Method for generating aerosol and electronic device performing the same

Abstract

A method for generating an aerosol may include: radiating a first microwave into an insertion space in which an aerosol generating article is placed using an antenna having a first rotational state; determining a first characteristic value for a first reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the first rotational state; radiating a second microwave into an insertion space using an antenna having a second rotational state; determining a second characteristic value for a second reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the second rotational state; determining a third rotational state based on the first characteristic value and the second characteristic value; rotating the antenna so that the antenna has a third rotational state; and generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substrate of an aerosol generating article placed in the insertion space through a third microwave radiated using an antenna having the third rotational state.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The following embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device and a method for controlling the same, specifically to an aerosol generating device of a dielectric heating type using microwaves. Background Technology

[0003] Recently, the demand for electronic cigarette devices has been gradually increasing. Furthermore, as this demand grows, features related to electronic cigarette devices are being continuously developed. In particular, features are being developed based on the types and characteristics of electronic cigarette devices.

[0004] There is increasing demand for systems that generate aerosols by heating aerosol-generating materials using an aerosol-generating device, rather than by burning the materials. Electromagnetic heating technology is a technique capable of heating objects using the principle of dielectric heating. Aerosol-generating materials can be heated rapidly using electromagnetic heating technology.

[0005] The aforementioned background technology is one that was possessed or acquired during the process of deriving the disclosure and cannot necessarily be considered publicly known technology disclosed to the general public prior to the filing of the disclosure. The problem to be solved

[0007] One embodiment may provide an aerosol generation method for heating an aerosol-generating article using a dielectric heating method utilizing microwaves.

[0008] One embodiment may provide an aerosol generation method for heating an aerosol-generating article using an antenna that rotates relative to the aerosol-generating article.

[0009] However, technical challenges are not limited to the technical challenges described above, and other technical challenges may exist. means of solving the problem

[0011] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generation method may include: radiating a first microwave into an insertion space in which an aerosol generating article is disposed using an antenna having a first rotational state; determining a first characteristic value for a first reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the first rotational state; radiating a second microwave into the insertion space using the antenna having a second rotational state; determining a second characteristic value for a second reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the second rotational state; determining a third rotational state based on the first characteristic value and the second characteristic value; rotating the antenna so that the antenna has the third rotational state; and generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article disposed in the insertion space through a third microwave radiated using the antenna having the third rotational state.

[0012] According to one embodiment, an electronic device comprises an insertion space in which at least a portion of an aerosol generating article is disposed, an antenna capable of having a plurality of rotational states, a directional coupler for supplying microwaves to the antenna and separating a reflected signal reflected from the antenna, and a processor for controlling the rotational state of the antenna, wherein the processor radiates a first microwave to the insertion space in which the aerosol generating article is disposed using the antenna having a first rotational state, determines a first characteristic value for a first reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the first rotational state, radiates a second microwave to the insertion space using the antenna having a second rotational state, determines a second characteristic value for a second reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the second rotational state, determines a third rotational state based on the first characteristic value and the second characteristic value, rotates the antenna so that the antenna has the third rotational state, and heats an aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article disposed in the insertion space through a third microwave radiated using the antenna having the third rotational state, thereby generating an aerosol Can be created. Effects of the invention

[0014] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol generation method may be provided for generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generation substrate of an aerosol generation article through microwaves radiated using an antenna.

[0015] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol generation method may be provided for aligning an antenna rotating with respect to an aerosol generating article based on a reflected signal reflected from an antenna. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0017] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for generating an aerosol according to one embodiment. FIGS. 4a and 4b are drawings for illustrating characteristic values ​​of an aerosol-generating article placed in an insertion space and a reflected signal according to various examples. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an aerosol generation method for determining characteristic values ​​corresponding to microwaves radiated into an insertion space, according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an aerosol generation method that radiates microwaves into an insertion space based on a first power or a second power according to one embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numeral regardless of the drawing symbols, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar drawing symbols may be used for similar or related components.

[0019] The suffixes “module” and “unit” for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the sake of ease of drafting the specification, and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Meanwhile, the suffixes “module” or “unit” may include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” may be a component formed as a whole, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0020] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, such detailed description is omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings; it should be understood that the drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of this disclosure.

[0021] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0022] When it is stated that one component is “connected” or “connected” to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0023] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0024] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory (17)) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)). For example, a processor (e.g., control unit (12)) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily in the storage medium.

[0025] In the present disclosure, the direction of the aerosol generating device (1) can be defined based on an orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0027] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0028] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device (1) may include a control unit (10), a source unit (20), and a radiating unit (30). The control unit (10) may refer to a circuit for controlling the basic operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The source unit (20) may refer to a circuit for generating an RF (Radio Frequency) signal under the control of the control unit (10). The radiating unit (30) may be a device for radiating the RF signal generated by the source unit (20) in the form of an electromagnetic wave into a space (hereinafter, insertion space) into which an aerosol generating article is inserted. The charges or ions of a dielectric (e.g., glycerin) contained in the aerosol generating article may vibrate or rotate due to the radiated electromagnetic wave (e.g., RF signal), and the aerosol generating article may be heated as the dielectric heats up due to the frictional heat generated during the process of the charges or ions vibrating or rotating. In other words, the aerosol generating device (1) may be a device that generates aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article using a dielectric heating method.

[0029] In one example, the control unit (10) may include a power connector (110), a charging circuit (120), a power source (130), a first power converter (140), a second power converter (150), a third power converter (160) and / or a processor (170). Additionally, the source unit (20) may include an RF signal generation circuit (210), a drive amplifier (220), a power amplifier (230), a directional coupler (240) and / or a temperature sensing circuit (250). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to this embodiment that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), some of the components shown in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0030] The power connector (110) may refer to a physical connection device used to transmit and receive power by being electrically connected to an electronic device or system (e.g., an external power source) outside the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the power connector (110) may receive power from an external power source and transmit the received power to a component that requires charging (e.g., a power source (130)). The power connector (110) may also provide a path for data transmission. The aerosol generating device (1) may transmit and receive data with an external electronic device or system (e.g., a smartphone, a computer, etc.) through the power connector (110). The power connector (110) may include a USB (Universal Serial Bus) power connector, a DC (Direct Current) power connector, etc. In one example, the power connector (110) may be a USB-C type connector capable of supplying a 9V DC voltage at a current of 1A, but is not necessarily limited thereto. The power connector (110) may include an interface for wirelessly transmitting and receiving power.

[0031] The charging circuit (120) may refer to a circuit for charging the power source (130). The charging circuit (120) may charge the power source (130) using power delivered from the power connector (110). In one example, the charging circuit (120) may be implemented as a charger IC, which is an integrated circuit (IC) that performs functions for efficiently and safely charging the power source (130). The charging circuit (120) may monitor the charging status of the power source (130) or optimize the charging process by monitoring the voltage, current, and / or temperature of the power source (130). For example, the charging circuit (120) may detect the state of the power source (130) and prevent overcharging or over-discharging by providing an appropriate charging voltage and current.

[0032] The power source (130) can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The power source (130) may include one or more rechargeable batteries. The power source (130) can supply power to the radiating unit (30) so that the radiating unit (30) can radiate electromagnetic waves (e.g., RF signals) into the insertion space to heat the aerosol generating article. Here, power supply to the radiating unit (30) may have the same meaning as power supply to the source unit (20). Additionally, the power source (130) can supply power required for the operation of the processor (170), RF signal generating circuit (210), driving amplifier (220), power amplifier (230), temperature sensing circuit (250), etc. In one example, the power source (130) may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source (130) may be a replaceable type (detachable) battery (hereinafter, removable battery). The removable battery may be mounted in a battery housing provided within the aerosol generating device (1) or removed from the battery housing. The removable battery may be charged via wired and / or wireless connections.

