Aerosol generating device and operation method thereof

Abstract

This aerosol generating device may include: a power generating part which generates microwaves having a frequency within a preset range; and a heating part which has a space provided to accommodate at least a part of an aerosol generating article, and heats the aerosol generating article on the basis of the microwaves generated by the power generating part, wherein the heating part includes a heating structure body including a first structure body which has at least one opening formed on the surface thereof.

Description

Aerosol generating device and its operating method

[0001] It relates to an aerosol generating device and its operating method.

[0002] Cigarettes are a smoking product consumed worldwide for centuries, and their primary component is tobacco leaves. Smokers inhale the smoke produced by burning the cigarette. However, the traditional cigarette combustion process produces a large amount of harmful substances, which can be harmful to the health of both smokers and passive smokers.

[0003] To address these issues, various aerosol generation devices are being developed. Specifically, aerosol generation devices that generate aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material using resistance or induction heating are being developed. Recently, dielectric heating aerosol generation devices that heat the aerosol-generating material using microwaves have also been developed.

[0004] The goal is to use high-frequency waves to ensure even heating of target items. In particular, microwaves are used to ensure even heating of aerosol-generating items, thereby providing a consistent flavor quality.

[0005] The aim is to shorten the time required for preheating aerosol-generating products using microwaves.

[0006] The aim is to heat an aerosol generating article to a preset temperature range using microwaves.

[0007] By forming a coating layer and a protective layer on the heating structure within the aerosol generating device, it is intended to block the penetration of foreign substances and contaminants.

[0008] According to one aspect, an aerosol generating device is provided, comprising: a power generating unit that generates microwaves of a frequency within a preset range; and a heating unit that heats the aerosol generating article based on the microwaves generated by the power generating unit, wherein the heating unit includes a heating structure that includes a first structure having at least one opening formed on a surface thereof.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may include the first structure and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may have a double cylinder shape due to the arrangement of the first structure and the second structure.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second structure may surround the first structure with a preset gap.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the second structure can reflect microwaves radiated from the first structure.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening may be formed in a slit shape or a slot shape.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening may be an open hole formed in a form in which one end is open or a closed hole formed in a form that is not open to the outside.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may include a fixing member that fixes the aerosol generating article to the space so that it is accommodated to a preset length.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the power generating unit can apply microwaves through a terminal formed from the at least one opening.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the terminal may include a first terminal and a second terminal for receiving electromagnetic waves having different polarities.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the heating unit can control the flow of current by resonance of microwaves based on the physical structure of the at least one opening formed in the first structure.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the heating unit can control the microwaves to converge into the interior of the first structure based on the microwaves received through the end formed from the first opening among the at least one opening and the physical structure of the heating structure.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the first opening may include a first end and a second end for receiving electromagnetic waves having different polarities.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the first structure includes a plurality of openings in the surface, and the plurality of openings may be arranged at preset intervals or arranged in a preset pattern.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the first structure includes a plurality of openings on the surface, the plurality of openings forming pairs, and the paired openings are arranged to face each other, so that a maximum electric field can be absorbed in a preset area of ​​the aerosol generating article.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening can be formed within a range within a preset length or within a range within a preset interval.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include a control unit that controls the power generating unit to generate microwaves; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the power generating unit and the control unit.

[0025] According to one aspect, a high-frequency heating device is provided, comprising: a power generating unit that generates high-frequency waves within a preset range; and a heating unit that heats the object to be heated based on the high-frequency waves generated by the power generating unit, wherein the heating unit includes a heating structure having at least one opening formed on a surface and a coating layer formed of a material that can withstand the heating temperature of the object to be heated.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the material forming the coating layer may be a material in which the value of at least one parameter indicating thermal or electrical characteristics satisfies a range of preset reference values.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the material forming the coating layer may be composed of at least one of quartz, ceramic, and Teflon.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may have a protective layer formed corresponding to the inner surface that accommodates the object to be heated.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the protective layer is formed in the shape of the heating structure, and the surface of the protective layer may not have an opening.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the protective layer may be laminated in a multi-layer structure.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the protective layer may be coated with a material that forms the coating layer.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the protective layer may have a detachable fixing structure inside the heating structure.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may include a first structure having at least one opening formed therein and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may be formed into a double cylinder shape due to the arrangement of the first structure and the second structure.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening may be formed in a slit shape or a slot shape.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening may be an open hole formed in a form in which one end is open or a closed hole formed in a form that is not open to the outside.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the heating unit can control the flow of current by resonance of the high frequency based on the physical structure of the at least one opening formed in the first structure.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the high-frequency heating device may further include a control unit that controls the high frequency to be generated in the power generation unit; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the power generation unit and the control unit.

[0039] According to another aspect, a method for manufacturing a heating structure in a high-frequency heating device may include the steps of: creating a heating structure having a space for accommodating at least a portion of a heating target object and having at least one opening formed on a surface; and forming a coating layer on the surface of the heating structure using a material that can withstand the heating temperature of the heating target object.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the material forming the coating layer may be a material in which the value of at least one parameter indicating thermal or electrical characteristics satisfies a range of preset reference values.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the method for manufacturing a heating structure may further include a step of forming a protective layer corresponding to an inner surface of the heating structure.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the protective layer is formed in the shape of the heating structure, and the surface of the protective layer may not have an opening.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the protective layer may be coated with a material that forms the coating layer.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may include a first structure having at least one opening formed therein and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure.

[0045] High frequency waves can be used to uniformly heat a target item. In particular, microwaves can be used to uniformly heat aerosol-generating items, thereby providing a consistent flavor quality.

[0046] Microwaves can be used to shorten the time required to preheat aerosol-generating items.

[0047] Microwaves can be used to heat aerosol-generating items to a preset temperature range.

[0048] By forming a coating layer and a protective layer on the heating structure within the aerosol generating device, foreign substances and contaminants can be prevented from penetrating.

[0049] In addition, by forming a coating layer and a protective layer on the heating structure, there is no accumulation of impurities, which reduces matching loss, and the surface of the heating element is maintained smooth, so that performance degradation can be minimized even at high temperatures.

[0050] By forming a coating layer and a protective layer on the heating structure, the resonant frequency can be maintained close to the designed resonant frequency, thereby increasing power consumption efficiency and extending battery life.

[0051] By forming a coating layer and a protective layer on the heating structure, internal damage and chemical corrosion of the heating structure can be prevented, and performance deterioration due to long-term repeated use can be reduced.

[0052] By forming a coating layer and a protective layer on the heating structure, removal of foreign substances can be facilitated.

[0053] The present disclosure can be readily understood by the combination of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein reference numerals refer to structural elements.

