Aerosol generating apparatus including a plate-shaped inverted-F antenna and user authentication method

Abstract

Adult verification of the aerosol generating device is performed via BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low energy) communication using a PIFA (Planar Inverted-F Antenna) including an example circuit board, power supply line, antenna pattern, and ground line.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The following embodiments relate to an aerosol-generating device, and specifically to a method of performing user authentication using a PIFA included in an aerosol-generating device. [Background Art]

[0002] In recent years, demand for electronic cigarettes has been gradually increasing. Along with such an increase in demand for electronic cigarettes, functions related to electronic cigarettes have been continuously developed. In particular, related functions based on the types and characteristics of electronic cigarettes have been continuously developed. [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0003] One embodiment is to provide a PIFA (Planar Inverted-F Antenna) including a circuit board, a feed line, an antenna pattern, and a ground line.

[0004] One embodiment is to set antenna patterns of various forms based on the total length of one or more predetermined strip lines according to the arrangement relationship of each of the one or more strip lines and the frequency of a radio signal.

[0005] One embodiment is to unlock the aerosol-generating device using adult verification data via a PIFA that performs BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication.

[0006] One embodiment is to invalidate a heating command received from a user when user authentication (e.g., adult verification or age verification) for the aerosol-generating device fails.

[0007] One embodiment is to provide an aerosol-generating device that generates aerosol. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0008] A user authentication method performed by an aerosol generator according to one embodiment includes the steps of: transmitting a beacon for establishing a wireless communication channel using BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication; establishing the wireless communication channel with a user terminal based on the beacon; receiving adult verification data for the user of the aerosol generator from the user terminal via the wireless communication channel; and authenticating the user of the aerosol generator based on the adult verification data.

[0009] In one example, if the user is authenticated, the step of unlocking the aerosol generator may be further included.

[0010] In one example, the step of transmitting a beacon for establishing a wireless communication channel using BLE communication may include the steps of generating beacon information and transmitting the beacon containing the beacon information via a PIFA (Planar Inverted-F Antenna).

[0011] In one example, the PIFA may include a circuit board, a power supply line formed on the upper surface of the circuit board, an antenna pattern including one or more striplines electrically connected to the power supply line (the antenna pattern is formed on a dielectric substrate of the circuit board), and a ground line electrically connected to the antenna pattern.

[0012] In one example, the total length of the one or more striplines can be predetermined based on the arrangement of the one or more striplines and the frequency of the radio signal.

[0013] In one example, the frequency of the wireless signal may be 2.4 GHz, and the total length of the one or more striplines may be 32.08 mm.

[0014] An example of a user authentication method may further include the steps of receiving a heating command from the user and invalidating the heating command if the user is not authenticated.

[0015] A Planar Inverted-F Antenna (PIFA) of an aerosol generator for transmitting and receiving wireless signals according to one embodiment includes a circuit board, a power supply line formed on the upper surface of the circuit board, an antenna pattern including one or more striplines electrically connected to the power supply line (the antenna pattern is formed on a dielectric substrate of the circuit board), and a ground line electrically connected to the antenna pattern, wherein the total length of the one or more striplines can be predetermined based on the arrangement of each of the one or more striplines and the frequency of the wireless signal.

[0016] In one example, the frequency of the wireless signal may be 2.4 GHz, and the total length of the one or more striplines may be 32.08 mm. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] A PIFA (Planar Inverted-F Antenna) including a circuit board, power supply lines, antenna patterns, and ground lines can be provided.

[0018] Various antenna patterns can be configured based on the total length of one or more striplines, and the total length of one or more striplines can be predetermined based on the arrangement of each stripline and the frequency of the radio signal.

[0019] The aerosol generator can be unlocked using adult verification data via PIFA, which uses BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication.

[0020] When the user's adult verification for the aerosol generating device fails, the heating command received from the user can be invalidated.

[0021] An aerosol generating device that generates aerosol can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an example. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an example [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a cartridge and a main body of an aerosol generating device separated from each other according to an example. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the cartridge and the main body of the aerosol generating device coupled to each other according to an example. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a user authentication method for a user according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining an attached antenna provided in the aerosol generating device according to an example. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an antenna pattern for BLE communication according to an example. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an antenna pattern for BLE communication according to another example. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an antenna pattern for BLE communication according to another example. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a process of controlling an aerosol generating device in response to a user's heating command according to an example. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a PIFA according to an example. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0023] The specific structural or functional descriptions of the embodiments are disclosed for illustrative purposes only and can be modified in various ways. Therefore, the embodiments are not limited to any particular disclosure, and the scope of this specification includes modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the technical ideas described in the embodiments.

[0024] Terms such as "first" or "second" may be used to describe multiple components, but such terms should be interpreted solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from others. For example, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may also be named the first component.

[0025] When it is mentioned that one component is "connected" to another, it should be understood that it is directly linked to or connected to the other component, but that other components may be present in between.

[0026] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this specification, terms such as “includes” or “has” indicate the presence of features, figures, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood not to presuppose the existence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0027] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the relevant art. Commonly used, predefined terms should be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and not as ideal or overly formal unless expressly defined herein.

[0028] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, the same components will be given the same reference numerals regardless of the reference numerals used in the drawings, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0029] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator 100 shown in Figure 1 includes a control unit 110, a detection unit 120, an output unit 130, a battery 140, an atomizing unit 150, a user input unit 160, a memory 170, and a communication unit 180. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 100 is not limited to that shown in Figure 1. In other words, a person with ordinary skill in the art according to this embodiment will understand that some of the components shown in Figure 1 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generator 100.

[0031] The detection unit 120 detects the state of the aerosol generator 100 or the state of the area around the aerosol generator 100 and transmits the detected information to the control unit 110. Based on the detected information, the control unit 110 can control the aerosol generator 100 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the atomizing unit 150, restricting smoking, determining whether or not to insert an aerosol generating item (e.g., an aerosol generating item, cartridge, etc.), and displaying notifications.