[0033] The aerosol generating device (1) may include a power conversion circuit for converting power supplied from a power source (130) into power (e.g., voltage and / or current) suitable for other components. The power conversion circuit may include at least one of a buck converter, a buck-boost converter, a boost converter, a Zener diode, and a low-dropout regulator. Additionally, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter) as needed.

[0034] In one example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a first power converter (140), a second power converter (150), and a third power converter (160). The first power converter (140) is an LDO regulator for supplying power (e.g., DC 3.3V) suitable for a processor (170), the second power converter (150) is a buck-boost converter for supplying power (e.g., DC 5V) suitable for a temperature sensing circuit (250), an RF signal generating circuit (210), and a driving amplifier (220), and the third power converter (160) may be a boost converter for supplying power (e.g., DC 12V / 25W) suitable for a power amplifier (230).

[0035] However, the first power converter (140), the second power converter (150), and the third power converter (160) are not limited to the examples described above and may include other types of power converter circuits. Additionally, although FIG. 1 is illustrated as having three power converters, the aerosol generating device (1) may include more than three power converters or fewer power converters. In one example, at least some of the first power converter (140), the second power converter (150), and the third power converter (160) may be integrated into a single power converter.

[0036] The processor (170) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the processor (170) can directly or indirectly control the charging and discharging of the power supply (130) using the charging circuit (120). Additionally, the processor (170) can control the voltage and / or current output by the power conversion circuit by adjusting the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulse input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit. In addition to the components described above, the processor (170) can control the overall operation of other components to be described later.

[0037] The processor (170) may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose MCU (micro controller unit) (or microprocessor) and memory storing a program that can be executed on such MCU. Additionally, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment belongs that the processor (170) may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0038] The RF signal generation circuit (210) can generate an RF signal based on power delivered from the power supply (130) or the second power converter (150). The RF signal may mean a signal having a frequency within the range of 300 MHz to 300 GHz. In one example, the RF signal may have a frequency of 1 GHz to 100 GHz. Additionally, the RF signal may have a frequency in the Industrial Scientific and Medical Equipment (ISM) band, for example, 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, and / or 5.8 GHz.

[0039] The RF signal generation circuit (210) may include a Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO) that generates an RF signal having a different frequency depending on the input voltage. The RF signal generation circuit (210) may receive a control signal (e.g., a DC signal) from the processor (170) and generate an RF signal having a frequency corresponding to the received control signal. The processor (170) may store the control signal corresponding to the desired frequency in the form of a look-up table, or calculate the control signal corresponding to the desired frequency in real time through at least one operation.

[0040] In one example, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a digital-to-analog converter for converting a digital control signal output from a processor (170) into an analog control signal. An RF signal generating circuit (210) may receive an analog control signal and generate an RF signal having a frequency corresponding to the received analog control signal.

[0041] The driving amplifier (220) can amplify the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit (210). For example, the driving amplifier (220) can provide an input signal suitable for the next stage component (e.g., power amplifier (230)) by amplifying the signal level (e.g., amplitude) of the RF signal. The driving amplifier (220) can minimize signal distortion by maintaining high linearity. However, since the driving amplifier (220) is an amplifier focused on raising the signal level, it can provide relatively low output power.

[0042] The power amplifier (230) can amplify the power of the RF signal received from the driving amplifier (220). The power amplifier (230) may be an amplifier focused on providing sufficient power to the final output device (e.g., the radiator (30)). For example, the power amplifier (230) may provide a high-power RF signal to the radiator (30) so that the radiator (30) can radiate electromagnetic waves into the insertion space to heat the aerosol generating article. The power amplifier (230) may perform the amplification operation using power received through a third power converter (160) that provides higher power and / or voltage than the second power converter (150).

[0043] The driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) may include transistors such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or a field effect transistor (FET), or vacuum tubes. In one example, the driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) may be GaN (Gallium Nitride) transistors capable of handling high efficiency, high speed, and high voltage, but are not necessarily limited thereto. The driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) may also include an operational amplifier.

[0044] Meanwhile, in FIG. 1, the driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) are shown as separate amplifiers, but the driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) can be integrated into a single amplifier. Additionally, the driving amplifier (220) and / or the power amplifier (230) may be configured as a series connection, a parallel connection, and / or a combination thereof of a plurality of amplifiers.

[0045] The radiating member (30) may include at least one antenna for radiating electromagnetic waves into space. The at least one antenna may have a size and shape suitable for the size and shape of the aerosol generating article. For example, if the aerosol generating article is cylindrical, the at least one antenna may be tubular, surrounding the cylindrical aerosol generating article. Here, the fact that the shape of the antenna is tubular may mean that the overall shape of the antenna is tubular. In other words, if the antenna is formed from a metal (e.g., SUS) track, it may mean that the overall shape of the entire track is tubular. The shape of the at least one antenna is not limited to the examples described above and may include various shapes such as a flat plate shape, a curved plate shape, etc.

[0046] The radiating unit (30) can heat an aerosol generating article by radiating electromagnetic waves (e.g., amplified RF signal or transmitted RF signal) into the insertion space. In order for the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating article to be maximized, resonance of the electromagnetic waves must occur within the insertion space. The resonance condition of the insertion space (e.g., resonance frequency) may vary depending on the amount of dielectric material contained in the inserted aerosol generating article, etc. The processor (170) can control the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generating circuit (210) so that it corresponds to or approaches the resonance condition of the insertion space by adjusting the control signal input to the RF signal generating circuit (210). The processor (170) may use a directional coupler (240) to obtain information about the resonance condition of the insertion space.

[0047] The directional coupler (240) may refer to a passive element having a waveguide structure capable of separating incident waves and reflected waves. The directional coupler (240) can receive an RF signal transmitted from the power amplifier (230) toward the radiating unit (30) and an electromagnetic wave reflected from the insertion space after being radiated by the radiating unit (30), respectively. The directional coupler (240) can separate the transmitted RF signal and the reflected electromagnetic wave and transmit them to the processor (170).

[0048] In one example, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include an analog-to-digital converter for converting the analog output of a directional coupler (240) into a digital output. The A / D converter may be built into the processor (170) or may exist as a separate configuration outside the processor (170). By monitoring the output of the directional coupler (240), the processor (170) can analyze the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase and / or frequency) and the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic wave (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase and / or frequency).

[0049] The processor (170) can determine whether the operation of the source unit (20) is being performed as intended based on the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal. Additionally, the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal, along with the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic waves, can be used to determine the heating efficiency of the source unit (20) or the radiating unit (30). The processor (170) can control the source unit (20) so that the heating efficiency of the source unit (20) or the radiating unit (30) is maximized. For example, the processor (170) can adjust the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit (210) so that the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves is minimized. Minimizing the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves may mean that the frequency of the RF signal approaches the resonance condition of the insertion space. The characteristics of the transmitted RF signal can provide a criterion for whether the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves is minimized.

[0050] Since electromagnetic resonance may occur in the insertion space depending on the frequency of the RF signal, the insertion space may be referred to as a resonant section. At least a portion of the insertion space may be surrounded by at least one shielding member to prevent electromagnetic waves from leaking outside the aerosol generating device (1). According to one embodiment, the insertion space may further include a physical structure to ensure that the resonance condition is contained within a controllable range by the processor (170). The physical structure may include at least one conductor, and the resonance condition of the insertion space may vary depending on the arrangement, thickness, length, etc. of the conductor. Additionally, the physical structure may include a space for accommodating a dielectric with low electromagnetic wave absorption, separate from the dielectric included in the aerosol generating article. A dielectric with low electromagnetic wave absorption can change the resonance frequency of the entire resonant section without absorbing the energy that must be transferred to the heated body. Accordingly, even if the resonant section is miniaturized, the resonance condition can be determined within a controllable range by the processor (170).