[0054] FIG. 1 shows an external view and an internal cross-section of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a power generation unit according to one embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0058] FIGS. 5A to 5F are drawings for explaining a first structure of a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0059] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a first structure of a heating structure according to another embodiment.

[0060] FIGS. 7A to 7C are drawings for explaining the results of monitoring the internal temperature of a heating structure by location over time, according to one embodiment.

[0061] FIGS. 8A to 8G are drawings for explaining the internal structure of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0062] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0063] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0064] An aerosol generating device comprises a power generating unit that generates microwaves having a frequency within a preset range; and a heating unit that heats the aerosol generating article based on the microwaves generated by the power generating unit, wherein the heating unit may include a heating structure that includes a first structure having at least one opening formed on a surface thereof.

[0065] Below, various embodiments are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below may be implemented in various different forms. To more clearly explain the features of the embodiments, detailed descriptions of matters commonly known to those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain will be omitted.

[0066] Meanwhile, when a component is said to be "connected" to another component in this specification, this includes not only cases where it is "directly connected" but also cases where it is "connected with another component in between." Furthermore, when a component is said to "include" another component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but rather that it may include other components, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0067] Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first" or "second," used herein may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0068] In this specification, an aerosol generating device may mean a device that generates vapor in the form of an aerosol that can be inhaled by heating a heating target object inserted into an aerosol generating article.

[0069] In this specification, an aerosol generating device can heat a target object by using high frequency to transmit energy to a high frequency electromagnetic field and generate heat according to the physical and electrical properties of a material within the target object. For example, the aerosol generating device can generate heat by polarity change and vibration of molecules within a dielectric. In addition, the aerosol generating device can generate heat due to an induced current in a conductive material. The aerosol generating device can heat the target object by using at least one of a dielectric heating method, an induction heating method, and a resistance heating method. In addition, the aerosol generating device can be referred to as a high frequency heating device. In addition, the configuration and operations of the configuration applied to the aerosol generating device can be equally applied to the high frequency heating device.

[0070] In this specification, high frequency refers to high frequency electromagnetic waves, and may refer to a frequency range from kHz to GHz. For example, 300 kHz to 3 MHz is classified as high frequency (HF), 3 MHz to 30 MHz is classified as very high frequency (VHF), 30 MHz to 300 MHz is classified as ultra high frequency (UHF), 300 MHz to 30 GHz is classified as microwave, and 30 GHz to 300 GHz is classified as millimeter wave.

[0071] As used herein, the term "heating target" refers to an object that receives heat from an aerosol generating device, causing its temperature to rise or induces physical or chemical changes. The heating target may be composed of a highly conductive material, an electrically insulating material, a mixture of metals and non-metals, or a material that is sensitive to heat or changes only under specific thermal conditions.

[0072] For example, an aerosol generating device may refer to a device that heats tobacco or a nicotine-containing substance within an aerosol generating device, which is a heated object, to generate an inhalable nicotine vapor in the form of an aerosol. The aerosol generating device, which is a heated object, may refer to an article used for smoking.

[0073] In this specification, the operation of the aerosol generating device heating the object to be heated using high frequency can be equally applied to the operation of heating the object to be heated using microwaves included in the high frequency band.

[0074] FIG. 1 shows an external view and an internal cross-section of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0075] The image (110) of Fig. 1 shows an external view of an aerosol generating device (200). The aerosol generating device (200) can accommodate an article (10) to be heated. Specifically, an insertion port into which an article (10) to be heated can be inserted may be provided at one end of the aerosol generating device (200), and a physical structure may be provided so that the article (10) to be heated can be inserted by a preset length.

[0076] The aerosol generating device (200) may include a heating structure for heating the inserted aerosol generating device (200). The heating structure may accommodate at least a portion of the heating target object (10) and heat the heating target object (10).

[0077] The heating structure can heat the object to be heated (10) using a dielectric heating method. For example, the heating structure can heat the dielectric within the object to be heated (10) using the resonance of high frequency waves. Here, the high frequency may be a microwave including a band from 300 MHz to 30 GHz. The heating structure can heat the dielectric within the object to be heated (10) using the resonance of microwaves. In particular, the aerosol generating device (200) can heat the object to be heated (10) using a frequency in the band from 2.5 GHz to 20 GHz. As the object to be heated (10) is heated, an aerosol can be generated from the object to be heated (10).

[0078] The image (120) of FIG. 1 shows an internal cross-section of an aerosol generating device (200) into which a heating target object (10) is inserted. The heating structure may include a first structure (121) and / or a second structure (122), and may have a double cylinder shape. The heating structure may include a stopper (124) that can secure the heating target object (10) when inserted. At least one opening may be provided on a surface of the first structure (121), and an air gap may exist between the first structure (121) and the second structure (122). The heating structure may heat the heating target object (10) based on the physical structure of the heating structure and the high frequency applied to the heating structure. For example, the heating structure may heat the heating target object (10) based on the physical structure of the heating structure and the microwave applied to the heating structure. The case (123) of the aerosol generating device (200) can be combined with a heating structure and a floor member (125).

[0079] Meanwhile, if the filter, residue, or tar component of the aerosol generating article, which is the heating target article (10) illustrated in FIG. 1, adheres or accumulates on the internal structure of the heating structure, impedance fluctuation, matching loss, abnormal heating system, etc. may occur, which may deteriorate the performance of the aerosol generating device (200). In order to prevent the filter, residue, or tar component of the aerosol generating article from penetrating into the heating structure, the first structure (121) of the heating structure may be provided with a protective layer (126) corresponding to the internal surface that accommodates the heating target article (10). In addition, all or part of the first structure (121) may be coated with a predetermined material. For example, a predetermined area including an opening formed on the surface of the first structure (121) may be coated with a predetermined material. In addition, the heating structure may optionally be provided with the protective layer (126). Details of the aerosol generating device (200) are described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 9.

[0080] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device (200) may include a power generating unit (210), a heating unit (220), a power supply unit (230), and a control unit (240). However, not all of the illustrated components are essential components. The aerosol generating device (200) may be implemented with more components than the illustrated components, or may be implemented with fewer components. The above components will be described below.

[0082] The power generation unit (210) can generate high frequency waves within a preset range. For example, the high frequency waves may be frequencies within a band to which microwaves belong. The power generation unit (210) can output high frequency waves with a frequency within a preset range and with a power of a preset magnitude. In addition, the power generation unit (210) can control the output of the high frequency waves so that the impedance viewed from the power generation unit (210) toward the heating unit (220) matches the impedance viewed from the heating unit (220) toward the power generation unit (210). The detailed configuration of the power generation unit (210) is described in FIG. 3.