[0032] The detection unit 120 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the temperature sensor 122, insertion detection sensor 124, and puff sensor 126.

[0033] The temperature sensor 122 detects the temperature of the atomizing unit 150 (or the aerosol generating material). The aerosol generating device 100 may include a separate temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the atomizing unit 150, or the atomizing unit 150 itself may act as the temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 122 may be positioned around the battery 140 to monitor the temperature of the battery 140.

[0034] The insertion detection sensor 124 detects the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. For example, the insertion detection sensor 124 includes at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can detect a change in signal due to the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article.

[0035] The puff sensor 126 detects the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 126 may detect the user's puff based on any one of the following: temperature changes, flow rate changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0036] In addition to the sensors 122 to 126 described above, the detection unit 120 further includes at least one of the following: a temperature / humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). The function of the angle sensor can be intuitively inferred by those skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0037] The output unit 130 outputs information regarding the status of the aerosol generator 100 to the user. The output unit 130 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the display unit 132, the haptic unit 134, and the acoustic output unit 136. If the display unit 132 and the touchpad form a layered structure and constitute a touchscreen, the display unit 132 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0038] The display unit 132 visually provides the user with information regarding the aerosol generator 100. For example, information regarding the aerosol generator 100 can include various types of information such as the charging / discharging status of the battery 140 of the aerosol generator 100, the preheating status of the atomizing unit 150, the insertion / removal status of aerosol generating items, or conditions under which the use of the aerosol generator 100 is restricted (e.g., detection of abnormal items). The display unit 132 can output this information to the outside. The display unit 132 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD) or an induced light-emitting display panel (OLED). Alternatively, the display unit 132 may be in the form of an LED light-emitting element.

[0039] The haptic unit 134 converts electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli to provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generator 100. For example, the haptic unit 134 includes a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0040] The acoustic output unit 136 provides the user with auditory information regarding the aerosol generator 100. For example, the acoustic output unit 136 can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0041] The battery 140 supplies the power used to operate the aerosol generator 100. The battery 140 also supplies power to enable the atomizing unit 150 to operate. In addition, the battery 140 may supply the power necessary for the operation of other components provided within the aerosol generator 100 (e.g., the detection unit 120, the output unit 130, the user input unit 160, the memory 170, and the communication unit 180). The battery 140 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 140 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery.

[0042] The atomizing unit 150 is powered by the battery 140 to atomize the aerosol-generating substance. Although not shown in Figure 1, the aerosol generator 100 further includes a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the battery 140 and supplies it to the atomizing unit 150. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 100 generates aerosols using an ultrasonic vibration method, the aerosol generator 100 further includes a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the battery 140 into AC power supply.

[0043] The control unit 110, detection unit 120, output unit 130, user input unit 160, memory 170, and communication unit 180 can function by receiving power from the battery 140. Although not shown in Figure 1, the system further includes a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power from the battery 140 and supplies it to each component.

[0044] In one embodiment, the atomizing unit 150 includes a transducer that generates ultrasonic vibrations in response to an applied signal (e.g., power). For example, the material of the transducer may include, but is not limited to, a piezoelectric ceramic. The transducer may also include a piezoelectric body. In one embodiment, the piezoelectric body acts as a conversion element that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, and can generate ultrasonic vibrations under the control of the control unit 110. In one embodiment, when alternating current power is applied to a polarized piezoelectric body, the piezoelectric body repeatedly expands and contracts. The expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric body allows the transducer to vibrate at a characteristic frequency. When a signal is applied to the transducer, short, high-frequency vibrations are generated, and these vibrations can divide the aerosol-generating substance into small particles and atomize it into an aerosol.

[0045] The user input unit 160 can receive information input from the user and output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 160 may include, but is not limited to, a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (contact-type capacitive type, pressure-type resistive type, infrared sensing type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Although not shown in Figure 1, the aerosol generator 100 also includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can connect to other external devices via the USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 140.

[0046] Memory 170, as hardware for storing various data processed within the aerosol generator 100, can store data processed by the control unit 110 and data to be processed. Memory 170 includes at least one type of storage medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 170 may also store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generator 100, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0047] The communication unit 180 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 180 includes a short-range communication unit 182 and a wireless communication unit 184.

[0048] The short-range wireless communication unit 182 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 infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, and the like.

[0049] The wireless communication unit 184 includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit. The wireless communication unit 184 may also verify and authenticate the aerosol generator 100 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0050] The control unit 110 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 100. In one embodiment, the control unit 110 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory containing a program that can be executed by the microprocessor. Further forms of hardware implementation can be understood by those ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs.

[0051] The control unit 110 can control the operation of the atomizing unit 150 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 140 to the atomizing unit 150. For example, the control unit 110 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the drive circuit 138 located between the battery 140 and the atomizing unit 150.

[0052] The control unit 110 analyzes the results detected by the detection unit 120 and controls the processing to be performed thereafter. For example, based on the results detected by the detection unit 120, the control unit 110 can control the power supplied to the atomizing unit 150 so that the operation of the atomizing unit 150 is disclosed or terminated. As another example, based on the results detected by the detection unit 120, the control unit 110 can control the amount of power supplied to the atomizing unit 150 and the duration for which power is supplied so that the atomizing unit 150 vibrates at a predetermined frequency or maintains an appropriate vibration frequency.

[0053] The control unit 110 controls the output unit 130 based on the results detected by the detection unit 120. For example, when the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 126 reaches a preset number, the control unit 110 can notify the user via at least one of the display unit 132, the haptic unit 134, and the acoustic output unit 136 that the aerosol generator 100 will immediately shut down.