[0051] A temperature sensing circuit (250) may be placed in contact with or adjacent to components included in the source section (20) to measure the temperature of the source section (20). For example, the temperature sensing circuit (250) may be placed in contact with or adjacent to at least one of the RF signal generation circuit (210), the driving amplifier (220), and the power amplifier (230). Heat may be generated due to limited efficiency during the generation and / or amplification of the RF signal, and if excessive heat is generated, it may have a negative effect on the components included in the source section (20) or other components included in the aerosol generating device (1). The temperature measured by the temperature sensing circuit (250) may be used to prevent overheating of the source section (20).

[0052] The processor (170) receives the temperature (or a value corresponding to the temperature) measured by the temperature sensing circuit (250) and can stop the operation of the source unit (20) if it is determined that the source unit (20) has overheated. For example, the processor (170) can stop the operation of the source unit (20) by stopping the power supply to the source unit (20) or by transmitting a control signal. In the following, the term "power supply to the source unit (20)" is used to mean controlling whether the source unit (20) operates.

[0053] The temperature sensing circuit (250) may include at least one temperature sensor among a thermocouple, an RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector), a thermistor, a semiconductor temperature sensor, and an optical temperature sensor. In one example, the temperature sensing circuit (250) may be implemented as a chip-type sensor (e.g., an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) sensor) to minimize the area occupied, but is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0054] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (1) may include additional components in addition to the components shown in FIG. 1. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a sensor unit, an output unit, an input unit, a communication unit, and a memory. Additionally, if the aerosol generating device (1) is a hybrid type device that uses both an aerosol generating article and a cartridge, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a cartridge heater. The cartridge heater can heat the medium and / or aerosol generating material within the cartridge by receiving power from the power source (130).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit may detect the state of the aerosol generating device (1) or the state of the surroundings of the aerosol generating device (1) and transmit the detected information to the processor (170). For example, the sensor unit may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a reuse detection sensor, an overly moist detection sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, a cap detection sensor, and / or a motion detection sensor. Meanwhile, the sensor unit may further include various sensors, such as a liquid residue sensor for detecting the liquid residue in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for detecting the water immersion of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0056] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature of an insertion space or an aerosol-generating article. The temperature sensor may be positioned in contact with or adjacent to the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article to directly measure the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the temperature sensor may be positioned spaced apart from the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article to indirectly (e.g., non-contact) measure the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article. In one example, the temperature sensor may include an optical temperature sensor (e.g., an infrared temperature sensor).

[0057] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature of a power source (130). The temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power source (130). For example, the temperature sensor may be attached to one side of the power source (130) (e.g., a battery) or / or mounted on one side of a printed circuit board. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a protection circuit module (PCM), and the temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power source (130) together with the protection circuit module.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may be placed inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device (1) to detect the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0059] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0060] For example, the puff sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1), and the processor (170) may detect the user's puff based on the signal corresponding to the internal pressure. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1) may correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor may be positioned in the aerosol generating device (1) in correspondence with the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0061] As another example, the puff sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user's puff occurs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, insertion space, aerosol generating item, etc. The processor (170) can detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the temperature of the airflow path, etc. output from the temperature sensor.

[0062] As another example, the puff sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor may measure the temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an example, the puff sensor may correct a signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the puff sensor may output a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the puff sensor. In this case, the processor (170) may receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0063] As another example, the puff sensor may include a capacitance sensor. In the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor may be referred to as a cap sensor or a capacitive sensor. When a user's puff occurs, a temperature change and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space, and accordingly, the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may change. The processor (170) may detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0064] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0065] According to one embodiment, an insertion detection sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion detection sensor may be installed around the insertion space.

[0066] For example, the insertion detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor may change. The processor (170) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0067] As another example, the insertion detection sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and said at least one coil may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. If the aerosol generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space or removed from the insertion space, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil through which the current flows. The processor (170) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency of alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.). Alternatively, a susceptor (SUS), etc., may be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the medium part of the aerosol generating article). In this case as well, a change in the magnetic field around the coil may occur based on the insertion or removal of a susceptor, etc., within the insertion space, and the processor (170) may detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article based on the characteristics of the current of the inductive sensor.

[0068] The insertion detection sensor is not limited to the examples described above and may be implemented as various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors, etc.) for detecting the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the insertion detection sensor may include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor may include a switch, etc., for detecting pressure caused by an aerosol-generating article.

[0069] According to one embodiment, a reuse detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is reused. For example, the reuse detection sensor may be a color sensor for detecting the color of the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article is used by a user, a change in color may occur in a part of the wrapper covering the outside of the aerosol-generating article due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor may output a signal corresponding to an optical characteristic (e.g., wavelength of light) corresponding to the color of the wrapper based on light reflected from the wrapper. When the processor (170) detects a change in color in a part of the wrapper, it may determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has already been used.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the over-humidity detection sensor can detect whether the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor disposed adjacent to an insertion space. The processor (170) can detect whether the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., output from the capacitance sensor. For example, the processor (170) can determine the level range in which the level of the signal is included based on a look-up table, and determine the amount of moisture for the aerosol generating article based on the confirmed level range.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine or / or detect the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0072] For example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a light sensor for detecting an identification material (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., wrapper) of an aerosol-generating article. The light sensor may irradiate light toward the identification material (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or of a specific type based on the reflected light. For example, the identification material may include a material that emits light of a specific band of wavelength based on the irradiated light. The processor (170) may detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or of a specific type based on the range of the wavelengths.

[0073] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating item inserted into the insertion space. The processor (170) can detect whether the aerosol-generating item is genuine and / or of the type based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitive sensor.

[0074] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. If a conductor is included in the wrapper and / or interior (e.g., the medium) of the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space, the characteristics of the current detected by the inductive sensor when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space (e.g., frequency of alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) may differ depending on the type of aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space. The processor (170) can detect whether the inserted aerosol generating article is genuine and / or of the type based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor.

[0075] The cigarette identification sensor is not limited to the examples described above and may be implemented as various sensors for detecting whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine or / or for detecting the type of an aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the cigarette identification sensor may include any combination of the examples described above.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the cartridge detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of a cartridge. For example, the cartridge detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0077] According to one embodiment, a cap detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of a cap. For example, the cap detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device (1). The cap detection sensor may output a signal corresponding to the mounting or removal when the cap is mounted on the housing or removed from the housing, and the processor (170) may detect the mounting or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the mounting or removal.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the motion detection sensor can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device (1). The motion detection sensor may be implemented as at least one of an accelerometer or a gyro sensor.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System, GPS), or a proximity sensor in addition to the aforementioned sensors. Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, a detailed description may be omitted.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the output unit may output information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1). The output unit may include a display, a haptic unit and / or an acoustic output unit, but is not limited thereto. For example, information regarding the aerosol generating device (1) may include the charging / discharging state of the power supply (130) of the aerosol generating device (1), the operating state of the source unit (20) or the radiation unit (30), the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the mounting and / or removal state of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal article). The display may visually provide information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the display may include an LED (light emitting diode) light-emitting element, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), an Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLED), etc. The display can also be used as an input unit if it includes a touch pad. The haptic unit can provide tactile information about the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the haptic unit may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electric stimulation device, etc. The acoustic output unit can provide auditory information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it externally.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the input unit can receive information input by a user. For example, the input unit may include a touch panel, a button, a keypad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the memory is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (1), and can store data processed by the processor (170) and data to be processed. For example, the memory may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), 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, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. For example, the memory may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the communication unit may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device (e.g., a portable electronic device). For example, the communication unit may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a wireless local area network (WLAN) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wireless Fidelity Direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Adaptive Network Topology (ANT)+ communication unit, a cellular network communication unit, an internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the temperature of the insertion space or aerosol generating article by controlling the amplification rate of the source unit (20) (e.g., power amplifier (230)). The processor (170) can control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) (e.g., power amplifier (230)) based on the temperature of the insertion space or aerosol generating article detected using a temperature sensor. The processor (170) can control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) (e.g., power amplifier (230)) based on a temperature profile and / or power profile stored in memory.