[0083] The heating unit (220) may have a space provided to accommodate at least a portion of the heating target object (10). In addition, the heating unit (220) may include a heating structure including a first structure and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure. The first structure may have a space provided to accommodate at least a portion of the heating target object (10) and may have at least one opening formed on a surface. The second structure may be formed in a form surrounding the first structure and spaced apart from the first structure by a predetermined gap. The second structure may reflect high frequency waves radiated from the first structure. The heating structure may have a double cylinder shape due to the arrangement of the first structure and the second structure. The first structure and / or the second structure may be composed of a conductive material. For example, all or part of the first structure may be composed of a conductive material. In addition, all or part of the second structure may be composed of a conductive material.

[0084] The heating unit (220) can heat the heating target object (10) inserted into the heating structure based on the high frequency generated by the power generating unit (210). For example, the heating unit (220) can heat the heating target object (10) inserted into the heating structure based on the microwave generated by the power generating unit (210). The heating unit (220) can form microwave resonance in the heating structure to heat the heating target object (10). The heating target object (10) can be heated before the microwave resonance is formed. When the microwave resonance is formed, the heating target object (10) can be ideally heated. In the microwave resonance state, the heating target object (10) can be uniformly heated.

[0085] At least one opening may be formed on the surface of the first structure. Here, the opening may mean that the opening connects the inside and the outside of the first structure and is not physically closed. Furthermore, the opening may be formed in the form of a slit or a slot. Furthermore, the opening may be an open hole formed in a form in which one end is open, or a closed hole formed in a form in which the other end is not open to the outside.

[0086] Meanwhile, the heating structure may include a fixing member that fixes the heating target object (10) to a predetermined length in a predetermined space provided inside the heating structure.

[0087] The power generating unit (210) can apply high frequency waves through a terminal formed from at least one opening. For example, the power generating unit (210) can apply microwaves through a terminal formed from at least one opening. For example, the terminal may include a first terminal and a second terminal that receive electromagnetic waves having different polarities. Here, the electromagnetic waves having different polarities may refer to electromagnetic waves having a phase difference between the electromagnetic waves. In addition, the electromagnetic waves having different polarities may refer to electromagnetic waves in which the electric field vectors of the electromagnetic waves vibrate in different directions in space. Meanwhile, the frequency band of the applied high frequency waves may be determined by at least one of the material, thickness, and structure of the heating target object (10). In addition, the frequency band of the applied high frequency waves may be determined by the electromagnetic characteristics and physical characteristics of the material of the heating target object (10).

[0088] The heating unit (220) can control the flow of current by high frequency based on the physical structure of at least one opening formed in the first structure. The physical structure of at least one opening formed in the first structure can affect high frequency resonance. For example, the heating unit (220) can control the flow of current by microwave based on the physical structure of at least one opening formed in the first structure.

[0089] For example, the physical structure of the aperture may be at least one of the number of apertures formed in the first structure, the arrangement relationship between the apertures, and the length, width, and thickness of the apertures. For example, when the aperture is a slot, the resonant frequency may be adjusted according to the length of the slot. Microwave resonance may be formed when the length of the slot is half a wavelength or an integer multiple thereof. As the length of the slot increases, the resonant frequency may decrease, and as the length of the slot decreases, the resonant frequency may increase. Depending on the position or arrangement of the slots, the frequency bandwidth and the resonant frequency may be adjusted.

[0090] Additionally, the aperture formed on the surface of the first structure may allow the current to bypass the aperture or flow along a different path around the aperture. Furthermore, as the intensity of the electromagnetic field increases around the aperture, the current density near the aperture's boundary may increase. That is, depending on the physical structure of the aperture, the path of the current flowing through the first structure may vary, and the distribution or radiation pattern of the microwaves may also vary. The physical structure of the aperture may form a radiation pattern in which microwaves radiate in a specific direction.

[0091] The heating unit (220) can be controlled to converge microwaves of the first structure based on the physical structure of the heating structure and microwaves received through an end formed from a first opening among at least one opening. Specifically, when microwaves are applied from the power generation unit (210) to the heating structure, the microwaves can be radiated into the interior of the first structure through the opening of the first structure. In addition, the first opening can include a first end and a second end that receive electromagnetic waves having different polarities.

[0092] Additionally, the first structure may include a plurality of openings on its surface. The plurality of openings may be arranged at preset intervals or in a preset pattern.

[0093] Additionally, the plurality of openings may be arranged in pairs, and the paired openings may be arranged to face each other. By arranging the paired openings to face each other, the first structure can allow the maximum electric field to be absorbed in a preset area of ​​the heating target object (10). Additionally, the openings may be formed within a range within a preset length or within a range within a preset interval.

[0094] Additionally, the heating structure may be formed with a coating layer made of a material that can withstand the heating temperature of the heating target object (10). All or part of the heating structure may be coated with a predetermined material. For example, all or part of the first structure and / or the second structure of the heating structure may be coated with a predetermined material.

[0095] For example, a predetermined region including an opening formed on the surface of a heating structure may be coated with a predetermined material. Specifically, a predetermined region including an opening formed on the surface of a first structure may be coated with a predetermined material. The predetermined region including the opening may include at least one of the opening region and a region adjacent to the opening. For example, all or part of an inner surface of a second structure may be coated with a predetermined material. Here, the inner surface of the second structure may be a surface facing the outer surface of the first structure.

[0096] The coating layer may be formed on the surface of the heating structure. For example, the coating layer may be formed on the inner or outer surface of the heating structure. The coating layer may be formed as a thin film within a preset thickness. Additionally, the coating layer may be formed in a multilayer structure.

[0097] For example, the coating layer may be formed on the inner surface or the outer surface of the first structure of the heating structure. Here, the inner surface of the first structure may be a surface corresponding to a space into which the heating target object (10) is inserted, and the outer surface of the first structure may be a surface facing the inner surface of the second structure. In addition, the coating layer may be formed in a region including an opening formed on the surface of the first structure. Here, the region including the opening may be a region corresponding to a three-dimensional structure in which the opening is formed.

[0098] The material forming the coating layer may have a value of at least one parameter indicating thermal or electrical characteristics that satisfies a preset reference value range. For example, the material forming the coating layer may be composed of at least one of quartz, ceramic, and Teflon.

[0099] Additionally, the heating structure may be formed with a protective layer corresponding to the inner surface that accommodates the heating target object (10). Here, the inner surface may be the inner surface of the heating structure that is in contact with the heating target object (10) or is spaced apart from the heating target object (10) by a preset distance.