[0054] In one embodiment, the control unit 110 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the atomizing unit 150 by controlling the drive circuit 138 according to the state of the aerosol product detected by the detection unit 120. For example, depending on the type or remaining amount of aerosol product, the control unit 110 can control the vibration frequency of the vibrator of the atomizing unit 150.

[0055] One embodiment may also be realized in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as a program module executed by a computer. Computer-readable media may be any solubility accessible by a computer, and include all volatile and non-volatile media, and isolated and non-isolated media. Computer-readable media also include all computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include all volatile and non-volatile, isolated and non-isolated media implemented by any method or technique for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data such as modulated data signals, or other transmission mechanisms, and include any information transmission media.

[0056] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus, which is an example of such an apparatus.

[0057] Referring to Figure 2, the aerosol generator 200 (for example, the aerosol generator 100 in Figure 1) includes a cartridge 220 for holding the aerosol-generating substance and a main body 210 connected to the cartridge 220.

[0058] The cartridge 220 of the aerosol generator 200 can be coupled to the main body 210 with the aerosol generating material contained inside. For example, the cartridge 200 and the main body 210 may be coupled by inserting at least a portion of the cartridge 220 into the main body 210. Alternatively, the cartridge 220 and the main body 210 may be coupled by inserting at least a portion of the main body 210 into the cartridge 220.

[0059] The cartridge 220 and the main body 210 can be connected by at least one of the following methods: snap-fit, screw-in, magnetic coupling, or forced fitting. However, the method of connecting the cartridge 220 and the main body 210 is not limited to the examples described above.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 220 includes a housing 222, a mouthpiece 224, a storage section 230, a transmission section 230, a vibrator 250, and electrical terminals 260.

[0061] The housing 222 of the aerosol generator 200 can form the overall appearance of the cartridge 220 together with the mouthpiece 224, and components for the operation of the cartridge 220 may be arranged inside the housing 222. For example, the housing 222 may be formed in the shape of a hexahedron, but the shape of the housing 222 is not limited to the embodiments described above. Depending on the embodiment, the housing 222 may be formed in the shape of a polygonal prism (e.g., a triangular prism, a pentagonal prism) or a cylinder.

[0062] The mouthpiece 224 of the aerosol generator 200 is located in one area of ​​the housing 222 and includes an outlet 224e for discharging aerosols generated from the aerosol-generating material to the outside. For example, the mouthpiece 224 is located in one area of ​​the cartridge 220, which is coupled to the main body 210, and the other area is located opposite to it, so that the user can be supplied with aerosols from the cartridge 220 by bringing the mouthpiece 224 into contact with the mouth and inhaling.

[0063] A pressure difference is created between the outside and inside of the cartridge 220 by the user's inhalation or puffing action, and the aerosol generated inside the cartridge 220 can be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 220 through the outlet 224e due to the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the cartridge 220. That is, by contacting the mouthpiece 224 with the oral cavity and inhaling, the user can be supplied with aerosol that will be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 220 through the outlet 224e.

[0064] The storage section 230 of the aerosol generating device 200 is located in the internal space of the housing 222 and can contain the aerosol generating material. In this disclosure, the expression "the storage section contains the aerosol generating material" means that the storage section 230 simply functions to hold the aerosol generating material, like a container, and also means that the inside of the storage section 230 contains an element that impregnates (contains) the aerosol generating material, such as sponge, cotton, cloth, or a porous ceramic structure. The same meaning will be used hereafter.

[0065] The storage section 230 may contain an aerosol-generating substance having one of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel.

[0066] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid-phase composition. The liquid-phase composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0067] The liquid phase composition may consist of, for example, water, solvent, ethanol, plant extract, fragrance, flavoring agent, and vitamin mixture, or a mixture of these components. The fragrance may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit fragrance components.

[0068] The flavoring agent may contain ingredients that can provide users with a variety of flavors or aromas. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E, but is not limited to these. The liquid phase composition may also contain aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0069] For example, the liquid phase composition may contain a glycerin and propylene glycol solution in any weight ratio to which a nicotine salt has been added. The liquid phase composition may contain two or more nicotine salts. The nicotine salt may be formed by adding a suitable acid, including an organic or inorganic acid, to nicotine. Nicotine, whether naturally occurring or synthetic, has a concentration of any suitable weight relative to the total solution weight of the liquid phase composition.

[0070] The acid for forming the nicotine salt can be appropriately selected considering the rate of nicotine absorption in the blood, the operating temperature of the aerosol generator 200, flavor or aroma, solubility, etc. For example, the acid for forming the nicotine salt may be a single acid selected from the group consisting of benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, varreic acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharic acid, malonic acid, or malic acid, or a mixture of two or more acids selected from the group, but is not limited thereto.

[0071] The transmission unit 240 of the aerosol generating device 200 can absorb aerosol generating material. For example, aerosol generating material stored or contained in the storage unit 230 is transmitted from the storage unit 230 to the transducer 250 via the transmission unit 240, and the transducer 250 can atomize the aerosol generating material in the transmission unit 240 or the aerosol generating material transmitted from the transmission unit 240 to generate an aerosol. Here, the transmission unit 240 includes at least one of cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, and porous ceramics, but the transmission unit 240 is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the transmission unit 240 is arranged adjacent to the storage unit 230, and liquid-phase aerosol-generating material can be supplied from the storage unit 230. For example, the aerosol-generating material stored in the storage unit 230 is discharged to the outside of the storage unit 230 through a liquid-phase supply port formed in a region where the storage unit 230 faces the transmission unit 240, and the transmission unit 240 can absorb the aerosol-generating material from the storage unit 230 by absorbing at least a portion of the aerosol-generating material discharged from the storage unit 230.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 210 may further include an absorber (not shown) that is positioned to cover at least a portion of the transducer 250 on which aerosols are generated, and which transmits the aerosol-generating material absorbed by the transmission unit 240 to the transducer 250. The absorber may be made from a material capable of absorbing aerosol-generating material. For example, the absorber may include at least one material from among SPL30(H), SPL50(H)V, NP100(V8), SPL60(FC), and melamine. By further including an absorber in the cartridge 220, the aerosol-generating material is absorbed not only by the transmission unit 240 but also by the absorber, thereby improving the amount of aerosol-generating material absorbed.