[0085] Additionally, the processor (170) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater by controlling the supply of power from the power supply (130) to the cartridge heater. The processor (170) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the power supplied to the cartridge heater based on the temperature of the cartridge heater detected using a temperature sensor. The processor (170) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the power supplied to the cartridge heater based on a temperature profile and / or power profile stored in memory.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can prevent the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, and / or the cartridge heater from overheating. For example, the processor (170) can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to reduce the amount of power supplied to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater, or to stop the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater, based on the fact that the temperature of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, and / or the cartridge heater exceeds a preset limit temperature.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on the result detected by the sensor unit.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article into the insertion space. For example, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when it is determined, using an insertion detection sensor, that an aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space. The processor (170) may cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when it is determined, using an insertion detection sensor, that an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space. The processor (170) may also determine that an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article is above a limit temperature or if the temperature change slope of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article is above a set slope.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount for the source unit (20) or cartridge heater based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, the processor (170) can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) for the source unit (20) or cartridge heater if it is determined that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state using an over-humidity detection sensor.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating article is reused. For example, if the processor (170) determines that the aerosol generating article has been used, it can cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the cartridge is coupled and / or removed. For example, the processor (170) can use a cartridge detection sensor to determine that the cartridge is separated, and if it is determined that the cartridge is separated, it can stop the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater or control the power supply so that power is not supplied to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted. For example, the processor (170) may determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted if it determines that the temperature of the cartridge heater exceeds a limit temperature while preheating the cartridge heater (i.e., during the preheating period). If it determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted, the processor (170) may cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the cartridge is usable. For example, the processor (170) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if, based on data stored in memory, the current number of puffs is determined to be greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge. Alternatively, the processor (170) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if the total time the cartridge heater is heated is greater than or equal to a preset maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater is greater than or equal to a preset maximum amount of power. In this case, the processor (170) may stop the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater, or control the supply so that power is not supplied to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on the user's puff. For example, the processor (170) can determine whether a puff has occurred and / or the intensity of the puff using a puff sensor. The processor (170) can cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs or / or when no puff is detected for a preset time or longer. The processor (170) may also control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when a puff is detected.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine and / or of a type. For example, the processor (170) can detect whether the aerosol generating item is genuine and / or of a type using a cigarette identification sensor. For example, if the processor (170) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is counterfeit, the processor (170) can cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater. If the processor (170) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine, the processor (170) can control (e.g., initiate) the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater. For another example, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater differently depending on the type of the aerosol generating item (or cartridge). More specifically, the processor (170) can control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) or the temperature and / or power of the cartridge heater based on a first temperature profile (or a first power profile) when the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is detected to be a first aerosol generating item (or a first cartridge), and control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) or the temperature and / or power of the cartridge heater based on a second temperature profile (or a second power profile) when the aerosol generating item (or a second cartridge) is detected to be a second aerosol generating item (or a second cartridge).

[0096] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the output unit based on the result detected by the sensor unit. For example, the processor (170) may control the output unit to provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information that the aerosol generating device (1) will soon be terminated when the number of puffs counted using the puff sensor reaches a preset number. For example, the processor (170) may control the output unit to provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information regarding the temperature of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, or the cartridge heater.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may store and update a history of the event that occurred in memory based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. For example, the event may include operations performed by the aerosol generating device (1), such as detection of insertion of an aerosol generating item, initiation of heating of the aerosol generating item, puff detection, puff termination, overheating detection, detection of overvoltage application to a cartridge heater, termination of heating of the aerosol generating item, power on / off of the aerosol generating device (1), initiation of charging of the power supply (130), detection of overcharging of the power supply (130), termination of charging of the power supply (130), etc. For example, the history of the event may include the time and date when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is detection of insertion of an aerosol generating item, the log data corresponding to the event may include data regarding the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating of the cartridge heater, the log data corresponding to the event may include data regarding the temperature of the cartridge heater, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater, the current flowing through the cartridge heater, etc.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the communication unit to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0099] According to one embodiment, when the processor (170) receives authentication data from an external device via a communication link, it may release the restriction on the use of at least one function (e.g., heating function) of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique number representing the user, whether the user's authentication is complete, etc.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can transmit data regarding the status of the aerosol generating device (1) (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply (130), operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The transmitted data can be output through a display of the external device, etc.

[0101] According to one embodiment, when a processor (170) receives a request to search for the location of an aerosol generating device (1) from an external device via a communication link, the processor (170) may control an output unit to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the processor (170) may control a haptic unit to generate vibrations or control a display to output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can perform a firmware update when firmware data is received from an external device through a communication link.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) transmits data regarding the sensing value of at least one sensor unit to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and receives and stores a learning model generated by learning the sensing value through machine learning, such as deep learning, from the server. The processor (170) can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0104] Although not illustrated in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit includes at least one switching element and can cut off the circuit to the power source (130) in response to overcharging and / or overdischarging of the power source (130).

[0105] The aerosol generating article mentioned in the present disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium part) and at least one filter rod. The spinning part (30) may be positioned to correspond to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating material, and an additive. For example, the aerosol generating material may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may include various other materials. For example, the additive may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may include various other materials. For example, the aerosol generating rod may comprise an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco material (e.g., an aerosol generating material and / or nicotine), and / or may comprise a solid tobacco material (e.g., leaf tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). The tobacco material may be included in the aerosol generating rod in various forms, such as whole tobacco, granules, or powder. According to one embodiment, the additive of the aerosol generating rod may comprise a basic material. Based on the basic material, the nicotine in the tobacco material included in the aerosol generating rod may have a basic pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, freebase nicotine may be released from the aerosol generating rod even at low temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod comprises two or more aerosol generating rods, and said two or more aerosol generating rods may each comprise a tobacco material and / or a non-tobacco material.Meanwhile, although not illustrated, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each and / or integrally be wrapped by at least one wrapper. In the present disclosure, the aerosol generating article may be referred to as a stick.

[0106] The cartridge mentioned in the present disclosure may contain an aerosol generating material having any one of the states, such as a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state. The aerosol generating material may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material containing a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. Meanwhile, the cartridge may include a storage portion containing the aerosol generating material and / or a liquid delivery means impregnated (containing) the aerosol generating material. For example, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as a cotton fiber, a ceramic fiber, a glass fiber, or a porous ceramic. A cartridge heater may be included in the cartridge in a coil-shaped structure that surrounds (or winds) the liquid delivery means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means. Alternatively, the cartridge heater may be included in an aerosol generating device (1) that is detachable from the cartridge.

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

[0109] Referring to FIG. 2, an aerosol generating device (300) (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1) may be configured to generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article (301) in a dielectric heating manner. The aerosol generating device (300) may form an electromagnetic field to efficiently heat the medium of the aerosol generating article (301).

[0110] The aerosol generating device (300) may include a device housing (302) that accommodates other components of the aerosol generating device (300), such as a control unit (310) and the like. An opening (e.g., a resonator opening (340e) of a resonator (340)) is provided in the device housing (302) so that an aerosol generating article (301) can be inserted into the device housing (302).

