Aerosol-generating device and operation method thereof

Abstract

This aerosol-generating device comprises: a power generation unit for generating a frequency signal within a preset frequency range; a heating structure including a first structure having a space for accommodating at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure; and a heating unit including a signal transmission unit for transmitting the generated frequency signal to the heating structure, wherein the heating unit can heat the aerosol-generating article on the basis of a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range determined by a structure connected between the heating structure and the signal transmission unit.

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 aim is to provide a consistent quality of flavor by using microwaves to uniformly heat aerosol-generating products.

[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 adjusting the structure of the heating unit, we want to change the resonant frequency and impedance matching of the heating unit.

[0008] By adjusting the structure of the heating unit, it is desired to change the range of heating temperatures for heating the aerosol generating product.

[0009] The impedance mismatch caused by the external environment in which the aerosol generating device operates or an error in the manufacturing process of the aerosol generating device is adjusted to achieve impedance matching.

[0010] The present invention aims to increase user satisfaction with aerosol-generating products by heating the aerosol-generating products to a desired heating temperature through simple user operation.

[0011] By achieving impedance matching through simple user operation, the power transmission efficiency is increased and the performance of the heating structure that acts as an antenna is improved.

[0012] The aim is to provide an environment in which different types of aerosol generating materials can be heated in a single aerosol generating device.

[0013] It is desired to use two or more frequencies in an aerosol generating device using a single power amplifier.

[0014] The purpose is to increase power transmission efficiency and improve the performance of the heating structure that acts as an antenna by using different resonant frequencies depending on the type of aerosol generating material inserted into the aerosol generating device.

[0015] According to one aspect, an aerosol generating device is provided, comprising: a power generating unit that generates a frequency signal within a preset frequency range; a heating unit that includes a first structure having a space provided for accommodating at least a portion of an aerosol generating article and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure; and a signal transmitting unit that transmits the generated frequency signal to the heating structure; wherein the heating unit heats the aerosol generating article based on a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range determined by a structure connected between the heating structure and the signal transmitting unit.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may be formed with a preset gap between the first structure and the second structure.

[0017] 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.

[0018] According to one embodiment, at least one opening may be formed on the surface of the first structure.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening may be formed in a slit shape or a slot shape.

[0020] 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.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening may be formed within a range within a preset length or within a range within a preset interval.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the first structure includes a plurality of openings on the surface, and the plurality of openings can be arranged at preset intervals or arranged in a preset pattern.

[0023] 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.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the preset frequency range may include a frequency band to which microwaves belong.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the preset frequency range may be 5 GHz to 20 GHz.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the signal transmission unit includes a plurality of feed pads, and the plurality of feed pads can transmit a frequency signal of a frequency range assigned corresponding to each feed pad within the preset frequency range to the heating structure.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include an adjustment unit that receives an adjustment for changing a structure connected between the heating structure and the signal transmitting unit.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the signal transmission unit can transmit a frequency signal corresponding to the specific frequency to the heating structure based on the structure of the heating unit changed according to the adjustment.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the adjustment may include at least one of an adjustment for rotating the heating structure in a preset direction, and an adjustment for connecting or disconnecting the heating structure and the signal transmitting unit.

[0030] In one embodiment, the adjustment may be a physical adjustment of selecting a feed pad of the signal transmission unit for transmitting a frequency signal of the specific frequency range to the signal reception unit of the heating structure.

[0031] In one embodiment, the physical adjustment may represent an action of moving the heating structure such that the signal receiving portion of the heating structure is coupled with at least one feed pad among a plurality of feed pads of the signal transmitting portion.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the heating structure can heat the aerosol generating article based on a frequency signal corresponding to a feed pad coupled to the heating structure among a plurality of feed pads of the signal transmission unit.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the heating structure can control the temperature range for heating the aerosol generating article differently depending on the combined feed pad.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include a control unit that controls the power generating unit to generate the frequency signal within the preset frequency range; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the power generating unit and the control unit.

[0035] According to another aspect, an aerosol generating device is provided, comprising: a power generating unit that generates a frequency signal within a preset frequency range; a heating unit that includes a first structure having a space provided for accommodating at least a portion of an aerosol generating article and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure; and a signal transmitting unit that transmits the generated frequency signal to the heating structure; wherein the heating unit heats the aerosol generating article based on a frequency signal corresponding to a resonant frequency range changed by a structure connected between the heating structure and the signal transmitting unit.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may have a preset gap formed between the first structure and the second structure.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may have a double cylinder shape formed due to the arrangement of the first structure and the second structure.

[0038] According to one embodiment, at least one opening may be formed on the surface of the first structure.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening may be formed in a slit shape or a slot shape.

[0040] 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.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening may be formed within a range within a preset length or within a range within a preset interval.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the first structure includes a plurality of openings on the surface, and the plurality of openings can be arranged at preset intervals or arranged in a preset pattern.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the first structure includes a plurality of openings on a 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.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the preset frequency range may include a frequency band to which microwaves belong.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the preset frequency range may be 5 GHz to 20 GHz.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the signal transmission unit includes a feed pad including an inductor, and can transmit a frequency signal corresponding to the changed resonance frequency to the heating structure by variably adjusting the value of inductance within the feed pad according to the adjustment that changes the resonance frequency.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the changed resonance frequency may be a frequency that matches the output impedance of the signal transmission unit and the input impedance of the heating structure.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include an adjustment unit that receives an adjustment for changing a structure connected between the heating structure and the signal transmitting unit.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the signal transmission unit can transmit a frequency signal corresponding to the specific frequency to the heating structure based on the structure of the heating unit changed according to the adjustment.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the adjustment may include at least one of an adjustment for moving the heating structure, and an adjustment for connecting or disconnecting the heating structure and the signal transmission unit.

[0051] In one embodiment, the adjustment for moving the heating structure may refer to an adjustment for moving the heating structure such that the signal receiving portion of the heating structure is coupled with a matching position for changing the resonant frequency within the feed pad of the signal transmitting portion.

[0052] According to one embodiment, if the heating temperature for heating the aerosol generating article does not reach the target temperature, the adjustment may be a first adjustment that increases the value of the inductance of the feed pad of the signal transmission unit.

[0053] According to one embodiment, if the heating temperature for heating the aerosol generating article exceeds the target temperature, the adjustment may be a second adjustment that reduces the value of the inductance of the feed pad of the signal transmission unit.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include a control unit that controls the power generating unit to generate the frequency signal within the preset frequency range; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the power generating unit and the control unit.

[0055] According to another aspect, an aerosol generating device may be provided, comprising: a power generating unit that generates a frequency signal within a preset frequency range; and a heating unit that heats the aerosol generating article based on a frequency generated by the power generating unit, wherein the heating unit includes a heating structure in which the size of the space changes in response to a frequency selected within the preset frequency range, and the heating structure includes a first structure in which the space is provided and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may be formed with a preset gap between the first structure and the second structure.

[0057] 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.

[0058] According to one embodiment, at least one opening may be formed on the surface of the first structure.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening may be formed in a slit shape or a slot shape.

[0060] 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.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the at least one opening may be formed within a range within a preset length or within a range within a preset interval.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the first structure includes a plurality of openings on the surface, and the plurality of openings can be arranged at preset intervals or arranged in a preset pattern.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the first structure includes a plurality of openings on a 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.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the preset frequency range may include a frequency band to which microwaves belong.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the preset frequency range may be 5 GHz to 20 GHz.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include a control unit that receives an input for selecting a first frequency corresponding to a first aerosol generating article inserted into the heating unit from among the preset frequencies.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may be designed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the space becomes smaller as a frequency higher than the reference frequency is selected from among the preset frequencies.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may be designed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the space increases as a frequency lower than the reference frequency is selected from among the preset frequencies.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the power generation unit may include a frequency selection unit that selects a first frequency corresponding to a first aerosol generating article inserted into the aerosol generating device among the preset frequencies.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the frequency selection unit may include a switching circuit or a filter circuit that selects a frequency corresponding to the size of the aerosol generating article inserted into the aerosol generating device among the preset frequencies.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the heating structure can expand or contract in size in response to the size of the aerosol generating article.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may be formed by connecting a plurality of plates having a length formed in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article to form the space.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the heating structure may be designed such that some of the plurality of plates overlap.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include a control unit that controls the power generating unit to generate the frequency signal within the preset frequency range; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the power generating unit and the control unit.

[0075] By using microwaves to uniformly heat aerosol-generating products, a consistent quality of flavor can be provided.

[0076] Microwaves can be used to shorten the time required to preheat aerosol-generating items.

[0077] Microwaves can be used to heat aerosol-generating items to a preset temperature range.

[0078] By adjusting the structure of the heating unit, the resonant frequency and impedance matching of the heating unit can be changed.

[0079] By adjusting the structure of the heating unit, the range of heating temperatures for heating the aerosol-generating article can be changed, and at least one of the taste, aroma, amount of smoke, and smoking sensation of the aerosol-generating article can be provided in various forms depending on the range of heating temperatures.

[0080] Impedance matching can be performed by adjusting the structure of the heating unit to compensate for impedance mismatch caused by errors in the external environment in which the aerosol generating device operates or in the manufacturing process of the aerosol generating device.

[0081] By simply operating the aerosol generating product, the user's satisfaction with the aerosol generating product can be increased by heating the aerosol generating product to a desired heating temperature.

[0082] By achieving impedance matching through simple user manipulation, power transfer efficiency can be increased and the performance of the heating structure acting as an antenna can be improved.

[0083] An environment can be provided in which different types of aerosol generating articles can be heated in a single aerosol generating device.

[0084] Two or more frequencies can be used in an aerosol generating device using a single power amplifier.

[0085] By varying the resonant frequency used depending on the type of aerosol generating material inserted into the aerosol generating device, power transmission efficiency can be increased and the performance of the heating structure that acts as an antenna can be improved.

[0086] 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.

[0087] FIGS. 1A to 1D illustrate an external view and an internal cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0088] FIGS. 2A and 2B are block diagrams illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0089] FIGS. 3A and 3B are drawings for explaining a first structure of a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0090] FIG. 3c is a drawing illustrating the configuration of the first structure according to another embodiment.

[0091] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0092] FIGS. 5A to 5D illustrate side views and cross-sectional views of a first structure of a heating structure, according to one embodiment.

[0093] FIGS. 6A to 6C are drawings for explaining the configuration of a signal transmission unit and a heating unit when the aerosol generating device is an aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1B.

[0094] FIGS. 7A to 7C are drawings for explaining the configuration of a signal transmission unit and a heating unit when the aerosol generating device is an aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1C.

[0095] FIGS. 8A to 8G are drawings for explaining the structure of a heating structure when the aerosol generating device is an aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1D.

[0096] FIG. 9a is a drawing for explaining a first structure of a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0097] FIGS. 9b to 9d are drawings for explaining the results of monitoring the internal temperature of a heating structure by location over time, according to one embodiment.