[0100] The protective layer may be formed in the shape of a heating structure, and the surface of the protective layer may not have an opening. For example, the protective layer may have an open inlet through which the heated object (10) is inserted, and may have a double cylindrical shape. The protective layer may be formed as a thin film within a preset thickness. Furthermore, the protective layer may be laminated in a multilayer structure.

[0101] Additionally, the protective layer may be formed corresponding to all or part of the heating structure. For example, the protective layer may be formed corresponding to a predetermined region including an opening formed on the surface of the heating structure. Specifically, the protective layer may be formed corresponding to a predetermined region including an opening formed on the surface of the first structure. The predetermined region including the opening may include at least one region among the opening and a region adjacent to the opening.

[0102] The protective layer may be a layer for forming an opening formed on the surface of the first structure into a closed area. The protective layer may be formed as a thin film within a preset thickness. The protective layer may be formed only in an area corresponding to all or part of the opening. Additionally, the protective layer may be formed to correspond to the shape of the first structure.

[0103] Additionally, the protective layer may be coated with a material that forms a coating layer. For example, the protective layer may be coated with at least one of quartz, ceramic, and Teflon.

[0104] Additionally, the protective layer may have a detachable fixing structure within the heating structure. For example, the protective layer may be fixed to the first structure within the heating structure by a fastening structure that allows attachment and / or detachment to the first structure. For example, the fastening structure may be implemented by a clip, screw, sliding mechanism, etc. Additionally, the protective layer may be a partition member configured to be inserted within a slit and / or slot. In this case, the partition may be fixed within the heating structure based on the fastening structure or may be fixed by adhesive.

[0105] The power supply unit (230) can supply power to the power generation unit (210) and the control unit (240). The control unit (240) can control the power generation unit (210) to generate microwaves. Specifically, the control unit (240) can control the power generation unit (210) to output microwaves having a frequency within a preset range and a power of a preset magnitude.

[0106] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a power generation unit (210) according to one embodiment.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 3, the power generation unit (210) may include a signal generation unit (310), a first matching circuit (320), a signal power amplifier (330), and a second matching circuit (340). However, not all of the illustrated components are essential components. The power generation unit (210) may be implemented with more components than the illustrated components, or may be implemented with fewer components. The above components will be described below.

[0108] The signal generator (310) can generate high frequencies within a preset range. The signal generator (310) can output high frequencies having a frequency within a preset range and a power of a preset magnitude under the control of the control unit. For example, the high frequencies can be microwaves.

[0109] The first matching circuit (320) can control the high-frequency output so that optimal power is transmitted to the signal power amplifier (330).

[0110] The signal power amplifier (330) can adjust the power size of the high frequency signal output by increasing or decreasing the amplitude of the high frequency signal. The control unit can output a high frequency signal having a specific power size within a preset range by controlling the signal power amplifier (330).

[0111] The second matching circuit (340) can check whether the first impedance viewed from the signal generator (310) toward the heating unit and the second impedance viewed from the heating unit toward the signal generator (310) are matched, and can control the high-frequency output so that a preset power transmission condition is satisfied.

[0112] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a heating structure within a heating unit according to one embodiment.

[0113] Figure 4 shows an exploded view of the heating structure of the heating unit separated. The heating structure may include a first structure (410), a second structure (420), and / or members (not shown) that enable the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) to be coupled.

[0114] The first structure (410) may be provided with a space in which a heating target object (10) can be accommodated. For example, the first structure (410) may be cylindrical in shape so that the heating target object (10) can be inserted in the longitudinal direction. The second structure (420) may be cylindrical in shape so as to surround the first structure (410) and be spaced apart from the first structure (410) by a predetermined gap. The heating structure may have a double cylinder shape formed by the arrangement of the first structure (410) and the second structure (420). Here, the cylinder shape may be a cylinder with an interior that is hollow, and may be a tube shape. In addition, the heating structure may be formed as a waveguide. The cross-section of the waveguide may be one of a circle, a square, and a polygon. In addition, the gap between the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) may be filled with air. The first structure (410) and / or the second structure (420) may be composed of a conductive material. For example, all or part of the first structure (410) may be composed of a conductive material. Additionally, all or part of the second structure (420) may be composed of a conductive material.

[0115] At least one opening (411, 412, 415) may be formed on the surface of the first structure (410). The at least one opening (411, 412, 415) may be formed in various shapes. For example, the opening may be in the shape of a polygon such as a square or a circle. In addition, the opening (412) may have a structure that is not physically closed. If the boundary line of the opening (411) is configured in a closed shape, the opening (411) may be referred to as a closed hole. In addition, if a part of the boundary line of the opening (412) is configured in an open shape, the opening (412) may be referred to as an open hole.

[0116] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the shape of the opening may be a slit shape or a slot shape. The slot (411) may be a hole formed on the surface of the first structure (410). Here, the shape of the hole forming the slot (411) may vary. For example, the shape of the hole may be a circle, a polygon, etc. In addition, the shape of the hole may be a long or narrow hole. The slot (411) may have a structure in which the boundary line of the hole is formed in a closed shape. The slit (412) may be a hole formed on the surface of the first structure (410). Similarly, the shape of the hole forming the slit (412) may vary. For example, the shape of the hole may be a circle, a polygon, etc. In addition, the shape of the hole may be a long or narrow hole. The slit (412) may have a structure in which a portion of the boundary line of the hole is formed in an open shape.

[0117] Additionally, all or part of at least one opening (411, 412, 415) formed on the surface of the first structure (410) may be composed of a conductive material.

[0118] The first structure (410) may include a feeding unit (413). The feeding unit (413) within the first structure (410) may receive a high frequency generated from a power generating unit. For example, the high frequency may be a frequency in the microwave band. For example, the feeding unit (413) may be a part of a first opening among the openings. Specifically, the feeding unit (413) may be an end of the first opening, and the end of the first opening may include at least one end. For example, the end of the first opening may be composed of a first end and a second end. The first end and the second end may receive electromagnetic waves having different polarities.

[0119] The heating target object (10) can be inserted in the longitudinal direction (401) of the heating structure. The heating structure can include a fixing member that fixes the heating target object (10) so that it is accommodated to a preset length. The fixing member can include a fixing protrusion (414) and / or a stopper (430) facing inward of the first structure (410). The stopper (430) can be inserted through the opening (415) and fixed to the first structure (410).

[0120] When a high frequency generated from a power generation unit is received by the first structure (410), electromagnetic induction occurs inside and on the surface of the first structure (410), and current can flow on the surface. An opening formed in the first structure (410) can affect the flow of current. At least one of the shape, size, and position of the opening can affect the path and distribution of the current. The path of the current can be changed near the opening, and the current density can increase around the opening. In addition, a high frequency can be radiated through the opening.