[0111] The aerosol generating device (300) may include a control unit (310) (e.g., the control unit (10) of FIG. 1). The control unit (310) may refer to a circuit for controlling the basic operation of the aerosol generating device (300). For example, the control unit (310) may include a processor (e.g., the processor (170) of FIG. 1), and the processor may control the rotation of the antenna (342). The processor may be configured to efficiently heat the medium of the aerosol generating article (301) by controlling the rotation of the antenna (342).

[0112] The aerosol generating device (300) may include a source section (320) (e.g., source section (20) of FIG. 1) comprising a source circuit (e.g., RF signal generating circuit (210) of FIG. 1), and a resonator (340) (e.g., radiating section (30) of FIG. 1) configured to generate resonance of electromagnetic waves. The source section (320) may be configured to generate electromagnetic waves. The electromagnetic waves generated by the source section (320) may be transmitted to the resonator (340).

[0113] The resonator (340) may include a resonator opening (340e). The resonator opening (340e) may be opened into an insertion space (e.g., a cavity (342c1)) into which an aerosol-generating article (301) is inserted. For example, the opening (340e) may serve as an entrance to the cavity (342c1) for the aerosol-generating article (301) to be inserted.

[0114] The resonator (340) may include a resonator flange (340f). The resonator flange (340f) may protrude from the end of the resonator in a first direction (e.g., +Y direction) and a center direction (e.g., rotation axis (C)). The resonator flange (340f) may be a circular flange corresponding to the shape of the perimeter of the opening (340e). The resonator flange (340f) may partially cover the opening (340e). For example, the resonator flange (340f) may cover a portion of the perimeter of the opening (340e). The inner diameter of the circular resonator flange (340f) may be smaller than the diameter of the opening (340e). The inner diameter of the resonator flange (340f) may be substantially equal to or smaller than the diameter and / or cavity (342c1) of the aerosol generating article (301), and the resonator flange (340f) may secure the inserted aerosol generating article (301). In an embodiment not illustrated, the aerosol generating device (300) may secure the aerosol generating article (301) using a component other than the resonator flange (340f).

[0115] The resonator (340) may include an antenna (342) configured to radiate electromagnetic waves into space (e.g., a cavity (342c1)). The antenna (342) may include a first conductor end (342a) (e.g., a +Y direction end) including an opening (342a1), a second conductor end (342b) opposite to the first conductor end (342a), and a conductor extension (342c) extending between the first conductor end (341a) and the second conductor end (342b) and defining the cavity (342c1). The conductor extension (342c) may be a hollow cylinder, but the shape of the conductor extension (342c) is not limited thereto. The cavity (342c1) may be configured to accommodate an aerosol-generating article (301).

[0116] The antenna (342) may have a rotation axis (C) and be configured to be rotatable about the rotation axis (C). The antenna (342) may be configured to rotate without translation about a fixed rotation axis (C). The antenna (342) may be rotated to a rotation position capable of forming an electromagnetic field to efficiently heat the medium of the aerosol generating article (301). To determine the rotation position, the processor may rotate the antenna (342) in a range of 0 to 90 degrees and form an electromagnetic field.

[0117] The central axis of the conductor extension (342c) and / or cavity (342c1) may be located on the rotation axis (C). The central axis of the resonator opening (340e) may be located on the rotation axis (C).

[0118] The antenna (342) may include a feed pin (342d) connected to a second conductor end (342b). The feed pin (342d) may be configured to transmit an electromagnetic field generated from the source portion (320). The feed pin (342d) may be physically directly connected to the second conductor end (342b). For example, the feed pin (342d) may be in direct contact with the second conductor end (342b). The feed pin (342d) may be connected to the second conductor end (342b) at a point corresponding to the rotation axis (C) of the antenna (342). The feed pin (342d) may be located on the rotation axis (C). For example, the feed pin (342d) may extend along the rotation axis (C) in a first direction (e.g., +Y axis direction).

[0119] The aerosol generating device (300) may include an insulator (350) configured to insulate the feed pin (342d).

[0120] The aerosol generating device (300) may include a ground (360) configured to at least partially surround an insulator (350).

[0121] The aerosol generating device (300) may include a motor (370) configured to rotate the antenna (342). The feed pin (342d) and the conductor extension (342c) may be rotated together by the motor (370). The feed pin (342d) and the conductor extension (342c) may rotate at the same angular velocity. While the conductor extension (342c) is rotating, the aerosol generating article (301) may be fixed. For example, the aerosol generating article (301) may be fixed by a resonator flange (340f). The motor (370) may be configured to rotate the antenna (342) about the rotation axis (C) in a first rotation direction (e.g., one direction along the circumference of the conductor extension (342c)) and a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction (e.g., another direction opposite to the one direction along the circumference of the conductor extension (342c)).

[0122] The aerosol generating device (300) may include a joint (372) connecting a source part (320) and a motor (370). The joint (372) may be a rotary joint (372) for rotation of a feeder (342d) connected to the source part (320).

[0124] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for generating an aerosol according to one embodiment.

[0125] In the following embodiments, each operation may be performed sequentially, but is not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of each operation may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel.

[0126] The following operations 31 to 37 may be performed by an electronic device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1 or the aerosol generating device (300) of FIG. 2). The electronic device may include an insertion space (e.g., the cavity (342c1) of FIG. 2), an antenna (e.g., the antenna (342) of FIG. 2), a directional coupler, and a processor (e.g., the processor (170) of FIG. 1 or the control unit (310) of FIG. 2).

[0127] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of an aerosol generating article (e.g., the aerosol generating article (301) of FIG. 2) may be placed in the insertion space. For example, a resonator of an aerosol generating device (e.g., the resonator (340) of FIG. 2) may form an insertion space on the inside.

[0128] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device may radiate microwaves into an insertion space using an antenna. The aerosol generating device may heat an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., non-tobacco material and / or tobacco material) of an aerosol generating article placed in the insertion space by a dielectric heating method using microwaves radiated into the insertion space. The dielectric heating method may be a method in which charges or ions of a dielectric (e.g., glycerin, water) contained in the aerosol generating substrate vibrate or rotate by an electromagnetic field having a preset frequency, and the aerosol generating substrate is heated as the dielectric heats up due to frictional heat generated during the vibration or rotation process. As the aerosol generating substrate is heated, an aerosol may be generated.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the antenna may have a plurality of rotational states. The antenna may change the polarization direction of microwaves radiated into the insertion space by rotating around the insertion space. For example, as the antenna radiating microwaves rotates, the direction of oscillation of the electric field generated by the antenna rotates, and as the direction of oscillation of the electric field rotates, the polarization direction of the microwaves may rotate. The rotational state of the antenna may correspond to the angle at which the antenna is rotated around the insertion space. The rotational state of the antenna may be controlled by a processor.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may include a feed pin (e.g., feed pin (342d) of FIG. 2) connected to the antenna at a point corresponding to the rotation axis of the antenna (e.g., rotation axis (C) of FIG. 2). When microwaves are applied to the antenna through the feed pin at a point corresponding to the rotation axis of the antenna, microwaves can be stably supplied to the antenna regardless of the rotation of the antenna. For example, as a motor (e.g., motor (370) of FIG. 2) connected to the feed pin rotates, the feed pin and the antenna may rotate.

[0131] According to one embodiment, microwaves generated at a source portion of an electronic device (e.g., source portion (20) of FIG. 1 or source portion (320) of FIG. 2) can be supplied to an antenna through a directional coupler. For example, microwaves supplied from the directional coupler can be applied to the antenna through a feed pin. For example, the directional coupler may be a coaxial cable. By using a coaxial cable with high flexibility of form, the electronic device can stably supply microwaves to the antenna or the feed pin regardless of the rotation of the antenna.