[0098] FIGS. 10A to 10G are drawings for explaining the internal structure of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0099] FIG. 11a is a graph for explaining the reflection characteristics according to frequency at the location of the feed pad, when the aerosol generating device is the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment of FIG. 1b, according to one embodiment.

[0100] FIG. 11b is a graph for explaining the reflection characteristics according to frequency at the location of the feed pad, when the aerosol generating device is the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment of FIG. 1c, according to one embodiment.

[0101] FIG. 11d is a graph for explaining frequency characteristics according to the frequency applied to the heating unit of the aerosol generating device, when the aerosol generating device is the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment of FIG. 1d, according to one embodiment.

[0102] Fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0103] Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0104] Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0105] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0106] An aerosol generating device comprises a power generating unit that generates a frequency signal within a preset frequency range; a heating unit that includes a first structure having a space for accommodating at least a portion of an aerosol generating article and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure; and a signal transmitting unit that transmits the generated frequency signal to the heating structure, wherein the heating unit can heat the aerosol generating article based on a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range determined by a structure connected between the heating structure and the signal transmitting unit.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] As used herein, an aerosol generating device may refer to a device that heats tobacco or a nicotine-containing substance within an aerosol generating article to generate nicotine vapor in an aerosol form that can be inhaled. As used herein, an aerosol generating article refers to an article used for smoking.

[0111] FIG. 1a shows an external view and an internal cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (100), according to one embodiment.

[0112] The image (110) of FIG. 1A illustrates an external view of an aerosol generating device (100). The aerosol generating device (100) can accommodate an aerosol generating article (10). Specifically, an insertion port into which an aerosol generating article (10) can be inserted may be provided at one end of the aerosol generating device (100), and a physical structure may be provided so that the aerosol generating article (10) can be inserted by a preset length.

[0113] The aerosol generating device (100) may include a heating structure for heating the inserted aerosol generating device (100). The heating structure may accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (10) and heat the aerosol generating article (10).

[0114] The heating structure can heat the aerosol-generating article (10) using a dielectric heating method. For example, the heating structure can heat the dielectric within the aerosol-generating article (10) using microwave resonance. As the aerosol-generating article (10) is heated, an aerosol can be generated from the aerosol-generating article (10).

[0115] The image (120) of FIG. 1A illustrates an internal cross-section of an aerosol generating device (100) with an aerosol generating article (10) inserted therein. The heating structure may include a first structure (121) and / or a second structure (122), and may have a double cylindrical shape. The heating structure may include a stopper (124) capable of securing the aerosol generating article (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 aerosol generating article (10) based on the physical structure of the heating structure and the microwaves applied to the heating structure. The case (123) of the aerosol generating device (100) may be coupled to the heating structure and the bottom member (125).

[0116] FIG. 1b shows an external view and an internal cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0117] Referring to the images (110) and (130) of FIG. 1B, the aerosol generating device (100) may include a heating unit (220) for heating the inserted aerosol generating device (100). The heating unit (220) may heat the aerosol generating article (10) based on a frequency signal generated from a power generating unit (not shown).

[0118] Specifically, the heating unit (220) may include a heating structure (310) that accommodates an aerosol generating article (10) and heats the aerosol generating article (10) based on a frequency signal. In addition, the heating unit (220) may include a signal transmission unit (320) that transmits a frequency signal to the heating structure (310).

[0119] The heating structure (310) can heat the aerosol-generating article (10) using a dielectric heating method. For example, the heating structure (310) can heat the dielectric within the aerosol-generating article (10) using microwave resonance. As the aerosol-generating article (10) is heated, an aerosol can be generated from the aerosol-generating article (10). The heating structure (310) can heat the aerosol-generating article (10) based on the physical structure of the heating structure (310) and the microwaves applied to the heating structure.

[0120] The heating structure (310) may include a first structure and / or a second structure, and may have a double cylindrical shape. For example, the heating structure (310) may include a first structure having a space provided to accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (10) and a second structure surrounding the exterior of the first structure.

[0121] The signal transmission unit (320) may include a plurality of feed pads. By connecting at least one of the plurality of feed pads to the heating structure (310), a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range may be transmitted to the heating structure (310). For example, the heating structure (310) may be connected to an adjustment unit (330) for adjusting the coupling between the signal transmission unit (320) and the heating structure (310). By adjusting the adjustment unit (330), the heating structure (310) may be coupled with some of the plurality of feed pads.

[0122] FIG. 1c shows an external view and an internal cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (100) according to another embodiment.

[0123] Referring to the image (110) and image (140) of FIG. 1c, the aerosol generating device (100) may include a heating unit (220) for heating the inserted aerosol generating device (100). The heating unit (220) may heat the aerosol generating article (10) based on a frequency signal generated from a power generating unit (not shown).

[0124] Specifically, the heating unit (220) may include a heating structure (310) that accommodates an aerosol generating article (10) and heats the aerosol generating article (10) based on a frequency signal. In addition, the heating unit (220) may include a signal transmission unit (320) that transmits a frequency signal to the heating structure (310).

[0125] The heating structure (310) can heat the aerosol-generating article (10) using a dielectric heating method. For example, the heating structure (310) can heat the dielectric within the aerosol-generating article (10) using microwave resonance. As the aerosol-generating article (10) is heated, an aerosol can be generated from the aerosol-generating article (10). The heating structure (310) can heat the aerosol-generating article (10) based on the physical structure of the heating structure (310) and the microwaves applied to the heating structure.

[0126] The heating structure (310) may include a first structure and / or a second structure, and may have a double cylindrical shape. For example, the heating structure (310) may include a first structure having a space provided to accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (10) and a second structure surrounding the exterior of the first structure.

[0127] The signal transmission unit (320) may include a feed pad including an inductance. By variably adjusting the inductance value of the feed pad, the resonant frequency may be changed. The signal transmission unit (320) may transmit a frequency signal corresponding to the changed resonant frequency to the heating structure (310).

[0128] For example, the heating structure (310) may be connected to an adjustment unit (330) for adjusting the coupling between the signal transmission unit (320) and the heating structure (310). For example, the connection or disconnection between the heating structure (310) and the signal transmission unit (320) may be performed through the adjustment unit (330), and the position at which the heating structure (310) is connected to the signal transmission unit (320) may be adjusted. For example, variable adjustment of the value of the inductance may be performed by adjusting the position at which the signal reception unit (315) of the heating structure (310) is connected to the feed pad through the adjustment unit.

[0129] FIG. 1d shows an external view and an internal cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device (100) according to another embodiment.

[0130] Referring to the image (110) and image (150) of FIG. 1D, the aerosol generating device (100) may include a heating unit (220) for heating the inserted aerosol generating device (100). The heating unit (220) may heat the aerosol generating article (10) based on a frequency signal generated from a power generating unit (not shown).

[0131] Specifically, the heating unit (220) may include a heating structure (310-1, 310-2) that accommodates an aerosol generating article (10-1, 10-2) and heats the aerosol generating article (10-1, 10-2) based on a frequency signal. In addition, the heating unit (220) may include a signal transmission unit (320) that transmits a frequency signal to the heating structure (310-1, 310-2).

[0132] The heating structure (310-1, 310-2) can heat the aerosol-generating article (10-1, 10-2) using a dielectric heating method. For example, the heating structure (310-1, 310-2) can heat the dielectric within the aerosol-generating article (10-1, 10-2) using microwave resonance. As the aerosol-generating article (10-1, 10-2) is heated, an aerosol can be generated from the aerosol-generating article (10-1, 10-2). The heating structure (310-1, 310-2) can heat the aerosol-generating article (10-1, 10-2) based on the physical structure of the heating structure (310-1, 310-2) and the microwave applied to the heating structure (310-1, 310-2).

[0133] The heating structure (310-1, 310-2) may include a first structure and / or a second structure, and may have a double cylindrical shape. For example, the heating structure (310-1, 310-2) may include a first structure having a space provided to accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (10-1, 10-2), and a second structure surrounding the exterior of the first structure.

[0134] The signal transmission unit (320) is connected to the heating structure (310-1, 310-2), so that a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range can be transmitted to the heating structure (310-1, 310-2).

[0135] Additionally, the heating structure (310-1, 310-2) may be connected to an adjustment unit (330) in which an inlet for receiving an aerosol generating article (10-1, 10-2) is provided and the size of the hole is adjusted to correspond to the thickness of the aerosol generating article (10-1, 10-2).

[0136] For example, when heating a first aerosol generating article (10-1) in an aerosol generating device (100) and heating a second aerosol generating article (10-2) that is thinner than the first aerosol generating article (10-1), since the sizes of the first aerosol generating article (10-1) and the second aerosol generating article (10-2) are different, the size of the space into which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted can be adjusted. Here, the size may be related to the thickness, cross-sectional area, etc. of the aerosol generating article (10).

[0137] Depending on the size of the space into which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted, the resonant frequency of the aerosol generating device (100) may vary. For example, as the size of the space decreases, the resonant frequency may increase to increase the concentration of the electromagnetic field of the heating unit. Referring to the image (120) of Fig. 1, when a second aerosol generating article (10-2) smaller than the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted, the aerosol generating device may reduce the size of the space and increase the frequency applied to the heating unit (220).

[0138] Specifically, when the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted into the heating member (220), a space corresponding to the thickness of the first aerosol generating article (10-1) can be formed in the heating structure (410-1). In addition, the size of the hole of the adjustment member (330) into which the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted can also be adjusted to a size corresponding to the thickness of the first aerosol generating article (10-1). In this case, the size of the hole into which the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted can be adjusted while the outer appearance of the adjustment member (430) is fixed.

[0139] When a second aerosol generating article (10-2) having a thinner thickness than the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted, the heating structure (310-2) can be reduced by a space corresponding to the thickness of the second aerosol generating article (10-2). In this case, the size of the hole of the adjustment unit (330) becomes smaller than the size of the hole when the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted. Meanwhile, since the size of the heating structure (310-2) is adjusted, referring to the areas (121, 122) in the image (120), the position of the signal transmission unit (320) to which the signal reception units (413-1, 413-2) in the heating structure (310-2) are connected can also be adjusted. In this case, the position to which the signal reception units (413-1, 413-2) are connected can be adjusted while the appearance of the signal transmission unit (320) is fixed.

[0140] Details of the aerosol generating device (100) described in FIGS. 1a to 1d are described in FIGS. 2a to 15.

[0141] FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b are block diagrams illustrating the configuration of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 2A, the aerosol generating device (100) 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 (100) may be implemented with more components than the illustrated components, or may be implemented with fewer components. The above components will be described below.

[0143] The power generation unit (210) can generate a frequency signal within a preset frequency range. For example, the preset frequency range may include a frequency band to which microwaves belong. The frequency band to which microwaves belong may be from 300 MHz to 300 GHz. Furthermore, the preset frequency range may be a specific range within the frequency band to which microwaves belong. The specific range may be from 5 GHz to 20 GHz.