[0121] Specifically, when a high frequency reaches the first structure (410), electrons inside the first structure (410) move under the influence of an electric field, causing a current to flow, and the current can generate a magnetic field in the surrounding area. As the current changes, the magnetic field also changes, and the magnetic field can induce an electric field. The high frequency, in which the magnetic field and the electric field are orthogonally coupled, can be radiated through the aperture. In this case, the high frequency can be radiated inwardly of the first structure (410).

[0122] High frequency waves can reach and be absorbed by the heating target object (10), and the dielectric material within the heating target object (10) can be heated. For example, the heating target object (10) can include a polar material, and molecules within the polar material can be polarized by the high frequency waves. The molecules can vibrate or rotate due to the polarization phenomenon, and can generate frictional heat. The heating target object (10) can be heated by the frictional heat.

[0123] FIGS. 5A to 5F are drawings for explaining a first structure of a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0124] FIG. 5A illustrates an example of a side view of a first structure (410). A plurality of openings may be formed on the surface of the first structure (410). The plurality of openings may be arranged at preset intervals or in a preset pattern. Alternatively, the arrangement positions of the plurality of openings may be determined based on a predetermined relationship between the openings. The plurality of openings may be arranged in pairs, and the paired openings may be arranged to face each other. For example, by arranging the paired openings to face each other, an electric field may be absorbed in a preset region of the heating target object (10). For example, the preset region may be a region in which a dielectric material is located within the heating target object (10). In addition, the magnitude of the electric field absorbed in the preset region may be within a maximum value and / or a preset range. The preset range may be a range in which a lower limit and an upper limit are set based on the maximum electric field.

[0125] For example, the first opening (411) formed on the surface of the first structure (410) may be a slot. The slot may be a hole drilled in the surface of the first structure (410). For example, the slot may be a long and narrow hole. The length, width, and thickness of the slot may be formed within a preset range. The slot may have a structure in which the boundary of the hole is formed in a closed shape. In addition, an opening (not shown) may be formed at a position on the surface opposite to the first opening (411) and forming a pair. The first opening (411) may be opened in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first opening (411).

[0126] In addition, the second openings (412-1, 412-2) formed on the surface of the first structure (410) may be slits. The slits may be holes drilled on the surface of the first structure (410). For example, the slits may be long and narrow holes. The slits may have a structure in which a portion of the boundary of the hole is open. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, the second openings (412-1, 412-2) may be opened in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second openings (412-1, 412-2). Here, the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second openings (412-1, 412-2) may be a direction from the inside to the outside of the first structure (410). Additionally, the ends of the second openings (412-1, 412-2) may be opened in the longitudinal direction of the second openings (412-1, 412-2). The second openings (412-1, 412-2) may be paired and formed at positions of opposite surfaces. The end (413) of the second opening (412-1) may protrude outward. A high frequency may be applied through the end (413) of the second opening (412-1). The end (413) may include a first end and a second end for receiving electromagnetic waves having different polarities.

[0127] Additionally, a fixing protrusion (414) may be formed to fix the heating target object (10) at a specific location of the third opening (415) formed on the surface of the first structure (410). For example, the specific location may be a location that is perpendicular to the direction in which the heating target object (10) is inserted and meets a surface that is parallel to the cross-section of the heating structure.

[0128] The openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415) formed on the surface of the first structure (410) can affect the path of the current flowing on the surface of the first structure (410). The current can be maximized near the boundary of the openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415), and electromagnetic waves can be radiated into the interior of the first structure (410) through the openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415). The current can flow in the longitudinal direction of the openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415). The direction and intensity of the current flow can be determined depending on the size and shape of the openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415).

[0129] For example, the physical characteristics of the aperture may be used to determine at least one of a high-frequency radiation pattern, a current distribution in the first structure (410), current flow, and a resonant frequency. The physical characteristics of the aperture may be at least one of a size, a position, a length, a width, and a thickness of the aperture.

[0130] Due to the physical characteristics of the opening formed in the first structure (410), the first structure (410) can intensively absorb energy in a preset area of ​​the heating target object (10), and the heating target object (10) can be heated. In this case, the characteristics of the high frequency applied to the first structure (410) and the characteristics of the high frequency radiated to the heating target object (10) may be the same. Meanwhile, energy loss may occur until the high frequency is radiated to the heating target object (10) through the first structure. The energy loss may occur in cables, connectors, etc. within the aerosol generating device (200). Even if energy loss occurs, the frequency characteristics of the high frequency applied to the first structure (410) and the frequency characteristics of the high frequency radiated to the heating target object (10) may be the same.

[0131] Meanwhile, filters, residues, or tar components of the aerosol-generating product, which is the heating target product (10), may adhere to or accumulate in the openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415) formed on the surface of the first structure (410). If the filters, residues, or tar components of the aerosol-generating product continue to accumulate in the openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415), the resonance characteristics of high frequencies will be affected.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 5b, graph (511) represents the frequency characteristics when no foreign matter is attached to the openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415). On the other hand, graphs (512, 513) represent the frequency characteristics when foreign matter is attached to the openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415). Comparing graph (511) and graph (512, 513), the resonant frequency shows different values. That is, when foreign matter continues to accumulate in the openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415), the resonant frequency goes beyond the range of the previously designed resonant frequency, resulting in a decrease in the heat generation efficiency of the aerosol generating device (200) and an increase in power consumption. In addition, when the aerosol generating device (200) operates at a high temperature for a long period of time, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device (200) may be damaged due to material thermal expansion or stress. If foreign substances accumulate in the openings (411, 412-1, 412-2, 415) in the first structure (410) of the heating structure, the structure of the heating structure may be damaged, thereby reducing the durability of the aerosol generating device (200). In order to improve the durability and performance of the aerosol generating device (200), a configuration that minimizes high-frequency loss is required.

[0133] To minimize high-frequency loss within the aerosol generating device (200), the heating structure may be formed with a coating layer made of a material that can withstand the heating temperature of the object to be heated (10). In addition, the heating structure may be formed with a protective layer corresponding to the inner surface that accommodates the object to be heated (10). The coating layer and the protective layer of the heating structure prevent foreign substances from penetrating into the opening area of ​​the heating structure, minimize frequency fluctuations within the aerosol generating device (200), maintain frequency stability, and improve heat transfer efficiency.