[0132] According to one embodiment, a directional coupler can separate a reflected signal reflected from an antenna. For example, the directional coupler can separate a reflected signal reflected from an antenna and transmit it to a processor or a signal sensor (e.g., an RF power meter IC). An electronic device can control the electronic device based on characteristic values ​​for the separated reflected signal. For example, a processor can control the rotation state of the antenna based on characteristic values ​​for the reflected signal.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the reflected signal reflected from the antenna may be a carrier wave. The carrier wave may be generated when the resonant frequency of the resonator and the frequency of the RF signal are mismatched, such that a first portion of the RF signal is absorbed within the resonator and a second portion of the RF signal is reflected. For example, the carrier wave may include an RF signal that was intended to be radiated but was not. For example, the carrier wave may include an RF signal that was radiated by the antenna but was reflected within the resonator and returned to the coupler through the antenna.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can determine, in response to the insertion of the aerosol-generating article, a rotational state to be used for heating the aerosol-generating article among a plurality of rotational states that the antenna may have. The electronic device can efficiently heat the aerosol-generating article by aligning the antenna in response to the composition and arrangement of the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article.

[0135] In operation 31, the electronic device may radiate a first microwave into an insertion space in which an aerosol-generating article is placed using an antenna having a first rotational state. The first rotational state may be one of a plurality of rotational states for searching for an optimal rotational state of the antenna corresponding to the aerosol-generating article placed in the insertion space.

[0136] In operation 32, the electronic device can determine a first characteristic value for a first reflected signal reflected from an antenna having a first rotational state. The first reflected signal reflected from the antenna in response to the operation of radiating a first microwave can be separated through a directional coupler and applied to a processor or signal sensor.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the first characteristic value may be a reflection coefficient (e.g., S11 parameter) obtained based on the power or voltage of the first reflected signal. For example, a signal sensor (or signal detector) may detect the power or voltage of the first reflected signal, and a processor may obtain the reflection coefficient based on the detected power or voltage of the first reflected signal. The input impedance of the antenna may change in response to the composition and arrangement of the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article placed in the insertion space, and the reflection coefficient may change in response to the change in the input impedance of the antenna. Even when an aerosol generating article of the same composition is placed in the insertion space between antennas having the same rotational state, the input impedance of the antenna and the reflection coefficient may change as the microwaves radiated and the aerosol generating substrate interact differently in response to the arrangement of the aerosol generating substrate included in the aerosol generating article and the insertion angle of the aerosol generating article. The characteristic values ​​of the reflection signal that change in response to the arrangement of the aerosol-generating substrate included in the aerosol-generating article and the insertion angle of the aerosol-generating article are described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 4a and 4b.

[0138] According to one embodiment, an electronic device can perform a frequency sweep in the microwave band using an antenna having a first rotational state and determine the minimum value of the reflection coefficient as a first characteristic value. A method for determining a first characteristic value corresponding to the first rotational state of the antenna through a frequency sweep is described in detail below with reference to FIG. 5.

[0139] In operation 33, the electronic device may radiate a second microwave into the insertion space using an antenna having a second rotational state. The second rotational state may be one of a plurality of rotational states for searching for an optimal rotational state of the antenna corresponding to an aerosol-generating article placed in the insertion space.

[0140] In operation 34, the electronic device may determine a second characteristic value for a second reflected signal reflected from an antenna having a second rotational state. The second reflected signal reflected from the antenna in response to the operation of radiating a second microwave may be separated through a directional coupler and applied to a processor or signal sensor. For example, the second characteristic value may be a reflection coefficient obtained based on the power or voltage of the second reflected signal. As the rotational state of the antenna and the polarization direction of the microwave change, the input impedance and the reflection coefficient of the antenna may change.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the electronic device can perform a frequency sweep within the microwave band using an antenna having a second rotation state and determine the minimum value of the reflection coefficient as a second characteristic value.

[0142] According to one embodiment, an electronic device can radiate microwaves into an insertion space at each of a plurality of rotation states (e.g., a first rotation state and a second rotation state) that the antenna may have while continuously changing the rotation state of the antenna, and obtain characteristic values ​​for the reflected signals. For example, the electronic device can determine a preset number of rotation states according to a certain rule within the rotation range that the antenna may have, and obtain characteristic values ​​for the reflected signals corresponding to each of the determined rotation states while continuously rotating the antenna.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the antenna can rotate at an angle ranging from 0 to 90 degrees in correspondence with each of the plurality of rotational states that the antenna may have. During the process of manufacturing an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article may be arranged to have a grain in a certain direction, and the interaction between the microwave and the aerosol generating substrate may be determined in correspondence with the angle formed by the direction of the grain of the aerosol generating substrate included in the aerosol generating article placed in the insertion space and the polarization direction of the microwave radiated into the insertion space. The electronic device may rotate the antenna at an angle ranging from 0 to 90 degrees so as to search for the polarization direction of the microwave corresponding to the direction of the grain of the aerosol generating substrate included in the inserted aerosol generating article. As the rotation range of the antenna is limited to a certain range, the electronic device may have a stable structure.

[0144] In operation 35, the electronic device may determine a third rotation state based on a first characteristic value and a second characteristic value. The third rotation state may be a rotation state of an antenna in which heating is performed for an aerosol generating article placed in an insertion space. A reflected signal may be obtained at each of the plurality of rotation states of the antenna of the electronic device (e.g., a first rotation state and a second rotation state), and an optimal rotation state (e.g., a third rotation state) corresponding to the placed aerosol generating article may be searched based on the reflected signal obtained at each of the plurality of rotation states.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the third rotational state may be a rotational state among a plurality of rotational states that the antenna may have, in which the reflection coefficient corresponding to the input impedance of the antenna is minimized. In the rotational state in which the reflection coefficient is minimized, the energy of microwaves absorbed by the aerosol generating substrate for dielectric heating is maximized, and the aerosol generating substrate can be effectively heated.

[0146] In operation 36, the electronic device can rotate the antenna so that the antenna has a third rotational state. For example, the electronic device can rotate the antenna using a motor (e.g., the motor (370) of FIG. 2).

[0147] In operation 37, the electronic device can generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating substrate of an aerosol generating article placed in an insertion space through a third microwave radiated using an antenna having a third rotational state. The electronic device can efficiently dielectric heat the aerosol generating article using an antenna aligned to have an optimal rotational state corresponding to the inserted aerosol generating article.

[0148] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may perform operations to search for an optimal rotation state of an antenna with a first power (e.g., low power) and dielectric heat an aerosol generating article with a second power (e.g., high power) higher than the first power. A method for generating an aerosol based on the first power or the second power is described in detail below with reference to FIG. 6.

[0150] FIGS. 4a and 4b are drawings for illustrating characteristic values ​​of an aerosol-generating article placed in an insertion space and a reflected signal according to various examples.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 4a, states (410, 420, 430) are illustrated in which each of the aerosol generating articles (411, 421, 431) (e.g., the aerosol generating article (301) of FIG. 2) according to various examples is placed in an insertion space (e.g., the cavity (342c1) of FIG. 2) of an electronic device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1 or the aerosol generating device (300) of FIG. 2) formed inside an antenna (e.g., the antenna (342) of FIG. 2) according to one embodiment. For example, in each of the states (410, 420, 430), the antenna may have the same rotational state (e.g., a first rotational state).