[0144] For example, the power generation unit (210) may include a signal generation unit, a first matching circuit, a signal power amplifier, and a second matching circuit. The signal generation unit may generate a frequency signal within a preset frequency range. The first matching circuit may control the output of the frequency signal so that optimal power is transmitted to the signal power amplifier. The signal power amplifier may adjust the size of the output frequency signal by increasing or decreasing the amplitude of the frequency signal. The second matching circuit may check whether the impedance of the signal generation unit looking toward the heating unit (220) matches the impedance of the heating unit (220) looking toward the signal generation unit, and may control the output of the frequency signal so that a preset power transmission condition is satisfied.

[0145] For another example, referring to FIG. 2B, the power generation unit (210) may include a frequency generation unit (212), a power amplifier (214), and a frequency selection unit (216). The frequency generation unit (212) may generate a frequency signal within a preset frequency range. The frequency generation unit (212) may include a first matching circuit that controls the output of the frequency signal so that optimal power is transmitted to the power amplifier (214). The power amplifier (214) may adjust the magnitude of the output frequency signal by increasing or decreasing the amplitude of the frequency signal. The frequency selection unit (216) may select a frequency corresponding to an aerosol generating article inserted into the aerosol generating device (100). The frequency selection unit (216) may output a frequency signal corresponding to the selected frequency. In addition, the frequency selection unit (216) may include a second matching circuit that checks whether the impedance viewed from the frequency generation unit (212) toward the heating unit (220) matches the impedance viewed from the heating unit (220) toward the frequency generation unit (212), and controls the output of the frequency signal so that a preset power transmission condition is satisfied. The configuration of the power generation unit (210) is described in more detail in Fig. 2b.

[0146] The heating unit (220) may have a space provided to accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (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 aerosol generating article (10) and may have at least one opening formed on a surface thereof. 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 microwaves 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.

[0147] The heating unit (220) can heat the aerosol-generating article inserted into the heating structure based on the microwaves generated by the power generating unit (210). For example, the heating unit (220) can form a microwave resonance in the heating structure to heat the aerosol-generating article (10). The aerosol-generating article (10) can be heated before the microwave resonance is formed. When the microwave resonance is formed, the aerosol-generating article (10) can be ideally heated. In the microwave resonance state, the aerosol-generating article (10) can be uniformly heated.

[0148] 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.

[0149] Meanwhile, the heating structure may include a fixing member that fixes the aerosol generating article (10) to a predetermined length in a predetermined space provided inside the heating structure.

[0150] Additionally, the heating unit (220) can heat the aerosol generating article (10) based on the frequency signal generated from the power generating unit (210).

[0151] 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. 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 microwaves may be determined by at least one of the material, thickness, and structure of the aerosol generating article (10). In addition, the frequency band of the applied microwaves may be determined by the electromagnetic properties and physical properties of the material of the aerosol generating article (10).

[0152] The heating element (220) can control the flow of current by microwaves 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 microwave resonance.

[0153] 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.

[0154] 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.

[0155] 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.

[0156] 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.

[0157] 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 may allow the maximum electric field to be absorbed in a preset area of ​​the aerosol generating article (10). Additionally, the openings may be formed within a range within a preset length or within a range within a preset interval.

[0158] Meanwhile, in the case where the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1B, the structure of the heating unit (220) may be changed according to adjustment that sets a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range within a preset frequency range. For example, the structure of the heating unit (220) may be a structure that is connected between the heating structure (310) and the signal transmitting unit. In addition, the heating unit (220) may include a signal transmitting unit (320) that transmits a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range to the heating structure (310) based on the structure of the heating unit (220) changed according to the adjustment.

[0159] For example, the signal transmission unit (320) may include a plurality of feed pads. The plurality of feed pads may transmit a frequency signal of a frequency range assigned to each feed pad within a preset frequency range to the heating structure (310).

[0160] Additionally, the adjustment for changing the structure of the heating unit (220) may be a physical adjustment for selecting a feed pad of the signal transmission unit (320). Here, the physical adjustment may refer to an operation of moving the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) is coupled with at least one feed pad among the plurality of feed pads of the signal transmission unit (320).

[0161] For example, the operation of moving the heating structure (310) may include an operation of rotating the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving portion (413) of the heating structure (310) is positioned at a position corresponding to at least one feed pad, and an operation of moving the heating structure (310) so that the signal portion of the heating structure (310) is coupled with at least one feed pad at a position corresponding to the signal receiving portion (413) of the heating structure (310).

[0162] The aerosol generating device (100) may further include an adjustment unit (330) for changing the coupling structure between the heating structure (310) and the signal transmitting unit (320). The adjustment unit (330) may be located near an insertion port in the heating structure (310) into which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted. The adjustment unit (330) may be a part of the heating structure (310) or may be coupled to the heating structure (310) as a separate component. The adjustment unit (330) may receive an adjustment for changing the coupling structure between the heating structure (310) and the signal transmitting unit (320). For example, the adjustment may be at least one of an adjustment for rotating the heating structure (310) in a preset direction and an adjustment for connecting or disconnecting the heating structure (310) and the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0163] An adjustment may be performed to change the structure of the heating unit (220) through the adjustment unit (330). The adjustment through the adjustment unit (330) may result in coupling or decoupling between the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) and at least one feed pad selected from among a plurality of feed pads. Here, the coupling between the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) and at least one feed pad may mean an electrical coupling or a physical coupling.

[0164] For example, when pressure is applied to the adjustment unit (330) in the direction in which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted, the heating structure (310) is disconnected from the signal transmission unit (320), and the heating structure (310) can be moved in the opposite direction to the direction in which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted. The aerosol generating article (10) can be inserted into the heating structure (310), and the adjustment unit (330) can receive an adjustment to change the structure of the heating unit (220). For example, the adjustment unit (330) can receive an adjustment to rotate the heating structure (310) in a preset direction and an adjustment to move the heating structure (310) in the direction in which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted. Through the input adjustment, the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) can be coupled with at least one feed pad among the plurality of feed pads of the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0165] The heating structure (310) can heat the aerosol generating article (10) based on a frequency signal corresponding to a feed pad coupled with the heating structure (310) among a plurality of feed pads of the signal transmission unit (320). The heating structure (310) can control a temperature range for heating the aerosol generating article (10) differently depending on the coupled feed pad.

[0166] 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 a frequency signal within a preset frequency range. The control unit (240) can control the power generation unit (210) to output a frequency within a preset range.

[0167] Meanwhile, in the case where the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1C, the structure of the heating unit (220) may be changed according to adjustment that changes the frequency signal within a preset frequency range. For example, the structure of the heating unit (220) may be a structure that is connected between the heating structure (310) and the signal transmitting unit (320). In addition, the heating unit (220) may include a signal transmitting unit (320) that transmits a frequency signal corresponding to the changed resonance frequency to the heating structure (310) based on the structure of the heating unit (220) changed according to the adjustment.

[0168] For example, the signal transmission unit (320) may include a feed pad including an inductance. The value of the inductance of the feed pad may be variably adjusted, and the signal transmission unit (320) may transmit a frequency signal corresponding to the changed resonance frequency based on the adjusted value of the inductance to the heating structure (310).

[0169] Here, the changed resonant frequency may be a frequency that matches the output impedance of the signal transmission unit (320) and the input impedance of the heating structure (310). In addition, the adjustment for changing the resonant frequency may refer to an operation of moving the heating structure (310) so that the signal reception unit (315) of the heating structure (310) is coupled with a matching position for changing the resonant frequency within the feed pad.

[0170] For example, the operation of moving the heating structure (310) may include an operation of rotating the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving portion (413) of the heating structure (310) is positioned in a pre-engagement release position corresponding to the matching position within the feed pad, and an operation of moving the heating structure (310) in the longitudinal direction of the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving portion (315) of the heating structure (310) is engaged with the engagement position within the feed pad from the release position.

[0171] The aerosol generating device (100) may further include an adjustment unit (330) for changing the coupling structure between the heating structure (310) and the signal transmitting unit (320). The adjustment unit (330) may be located near an insertion port in the heating structure (310) into which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted. The adjustment unit (330) may be a part of the heating structure (310) or may be coupled to the heating structure (310) as a separate component. The adjustment unit (330) may receive an adjustment for changing the coupling structure between the heating structure (310) and the signal transmitting unit (320). For example, the adjustment may be at least one of an adjustment for rotating the heating structure (310) in a preset direction and an adjustment for connecting or disconnecting the heating structure (310) and the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0172] An adjustment can be performed to change the structure of the heating unit (220) through the adjustment unit (330). By adjusting through the adjustment unit (330), the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) can be coupled or decoupled at a specific position within the feed pad. Here, the coupling between the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) and the feed pad can mean an electrical coupling or a physical coupling.

[0173] For example, when pressure is applied to the adjustment unit (330) in the direction in which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted, the heating structure (310) is disconnected from the signal transmission unit (320), and the heating structure (310) can be moved in the opposite direction to the direction in which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted. The aerosol generating article (10) can be inserted into the heating structure (310), and the adjustment unit (330) can receive an adjustment to change the structure of the heating unit (220). For example, the adjustment unit (330) can receive an adjustment to rotate the heating structure (310) in a preset direction and an adjustment to move the heating structure (310) in the direction in which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted. Through the input adjustment, the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) can be coupled with a matching position for changing the resonant frequency within the feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0174] If the heating temperature for heating the aerosol-generating article does not reach the target temperature, the resonant frequency can be changed through a first adjustment that increases the value of the inductance of the feed pad of the signal transmission unit (320). Here, whether the heating temperature reaches the target temperature can be determined by whether the heating temperature reaches the target temperature within a preset time from the time when the operation for heating the aerosol-generating article in the aerosol-generating device (100) begins.

[0175] In addition, if the heating temperature for heating the aerosol generating article exceeds the target temperature, the resonance frequency can be changed through a second adjustment that reduces the value of the inductance of the feed pad of the signal transmission unit (320). Here, whether the heating temperature exceeds the target temperature can be determined by whether the heating temperature reaches the target temperature after a preset time from the time when the operation for heating the aerosol generating article in the aerosol generating device (100) starts and rises to a temperature higher than the preset temperature range from the target temperature.

[0176] The heating unit (220) can heat the aerosol generating article (10) based on a frequency signal corresponding to the position where the heating structure (310) is coupled with the feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320). In addition, the heating structure (310) can control the temperature range for heating the aerosol generating article (10) differently depending on the position of the coupled feed pad.

[0177] 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 a frequency signal within a preset frequency range. The control unit (240) can control the power generation unit (210) to output a frequency within a preset range.

[0178] Meanwhile, when the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1D, the heating unit (220) may have a structure within the heating unit (220) changed based on a frequency selected within a preset frequency range. For example, the heating structure (310) within the heating unit (220) may be changed to the size of a space that accommodates an aerosol generating article corresponding to the selected frequency. The heating unit (220) may include a signal transmitting unit (320) that transmits a frequency signal corresponding to the selected frequency range to the heating structure (310).