[0134] The heating structure may have a coating layer formed of a material that can withstand the heating temperature of the object to be heated (10). The material forming the coating layer may be composed of at least one of quartz (SiO2), ceramic, and Teflon (PTFE). The material forming the coating layer may be composed of a material that has a very low dielectric loss (tan δ) at high frequencies and maintains chemical stability even at high temperatures of several hundred °C or higher.

[0135] The material forming the coating layer can have a value of at least one parameter indicating thermal or electrical characteristics that satisfies a range of preset reference values. The parameter indicating thermal characteristics may include at least one of heat resistance, thermal conductivity, thermal expansion coefficient, and thermal shock resistance. The parameter indicating electrical characteristics may include at least one of dielectric constant, dielectric loss, electrical resistance, conductivity, and insulation strength.

[0136] Specifically, permittivity is a value that indicates the ability of a material to store an electric field, and a material with a higher permittivity can mean that it can store more electrical energy. Furthermore, loss tangent is a value that indicates the degree of electrical energy loss related to permittivity, and a lower value can mean less electrical loss. The material forming the coating layer can have a high permittivity and a low loss tangent. For example, the permittivity can be in the range of 2.1 to 11.6, and the loss tangent can be in the range of 0.00001 to 0.02.

[0137] In addition, the material forming the coating layer may be composed of at least one of quartz, quartz, ceramic, Teflon, silicon, sapphire, polyimide, and epoxy, and may be composed of a mixture of at least two or more thereof.

[0138] The heating structure may be coated with a predetermined material through at least one method, such as spraying, dip coating, spin coating, PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition), or CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition). In this case, the coating layer may be formed within a preset thickness range.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 5c, a first structure (410) of the heating structure may have a protective layer (530) formed corresponding to an inner surface that accommodates a heating target object (10). The protective layer (530) may be formed in the shape of the heating structure, and the surface of the protective layer (530) may not have an opening. For example, the protective layer (530) may have an open inlet through which the heating target object (10) is inserted, and may have a double cylindrical shape or a double cylinder shape. In addition, the protective layer (530) may be laminated in a multilayer structure. In addition, the protective layer (530) may be coated with a material identical to or similar to a material forming the coating layer, thereby minimizing high-frequency loss. For example, the protective layer (530) may be coated with at least one of quartz, ceramic, and Teflon.

[0140] Additionally, the protective layer (530) may have a detachable fixing structure within the heating structure. For example, the protective layer (530) may be fixed to the first structure within the heating structure by a fastening structure that allows attachment and / or detachment to the first structure. For example, the fastening structure may be implemented by a clip, screw, sliding method, etc. Additionally, the protective layer (530) may be formed in a structure that allows the protective layer (530) to be fixed to the first structure through an opening in the first structure.

[0141] Additionally, the protective layer (530) can be inserted into the interior of the first structure of the heating structure and fixed using an adhesive in a high temperature environment.

[0142] Due to the coating layer and protective layer (530) of the heating structure, foreign substances and contaminants can be prevented from penetrating into the heating structure, and frequency stability can be increased by minimizing the impedance and resonant frequency fluctuations of the aerosol generating device, and the heat generation efficiency and heat dissipation uniformity of the heating structure can be improved.

[0143] Fig. 5d illustrates an example of a cross-sectional view of the first structure (410). Referring to Fig. 5d, fixing protrusions (414-1, 414-2) for fixing the heating target object (10) so that the heating target object (10) can be inserted into the first structure (410) to a preset position may be positioned at a predetermined position on the boundary line of the third opening (415). The direction of the fixing protrusions (414-1, 414-2) may be directed toward the inside of the first structure (410). The second openings (412-1, 412-2) may be arranged to form a pair and face each other.

[0144] Fig. 5e shows an example of a cross-sectional view viewed from the third opening (415) where the fixing protrusion (414) is located. For example, the fixing protrusion (414) may be located on the same line as the longitudinal direction of the first opening (411). Meanwhile, the second openings (412-1, 412-2) described in Figs. 5a and 5d may be located on the side of the cross-sectional view of Fig. 5e, and the end (413) of the second opening (412-1) may protrude outward. The end (413) of the second opening (412-1) may receive high frequency from a power generation unit.

[0145] FIG. 5f shows an example of a cross-sectional view (540) of the first structure (410) viewed from the opposite side to the direction in which the heating target object (10) is inserted. The fixing protrusions (414-1, 414-2) may be formed in pairs at opposing positions. The fixing protrusions (414-1, 414-2) may have a function of preventing the heating target object (10) from being inserted beyond a preset length and being inserted to a preset length. In addition, the fixing protrusions (414-1, 414-2) may fix the heating target object (10) so that it can be stably positioned on the first structure (410). In addition, the end (413) of the second opening (412-1) may protrude outward.

[0146] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a first structure of a heating structure according to another embodiment.

[0147] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which a heated object (10) is inserted into an aerosol generating device (200) in silhouette, and is a drawing for explaining an opening formed on the surface of a first structure (410).

[0148] The first structure (410) may include a plurality of openings, and at least two or more openings may be combined to create an opening of a complex shape. The openings formed on the surface of the first structure (410) illustrated in FIG. 6 may be configured in a form in which a first opening (611) formed in a circular shape and a second opening (612) formed in a slit shape are combined. For example, openings formed by combining a first opening (611) and a second opening (612) may form a pair and be arranged to face each other.

[0149] FIGS. 7A to 7C are drawings for explaining the results of monitoring the internal temperature of a heating unit over time, according to one embodiment.

[0150] Fig. 7a shows a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device (200), and Fig. 7b shows a cross-sectional view taken along the bottom surface of the aerosol generating device (200). In Figs. 7a and 7b, a first position (711) indicates a position near the boundary line of an opening formed on the surface of a first structure, a second position (712) indicates a position near the center of an object to be heated (10) when the object to be heated (10) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (200). A third position (713) indicates a position of a bottom surface of an aerosol generating device (200) connected to a heating structure. A fourth position (714) indicates an internal position of a case surrounding the outer periphery of the second structure.

[0151] Figure 7c is a graph showing the temperature trend over time at each of the first position (711), the second position (712), the third position (713), and the fourth position (714) when a heating target object (10) is inserted into an aerosol generating device (200) and a specific frequency is applied. Here, the specific frequency may be a frequency for forming a high-frequency resonance within the heating structure.

[0152] Referring to the graph of FIG. 7c, the first line (721) represents the result of monitoring the first location (711) over time, the second line (722) represents the result of monitoring the second location (712) over time, the third line (723) represents the result of monitoring the third location (713) over time, and the fourth line (724) represents the result of monitoring the fourth location (714) over time.