[0074] The transducer 250 of the aerosol generator 200 is located inside the housing 222 and can generate aerosols by changing the phase of the aerosol-generating material stored inside the cartridge 220. For example, the transducer 250 can generate aerosols by heating or vibrating the aerosol-generating material.

[0075] Furthermore, by positioning the absorber to cover at least a portion of the vibrator 250, the absorber functions as a physical barrier to prevent "scattering," which is the direct discharge of particles that have not been sufficiently atomized during the aerosol generation process to the outside of the aerosol generator 200. Here, "scattering" means that particles of aerosol-generating material that have not been sufficiently atomized and are relatively large in size are discharged to the outside of the cartridge 220. The inclusion of an absorber in the cartridge 220 further reduces the possibility of liquid scattering and can improve the user's smoking satisfaction.

[0076] In one embodiment, the absorber is positioned between one surface of the oscillator 250 where aerosols are generated and the transmission unit 240, and can transmit the aerosol supplied to the transmission unit 240 to the oscillator 250. For example, one region of the absorber may be in contact with a region of the transmission unit 240 facing the -z direction, and the other region of the absorber may be in contact with a region of the oscillator 250 facing the +z direction. That is, the absorber is positioned on the upper surface of the oscillator 250 (for example, in the +z direction) and can supply the aerosol-generating material absorbed by the transmission unit 240 to the oscillator 250.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the transducer 250 of the aerosol generator 200 can convert the phase of the aerosol-generating substance by using an ultrasonic vibration method that atomizes the aerosol-generating substance with ultrasonic vibrations. For example, the transducer 250 may generate vibrations with a short period, and the vibrations generated from the transducer 250 may be ultrasonic vibrations. The frequency of the ultrasonic vibrations may be, but is not limited to, a frequency in the range of about 100 kHz to about 10 MHz (preferably, a range of about 100 kHz to 3.5 MHz). By generating ultrasonic vibrations in the above frequency band, the transducer vibrates along the longitudinal direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) of the cartridge 220 or housing 222. However, the embodiment is not limited by the direction in which the transducer vibrates, and the direction in which the transducer vibrates may be changed to various directions (e.g., any one of the x-axis, y-axis, z-axis, or a combination of these directions). The aerosol-generating material supplied from the storage unit 230 to the transducer 250 by the short-period vibrations generated from the transducer 250 is vaporized and / or atomized into an aerosol.

[0078] For example, the oscillator 250 may include a piezoelectric ceramic, which may be a functional material capable of mutually converting electricity and mechanical force by generating electricity (voltage) in response to physical force (pressure) and, conversely, generating vibrations (mechanical force) when electricity is applied. That is, when electricity is applied to the oscillator 250, short-period vibrations (physical force) are generated, and these vibrations can divide the aerosol-generating material into smaller particles and atomize it into an aerosol.

[0079] The transducer 250 is electrically connected to other components of the aerosol generator 200 via electrical terminals 260. The electrical terminals 500 may be located on one side of the cartridge 220. For example, the electrical terminals 260 may be located on the coupling surface of the cartridge 220 where it connects to the main body 210 of the aerosol generator 20. The electrical terminals 260 may also be located on one side of the housing 222 facing the mouthpiece 224.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the transducer 250 can be electrically connected to at least one of the drive circuit 212, control unit 214, and battery 216 of the main unit 210 via an electrical terminal 260 located inside the housing 222 of the cartridge 220.

[0081] For example, the vibrator 250 may be electrically connected to an electrical terminal 260 located inside the cartridge 220 via a first conductor, and the electrical terminal 260 may be electrically connected to the drive circuit 212 of the main body 210 via a second conductor. That is, the vibrator 250 can be electrically connected to the components of the main body 210 via the electrical terminal 260.

[0082] The transducer 250 is powered by the battery 216 of the main unit 210 via the electrical terminal 260 and can generate sonic vibrations. The transducer 250 is also electrically connected to the control unit 214 of the main unit 210 via the electrical terminal 260, and the control unit 214 can control the operation of the transducer 250 via the drive circuit 212.

[0083] For example, the electrical terminal 260 includes at least one of a pogo pin, wire, cable, printed circuit board (PCB), flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), and C-clip, but the electrical terminal 260 is not limited to the examples given above.

[0084] In one embodiment, the transducer 250 can be realized in a mesh-shaped or plate-shaped vibration receiving section that performs all functions, including absorbing the aerosol-generating substance and holding it in an optimal state for conversion into an aerosol, and transmitting vibrations to the aerosol-generating substance to generate an aerosol, without using a separate transmission section 240.

[0085] The aerosol generated by the transducer 250 can be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 220 via the airflow passage 223 and supplied to the user.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the airflow passage 223 is located inside the cartridge 220 and can be connected to the outlet 224e of the transducer 250 and the mouthpiece 224. Therefore, the aerosol generated by the transducer 250 flows along the airflow passage 223 and is discharged to the outside of the cartridge 220 or the aerosol generator 200 via the outlet 224e. The user can be supplied with aerosol by bringing their oral cavity into contact with the mouthpiece 224 and inhaling the aerosol discharged from the outlet 224e.