[0179] The change in the size of the space of the heating unit (220) may mean that the size of the space is changed in response to the size of the aerosol generating article inserted into the aerosol generating device (100). In this case, a portion of the space for accommodating the aerosol generating article may be variably overlapped or de-overlapped, thereby adjusting the size of the hole into which the aerosol generating article is inserted.

[0180] For example, the heating structure (310) can be designed so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the space accommodating the aerosol generating article becomes smaller as a higher frequency than the reference frequency is selected from among the preset frequencies.

[0181] Additionally, the heating structure (310) can be designed so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the space accommodating the aerosol generating article increases as a frequency lower than the reference frequency is selected from among the preset frequencies.

[0182] The aerosol generating device (100) may further include an adjustment unit (330) that receives an input for selecting a frequency corresponding to an aerosol generating article (10) inserted into the heating unit (220) from among preset frequencies. The adjustment unit (330) may be located near the upper end of the heating structure (310). The adjustment unit (330) may be provided with an inlet for receiving the aerosol generating article (10). The adjustment unit (330) may be provided with a member for adjusting the size of a hole corresponding to the thickness of the aerosol generating article (10).

[0183] For example, the absence of the adjustment unit (330) may receive an input that sets an operation mode, such as a first operation mode, a second operation mode, etc. For example, the first operation mode may be an operation mode that applies a frequency signal corresponding to a first frequency to the aerosol generating article (10). In addition, the second operation mode may be an operation mode that applies a frequency signal corresponding to a second frequency to the aerosol generating article (10).

[0184] The input for setting the operation mode may be an input for physically adjusting the adjustment unit (330). By the input for setting the operation mode, the operation mode of the aerosol generating device (100) may be set. For example, if the position of the member of the adjustment unit (330) is set to the first position when the first operation mode is set, and if the position of the member of the adjustment unit (330) is set to the second position when the second operation mode is set, the size of the space for accommodating the aerosol generating article (10) may be adjusted by changing the position of the member of the adjustment unit (330) from the first position to the second position. For example, by rotating the member of the adjustment unit (330) located at the first position in a preset direction and changing it to the second position, the size of the inlet into which the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted may be adjusted to the size of the hole corresponding to the thickness of the aerosol generating article (10), and the size of the space of the heating structure (310) surrounding the aerosol generating article (10) may be adjusted. Here, the operating mode is related to the frequency applied to the aerosol generating article (10) in the aerosol generating device (100) and the space accommodating the aerosol generating article (10). Depending on the operating mode, the applied frequency and the size of the space may change.

[0185] For example, the heating structure (310) may be formed by connecting a plurality of plates whose lengths are formed in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article (10) to form a space. The connection structure of the plurality of plates may change depending on the operating mode of the aerosol generating device (100). For example, in an operating mode in which the size of the space must be reduced, at least some of the plurality of plates may overlap. On the other hand, in an operating mode in which the size of the space must be expanded, the plurality of plates may not overlap but may be in an unfolded state.

[0186] Meanwhile, the adjustment unit (330) may be located near where the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted in the heating structure (310). The adjustment unit (330) may be a part of the heating structure (310) or may be combined with the heating structure (310) as a separate component. The size of the space of the heating unit (220) may be changed through the adjustment unit (330). The coupling relationship of the unit structures constituting the heating structure (310) may be changed by adjustment through the adjustment unit (330).

[0187] Additionally, the adjustment unit (330) can receive an input for selecting a predetermined frequency from among preset frequencies. The input for selecting a predetermined frequency may be an input for selecting an operation mode of the aerosol generating device (100).

[0188] 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 a frequency signal corresponding to a frequency selected within a preset frequency range. The control unit (240) can control the power generation unit (210) to transmit the frequency signal corresponding to the selected frequency to the heating unit (220) and control the aerosol generating product to be heated through the heating unit (220).

[0189] FIG. 2b is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a power generation unit (210) according to one embodiment.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 2b, the power generation unit (210) may include a frequency generation unit (212), a power amplifier (214), and a frequency selection unit (216). 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.

[0191] The frequency generation unit (212) can generate a frequency signal within a preset frequency range. The frequency generation unit (212) can receive a frequency generation control signal from the control unit (240). Based on the frequency generation control signal, the frequency generation unit (212) can generate a frequency within a preset frequency range within a certain range and transmit the frequency to the power amplifier (214). In addition, the frequency generation unit (212) can include a first matching circuit that controls the output of the frequency signal so that optimal power is transmitted to the power amplifier (214).

[0192] The power amplifier (214) can adjust the size of the output frequency signal by increasing or decreasing the amplitude of the frequency signal. For example, the power amplifier (214) can amplify the frequency signal generated by the frequency generator (212) and prevent the quality of the frequency signal from being damaged during the amplification process.

[0193] The frequency selection unit (216) can select a frequency corresponding to an aerosol generating article inserted into the aerosol generating device (100). The frequency selection unit (216) can include a switching circuit or a filter circuit that selects a frequency corresponding to the size of the aerosol generating article inserted into the aerosol generating device (100) among preset frequencies.

[0194] Specifically, the switching circuit can select a specific frequency within the amplified frequency signal, output the specific frequency, and transmit it to the heating unit (220). For example, the switching circuit can include a first switching circuit that selects a first frequency and a second switching circuit that selects a second frequency. The switching circuit can receive a signal requesting selection of a specific frequency from the control unit (240) and control the operations of the first switching circuit and the second switching circuit so that the switching circuit can select the specific frequency.

[0195] The filter circuit can pass a band corresponding to a selected frequency signal, block a band corresponding to the remaining frequencies, and transmit the passed frequency signal to the heating unit (220). For example, the filter circuit can be implemented in various forms such as a band-pass filter, a low-pass filter, or a high-pass filter. The filter circuit can pass a specific frequency band and block unnecessary frequencies.

[0196] The frequency selection unit (216) can output a frequency signal corresponding to the selected frequency. In addition, the frequency selection unit (216) can include a second matching circuit that checks whether the impedance viewed from the frequency generation unit (212) toward the heating unit (220) matches the impedance viewed from the heating unit (220) toward the frequency generation unit (212), and controls the output of the frequency signal so that a preset power transmission condition is satisfied.

[0197] The frequency signal output through the frequency selection unit (216) is transmitted to the heating unit (220) of the aerosol generating device (100), and the heating structure (310) within the heating unit (220) can efficiently heat the aerosol generating article (10) by generating resonance at the selected frequency.

[0198] FIGS. 3A and 3B are drawings for explaining a first structure of a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0199] The heating structure (310) may include a first structure (410) having a space provided to accommodate at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (10) and a second structure (420) surrounding the exterior of the first structure.

[0200] Referring to FIGS. 3A to 3C, the first structures (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) may include signal receiving units (413-1, 413-2, 413-3). The signal receiving units (413-1, 413-2, 413-3) may receive frequency signals from the signal transmitting unit (320). The first structures (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) may convert the received frequency signals into electromagnetic waves based on the structure of the first structures (410-1, 410-2, 410-3). Here, the first structures (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) may function as antennas.

[0201] Meanwhile, if the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1B, the signal receiving units (413-1, 413-2, 413-3) may be coupled with the feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320). In this case, the feed pad to be coupled may be a feed pad selected from among a plurality of feed pads in the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0202] The feed pads at which the signal receiving units (413-1, 413-2, 413-3) are coupled to the signal transmitting unit (320) can be determined by adjusting the positions of the first structures (410-1, 410-2, 410-3). That is, the structure of the heating unit (220) can be changed by adjusting the positions of the first structures (410-1, 410-2, 410-3). For example, the adjustment for changing the positions of the first structures (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) can be an operation of rotating the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving units (413-1, 413-2, 413-3) are positioned at positions corresponding to at least one feed pad. In addition, the adjustment for changing the position of the first structure (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) may be an operation of moving the first structure (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) so that the signal receiving unit (413-1, 413-2, 413-3) is coupled with at least one feed pad at a position corresponding to at least one feed pad. In this case, the operation of moving the first structure (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) may be an operation of moving the first structure (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) and the second structure (420) together. That is, the operation of moving the first structure (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) may be an operation of moving the heating structure (310).

[0203] The signal receiving unit (413-1, 413-2, 413-3) may be formed as an end portion protruding in the longitudinal direction from the end of the first structure (410-1, 410-2, 410-3). Referring to FIG. 3A, the signal receiving unit (413-1) may be formed of two ends. By being formed of two ends, the signal receiving unit (413-1) can allow the current to flow evenly in the first structure (410-1), and the radiation pattern of the electromagnetic wave can also be formed symmetrically.

[0204] Meanwhile, when the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1C, the signal receiving units (413-1, 413-2, 413-3) may be coupled with the feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320). For example, the feed pad may include an inductor. The shape of the feed pad may be a ring shape. The value of the inductance may change depending on the position at which the signal receiving unit (315) of the heating structure (310) is coupled within the feed pad, and the resonant frequency may change depending on the value of the inductance.

[0205] The structure of the heating element (220) can be changed by adjusting the position at which the heating structure (310) is coupled to the feed pad. For example, adjusting the position of the heating structure (310) may include rotating the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving portion (315) of the heating structure (310) is positioned in a pre-engagement release position corresponding to the matching position within the feed pad. Furthermore, adjusting the position of the heating structure (310) may include moving the heating structure (310) in the longitudinal direction of the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving portion (315) of the heating structure (310) is coupled from the release position to the signal portion of the heating structure (310) at the engagement position within the feed pad. In this case, the operation of moving the first structure (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) may be an operation of moving the first structure (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) and the second structure (420) together. That is, the operation of moving the first structure (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) may be an operation of moving the heating structure (310).

[0206] The signal receiving unit (413-1, 413-2, 413-3) may be formed as an end portion protruding in the longitudinal direction from the end of the first structure (410-1, 410-2, 410-3). Referring to FIG. 3A, the signal receiving unit (413-1) may be formed of two ends. By being formed of two ends, the signal receiving unit (413-1) can allow the current to flow evenly in the first structure (410-1), and the radiation pattern of the electromagnetic wave can also be formed symmetrically.

[0207] Meanwhile, even if the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1d, the signal receiving unit (413-1, 413-2, 413-3) can be coupled with the feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0208] FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a first structure (410-2) according to another embodiment. Referring to FIG. 3B, the signal receiving unit (413-2) may be configured with a single end. The signal receiving unit (413-2) may be coupled with one of a plurality of feed pads, or may be coupled with a specific position within the feed pad. In addition, the first structure (410-2) may include at least one opening. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3B, the at least one opening may be formed on the surface of the first structure (410-2) and may be in the form of a slot.

[0209] FIG. 3C is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the first structure (410-3) according to another embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 3C, a portion of the opening formed on the surface of the first structure (410-3) may be formed on the surface of the signal receiving unit (413-3). Here, the opening may be in the form of a slit. By forming the opening in the form of a slit, the signal receiving unit (413-3) may be configured with two ends.