[0153] When comparing temperatures at the same time, the temperatures may be higher in the order of the first location (711), the second location (712), the third location (713), and the fourth location (714). The first location (711) is the location of the opening of the first structure, and as high frequency is applied, the intensity of the current increases near the opening, so the temperature may increase over time. The second location (712) is the central location of the heating target object (10), and the heating target object (10) can absorb high frequency through the first structure, and as heat is generated within the heating target object (10), the temperature may increase over time. In this case, the temperature of the second location (712) may be lower than the temperature of the first location (711), and may change in a similar way to the temperature trend of the first location (711).

[0154] The third position (713) is a position where the heating target object (10) is not located, and represents the position of the bottom surface of the aerosol generating device (200) connected to the heating structure. The heating structure and the bottom surface are connected by a case, and as the temperatures of the heating target object (10) and the first structure increase, the temperature of the bottom surface may also increase over time. The temperature increase rate of the third position (713) may be lower than the temperature increase rates of the first position (711) and the second position (712).

[0155] The fourth position (714) represents an internal position of a case surrounding the outer periphery of the second structure, and as the heating target object (10) is heated, the temperature may increase. The temperature increase rate of the fourth position (714) may be lower than the temperature increase rates of the first position (711), the second position (712), and the third position (713).

[0156] For example, when time t2 is reached, the temperature at the center of the heating target object (10) may be 300 degrees. If a temperature of 300 degrees is required to heat the heating target object (10), the control unit may control the temperature at the center of the heating target object (10) to be maintained at 300 degrees.

[0157] FIGS. 8A to 8G are drawings for explaining the internal structure of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0158] Referring to FIGS. 8a and 8b, the aerosol generating device (200) may include an upper fixing member (810-1, 810-2) and a lower fixing member (820) for fixing the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) at a preset gap.

[0159] For a specific example, the upper fixing member (810-1, 810-2) may be provided with a fixing member for fixing the upper surface of the first structure (410) and the upper surface of the second structure (420). The gap between the fixing member for fixing the upper surface of the first structure (410) and the fixing member for fixing the upper surface of the second structure (420) may be identical to the gap between the first structure (410) and the second structure (420).

[0160] In addition, the upper fixing portion (810-1, 810-2) may include a hole through which the heating target object (10) can be inserted. The center of the hole provided in the upper fixing portion (810-1, 810-2) may be located on the line (801) of the center of the upper surface of the first structure (410) in the heating structure. A cross-section of the aerosol generating device viewed from the direction in which the heating target object (10) is inserted is described in Fig. 8g. When the heating target object (10) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (200), the upper fixing portion (810-1, 810-2) may fix the heating target object (10) so that it does not move.

[0161] The lower fixing member (820) may be provided with a fixing member for fixing the lower surface of the first structure (410) and the lower surface of the second structure (420). The gap between the fixing member for fixing the lower surface of the first structure (410) and the fixing member for fixing the lower surface of the second structure (420) may be identical to the gap between the first structure (410) and the second structure (420).

[0162] In addition, the fixing member of the lower fixing member (820) may be formed in a columnar shape in the length direction of the heating structure so that a certain space can be secured from the bottom surface of the aerosol generating device (200) to the lower surface of the heating structure.

[0163] Referring to FIG. 8c, the aerosol generating device (200) may be provided with a case (830) for fixing a heating structure. A fixing portion for fixing the heating structure may be provided inside the case (830). The fixing portion of the case (830) may include a sub-fixing portion for fixing each of the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) of the heating structure. The first structure (410) and the second structure (420) may be provided with a fastening portion that can be coupled to the case (830).

[0164] The heating target object (10) can be inserted into the aerosol generating device (200) to a preset length. FIGS. 8C and 8D illustrate cross-sectional views of the aerosol generating device (200) taken longitudinally from different angles, and FIG. 8E illustrates a cross-sectional view of the bottom surface of the aerosol generating device (200). A stopper (430) may be provided in the first structure (410) so that the heating target object (10) can be inserted to a preset length. The stopper (430) can prevent the heating target object (10) from being inserted further in the insertion direction.

[0165] Referring to FIG. 8e, the gap between the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) may be filled with air. The gap between the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) may be an air gap. To maintain the air gap, a heat tape may be attached to a specific location of the first structure (410).

[0166] FIG. 8F shows a cross-section of an aerosol generating device viewed from the direction in which the heating target object (10) is inserted. The upper fixing parts (810-1, 810-2, 810-3) can fix the upper surface of the first structure (410) and the upper surface of the second structure (420) at a preset interval (875). The upper fixing parts (810-1, 810-2, 810-3) can be provided in an opening shape that allows the heating target object (10) to be inserted. For example, the opening shape can be composed of a closed section by the upper fixing parts (810-1, 810-2, 810-3) and an open section that is open between the closed sections. In addition, the center of the opening shape can coincide with the center (870) of the cross-section of the heating target object (10). The upper fixing members (810-1, 810-2, 810-3) illustrated in FIG. 8f are exemplary and may be provided in other forms. Also, referring to FIG. 8g, a tape (860) may be attached to the first structure (410) to adjust propagation characteristics, manage heat, and control current distribution.

[0167] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 9, in step S910, the aerosol generating device (200) can generate high-frequency waves. For example, the aerosol generating device (200) can generate high-frequency waves having a frequency within a preset range and a power of a preset magnitude. For example, the high-frequency waves can be microwaves.

[0169] In step S920, the aerosol generating device (200) may heat the heating target object (10) inserted into the heating structure using high frequency waves. For example, the heating structure may include a first structure and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure. The first structure may have a space provided to accommodate at least a portion of the heating target object (10) and may have at least one opening formed on its surface. The second structure may be formed in a form surrounding the first structure and spaced apart from the first structure by a preset gap. The high frequency may be radiated into the interior of the first structure through the opening of the first structure through the heating structure. The high frequency may be radiated in an inward direction of the first structure. The high frequency may reach the heating target object (10) and be absorbed, and the dielectric material within the heating target object (10) may be heated.

[0170] In step S930, the aerosol generating device (200) can control the power generating unit based on the temperature of the heating target object (10). For example, the temperature of the heating target object (10) can be monitored as high frequency is applied to the heating structure. The aerosol generating device (200) can monitor the temperature of the heating target object (10) in real time and control the operation of the power generating unit so that the temperature required for heating the heating target object (10) can be maintained.

[0171] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0172] In step S1010, a manufacturing device for manufacturing an aerosol generating device can produce a heating structure having a space for accommodating at least a part of a heating target object (10) and having at least one opening formed on a surface.