[0087] Although not shown in the drawings, the airflow passage 223 may include at least one inlet for air from outside the cartridge 220 to flow into the inside of the cartridge 220. The inlet is located in at least a portion of the housing 222 of the cartridge 220. For example, the inlet may be located on the coupling surface of the cartridge 220 where the cartridge 220 and the main body 210 are joined (e.g., the bottom surface).

[0088] Since at least one gap is formed where the cartridge 220 and the main body 210 are joined, outside air flows into the gap between the cartridge 220 and the main body 210 and moves into the inside of the cartridge 220 through the inlet.

[0089] The airflow passage 223 is connected to the space where aerosols are generated by the transducer 250 at the inlet, and is connected from that space to the outlet 224e.

[0090] Therefore, the air flowing in through the inlet is transmitted to the transducer 250, and the transmitted air, along with the aerosol generated in the transducer 250, moves to the outlet 224e, allowing the airflow to circulate inside the cartridge 220.

[0091] In one example, at least a portion of the airflow passage 223 may be arranged inside the housing 222 such that its outer surface is surrounded by the storage section 230. In a different example, at least a portion of the airflow passage 223 may be provided between the inner wall of the housing 222 and the outer wall of the storage section 230. The arrangement of the airflow passage 223 is not limited to the examples given above, and the airflow passage 223 can be arranged in various structures that enable the circulation of airflow between the inlet, the transducer 250 and the outlet 224e.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the main body 210 includes a drive circuit 212, a control unit 214, and a battery 216, and one end of the main body 210 can be coupled to one end of the cartridge 220. For example, the main body 210 may be coupled to the bottom surface or coupling surface of the cartridge 220.

[0093] The drive circuit 212 can supply power to the resonator 250 of the cartridge 220 when the resonator 250 is electrically connected to the drive circuit 212 via the electrical terminals 260. For example, the magnitude of the power supplied to the resonator 250 is determined by the control unit 214. The frequency of the resonator 250 can be controlled according to the magnitude of the power. The form of the drive circuit 212 according to one embodiment may be a class E power amplifier circuit, a half-bridge circuit, or a full-bridge circuit, and is not limited to the embodiment described.

[0094] The control unit 214 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generator 200. For example, the control unit 214 can control the power supplied from the battery 216 to the vibrator 250 and control the amount of aerosol generated by the vibrator 250. For example, the control unit 214 may control the power supplied to the vibrator so that the vibrator 250 vibrates at a predetermined frequency.

[0095] The control unit 214 may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory containing a program executed by that microprocessor. Furthermore, it will be understood by anyone with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that the control unit 214 can be implemented with other forms of hardware.

[0096] The control unit 214 analyzes the results detected by at least one sensor included in the aerosol generator 200 and controls subsequent processing. For example, the control unit 214 may control the power supplied to the transducer 250 so that the operation of the transducer 250 is disclosed or terminated based on the results detected by at least one sensor. The control unit 214 can also control the amount of power supplied to the transducer 250 and the duration of power supply so that the transducer 250 generates an appropriate amount of aerosol, based on the results detected by at least one sensor.

[0097] The battery 216 supplies the power used to operate the aerosol generator 200. For example, the battery 216's main body 210 is electrically coupled to the cartridge 220, allowing it to supply power to the vibrator 250.

[0098] The battery 216 can supply the power necessary for the operation of other hardware elements (e.g., sensors, user interface, memory, and control unit 214) provided within the aerosol generator 200. The battery 216 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery.

[0099] For example, battery 216 may include a nickel-based battery (e.g., nickel-metal hydride battery, nickel-cadmium battery) or a lithium-based battery (e.g., lithium-cobalt battery, lithium-phosphate battery, lithium titanate battery, lithium-ion battery, or lithium-polymer battery).

[0100] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the cartridge 220 and / or main body 210 of the aerosol generator 200 in the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction may be circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, or a polygonal cross-sectional shape of various forms. However, the cross-sectional shape of the cartridge 220 and / or main body 210 is not limited to the shapes described above, nor is it necessary for the aerosol generator 200 to be formed in a structure that extends linearly when it extends in the longitudinal direction.

[0101] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generator 200 can be curved in a streamlined shape to make it easier for the user to grip, or it can be bent at a predetermined angle in a specific area and can extend for a long distance, and the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generator 200 can change along the longitudinal direction.

[0102] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the cartridge and main body of an aerosol generator in one example separated, and Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the cartridge and main body of an aerosol generator in one example joined together.

[0103] The aerosol generator 300 in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 and 4 is a modified example of the aerosol generator 200 shown in Figure 2 (or the aerosol generator 100 in Figure 1), and the cartridge 220-1 and main body 210-1 in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 and 4 are modified examples of the cartridge 220 and main body 210 shown in Figure 2, respectively. Repetitive content will be omitted below.

[0104] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the cartridge 220-1 can be detachably coupled to the main body 210-1. For example, at least a portion of the cartridge 220-1 can be coupled to the main body 210-1 by being inserted into the main body 210-1.

[0105] Cartridge 220-1 may include a mouthpiece 10m that is movable between an open position and a closed position. For example, the mouthpiece 10m may be opened and closed by rotating between an open position and a closed position.

[0106] The main body 10b of cartridge 220-1 can be connected to the mouthpiece 10m via a pivot axis. For example, the mouthpiece 10m may be positioned in the open position. The open state of the mouthpiece 10m means that the mouthpiece 10m is extended in the longitudinal direction of cartridge 220-1 so that it can easily come into contact with the user's mouth. Here, the longitudinal direction means the direction in which cartridge 220-1 extends the longest among various directions. As another example, the mouthpiece 10m may be positioned in the closed position. The closed state of the mouthpiece 10m means that the mouthpiece 10m is folded in a direction that crosses the longitudinal direction of cartridge 220-1 so that it can be stored in the main body 210-1 of aerosol generator 300.