[0152] Referring to FIG. 4b, graphs (451, 452, 453) are shown representing reflection coefficients (e.g., S11 parameters) according to changes in the frequency of microwaves radiated into the insertion space in each of the states (410, 420, 430) in which aerosol generating articles (411, 421, 431) according to various examples are placed in the insertion space. The first graph (451) represents the reflection coefficient according to the frequency of microwaves radiated in the first state (410). The second graph (452) represents the reflection coefficient according to the frequency of microwaves radiated in the second state (420). The third graph (453) represents the reflection coefficient according to the frequency of microwaves radiated in the third state (430).

[0153] In the first state (410), the aerosol generating article (411) placed in the insertion space may include a uniformly arranged aerosol generating substrate. When the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article (411) is uniformly arranged without having a grain of a certain direction, as shown in the first graph (451), the minimum value of the reflection coefficient may appear lowest as a high proportion of the energy of the microwaves radiated at the resonant frequency is absorbed by the aerosol generating substrate.

[0154] When the aerosol generating substrate is arranged uniformly without having a grain in a specific direction, as in the aerosol generating article (411), the minimum value of the reflection coefficient corresponding to the radiated microwave may be the lowest; however, during the manufacturing process of each of the various examples of aerosol generating articles (411, 421, 431), the aerosol generating substrate included in the aerosol generating article may be arranged to have a grain in a specific direction. When the aerosol generating substrate has a grain in a specific direction, as in the aerosol generating article (421) or the aerosol generating article (431), the interaction between the microwave and the aerosol generating substrate may appear differently in correspondence with the direction of the grain of the aerosol generating substrate and the polarization direction of the microwave radiated into the insertion space.

[0155] In the second state (420), the aerosol generating article (421) placed in the insertion space includes an aerosol generating substrate arranged to have a horizontal grain, and in the third state (430), the aerosol generating article (431) placed in the insertion space may include an aerosol generating substrate arranged to have a vertical grain. As illustrated in the second graph (452) and the third graph (453), when the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article (421) has a horizontal grain, the minimum value of the reflection coefficient may appear lower compared to when the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article (431) has a vertical grain.

[0156] Since the interaction between the microwave and the aerosol generating substrate can be determined in correspondence with the angle formed between the direction of the aerosol generating substrate and the polarization direction of the radiated microwave, when the polarization direction of the microwave radiated into the insertion space changes due to the antenna rotating with respect to the inserted aerosol generating article (411, 421, 431), the minimum value of the reflection coefficient corresponding to the microwave radiation can change. For example, when the antenna rotates 90 degrees in the third state (430), the reflection coefficient according to the frequency of the radiated microwave can appear as shown in the second graph (452). By determining the polarization direction of the microwave (the state of rotation of the antenna) and the resonance frequency at which the reflection coefficient becomes minimum with respect to the inserted aerosol generating article, the electronic device can absorb a high proportion of the microwave energy into the aerosol generating substrate and efficiently perform dielectric heating.

[0158] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an aerosol generation method for determining characteristic values ​​corresponding to microwaves radiated into an insertion space, according to one embodiment.

[0159] The following operations 51 through 53 may be performed by an electronic device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1 or the aerosol generating device (300) of FIG. 2). The electronic device may include an insertion space (e.g., the cavity (342c1) of FIG. 2), an antenna (e.g., the antenna (342) of FIG. 2), a directional coupler, and a processor (e.g., the processor (170) of FIG. 1 or the control unit (310) of FIG. 2). For example, operation 51 may be performed before operations 31 and 32 described above with reference to FIG. 3 are performed. For example, operation 31 may include operation 52. For example, operation 32 may include operation 53.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the processor can control the frequency of the microwave supplied to the antenna. For example, the electronic device can adjust the frequency of the RF signal generated by the source unit (e.g., the source unit (20) of FIG. 1 or the source unit (320) of FIG. 2).

[0161] In operation 51, the electronic device can supply a first microwave to the antenna using a feed pin (e.g., feed pin (342d) of FIG. 2) connected to the antenna at a point corresponding to the rotation axis of the antenna (e.g., rotation axis (C) of FIG. 2). When the microwave is applied to the antenna through the feed pin at a point corresponding to the rotation axis of the antenna, the microwave can be stably supplied to the antenna regardless of the rotation of the antenna.

[0162] In operation 52, the electronic device can perform a frequency sweep within the microwave band using an antenna having a first rotational state. The electronic device performing the frequency sweep can radiate a microwave having a frequency that changes according to a certain rule in a preset frequency range as the first microwave into the insertion space.

[0163] In operation 53, the electronic device can determine the minimum value of the reflection coefficient within the microwave band where the frequency sweep is performed as the first characteristic value. The frequency of the microwave at which the minimum value of the reflection coefficient appears may be the resonance frequency. By obtaining the reflection coefficient corresponding to the first rotation state at the resonance frequency, the electronic device can evaluate whether the antenna and the aerosol generating article are properly aligned.

[0164] The descriptions of operations 52 and 53 can be similarly modified and applied to operations 33 and 34 described above with reference to FIG. 3. The electronic device can perform a frequency sweep within the microwave band using an antenna having a second rotational state and determine the minimum value of the reflection coefficient as a second characteristic value.

[0165] Since the input impedance and reflection coefficient of the antenna may change in response to the arrangement of the aerosol generating substrate included in the aerosol generating article and the insertion angle of the aerosol generating article, the electronic device may search for a resonant frequency in which the minimum value of the reflection coefficient appears through a frequency sweep in the microwave band, and use the reflection coefficient at the resonant frequency to determine the optimal rotation state of the antenna.

[0167] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an aerosol generation method that radiates microwaves into an insertion space based on a first power or a second power according to one embodiment.

[0168] The following operations 61 to 63 may be performed by an electronic device (e.g., the aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 1 or the aerosol generating device (300) of FIG. 2). The electronic device may include an insertion space (e.g., the cavity (342c1) of FIG. 2), an antenna (e.g., the antenna (342) of FIG. 2), a directional coupler, and a processor (e.g., the processor (170) of FIG. 1 or the control unit (310) of FIG. 2). For example, operation 31 described above with reference to FIG. 3 may include operation 61. For example, operation 33 may include operation 62. For example, operation 37 may include operation 63.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may perform operations to search for an optimal rotation state of the antenna at a first power (e.g., low power) and dielectric heat the aerosol generating article at a second power (e.g., high power) higher than the first power. Since a characteristic value for evaluating whether the antenna and the aerosol generating article are properly aligned can be measured even at low power, the electronic device may save power and reduce the load on the components of the electronic device by searching for an optimal rotation state of the antenna at low power.

[0170] In operation 61, the electronic device may radiate a first microwave into an insertion space using an antenna having a first rotational state based on a first power. For example, the electronic device may control the power input to an RF signal generation circuit (e.g., RF signal generation circuit (210) of FIG. 2) so that the microwave input to the antenna has low power (e.g., first power).

[0171] In operation 62, the electronic device can radiate a second microwave into the insertion space using an antenna having a second rotational state based on the first power.

[0172] In operation 63, the electronic device may radiate a third microwave into the insertion space using an antenna having a third rotational state based on a second power higher than the first power. By heating the aerosol-generating article using the high power, the electronic device may rapidly raise the temperature of the aerosol-generating substrate and provide the aerosol to the user.

[0174] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generation method may include: radiating a first microwave into an insertion space in which an aerosol generating article is disposed using an antenna having a first rotational state; determining a first characteristic value for a first reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the first rotational state; radiating a second microwave into the insertion space using the antenna having a second rotational state; determining a second characteristic value for a second reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the second rotational state; determining a third rotational state based on the first characteristic value and the second characteristic value; rotating the antenna so that the antenna has the third rotational state; and generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article disposed in the insertion space through a third microwave radiated using the antenna having the third rotational state.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the first characteristic value may be a reflection coefficient obtained based on the power or voltage of the first reflected signal.