[0210] The first structures (410-1, 410-2, 410-3) illustrated in FIGS. 3A to 3C are examples, and at least one opening may be formed in a different shape on the surface of the first structures (410-1, 410-2, 410-3), and the signal receiving portions (413-1, 413-2, 413-3) may also be configured in a different shape.

[0211] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a heating structure (310) according to one embodiment.

[0212] 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.

[0213] The first structure (410) may be provided with a space in which an aerosol generating article (10) can be accommodated. For example, the first structure (410) may be cylindrical in shape so that the aerosol generating article (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.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] 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.

[0217] The first structure (410) may include a feeding portion (413). The feeding portion (413) within the first structure (410) may receive microwaves generated from the power generation portion. For example, the feeding portion (413) may be a portion of a first opening among the openings. Specifically, the feeding portion (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.

[0218] An aerosol generating article (10) can be inserted in the longitudinal direction (401) of the heating structure. The heating structure may include a fixing member that fixes the aerosol generating article (10) so that it is accommodated to a preset length. The fixing member may 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).

[0219] When microwaves generated from a power generation unit are received by the first structure (410), electromagnetic induction occurs inside and on the surface of the first structure (410), and current may flow on the surface. An opening formed in the first structure (410) may affect the flow of current. At least one of the shape, size, and position of the opening may affect the path and distribution of the current. The path of the current may be changed near the opening, and the current density may increase around the opening. In addition, microwaves may be radiated through the opening.

[0220] Specifically, when microwaves reach the first structure (410), electrons inside the first structure (410) move under the influence of an electric field, causing 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. Microwaves in which the magnetic field and the electric field are orthogonally coupled can be radiated through the aperture. In this case, the microwaves can be radiated inwardly of the first structure (410).

[0221] Microwaves can reach and be absorbed by the aerosol-generating article (10), and the dielectric material within the aerosol-generating article (10) can be heated. For example, the aerosol-generating article (10) can include a polar material, and molecules within the polar material can be polarized by the microwaves. The molecules can vibrate or rotate due to the polarization phenomenon, and can generate frictional heat. The aerosol-generating article (10) can be heated by the frictional heat.

[0222] FIGS. 5A to 5D illustrate side views and cross-sectional views of a first structure of a heating structure, according to one embodiment.

[0223] Fig. 5a illustrates an example of a side view of a first structure (410), and Fig. 5b illustrates an example of a cross-sectional view of the 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.

[0224] The plurality of openings may be paired 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 aerosol generating article (10). For example, the preset region may be a region in which a dielectric material is located within the aerosol generating article (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.

[0225] 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).

[0226] 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. Microwaves 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.

[0227] Additionally, a fixing protrusion (414) may be formed to fix the aerosol generating article (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 aerosol generating article (10) is inserted and meets a surface that is parallel to the cross-section of the heating structure.

[0228] 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).

[0229] For example, the physical characteristics of the aperture may be used to determine at least one of a microwave radiation pattern, a current distribution in the first structure (410), a 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.

[0230] 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 aerosol generating article (10), and the aerosol generating article (10) can be heated. In this case, the characteristics of the microwaves applied to the first structure (410) and the characteristics of the microwaves radiated to the aerosol generating article (10) may be the same. Meanwhile, energy loss may occur until the microwaves are radiated to the aerosol generating article (10) through the first structure. The energy loss may occur in cables, connectors, etc. within the aerosol generating device (100). Even if energy loss occurs, the frequency characteristics of the microwaves applied to the first structure (410) and the frequency characteristics of the microwaves radiated to the aerosol generating article (10) may be the same.

[0231] Referring to FIG. 5b, fixing protrusions (414-1, 414-2) for fixing the aerosol generating article (10) so that the aerosol generating article (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.

[0232] Fig. 5c 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 5b may be located on the side of the cross-sectional view of Fig. 5c, and the end (413) of the second opening (412-1) may protrude outward. The end (413) of the second opening (412-1) may receive microwaves from a power generation unit.

[0233] FIG. 5d 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 aerosol generating article (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 aerosol generating article (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 aerosol generating article (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.

[0234] FIGS. 6A to 6C are drawings for explaining a case where the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1B.

[0235] FIG. 6a is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a signal transmission unit (320) according to one embodiment.

[0236] The signal transmission unit (320) can transmit a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range to the heating structure (310). The signal transmission unit (320) can include a plurality of feed pads. The plurality of feed pads can transmit a frequency signal of a frequency range assigned to each feed pad within a preset frequency range to the heating structure (310).

[0237] Referring to FIG. 6A, the signal transmission unit (320) may include a first feed pad (611), a second feed pad (612), a third feed pad (613), and a fourth feed pad (614). Each feed pad (611, 612, 613, 614) may be a contact point that supplies a frequency signal to the heating structure (310). For example, the signal transmission unit (320) may be implemented as a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) feed pad. The first feed pad (611), the second feed pad (612), the third feed pad (613), and the fourth feed pad (614) may be arranged on the PCB feed pad. The current distribution and impedance characteristics of the heating structure (310) may be different for each feed pad. That is, the resonance frequency of the heating structure (310) may be different for each feed pad (611, 612, 613, 614). Here, the resonance frequency may represent a frequency at which the heating structure (310) exhibits the least reflection loss and absorbs the maximum amount of power to radiate electromagnetic waves.

[0238] In addition, the signal transmission unit (320) may include an impedance matching unit (621, 622, 623, 624) corresponding to each feed pad (611, 612, 613, 614). The impedance matching unit (621, 622, 623, 624) may adjust the impedance of the frequency signal transmitted from the feed pad to reduce the reflection loss of the frequency signal transmitted to the heating structure (310) and enable maximum power to be transmitted to the heating structure (310). In this case, the impedance matching unit (621, 622, 623, 624) may minimize the impedance difference between the feed pad (611, 612, 613, 614) and the heating structure (310).

[0239] For example, the impedance matching unit (621, 622, 623, 624) may be composed of at least one element among an inductor and a capacitor. The impedance matching unit (621, 622, 623, 624) may perform impedance matching by filtering a signal of a specific frequency band. For example, the impedance of the signal transmission unit (320) may be adjusted to match the impedance of the heating structure (310) as viewed from the signal transmission unit (320).

[0240] Meanwhile, as the feed pad coupled with the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) changes, the impedance of the heating structure (310) changes, and the resonant frequency may also change. When the resonant frequency changes, the current density of the heating structure (310) changes, and therefore the heating temperature for heating the aerosol generating article (10) may also change. That is, the heating temperature of the aerosol generating article (10) may change depending on the feed pad coupled with the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310).

[0241] FIG. 6b and FIG. 6c are drawings showing the configuration of a heating unit according to one embodiment.

[0242] The heating unit (220) may include a heating structure (310) and a signal transmission unit (320). As illustrated in FIGS. 6B and 6C , the signal reception unit (413) of the heating structure (310) may be coupled with a specific feed pad among a plurality of feed pads of the signal transmission unit (320). Depending on the feed pad to be coupled, the input impedance of the heating structure (310) may be controlled, and the radiation characteristics of the heating structure (310) may be adjusted.

[0243] The signal receiving unit (413) can receive a frequency signal from a connected feed pad among the plurality of feed pads of the signal transmitting unit (320). The heating structure (310) can convert the received frequency signal into an electromagnetic wave based on the structure of the heating structure (310). Here, the heating structure (310) can function as an antenna.

[0244] The converted electromagnetic wave generates electromagnetic induction inside and on the surface of the heating structure (310), and current can flow on the surface of the heating structure (310). When electrons inside the heating structure (310) move under the influence of the electric field and current flows, the current can generate a magnetic field around it. As the current changes, the magnetic field also changes, and the magnetic field can induce an electric field. The electromagnetic wave in which the magnetic field and the electric field are orthogonally coupled can be radiated into the inside of the heating structure (310).

[0245] For example, when microwaves generated from the power generating unit (210) are applied to the first structure (410) within the heating structure (310), electromagnetic induction occurs inside and on the surface of the first structure (410), and current can flow on the surface. The current density increases around the opening on the surface of the first structure (410), and microwaves can be radiated into the interior of the first structure (410) through the opening. The second structure (420) surrounding the first structure (410) can reflect microwaves received from the first structure (410) in the direction of the first structure (410). The second structure (420) can function as a reflector.

[0246] Microwaves can reach and be absorbed by aerosol-generating articles, and molecules within the polar substance of the aerosol-generating article can be polarized by the microwaves. The polarization causes the molecules to vibrate or rotate, generating frictional heat. The frictional heat can heat the aerosol-generating article.

[0247] In relation to the heating operation of the aerosol generating article (10) using a specific feed among a plurality of feed pads, for example, the frequency corresponding to the first feed pad is a first resonant frequency, and when the first feed pad and the signal receiving unit (413) are combined, the heating structure (310) can heat the aerosol generating article (10) in the range of the first heating temperature.

[0248] Additionally, the frequency corresponding to the second feed pad is the second resonant frequency, and when the second feed pad and the signal receiving unit (413) are combined, the heating structure (310) can heat the aerosol generating article (10) in the range of the second heating temperature.

[0249] Additionally, the frequency corresponding to the third feed pad is the third resonant frequency, and when the third feed pad and the signal receiving unit (413) are combined, the heating structure (310) can heat the aerosol generating article (10) in the range of the third heating temperature.

[0250] Additionally, the frequency corresponding to the fourth feed pad is the fourth resonant frequency, and when the fourth feed pad and the signal receiving unit (413) are combined, the heating structure (310) can heat the aerosol generating article (10) in the range of the fourth heating temperature.

[0251] Here, the first heating temperature, the second heating temperature, the third heating temperature, and the fourth heating temperature may represent different temperature ranges. Depending on the heating temperature, the taste and aroma of the aerosol generating product (10) may vary, and the amount of vapor and the smoking sensation may also vary. For example, the smoking sensation may be related to the amount of nicotine vaporized. Specifically, the lower the amount of nicotine vaporized, the lower the smoking sensation. If at least one of the taste, aroma, amount of vapor, and smoking sensation of the aerosol generating product (10) varies, the satisfaction felt by the user also varies. The first to fourth heating temperatures may be set so that the levels of the taste, aroma, amount of vapor, and smoking sensation of the aerosol generating product (10) vary. The heating structure (310) and the signal transmission unit (320) can be designed so that the resonant frequency of the heating structure (310), which changes according to each feed pad coupled to the signal reception unit (413) of the heating structure (310), corresponds to the first heating temperature to the fourth heating temperature.

[0252] FIG. 6b illustrates a case where the signal receiving unit (413) in the heating structure (310) is configured with two ends, and illustrates a structure in which each of the two ends is coupled to feed pads. In this case, only one of the two feed pads may operate, so that a frequency signal corresponding to the feed pad may be transmitted to the heating structure (310). Alternatively, both feed pads may operate, so that a frequency signal corresponding to each feed pad may be transmitted to the heating structure (310).