[0107] Cartridge 220-1 includes a main body 10b which contains a plurality of components necessary for generating and discharging the generated aerosol. For example, the main body 10b may include a storage section, an oscillator, and at least a portion of the airflow passage.

[0108] The main body portion 210-1 includes a coupling portion 20a to which the cartridge 220-1 can be coupled. For example, the main body portion 210-1 may include a housing groove 20a-1 that accommodates at least a portion of the cartridge 220-1. The main body portion 10b of the cartridge 220-1 can be inserted into the housing groove 20a-1. For example, the main body portion 10b of the cartridge 220-1 may be in the shape of a roughly rectangular prism, and the corners of the rectangular prism may be chamfered or rounded. However, the shape of the main body portion 10b of the cartridge 220-1 is not limited to the examples described above, and may be in the shape of a cylinder or a polygonal prism.

[0109] As described above with reference to Figure 2, the cartridge 220-1 can be coupled to the main body 210-1 by at least one of the following methods: snap-fit, screw-in, magnetic coupling, or forced fitting. For example, the cartridge 220-1 may include a first magnetic material, the main body 210-1 may include a second magnetic material, and the cartridge 220-1 and the main body 210-1 may be magnetically coupled. However, the strengths of the first and second magnetic materials may be designed considering the ease of attachment and detachment of the cartridge 220-1 and the main body 210-1 and / or the operational stability of the aerosol generator 300.

[0110] The main body 210-1 includes a button 20b. The button 20b may be located on one side of the main body 210-1. For example, the button 20b may be located on one side of the main body 210-1 that corresponds to a single stage 20c-1 of the cover 20c. The user can operate the aerosol generator 300 using the button 20b when using the aerosol generator 300.

[0111] The main body 210-1 further includes a storage section 20s capable of housing the mouthpiece 10m when the mouthpiece 10m of the cartridge 220-1 is moved to the closed position. The storage section 20s is located on one side of the main body 210-1 and has a shape or size corresponding to the mouthpiece 10m.

[0112] As shown in Figure 4, when the mouthpiece 10m is moved to the closed position, the portion that protrudes outside the aerosol generator 100 in the closed position, that is, the portion that protrudes outward from the outer surface of the main body 210-1, is minimized, thereby improving portability.

[0113] In one embodiment, the main body portion 210-1 may further include a cover 20c that is coupled to a part of the main body portion 210-1. The cover 20c can be coupled to at least one surface of the main body portion 210-1. For example, the cover 20c may be coupled to one side of the main body portion 210-1 where the coupling portion 20a is located. Alternatively, the cover 20c may be coupled to one side of the main body portion 210-1 where the storage portion 20s is located.

[0114] The cover 20c includes an opening 20c-o. The cover 20c has an opening 20c-o that is sized to correspond to the mouthpiece 10m. For example, the opening 20c-o may have a predetermined length and width. Here, the width of the opening 20c-o may be smaller than or the same as the main body of the cartridge 220-1, and larger than or the same as the mouthpiece 10m. The length of the opening 20c-o may be longer than or the same as the mouthpiece 10m.

[0115] The cover 20c extends from one end 20c-1 to the other end 20c-2 and can be placed on the mounting portion 20c' of the main body 210-1. For example, the mounting portion 20c' has a size and shape corresponding to the cover 20c. The mounting portion 20c' is a recessed portion that extends in both directions from the entrance side of the connecting portion 20a and the storage portion 20s, so that the cover 20c can be attached, and is recessed to a predetermined depth.

[0116] When the cartridge 220-1 is coupled to the main body 210-1, the cover 20c can be coupled to the main body 210-1 after the cartridge 220-1 has been coupled to the main body 210-1. The cover 20c can be coupled to one side of the main body 210-1 by at least one of the following methods: snap-fit, forced-fit, or magnetic coupling.

[0117] Since the cover 20c includes an opening 20c-o through which the mouthpiece 10m can pass, it protects the cartridge 220-1 while maintaining the connection between the cartridge 220-1 and the main body 210-1, without interfering with the opening and closing operation of the mouthpiece 10m.

[0118] Figure 4 illustrates the aerosol generator 300, in which the cartridge 220-1 and cover 20c are all connected to the main body 210-1, and the mouthpiece 10m is in the closed position. As shown in the figure, the main body 210-1 includes a storage section 20s of the size and shape corresponding to the mouthpiece 10m, and a mounting section 20c' of the size and shape corresponding to the cover 20c, and the cover 20c includes an opening 20c-o of the size and shape corresponding to the mouthpiece 10m, thereby completing the overall closure of the aerosol generator 300 in a robust and fluid manner.

[0119] When separating cartridge 220-1 from main body 210-1, cover 20c separates from main body 210-1 first, followed by cartridge 220-1. In this way, cover 20c and cartridge 220-1 can be separated from or attached to main body 210-1 in sequence.

[0120] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a user authentication method for a user according to one embodiment.

[0121] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generator (e.g., aerosol generator 100 in Figure 1, aerosol generator 200 in Figure 2, or aerosol generator 300 in Figures 3 and 4) can send and receive wireless signals for user adult verification (e.g., user authentication) with an external device (e.g., a user terminal) using either a chip antenna that performs BLE communication or a PIFA. The aerosol generator can perform adult verification using the wireless signals received from the external device. The following steps 501 to 504 can be performed by the aerosol generator for user adult verification.

[0122] In step 501, the aerosol generator transmits (or radios) a beacon to the vicinity of the aerosol generator using BLE communication to establish a wireless communication channel. The aerosol generator can generate beacon information. For example, the aerosol generator can transmit a beacon by outputting the beacon information via a PIFA (Planar Inverted-F Antenna) or a chip antenna.

[0123] According to one embodiment, when an aerosol generator is operated for the first time, it can establish a wireless communication channel with a user terminal owned by the same user. For example, when a user uses an aerosol generator for the first time after purchasing it, the aerosol generator can establish a wireless communication channel with the user terminal via BLE communication at the time of its initial operation.