[0173] In step S1020, the manufacturing device can form a coating layer on the surface of the heating structure using a material that can withstand the heating temperature of the heating target object (10). The manufacturing device can perform a pretreatment process to ensure that the surface of the heating structure is free of foreign substances through ultrasonic cleaning, cleaning with a cleaning agent, drying, etc. The manufacturing device can form the coating layer by uniformly spraying a solution for the material to be used for coating onto the heating structure using a spray device, etc. After a certain drying time, the manufacturing device can fix the coating layer through a heat treatment process. The manufacturing device can maintain the heat treatment temperature within a range of 300°C to 600°C so that the coating layer is uniformly hardened. In addition, the manufacturing device can secure higher insulation properties and durability by performing multi-layer coating.

[0174] The material forming the coating layer may be composed of at least one of quartz (SiO2), ceramic, and Teflon (PTFE). The material forming the coating layer may be composed of a material that has a very low dielectric loss (tan δ) at high frequencies and maintains chemical stability even at high temperatures exceeding several hundred °C.

[0175] The material forming the coating layer can have a value of at least one parameter indicating thermal or electrical characteristics that satisfies a range of preset reference values. The parameter indicating thermal characteristics may include at least one of heat resistance, thermal conductivity, thermal expansion coefficient, and thermal shock resistance. The parameter indicating electrical characteristics may include at least one of dielectric constant, dielectric loss, electrical resistance, conductivity, and insulation strength.

[0176] Additionally, the manufacturing device can coat the heating structure with a predetermined material through at least one method, such as spraying, dip coating, spin coating, PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition), or CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition). In this case, the coating layer can be formed within a preset thickness range.

[0177] In step S1030, the manufacturing device can form a protective layer corresponding to the inner surface of the heating structure.

[0178] The protective layer may be formed in the shape of the heating structure, and the surface of the protective layer may not have an opening. For example, the protective layer may have an open inlet through which the heated object (10) is inserted, and may have a double cylindrical shape or a double cylinder shape. In addition, the protective layer may be laminated in a multilayer structure. In addition, the protective layer may be coated with a material identical to or similar to the material forming the coating layer, thereby minimizing high-frequency loss. For example, the protective layer may be coated with at least one of quartz, ceramic, and Teflon.

[0179] Additionally, the protective layer may have a detachable fixing structure within the heating structure. For example, the protective layer may be fixed to the first structure within the heating structure by a fastening structure that allows attachment and / or detachment to the first structure. For example, the fastening structure may be implemented by a clip, screw, sliding method, etc. Additionally, the protective layer may be formed by a structure that allows the protective layer to be fixed to the first structure through an opening in the first structure. Additionally, the protective layer may be inserted into the interior of the first structure of the heating structure and fixed using an adhesive in a high temperature environment.

[0180] Meanwhile, the manufacturing device can perform verification work after forming the coating and protective layers. For example, the manufacturing device can observe changes in S-parameters before and after applying the coating and protective layers using a network analyzer and impedance analyzer. The manufacturing device can also determine whether the operation of the aerosol generator is maintained at the resonant frequency and how much the Q-factor has improved. Furthermore, the manufacturing device can compare the heating temperature rise rate and maximum temperature under the same conditions (voltage, frequency, time) to evaluate how much the heating efficiency has improved compared to the previous device.

[0181] The aerosol generating device (200) described in the present disclosure may be implemented as hardware components, software components, and / or a combination of hardware components and software components. Furthermore, the present disclosure may be provided in the form of a computer program stored on a computer-readable storage medium to enable the operation and / or manufacturing method of the aerosol generating device (200) to be performed. Furthermore, the present disclosure may be written as a computer-executable program, and may be implemented on a general-purpose digital computer that executes such a program using a computer-readable storage medium.

[0182] Such computer-readable storage media may be read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), flash memory, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, CD+Rs, CD-RWs, CD+RWs, DVD-ROMs, DVD-Rs, DVD+Rs, DVD-RWs, DVD+RWs, DVD-RAMs, BD-ROMs, BD-Rs, BD-R LTHs, BD-REs, magnetic tape, floppy disks, magneto-optical data storage devices, optical data storage devices, hard disks, solid-state disks (SSDs), and any device capable of storing instructions or software, related data, data files, and data structures, and providing instructions or software, related data, data files, and data structures to a processor or a computer so that the processor or the computer may execute the instructions.

[0183] Although the embodiments have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A power generation unit that generates microwaves of a frequency within a preset range; and A space is provided for accommodating at least a portion of an aerosol generating article, and a heating unit is included for heating the aerosol generating article based on microwaves generated from the power generating unit, An aerosol generating device, wherein the heating unit comprises a heating structure including a first structure having at least one opening formed on a surface.

2. In paragraph 1, The above heating structure, An aerosol generating device comprising a first structure and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure.

3. In paragraph 2, The above heating structure, An aerosol generating device characterized in that it has a double cylinder shape due to the arrangement of the first structure and the second structure.

4. In paragraph 2, An aerosol generating device, characterized in that the second structure surrounds the first structure with a preset gap.

5. In paragraph 2, An aerosol generating device wherein the second structure reflects microwaves radiated from the first structure.

6. In paragraph 1, At least one of the above openings, An aerosol generating device formed in a slit shape or slot shape.

7. In paragraph 1, At least one of the above openings, An aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating device is an open hole formed in an open form or a closed hole formed in a form that is not open to the outside.

8. In paragraph 1, The above heating structure An aerosol generating device comprising a fixing member for fixing the aerosol generating article to be accommodated in the space to a preset length.

9. In paragraph 1, The above power generation unit, An aerosol generating device that applies microwaves through a terminal formed from at least one of the above openings.

10. In paragraph 8, The above section, An aerosol generating device comprising a first stage and a second stage receiving electromagnetic waves having different polarities.

11. In paragraph 1, The above heating part An aerosol generating device that controls the flow of current by resonance of microwaves based on the physical structure of at least one opening formed in the first structure.

12. In paragraph 1, The above heating part, An aerosol generating device that controls microwaves to converge into the interior of the first structure based on the physical structure of the heating structure and the microwaves received through the end formed from the first opening among the at least one opening.

13. In paragraph 12, An aerosol generating device, wherein the first opening comprises a first stage and a second stage for receiving electromagnetic waves having different polarities.

14. In paragraph 1, The first structure includes a plurality of openings on the surface, An aerosol generating device, characterized in that the plurality of openings are arranged at preset intervals or arranged in a preset pattern.

15. In paragraph 1, The first structure includes a plurality of openings on the surface, An aerosol generating device wherein the plurality of openings are arranged in pairs and the paired openings are arranged to face each other, so that a maximum electric field is absorbed in a preset area of ​​the aerosol generating article.

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