[0253] Fig. 6c illustrates a case where the signal receiving unit (413) in the heating structure (310) is configured as one end, and illustrates a structure in which the end is coupled to a feed pad.

[0254] Meanwhile, in order to change the feed pad to which the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) is coupled, position adjustment of the heating structure (310) or the feed pad is required. Here, position adjustment may mean a physical adjustment to select a feed pad to be connected to the heating structure (310). The physical adjustment may refer to an operation of moving the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) is coupled with at least one feed pad among the plurality of feed pads of the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0255] For example, the operation of moving the heating structure (310) may include an operation of rotating the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) is positioned at a position corresponding to at least one feed pad, and an operation of moving the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) is coupled with at least one feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320) at a position corresponding to at least one feed pad.

[0256] Specifically, the heating structure (310) can be connected to an adjustment unit (330) for adjusting the coupling between the signal transmission unit (320) and the heating structure (310). By rotating the adjustment unit (330), the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) can be moved to a position on the feed pad to be coupled. By pressing the adjustment unit (330) in the insertion direction of the aerosol generating article (10), the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) can be coupled with the feed pad. Thereafter, by pressing the adjustment unit (330) again in the insertion direction of the aerosol generating article (10), the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) can be released from the feed pad. The above description is an example for setting a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range by physical adjustment, and may be implemented by other methods.

[0257] FIGS. 7A to 7C are drawings for explaining a case where the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1C.

[0258] FIG. 7a is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a signal transmission unit (320) according to one embodiment.

[0259] The signal transmission unit (320) can transmit a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range to the heating structure (310). The signal transmission unit (320) can include a feed pad (410) including an inductor. The shape of the feed pad (410) can be various shapes such as a curved shape, a ring shape, etc. The value of the inductance changes depending on the position within the feed pad (610) coupled with the heating structure (310), and the resonant frequency of the heating structure (310) can change depending on the value of the changed inductance.

[0260] Referring to FIG. 7a, any position within the feed pad (610) may be a contact point that supplies a frequency signal corresponding to the arbitrary position to the heating structure (310). The signal transmission unit (320) may be implemented as a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) feed pad (610). The feed pad (610) may be placed on the PCB feed pad (410).

[0261] Depending on the position of the feed pad (610) coupled with the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310), the current distribution and impedance characteristics of the heating structure (310) may vary. That is, the resonant frequency of the heating structure (310) may vary depending on the position of each feed pad (610). Here, the resonant frequency may represent a frequency at which the heating structure (310) exhibits the least reflection loss and absorbs the maximum amount of power to radiate electromagnetic waves.

[0262] In addition, the signal transmission unit (320) may include an impedance matching unit (620) corresponding to the feed pad (610). The impedance matching unit (620) may adjust the impedance of the frequency signal transmitted from the feed pad (610) to reduce the reflection loss of the frequency signal transmitted to the heating structure (310) and enable maximum power to be transmitted to the heating structure (310). In this case, the impedance matching unit (620) may minimize the impedance difference between the feed pad (610) and the heating structure (310).

[0263] For example, the impedance matching unit (620) may be composed of at least one element among an inductor and a capacitor. The impedance matching unit (620) may perform impedance matching by filtering a signal of a specific frequency band. For example, the impedance of the signal transmission unit (320) may be adjusted to match the impedance of the heating structure (310) as viewed from the signal transmission unit (320).

[0264] Meanwhile, as the position of the feed pad (610) coupled with the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) changes, the path of the current flowing in the feed pad (610) changes, and the value of the inductance may also change. The shorter the path of the current, the lower the value of the inductance, and impedance matching can be achieved in a relatively high frequency band. On the other hand, the longer the path of the current, the higher the value of the inductance, and impedance matching can be achieved in a relatively low frequency band.

[0265] FIG. 7b and FIG. 7c are drawings illustrating the configuration of a heating unit according to one embodiment.

[0266] The heating unit (220) may include a heating structure (310) and a signal transmission unit (320). As illustrated in FIGS. 7B and 7C , the signal reception unit (413) of the heating structure (310) may be coupled at a specific position within the feed pad of the signal transmission unit (320). Depending on the coupling position, the resonance frequency of the heating structure (310) may be changed, and the radiation characteristics of the heating structure (310) may be adjusted.

[0267] The signal receiving unit (413) can receive a frequency signal from a specific location connected within the feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320). The heating structure (310) can convert the received frequency signal into an electromagnetic wave based on the structure of the heating structure (310). Here, the heating structure (310) can function as an antenna.

[0268] The converted electromagnetic wave generates electromagnetic induction inside and on the surface of the heating structure (310), and current can flow on the surface of the heating structure (310). When electrons inside the heating structure (310) move under the influence of the electric field and current flows, the current can generate a magnetic field around it. As the current changes, the magnetic field also changes, and the magnetic field can induce an electric field. The electromagnetic wave in which the magnetic field and the electric field are orthogonally coupled can be radiated into the inside of the heating structure (310).

[0269] For example, when microwaves generated from the power generating unit (210) are applied to the first structure (410) within the heating structure (310), electromagnetic induction occurs inside and on the surface of the first structure (410), and current can flow on the surface. The current density increases around the opening on the surface of the first structure (410), and microwaves can be radiated into the interior of the first structure (410) through the opening. The second structure (420) surrounding the first structure (410) can reflect microwaves received from the first structure (410) in the direction of the first structure (410). The second structure (420) can function as a reflector.

[0270] Microwaves can reach and be absorbed by aerosol-generating articles, and molecules within the polar substance of the aerosol-generating article can be polarized by the microwaves. The polarization causes the molecules to vibrate or rotate, generating frictional heat. The frictional heat can heat the aerosol-generating article.

[0271] Meanwhile, by performing an adjustment to move the heating structure (310), the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) can be coupled with a specific position within the feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320). The adjustment to move the heating structure (310) may be a physical adjustment to change the position of the heating structure (310). For example, the adjustment to move the heating structure (310) may include an operation to rotate the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) is positioned at a pre-engagement release position corresponding to a matching position within the feed pad, and an operation to move the heating structure (310) in the longitudinal direction of the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) is coupled with the engagement position within the feed pad at the release position.

[0272] Additionally, the heating structure (310) may be connected to an adjustment unit for adjusting the coupling between the signal transmission unit (320) and the heating structure (310). By rotating the adjustment unit, the signal reception unit (413) of the heating structure (310) may be moved to a position on the feed pad to be coupled. By pressing the adjustment unit in the insertion direction of the aerosol generating article, the signal reception unit (413) of the heating structure (310) may be coupled with the feed pad. Thereafter, by pressing the adjustment unit again in the insertion direction of the aerosol generating article, the signal reception unit (413) of the heating structure (310) may be decoupled from the feed pad. The above description is an example for coupling or decoupling between the heating structure (310) and the signal transmission unit (320), and may be implemented by other methods.

[0273] In addition, when rotating the heating structure (310), the angle at which the heating structure (310) is rotated can be preset. Specifically, the heating structure (310) can be designed to rotate by a preset rotation angle. For example, the rotation angle of the heating structure (310) can be designed to rotate by 10 degrees, and the maximum rotation angle can also be preset. For example, the heating structure (310) can be rotated by 10 degrees in a counterclockwise direction, and the inductance value can increase each time the rotation angle increases. When the inductance value increases, the resonant frequency of the heating structure (310) can decrease.

[0274] Meanwhile, due to the external environment in which the aerosol generating device (100) operates, or due to errors in the manufacturing process of the aerosol generating device (100), there may be a slight difference between the theoretically designed reference resonance frequency and the resonance frequency in the actual environment. Due to the difference between the theoretically designed reference resonance frequency and the resonance frequency in the actual environment, the heating information such as the heating temperature and heating speed for heating the aerosol generating product may not satisfy the pre-designed reference heating information, and impedance matching may not be achieved. Therefore, in order to achieve impedance matching by matching the output impedance of the signal transmission unit (320) with the input impedance of the heating structure (310), adjustment may be performed to move the heating structure (310).

[0275] For example, if the heating temperature for heating the aerosol generating product does not reach the target temperature, the power transmitted to the heating structure (310) can be increased to increase the heating speed so that the target temperature can be reached. For example, the adjustment for moving the heating structure (310) can be an adjustment for increasing the value of the inductance of the feed pad of the signal transmission unit (320). Since the inductance is inversely proportional to the length of the inductor, for example, the adjustment for moving the heating structure (310) can be an adjustment for decreasing the length of the inductor. In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 7B, the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) can be coupled to a position close to the impedance matching unit of the signal transmission unit (320).

[0276] For example, when the heating temperature for heating an aerosol generating product exceeds the target temperature, the temperature increase can be suppressed by reducing the power transmitted to the heating structure (310) to lower the heating speed. In this case, the power transmitted to the heating structure (310) can be reduced by setting the frequency band high. For example, the adjustment for moving the heating structure (310) may be an adjustment for reducing the value of the inductance of the feed pad of the signal transmission unit (320). Since the inductance is inversely proportional to the length of the inductor, for example, the adjustment for moving the heating structure (310) may be an adjustment for increasing the length of the inductor. In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 7C, the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) may be coupled at a location that is not close to the impedance matching unit of the signal transmission unit (320). That is, the coupling position shown in Fig. 7c may be further from the impedance matching unit than the coupling position shown in 7b.

[0277] Depending on the heating temperature, the taste and aroma of an aerosol-generating product can vary, as can the amount of vapor and the smoking sensation. For example, the smoking sensation may be related to the amount of nicotine vaporized. Specifically, a lower amount of nicotine vaporized may result in a lower smoking sensation. If at least one of the taste, aroma, amount of vaporized vapor, and smoking sensation of an aerosol-generating product changes, the user's satisfaction will also vary. Therefore, in cases where impedance matching is not achieved due to external factors, etc., by finely adjusting the inductance value of the feed pad, the aerosol-generating product can be heated at the target temperature.

[0278] FIGS. 8A to 8G are drawings for explaining a case where the aerosol generating device (100) is an aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1D.

[0279] FIGS. 8A and 8B are drawings for explaining the structure of a heating structure (310-1) according to an embodiment, in which a first frequency lower than a second frequency is selected.

[0280] Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the heating structure (310-1) may be cylindrical in shape so that an aerosol generating article can be inserted in the longitudinal direction. Here, the cylindrical shape may be a hollow cylinder or a tubular shape. In addition, the heating structure (310-1) may be configured as a waveguide. The cross-section of the waveguide may be one of a circle, a square, and a polygon. The heating structure (310-1) may be configured as a conductive material. In addition, all or part of the heating structure (310-1) may be configured as a conductive material.