[0124] In step 502, the aerosol generator receives adult verification data for the user of the aerosol generator from the user terminal via a wireless communication channel.

[0125] According to one embodiment, adult verification data may include personal information that objectively identifies the user, a multi-digit verification code (e.g., PIN: Personal Information Number), or a verification code. For example, the personal information may be the user's resident registration number, including their date of birth, and the verification code may be a password consisting of a typical 4 to 8 digit number used to identify the user. The verification code may be a number used to verify or prove identity.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the user can pre-perform adult verification via an application supplied by the manufacturer of the aerosol generator and installed on the user terminal, and the user terminal can generate adult verification data.

[0127] If the aerosol generator establishes a wireless communication channel with a user terminal based on a beacon, it will receive adult verification data from the user terminal via the wireless communication channel.

[0128] In step 503, the aerosol generator verifies whether adult verification for the user was successful based on the adult verification data received from the user terminal. Based on the verification results, the aerosol generator restricts or blocks access to the aerosol generator by minors. The aerosol generator can also verify whether the adult verification data has been stolen, leaked, or is inconsistent.

[0129] If the user's age is verified (step 503: yes), in step 504, the aerosol generator unlocks the aerosol generator. For example, the aerosol generator may unlock the aerosol generator for heating operations. Unlocking the aerosol generator may unlock one or more functions of the aerosol generator required for smoking.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generator can unlock not only the heating operation of the aerosol generating article, but also the function of inserting or removing the aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette or cartridge). For example, in order to prevent minors from using the aerosol generator, the aerosol generator may unlock a lock set on the cover so that only users who have completed adult verification are allowed to insert or remove the aerosol generating article.

[0131] If the user is not authenticated (Step 503: No), the aerosol generator requests retransmission of adult verification data from the user terminal via the antenna. The aerosol generator may transmit an unauthenticated status regarding the aerosol generator to the user terminal.

[0132] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating an attached antenna in an example of an aerosol generating device.

[0133] Referring to Figure 6, the control unit 610 (for example, the control unit 110 in Figure 1) transmits a beacon to the user terminal via the antenna 630 of the short-range communication unit 620 (for example, the short-range communication unit 182 in Figure 1) to establish a wireless communication channel. The wireless communication channel refers to the frequency band for transmission and reception, which is the path through which signals travel between the user terminal and the aerosol generator.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the antenna 630 can be composed of a chip antenna or a planar inverted-F antenna (PIFA). For example, the chip antenna may be an internal antenna consisting of an ultra-small chip. For example, the PIFA may be an antenna whose antenna pattern changes when mounted on a horizontal surface. The antenna pattern changes depending on the design method, and the PIFA may have a structure that enhances portability.

[0135] More specifically, as shown in Figure 11, the PIFA resonates when H+L is approximately 1 / 4 of the wavelength of the supplied signal, and the input impedance characteristics can vary depending on the feed point position and the thickness of the feed line. The PIFA can obtain the desired antenna characteristics by adjusting the feed point position W.

[0136] In this invention, the main design variables for the width and length of each PIFA line can be configured such that the electrical length of the antenna is adjusted to transmit or receive a 2.5 GHz frequency signal at 2.4 GHz, taking into account the relationship between the wavelength of the frequency and the antenna length. The antenna pattern of the PIFA can be configured in various ways depending on the main design variables. Such PIFA antenna patterns will be described in detail with reference to Figures 7 to 9.

[0137] For example, the antenna 630 may be mounted on the inner surface of the upper part of the aerosol generator or on the inner surface of the side. The antenna 630 receives adult verification data via a wireless communication channel established with the user terminal.

[0138] Figure 7 shows an example of an antenna pattern for BLE communication.

[0139] Referring to Figure 7, the PIFA includes a circuit board, a feed line formed on the upper surface of the circuit board, an antenna pattern including one or more striplines electrically connected to the feed line (the antenna pattern is formed on the dielectric substrate of the circuit board), and a ground line electrically connected to the antenna pattern. For example, the total length of one or more striplines may be predetermined based on the arrangement of each of the striplines and the frequency of the radio signal. The frequency of the radio signal is 2.4 GHz, and the total length of the one or more striplines may be 32.08 mm.

[0140] Here, the design variables for the antenna pattern for BLE communication are classified into stripline width ((15)), vertical length ((7)), horizontal length ((1)), and spacing between striplines, or between the circuit board and the striplines ((2), (10), (11)). The sum of the stripline lengths on the circuit board ((14), (8), (4), (13), (15), (3), (5), (11)) may be set as the electrical length of the antenna, which is 32.08 mm, which is 1 / 4 of the wavelength corresponding to the lower limit frequency of the Bluetooth® operating frequency band (e.g., 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz). The width of the feed line ((16)) may be set to be narrower than the width between the feed line and the ground ((17)). The sum of the stripline lengths is determined by the following equation 1.

[0141]

number

[0142] Referring to Equation 1, C represents the speed of light, f represents the frequency of the signal, and λ represents the wavelength of the signal. λ / 4 represents the minimum antenna length required for transmission and reception. The design variables for the antenna pattern optimized through the above process are shown in Table 1.

[0143] [Table 1]

[0144] Figure 8 shows an antenna pattern for BLE communication in another example.

[0145] Referring to Figure 8, the design variables for the antenna pattern for BLE communication are classified into stripline width ((B)), vertical length ((A)), horizontal length, and spacing between striplines, or between the circuit board and the striplines ((H), (I)). The sum of the stripline lengths ((C), (D), (E), (F), (G)) as the electrical length of the antenna may be set to 32.08 mm, which is 1 / 4 of the wavelength corresponding to the lower limit frequency of the Bluetooth® operating frequency band (e.g., 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz). Thus, the design variables for the antenna pattern can be optimized as shown in Table 2 below.