[0176] According to one embodiment, the third rotation state may be a rotation state among a plurality of rotation states that the antenna may have, in which the reflection coefficient corresponding to the input impedance of the antenna is minimized.

[0177] According to one embodiment, the operation of radiating a first microwave into the insertion space may include the operation of performing a frequency sweep within the microwave band using the antenna having the first rotational state.

[0178] According to one embodiment, the operation of determining a first characteristic value for the first reflection signal may include determining the minimum value of the reflection coefficient within the microwave band in which the frequency sweep is performed as the first characteristic value.

[0179] According to one embodiment, the antenna changes the polarization direction of microwaves radiated into the insertion space by rotating in the periphery direction of the insertion space, and the first rotation state, the second rotation state, and the third rotation state of the antenna may correspond to the angle at which the antenna is rotated in the periphery direction of the insertion space.

[0180] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generation method may further include the operation of supplying the first microwave to the antenna using a feed pin connected to the antenna at a point corresponding to the rotation axis of the antenna.

[0181] According to one embodiment, the antenna can rotate at an angle in the range of 0 to 90 degrees in correspondence with each of the plurality of rotation states that the antenna may have.

[0182] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generation method may further include the operation of radiating the first microwave into the insertion space using the antenna having the first rotational state based on the first power, the operation of radiating the second microwave into the insertion space using the antenna having the second rotational state based on the first power, and the operation of radiating the third microwave into the insertion space using the antenna having the third rotational state based on the second power which is higher than the first power.

[0183] According to one embodiment, an electronic device comprises an insertion space in which at least a portion of an aerosol generating article is disposed, an antenna capable of having a plurality of rotational states, a directional coupler for supplying microwaves to the antenna and separating a reflected signal reflected from the antenna, and a processor for controlling the rotational state of the antenna, wherein the processor can generate an aerosol by radiating a first microwave to the insertion space in which the aerosol generating article is disposed using the antenna having a first rotational state, determining a first characteristic value for a first reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the first rotational state, radiating a second microwave to the insertion space using the antenna having a second rotational state, determining a second characteristic value for a second reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the second rotational state, determining a third rotational state based on the first characteristic value and the second characteristic value, rotating the antenna so that the antenna has the third rotational state, and heating an aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article disposed in the insertion space through the third microwave radiated using the antenna having the third rotational state.

[0184] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device further includes a signal sensor connected to the directional coupler and detecting the power or voltage of the first reflected signal, and the first characteristic value may be a first reflection coefficient obtained based on the power or voltage of the first reflected signal.

[0185] According to one embodiment, the third rotation state may be a rotation state among the plurality of rotation states that the antenna may have, in which the reflection coefficient corresponding to the input impedance of the antenna is minimized.

[0186] According to one embodiment, the antenna changes the polarization direction of microwaves radiated into the insertion space by rotating in the periphery direction of the insertion space, and the first rotation state, the second rotation state, and the third rotation state of the antenna may correspond to the angle at which the antenna is rotated in the periphery direction of the insertion space.

[0187] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device further includes a feed pin connected to the antenna at a point corresponding to the rotation axis of the antenna, and the microwave supplied from the directional coupler can be applied to the antenna through the feed pin.

[0189] Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinguishable from one another. Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or combined for their respective configurations or functions.

[0190] For example, this means that configuration A described in a specific embodiment and / or drawing and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing can be combined. That is, even if the combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that combination is possible, except where it is described that combination is impossible.

[0191] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

Claim 1 A method for generating an aerosol, comprising: radiating a first microwave into an insertion space in which an aerosol generating article is disposed using an antenna having a first rotational state; determining a first characteristic value for a first reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the first rotational state; radiating a second microwave into the insertion space using the antenna having a second rotational state; determining a second characteristic value for a second reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the second rotational state; determining a third rotational state based on the first characteristic value and the second characteristic value; rotating the antenna so that the antenna has the third rotational state; and generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article disposed in the insertion space through a third microwave radiated using the antenna having the third rotational state. Claim 2 A method for generating an aerosol according to claim 1, wherein the first characteristic value is a reflection coefficient obtained based on the power or voltage of the first reflection signal. Claim 3 A method for generating an aerosol according to paragraph 2, wherein the third rotational state is a rotational state among a plurality of rotational states that the antenna may have, wherein the reflection coefficient corresponding to the input impedance of the antenna is minimized. Claim 4 A method for generating an aerosol according to claim 2, wherein the operation of radiating a first microwave into the insertion space includes the operation of performing a frequency sweep within a microwave band using the antenna having the first rotational state. Claim 5 A method for generating an aerosol according to claim 4, wherein the operation of determining a first characteristic value for the first reflection signal includes the operation of determining a minimum value of the reflection coefficient within the microwave band in which the frequency sweep is performed as the first characteristic value. Claim 6 A method for generating an aerosol according to claim 1, wherein the antenna changes the polarization direction of microwaves radiated into the insertion space by rotating in the circumferential direction of the insertion space, and the first rotation state, the second rotation state, and the third rotation state of the antenna correspond to the angle at which the antenna rotated in the circumferential direction of the insertion space. Claim 7 A method for generating an aerosol according to claim 6, further comprising the operation of supplying the first microwave to the antenna using a feed pin connected to the antenna at a point corresponding to the rotation axis of the antenna. Claim 8 A method for generating an aerosol according to claim 6, wherein the antenna rotates at an angle ranging from 0 to 90 degrees in correspondence with each of the plurality of rotational states that the antenna may have. Claim 9 A method for generating an aerosol according to claim 1, further comprising: an operation of radiating the first microwave into the insertion space using the antenna having the first rotational state based on the first power; an operation of radiating the second microwave into the insertion space using the antenna having the second rotational state based on the first power; and an operation of radiating the third microwave into the insertion space using the antenna having the third rotational state based on the second power higher than the first power. Claim 10 A computer-readable recording medium storing a program for executing the method according to paragraph 1. Claim 11 In an electronic device, an insertion space in which at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article is disposed; an antenna capable of having a plurality of rotational states; and a directional coupler for supplying microwaves to the antenna and separating a reflected signal reflected from the antenna. An electronic device comprising a processor for controlling the rotational state of the antenna, wherein the processor radiates a first microwave into an insertion space in which the aerosol generating article is disposed using the antenna having a first rotational state, determines a first characteristic value for a first reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the first rotational state, radiates a second microwave into the insertion space using the antenna having a second rotational state, determines a second characteristic value for a second reflected signal reflected from the antenna having the second rotational state, determines a third rotational state based on the first characteristic value and the second characteristic value, rotates the antenna so that the antenna has the third rotational state, and generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article disposed in the insertion space through a third microwave radiated using the antenna having the third rotational state. Claim 12 An electronic device according to claim 11, further comprising a signal sensor connected to the directional coupler and detecting the power or voltage of the first reflected signal, wherein the first characteristic value is a first reflection coefficient obtained based on the power or voltage of the first reflected signal. Claim 13 An electronic device according to claim 12, wherein the third rotational state is a rotational state among the plurality of rotational states that the antenna may have, wherein the reflection coefficient corresponding to the input impedance of the antenna is minimized. Claim 14 An electronic device according to claim 11, wherein the antenna changes the polarization direction of microwaves radiated into the insertion space by rotating in the circumferential direction of the insertion space, and the first rotation state, the second rotation state, and the third rotation state of the antenna correspond to the angle at which the antenna rotated in the circumferential direction of the insertion space. Claim 15 An electronic device according to claim 14, further comprising a feed pin connected to the antenna at a point corresponding to the rotation axis of the antenna, wherein the microwave supplied from the directional coupler is applied to the antenna through the feed pin.

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