[0281] The heating structure (310-1) may include a signal receiving unit (413-1). The signal receiving unit (413-1) may receive a frequency signal from the signal transmitting unit (320). The heating structure (310-1) may convert the received frequency signal into an electromagnetic wave based on the structure of the heating structure (310-1). Here, the heating structure (310-1) may function as an antenna.

[0282] The converted electromagnetic wave generates electromagnetic induction inside and on the surface of the heating structure (310-1), and current can flow on the surface of the heating structure (310-1). When electrons inside the heating structure (310-1) move under the influence of the electric field and current flows, 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 electromagnetic wave in which the magnetic field and the electric field are coupled orthogonally can be radiated into the inside of the heating structure (310-1).

[0283] For example, when microwaves generated from the power generating unit (210) are applied to the first structure (410) within the heating structure (310-1), electromagnetic induction occurs inside and on the surface of the first structure (410), and current can flow on the surface. The current density increases around the opening on the surface of the first structure (410), and microwaves can be radiated into the inside of the first structure (410) through the opening. The second structure (420) surrounding the first structure (410) can reflect microwaves received from the first structure (410) in the direction of the first structure (410). The second structure (420) can function as a reflector.

[0284] Microwaves can reach and be absorbed by an aerosol-generating article, and dielectric material within the aerosol-generating article can be heated. For example, the aerosol-generating article may contain a polar substance, and molecules within the polar substance can be polarized by the microwaves. The molecules can vibrate or rotate due to the polarization phenomenon, generating frictional heat. The frictional heat can heat the aerosol-generating article.

[0285] Additionally, the current flowing on the surface of the heating structure (310-1) can generate heat. The generated heat can heat the aerosol generating article.

[0286] When a first frequency corresponding to a first aerosol generating article (10-1) inserted into an aerosol generating device (100) is selected from among preset frequencies, the aerosol generating device (100) can adjust the structure of a space in which the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted to match the size of the first aerosol generating article (10-1). The space can be changed to a structure that surrounds the first aerosol generating article (10-1). For example, the space can accommodate a portion of the aerosol generating article for a preset length among the entire length of the first aerosol generating article (10-1). The size of the heating structure (310-1) can be changed based on an input for operating the adjustment unit (430).

[0287] Referring to Fig. 8b, each of the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) constituting the heating structure (310-1) may be formed of a plurality of plates (711, 712, 713, 714, 715, 716, 717, 718). The plurality of plates (711, 712, 713, 714, 715, 716, 717, 718) may have a length formed in the longitudinal direction of the first aerosol generating article (10-1). Referring to Fig. 8b, each of the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) may be formed of eight unit plates, and each unit plate may be connected to an adjacent unit plate. The structure illustrated in Fig. 8a may be a first structure (410) and a second structure (420). At least one opening (not shown) may be formed on the surface of the first structure. In addition, the plurality of unit plates may be composed of a unit plate having at least one opening (not shown) formed and a unit plate having at least one opening (not shown) not formed.

[0288] The portion of the unit plate forming the end of the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) may be curved. For example, the unit plate may be formed of a plate in which the shape of an arc constituting a circle extends a certain length in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article.

[0289] For example, the first space corresponding to the first frequency may have a structure in which a plurality of unit plates are connected in an unfolded state without overlapping each other. The size of the first space matches the size of the first aerosol-generating article (10-1), and the first aerosol-generating article (10-1) can be accommodated in the first space by a preset length among the entire length of the first aerosol-generating article (10-1). In addition, the structure of the first space may be adjusted so that a preset distance is spaced apart from the inner wall of the first space and the aerosol-generating article. That is, the plurality of unit plates (711, 712, 713, 714, 715, 716, 717, 718) constituting the heating structure (310-1) can be connected based on the structure of the first space.

[0290] Meanwhile, the first frequency is a frequency for operating the aerosol generating device (100) in the first operation mode, and may be the first resonant frequency of the heating structure (310-1) formed based on the changed space according to the first operation mode.

[0291] FIGS. 8C to 8G are drawings for explaining the structure of a heating structure (310-2) according to an embodiment, in which a second frequency higher than the first frequency is selected.

[0292] For example, in order to use a second frequency higher than the first frequency as the second resonant frequency of the aerosol generating device (100), the size of the heating structure (310-2) for applying the second frequency may be smaller than the size of the heating structure (310-2) for applying the first frequency. Since the wavelength becomes shorter and power consumption increases as the frequency increases, the concentration of the electromagnetic field can be increased by reducing the size of the heating structure (310-2).

[0293] Referring to FIG. 8c, when a second frequency corresponding to a second aerosol generating article (10-2) inserted into the aerosol generating device (100) is selected from among preset frequencies, the aerosol generating device (100) can adjust the structure of the space into which the second aerosol generating article (10-2) is inserted to match the size of the second aerosol generating article (10-2). The space can be changed to a structure that surrounds the second aerosol generating article (10-2). The size of the second aerosol generating article (10-2) can be smaller than the size of the first aerosol generating article. Here, the size comparison can be performed by comparing the thickness and cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol generating article. In addition, the space can accommodate a portion of the aerosol generating article for a preset length among the entire length of the second aerosol generating article (10-2).

[0294] Referring to FIGS. 8c and 8d, when a second aerosol generating article (10-2) having a thinner thickness than the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted, the heating structure (310-2) can be reduced by a space corresponding to the thickness of the second aerosol generating article (10-2). In this case, the size (720) of the hole in the adjustment unit (330) into which the second aerosol generating article is inserted becomes smaller than the size (710) of the hole when the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted.

[0295] Referring to FIGS. 8c and 8e, when a second aerosol generating article (10-2) having a thinner thickness than the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted, the size of the heating structure (310-2) is adjusted, and therefore, referring to the area (122), the position of the signal transmitting section (320) to which the signal receiving section (413-2) within the heating structure (310-2) is connected can also be adjusted. For example, when the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted, the signal receiving unit (413-1) may be located at a first position (731, 732, 733, 734) within the signal transmitting unit (320), and when the second aerosol generating article (10-2) is inserted, the signal receiving unit (413-2) may be located at a second position (741, 742, 743, 744) within the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0296] Referring to FIGS. 8B and 8F, as the frequency is selected as the second frequency, the heating structure (310-2) can be changed to be smaller than the size of the heating structure (310-1) corresponding to the first frequency. The size of the heating structure (310-2) can be changed based on an input that manipulates the member of the adjustment unit (330).

[0297] As described in FIG. 8b, each of the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) constituting the heating structure (310-1) may be formed of a plurality of plates. The plurality of plates may have a length formed in the longitudinal direction of the second aerosol generating article (10-2). Each of the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) may be formed of eight unit plates, and each unit plate may be connected to an adjacent unit plate. In order to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the heating structure (310-1), at least some of the unit plates may be designed to overlap. For example, the unit plates may be overlapped in pairs to form a space for accommodating the aerosol generating article. When the unit plates overlap and the structure of the heating structure (310-1) changes, the signal transmission unit (320) may also change in size or position connected to the signal reception unit in response to the structure of the heating structure (310-1).

[0298] For example, the heating structure (310-1) may be connected to an adjustment unit (330) that receives an adjustment input for setting an operation mode of the aerosol generating device (100). Specifically, when the member of the adjustment unit (330) is rotated in a first direction that is preset, the frequency to be applied may be increased, and the aerosol generating device (100) may be operated in a second operation mode. Conversely, when the member of the adjustment unit (330) is rotated in a direction opposite to the first direction, the frequency to be applied may be decreased, and the aerosol generating device (100) may be operated in the first operation mode.

[0299] In this case, for example, in order to operate in the first operation mode and the second operation mode, the structure of the heating structure (310-1) may be set to four plates (721, 722, 723, 724) in which eight unit plates are overlapped in two each, as illustrated in FIG. 7d, as the structure of the heating structure (310-2). In this case, each of the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) may be configured to four plates in which eight unit plates are overlapped in two each, and the radius of each structure may be reduced while maintaining a preset interval between the first structure (410) and the second structure (420).

[0300] Meanwhile, the second frequency is a frequency for operating the aerosol generating device (100) in the second operation mode, and may be the second resonant frequency of the heating structure (310-2) formed based on the changed space according to the second operation mode.

[0301] The structure illustrated in FIG. 8f is an example of a first structure (410) and a second structure (420), and each structure may have a space formed by more than four plates (721, 722, 723, 724) or a space formed by fewer than four plates (721, 722, 723, 724).

[0302] When there are multiple selectable resonant frequencies in the aerosol generating device (100), the aerosol generating device (100) can be operated in multiple operation modes. The adjusting member can receive an input for selecting multiple operation modes. For example, multiple operation modes can be selected depending on the rotational input level of the adjusting member. As the adjusting member is rotated in the first direction, the size of the space accommodating the aerosol generating article (10) can be reduced, and the size of the resonant frequency can be increased.

[0303] FIG. 8g is a drawing showing an example in which, in a different embodiment from FIG. 8c, when a second aerosol generating article (10-2) having a thinner thickness than the first aerosol generating article (10-1) is inserted, the space for accommodating the second aerosol generating article (10-2) in the heating structure (310-2) is reduced, and thus the sizes of the adjustment unit (330-2) and the signal transmission unit (320-2) are also reduced.

[0304] FIG. 9a is a drawing for explaining a first structure of a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0305] FIG. 9a is a drawing showing a silhouette of an aerosol generating article (10) inserted into an aerosol generating device (100), and is a drawing for explaining an opening formed on the surface of a first structure (410).

[0306] The first structure (410) may include a plurality of openings, and at least two or more openings may be combined to create a complex-shaped opening. The openings formed on the surface of the first structure (410) illustrated in FIG. 9A may be configured in the form of a first opening (811) formed in a circular shape and a second opening (812) formed in a slit shape. For example, openings formed by combining the first opening (811) and the second opening (812) may form a pair and be arranged to face each other.

[0307] FIGS. 9b to 9d are drawings for explaining the results of monitoring the internal temperature of a heating structure by location over time, according to one embodiment.

[0308] Fig. 9b shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device (100) cut in the longitudinal direction, and Fig. 9c shows a cross-sectional view of the bottom surface of the aerosol generating device (100). In Figs. 9b and 9c, a first position (911) indicates a position near the boundary line of an opening formed on the surface of a first structure, a second position (912) indicates a position near the center of an aerosol generating article (10) when the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (100). A third position (913) indicates a position of the bottom surface of the aerosol generating device (100) connected to a heating structure. A fourth position (914) indicates an internal position of a case surrounding the outer periphery of the second structure.

[0309] FIG. 9d is a graph showing temperature trends over time at each of the first position (911), the second position (912), the third position (913), and the fourth position (914) when an aerosol generating article (10) is inserted into an aerosol generating device (100) and a specific frequency is applied. Here, the specific frequency may be a frequency for forming microwave resonance within the heating structure.

[0310] Referring to the graph of FIG. 9d, the first line (921) represents the result of monitoring the first location (911) over time, the second line (922) represents the result of monitoring the second location (912) over time, the third line (923) represents the result of monitoring the third location (913) over time, and the fourth line (924) represents the result of monitoring the fourth location (914) over time.

