lower portion 47 of the transmission line 30 includes two bottom folded portions 49, each containing two adjacent bends 46 of 45°. Similar to the folded portion 44 of the upper portion 45, the bottom folded portion 49 of the lower portion 47 may also be formed by each of a single 180° bend 46.

[0083] In addition, the transmission line 30 includes a circular ring-shaped bend 48 in its lower portion 47. The ring-shaped bend 48 also causes a virtual ground, thereby achieving a favorable electric field distribution 35, as shown in Figures 12 and 13. Furthermore, the ring-shaped bend 48 favorably accommodates and holds the material 6, thereby positioning the transmission line 30 around and in contact with such received material 6.

[0084] Figure 14 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] The general configuration of the eighth embodiment is similar to that of the fifth embodiment.

[0086] In this specification, the transmission line 30 is formed asymmetrically in the axial direction with respect to the longitudinal axis 50 of the resonator 10. Therein, the transmission line 30 includes a single folded portion 44 in its upper portion 45, which includes two adjacent bends 46. The first bend 46 is less than 45° (i.e., bent more than straight), and the second bend 46 is greater than 45° (i.e., bent less than straight), and together they constitute a 180° folded portion 44. For example, the first bend 46 may define an angle of approximately 30°, and the second bend 46 may define an angle of approximately 150°.

[0087] By forming the transmission line 30 asymmetrically in the axial direction with respect to the long axis 50, the power supply unit 20 can be positioned symmetrically in the axial direction with respect to the axis 50. This simplifies the connection of the resonator 10 to the RF unit 4.

[0088] In this specification, the material 6 is inserted into the transmission wire 30 between the folded portion 44 and the portion facing it, with respect to the width direction 17 of the transmission wire 30. Thereafter, the transmission wire 30 is positioned around the receiving material 6. Furthermore, as indicated by the taper of the upper portion 45, the transmission wire 30 is in contact with the receiving material 6 and holds it in the upper portion 45 of the transmission wire 30. Furthermore, the lower portion 47 of the transmission wire 30 is positioned around and spaced apart from the receiving material 6.

[0089] Figure 16 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 shows a further schematic cross-sectional view of the resonator 10 inside the cavity 5 of the aerosol generator 1 according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] As can be seen from Figures 16 and 17, the general configuration of the ninth embodiment is similar to that of the fifth embodiment. As will also be described with respect to the fifth embodiment, the transmission line 30 is arranged around the receiving material 6. In particular, the tapered second portion 41 shown is in contact with the receiving material 6, and the first portion 40 and the outwardly curved portion 43 are close to the receiving material 6, with no further elements in between.

[0091] In this specification, the transmission line 30 is not directly connected to the single power supply unit 20. Instead, the signal line 25 is short-circuited to the resonator casing 24, which is grounded via the grounding shield 23 of the single power supply unit 20.

[0092] This forms a short-circuit loop 52, which induces a current in the transmission line 30. This induced current and the resulting voltage distribution along the resonator 10 are substantially similar to those of the previous embodiment.

[0093] Furthermore, the positions of the connection point 51 of the signal line 25 and the resonator casing 24 may be modified so that they can be used as matching elements between a single power supply unit 20 and the resonator 10.

[0094] Figure 18 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a resonator 10 within a cavity 5 of an aerosol generator 1 according to ten embodiments of the present invention. The resonator 10 includes a resonator casing 24. The resonator casing 24 is substantially cylindrical and includes an opening 11 through which an aerosol generating material 6 is inserted into the resonator 10. In one embodiment, the material 6 may be in the form of a tobacco stick, as shown in the figure. The resonator 10 is configured to limit and resonate with electromagnetic waves to an operating frequency corresponding to a microwave frequency range suitable for heating materials, for example, above 500 MHz, specifically 2400 MHz to 2500 MHz.

[0095] The resonator 10 includes a substantially cylindrical transmission line 30 and a magnetic loop 53. The transmission line 30 is energized by the magnetic loop 53. The magnetic loop 53 is an element that connects to the magnetic field components of the electromagnetic wave. The magnetic loop 53 is involved in efficiently supplying radio frequency energy into the transmission line 30. The magnetic field distribution is shown in reference no. 54. The transmission line 30 may have a length equal to one-quarter of the wavelength of the operating frequency. This length, combined with operation at microwave frequencies, has advantages in efficient energy transfer and impedance characteristics.

[0096] The aerosol generating material 6 comprises one or more parts of the aerosol generating material. One or more parts of the material 6 are inserted into the transmission line 30 through an opening in the resonator casing 24. The one or more inserted parts of the aerosol generating material 6 are heated by a cavity, thereby allowing precise control over which part of the material is heated. Specifically, the components of the cavity resonator are arranged such that the inserted part of the material is primarily affected by the magnetic field, with minimal exposure to the electric field, leading to targeted heating. Thus, the cavity resonator has the advantage of not only having enhanced heating efficiency but also enabling selective heating of the material.