[0146] [Table 2]

[0147] Figure 9 shows an antenna pattern for BLE communication in another example.

[0148] Referring to Figure 9, the antenna can consist of an antenna pattern including one or more striplines electrically connected to the feed line. The size of the optimized antenna may be 15.2 mm wide and 5.7 mm long, and the striplines can be designed on the circuit board in various patterns with a total length of 32.08 mm. The total length of one or more striplines can be predetermined based on the arrangement of each of the striplines and the frequency of the radio signal.

[0149] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the process of controlling an aerosol generator in response to a user's heating command, as an example.

[0150] Each of the following steps 1001 to 1005 can be performed by an aerosol generator (for example, aerosol generator 100 in Figure 1, aerosol generator 200 in Figure 2, or aerosol generator 300 in Figures 3 and 4).

[0151] In step 1001, the aerosol generator receives a heating command from the user. The aerosol generator includes input elements that can receive user input. For example, the input elements may include buttons, a crown, and a touchscreen. The aerosol generator may drive the aerosol generator's display to render images related to executable applications that are installed on the aerosol generator. Executable applications may be displayed as icons on the aerosol generator's display. Executable applications may include games, documents, music, and other applications not specifically mentioned above may also be installed and run.

[0152] The aerosol generator receives heating commands from the user to form aerosols during the process of executing an application based on user input.

[0153] In step 1002, the aerosol generator determines the authentication status of the aerosol generator, indicating whether adult verification has been performed between the user terminal and the aerosol generator. For example, if a heating command is received, the aerosol generator can check whether adult verification based on adult verification data for the user has been successfully performed beforehand.

[0154] In step 1003, the aerosol generator classifies the operation of the aerosol generator based on the authentication status of the aerosol generator.

[0155] If the authentication status indicates that user authentication (e.g., adult verification) has been completed (step 1003: Yes), in step 1004, the aerosol generator heats the aerosol generating article by applying power to the oscillator of the aerosol generator in response to the heating command.

[0156] If the applied state indicates that adult verification is incomplete (step 1003: No), in step 1005, the aerosol generator invalidates the heating command. For example, invalidating the heating command means refusing or stopping the application of power to the oscillator for aerosol formation. By invalidating the heating command, the aerosol generator can maintain the input environment by activating an application that was running before the heating command was received.

[0157] The method according to this embodiment is embodied in the form of program instructions that are implemented via various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. The recording medium includes program instructions, data files, data structures, etc., individually or in combination. The recording medium and program instructions may be specifically designed and configured for the purposes of the present invention, or they may be known and usable by those skilled in the art who have technology in the field of computer software. Examples of computer-readable recording media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks and magnetic tapes, optical recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floppy disks, and hardware devices specifically configured to store and execute program instructions, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memory. Examples of program instructions include not only machine code generated by a compiler, but also high-level language code executed by a computer using an interpreter or the like. The hardware devices described above may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operations shown in the present invention, and vice versa.

[0158] Software includes computer programs, code, instructions, or a combination of one or more of these, which can configure a processing unit to operate as desired, or instruct the processing unit independently or in combination. Software and / or data can be permanently or temporarily embodied in any type of machine, component, physical device, virtual device, computer storage medium or device, or transmitted signal wave, for interpretation by a processing unit or for providing instructions or data to a processing unit. Software can be distributed across a network of computer systems and stored and executed in a distributed manner. Software and data can be stored on a recording medium readable by one or more computers.

[0159] As described above, although embodiments have been illustrated with limited drawings, a person with ordinary skill in the art can apply various technical modifications and variations based on the above description. For example, the described technique may be performed in a different order than described, and / or the described system, structure, apparatus, circuit, and other components may be combined or assembled in a different manner than described, or replaced or substituted by other components or equivalents, and still achieve the desired results.

[0160] Therefore, other embodiments, other embodiments, and claims equivalent to those described below also fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. The user authentication method performed by the aerosol generator is: The steps include: transmitting a beacon for establishing a wireless communication channel using BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication; When establishing a wireless communication channel with a user terminal based on the beacon, the steps include receiving adult verification data for the user of the aerosol generator from the user terminal via the wireless communication channel, The aerosol generating device receives information input from the user through the user input section, The steps include authenticating the user of the aerosol generator by checking for any discrepancies with the aforementioned adult verification data, Includes, The aforementioned adult verification data includes personal information, a verification code, or an authentication number that can identify the user, as part of a user authentication method.

2. The user authentication method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of unlocking the aerosol generating device if the user is authenticated.

3. The step of transmitting a beacon for establishing a wireless communication channel using the BLE communication is: Steps to generate beacon information, The steps include transmitting the beacon containing the beacon information via a PIFA (Planar Inverted-F Antenna) for transmitting and receiving wireless signals, The user authentication method according to claim 1, including the method described in claim 1.

4. The aforementioned PIFA is, Circuit board and A power supply line formed on the upper surface of the circuit board, An antenna pattern comprising one or more striplines electrically connected to the power supply line, wherein the antenna pattern is formed on a dielectric substrate of the circuit board, A ground line electrically connected to the aforementioned antenna pattern, The user authentication method according to claim 3, including the method described in claim 3.

5. The user authentication method according to claim 4, wherein the total length of the one or more striplines is predetermined based on the arrangement of the one or more striplines and the frequency of the radio signal.

6. The user authentication method according to claim 5, wherein the frequency of the wireless signal is 2.4 GHz, and the total length of the one or more striplines is 32.08 mm.

7. The steps include receiving a heating command from the user, If the user is not authenticated, the heating command is disabled. The user authentication method according to claim 1, further comprising:

8. A computer program stored on a computer-readable recording medium for use in conjunction with hardware to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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