[0097] In addition to the written explanation described above, Figures 1 to 18 are explicitly referenced, and the figures illustrate in detail examples of the configuration of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0098] List of reference symbols 1. Aerosol generator 2 Battery Modules 3. Control Module 4. Electromagnetic field generating unit 5 hollow 6. Aerosol generating materials 8. Outer case 9 Through hole 10 resonator 11 Opening 12. Length of the transmission line 13 Midpoint 14 connection points 15. Final stop 16 Extension direction of the device 17 Width direction 18 width 20 Power supply section 21 Power supply section 22 Power supply section 23 Ground Shield 24 Resonator casing 25 signal lines 30 transmission lines 35. Field lines / field distribution 40 First part 41 Second part 42 Third Part 43 Curved section 44 Folded part 45 Upper part 46 Flexion 47 Lower part 48 Ring bending section 49. Bottom folding section 50 Long axis 51 Connection points 52 Short-circuit loop 53 Magnetic Loops 54 Magnetic field lines

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device (1) configured to generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating material (6), wherein the aerosol generating device (1) A cavity (5) configured to receive the aerosol generating material (6), An electromagnetic field generating unit (4) configured to generate a signal, The system includes a resonator (10) disposed within the cavity (5) and electrically connected to the electromagnetic field generating unit (4) via at least one power supply unit (20, 21, 22), The resonator (10) includes at least one transmission line (30) configured to receive the generated signal and generate an electromagnetic field for heating the aerosol generating material (6), and the resonator (10) includes a resonator casing (24) that at least partially surrounds the at least one transmission line (30). Aerosol generator (1) wherein the at least one transmission line (30) includes a first portion (40) and a second portion (41), the second portion (41) being narrower than the first portion (40), and the at least one power supply unit (20, 21, 22) being located in the first portion (40).

2. The aerosol generator (1) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one transmission line (30) is positioned in close proximity to the received aerosol generating material (6), and / or preferably the at least one transmission line (30) is in at least partial contact with the received aerosol generating material (6).

3. The aerosol generator (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the resonator (10) includes two transmission lines (30), namely a first transmission line (30) and a second transmission line (30).

4. The aerosol generator (1) according to claim 3, wherein the first transmission line (30) is electrically connected to the signal line (25) of the first power supply unit (21) of the at least one power supply unit (20, 21, 22), the second transmission line (30) is electrically connected to the signal line (25) of the second power supply unit (22) of the at least one power supply unit (20, 21, 22), the signal line (25) of the first power supply unit (21) supplies the generated signal to the first transmission line (30), and the signal line (25) of the second power supply unit (22) supplies a negative generated signal, which is a generated signal with a 180° phase shift, to the second transmission line (30).

5. The aerosol generator (1) according to claim 3, wherein the at least one power supply unit (20, 21, 22) includes a single power supply unit (20), the first transmission line (30) and the second transmission line (30) are electrically connected to the single power supply unit (20), the first transmission line (30) is connected to the signal line (25) of the single power supply unit (20) to receive the generated signal, and the second transmission line (30) is connected to the ground (23) of the single power supply unit (20).

6. The aerosol generator (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the first transmission line (30) and the second transmission line (30) each include a length of 1 / 4 or 1 / 2 of the wavelength of the generated signal.

7. The aerosol generator (1) according to claim 6, wherein the first transmission line (30) and the second transmission line (30) each include a length of half a wavelength, and the first transmission line (30) and the second transmission line (30) are electrically connected to the resonator casing (24).

8. The aerosol generator (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least one power supply unit (20, 21, 22) includes one single power supply unit (20), the resonator (10) includes one transmission line (30), and the resonator casing (24) is electrically connected to the ground (23) of the single power supply unit (20).

9. The aerosol generator (1) according to claim 8, wherein the transmission line (30) is electrically connected to the signal line (25) of the single power supply unit (20), and the generated signal is electrically received from there.

10. The aerosol generator (1) according to claim 9, wherein the transmission line (30) is asymmetrical with respect to the connection point (14) of the transmission line (30) to the signal line (25).

11. The aerosol generator (1) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein at least one end of the transmission line (30) is electrically connected to the resonator casing (24).

12. The aerosol generator (1) according to claim 8, wherein the resonator casing (24) is further electrically connected to the signal line (25) of the single power supply unit (20), from which the generated signal is received, and the resonator casing (24) is configured to induce a current corresponding to the generated signal in the transmission line (30).

13. The aerosol generator (1) according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the transmission line (30) includes at least one folded portion (44) in its upper portion (45).

14. The aerosol generator (1) according to claims 10 and 13, wherein the resonator casing (24) is symmetrical with respect to the connection point (14) of the transmission line (30).

15. The aerosol generating apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the resonator casing (24) houses an opening (11) configured to receive the aerosol generating material (6), and the at least one transmission line (30) is configured to house the aerosol generating material (6).

16. The aerosol generator (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the aerosol generator (1) is a handheld device.

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