[0311] When comparing temperatures at the same time, the temperatures may be higher in the order of the first location (911), the second location (912), the third location (913), and the fourth location (914). The first location (911) is the location of the opening of the first structure, and the temperature may increase over time because the intensity of the current near the opening increases as microwaves are applied. The second location (912) is the central location of the aerosol generating article (10), and the aerosol generating article (10) may absorb microwaves through the first structure, and heat may be generated within the aerosol generating article (10), thereby increasing the temperature over time. In this case, the temperature of the second location (912) may be lower than the temperature of the first location (911), and may change in a similar way to the temperature trend of the first location (911).

[0312] The third position (913) is a position where the aerosol generating article (10) is not positioned, and represents the position of the bottom surface of the aerosol generating device (100) connected to the heating structure. The heating structure and the bottom surface are connected by a case, and as the temperatures of the aerosol generating article (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 (913) may be lower than the temperature increase rates of the first position (911) and the second position (912).

[0313] The fourth position (914) represents an internal position of the case surrounding the outer periphery of the second structure, and as the aerosol generating article (10) is heated, the temperature may increase. The temperature increase rate of the fourth position (914) may be lower than the temperature increase rates of the first position (911), the second position (912), and the third position (913).

[0314] For example, when time t2, the temperature at the central position of the aerosol generating article (10) may be 300 degrees. If a temperature of 300 degrees is required to heat the aerosol generating article (10), the control unit may control the temperature at the central position of the aerosol generating article (10) to be maintained at 300 degrees.

[0315] FIGS. 10A to 10G are drawings for explaining the internal structure of an aerosol generating device (100) according to one embodiment.

[0316] Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, the aerosol generating device (100) may include an upper fixing portion (1010-1, 1010-2) and a lower fixing portion for fixing the first structure (410) and the second structure (420) at a preset gap. Here, the lower fixing portion may include a signal transmission portion (320) for transmitting a frequency signal to the heating structure (310). The signal transmission portion (320) may be provided at the upper end of the lower fixing portion.

[0317] For a specific example, the upper fixing member (1010-1, 1010-2) 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).

[0318] In addition, the upper fixing portion (1010-1, 1010-2) may include a hole through which the aerosol generating article (10) can be inserted. The center of the hole provided in the upper fixing portion (1010-1, 1010-2) 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 aerosol generating article (10) is inserted is described in FIG. 10g. When the aerosol generating article (10) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (100), the upper fixing portion (1010-1, 1010-2) may fix the aerosol generating article (10) so that it does not move.

[0319] The lower fixing member may be provided with a fixing member for fixing the lower surface of the heating structure (310) including the first structure (410) and the second structure (420). For example, the fixing member may be provided at the end of the first structure (410). Here, the fixing member may perform the function of a signal receiving unit (413).

[0320] For another example, fixing members may be provided on each of the first structure (410) and 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).

[0321] In addition, the fixing member of the lower fixing part 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 (100) to the lower surface of the heating structure.

[0322] Referring to FIG. 10c, the aerosol generating device (100) may be provided with a case (1030) for fixing a heating structure. A fixing portion for fixing the heating structure may be provided inside the case (1030). The fixing portion of the case (1030) 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 (1030).

[0323] The aerosol generating article (10) can be inserted into the aerosol generating device (100) to a preset length. FIGS. 10c and 10d illustrate cross-sectional views of the aerosol generating device (100) taken longitudinally from different angles, and FIG. 10e illustrates a cross-sectional view of the bottom surface of the aerosol generating device (100). A stopper (430) may be provided in the first structure (410) so that the aerosol generating article (10) can be inserted to a preset length. The stopper (430) may prevent the aerosol generating article (10) from being inserted further in the insertion direction.

[0324] FIG. 10f shows a cross-section of an aerosol generating device viewed from a direction in which an aerosol generating article (10) is inserted. The upper fixing parts (1010-1, 1010-2, 1010-3) can fix the upper surface of the first structure (410) and the upper surface of the second structure (420) at a preset gap (1065). The upper fixing parts (1010-1, 1010-2, 1010-3) can be provided in an opening shape to allow the aerosol generating article (10) to be inserted. For example, the opening shape can be composed of a closed section by the upper fixing parts (1010-1, 1010-2, 1010-3) and an open section opened between the closed sections. In addition, the center of the opening shape can coincide with the center (1060) of the cross-section of the aerosol generating article (10). The upper fixing parts (1010-1, 1010-2, 1010-3) illustrated in FIG. 10f are examples and may be provided in other forms.

[0325] Referring to FIG. 10f, 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. Also, referring to FIG. 10g, a heat tape (1070) may be attached to a specific location of the first structure (410) to maintain the air gap.

[0326] FIG. 11a is a graph for explaining the reflection characteristics according to frequency at the location of the feed pad, when the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1b, according to one embodiment.

[0327] Referring to the graph of Fig. 11a, the y-axis represents the proportion of signals input to the heating structure (310) that are reflected and returned, and the x-axis represents frequency. The closer it is to 0 dB, the more reflection there is, and the closer the negative value is to infinity, the less reflection there is.

[0328] For example, a first region (1111) on the graph represents the reflection characteristics of the heating structure (310) at the first feed pad, a second region (1112) represents the reflection characteristics of the heating structure (310) at the second feed pad, a third region (1113) represents the reflection characteristics of the heating structure (310) at the third feed pad, and a fourth region (1114) represents the reflection characteristics of the heating structure (310) at the fourth feed pad. The resonant frequency corresponding to each feed pad represents a frequency at which reflection is minimal and loss is minimized in the frequency band of each region.

[0329] FIG. 11b is a graph for explaining the reflection characteristics according to frequency at the location of the feed pad, when the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1c, according to one embodiment.

[0330] Referring to the graph in Fig. 11b, the y-axis represents the proportion of signals input to the heating structure (310) that are reflected and returned, and the x-axis represents frequency. The closer it is to 0 dB, the more reflection there is, and the closer the negative value is to infinity, the less reflection there is.

[0331] For example, the first curve (1110) on the graph represents the theoretical reflection characteristics of the aerosol generating device (100), the second curve (1120) represents the reflection characteristics when the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) is coupled to the first matching position of the feed pad as illustrated in FIG. 7b, and the third curve (1130) represents the reflection characteristics when the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) is coupled to the second matching position of the feed pad as illustrated in FIG. 7c. In addition, the frequency corresponding to the area (1140) with a low dB value in each curve represents the resonance frequency, which represents the frequency at which reflection is small and loss is minimized.

[0332] For example, if the heating temperature for heating the aerosol generating article does not reach the target temperature, the adjustment for moving the heating structure (310) may be an adjustment that increases the value of the inductance of the feed pad. If the value of the inductance is relatively increased, the resonant frequency may be a first resonant frequency (f1) higher than the reference resonant frequency (f0), as shown in the first curve (1110) and the second curve (1120).

[0333] For example, if the heating temperature for heating the aerosol generating article exceeds the target temperature, the adjustment for moving the heating structure (310) may be an adjustment that reduces the value of the inductance of the feed pad. If the value of the inductance is relatively reduced, the resonant frequency may be a second resonant frequency (f2) lower than the reference resonant frequency (f0), as shown in the first curve (1110) and the third curve (1130).

[0334] FIG. 11c is a graph for explaining frequency characteristics according to the frequency applied to the heating unit of the aerosol generating device (100) when the aerosol generating device (100) is the aerosol generating device (100) according to the embodiment of FIG. 1d, according to one embodiment.

[0335] Referring to the graph in Fig. 11c, the y-axis represents the proportion of the signal input to the heating structure that is reflected and returned, and the x-axis represents frequency. The closer it is to 0 dB, the more reflection there is, and the closer the negative value is to infinity, the less reflection there is.

[0336] For example, the first region (1150) on the graph represents the reflection characteristics of the heating structure at the first frequency, and the second region (1160) represents the reflection characteristics of the heating structure at the second frequency.

[0337] Meanwhile, if the relationship between the first frequency and the second frequency is not a multiple relationship, or if the difference between the first frequency and the second frequency is within a preset range, the second frequency can be made to operate as a resonant frequency based on the structure of the heating structure.

[0338] For example, the heating structure may be formed into a double cylinder shape due to the arrangement of the first structure and the second structure, and the distance between the first structure and the second structure may be set to a preset interval. In addition, the surface of the first structure may include at least one opening. Here, the at least one opening may be in the form of a slit or a slot. In addition, 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 in which the one end is not open to the outside.

[0339] Fig. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0340] Referring to FIG. 12, in step S1210, the aerosol generating device (100) can generate microwaves. For example, the aerosol generating device (100) can generate microwaves having a frequency in a preset range and a power of a preset magnitude.

[0341] In step S1220, the aerosol generating device (100) may heat an aerosol generating article (10) inserted into a heating structure using microwaves. 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 aerosol generating article (10) and may have at least one opening formed on a surface thereof. The second structure may be formed in a form surrounding the first structure and spaced apart from the first structure by a predetermined gap. Microwaves may be radiated into the interior of the first structure through the opening of the first structure by the heating structure. The microwaves may be radiated in an inward direction of the first structure. The microwaves may reach and be absorbed by the aerosol generating article (10), and the dielectric material within the aerosol generating article (10) may be heated.

[0342] In step S1230, the aerosol generating device (100) can control the power generating unit based on the temperature of the aerosol generating article (10). For example, the temperature of the aerosol generating article (10) can be monitored as microwaves are applied to the heating structure. The aerosol generating device (100) can monitor the temperature of the aerosol generating article (10) in real time and control the operation of the power generating unit so that the temperature required for heating the aerosol generating article (10) can be maintained.

[0343] Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0344] Referring to FIG. 13, in step S1310, the aerosol generating device (100) can perform adjustments to change the structure of the heating unit (220) that heats the aerosol generating article (10) to set a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range within a preset frequency range.

[0345] For example, the aerosol generating device (100) can perform a physical adjustment to select a feed pad of a signal transmitting unit (320) to transmit a frequency signal of a specific frequency range to a signal receiving unit (413) of a heating structure (310).

[0346] Here, the physical adjustment may be an operation of moving the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving unit (413) of the heating structure (310) is coupled with at least one feed pad among the plurality of feed pads of the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0347] In step S1320, the aerosol generating device (100) can generate a frequency signal based on power supplied from the power supply unit (230).

[0348] In step S1330, the aerosol generating device (100) can transmit a frequency signal to the heating structure (310) of the heating unit (220) through the signal transmitting unit (320) of the heating unit (220).

[0349] In step S1340, the aerosol generating device (100) can heat the aerosol generating article (10) based on the frequency signal through the heating structure (310).

[0350] Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0351] Referring to FIG. 14, in step S1410, the aerosol generating device (100) can perform adjustments to change the structure of the heating unit (220) that heats the aerosol generating article in order to change the resonant frequency within a preset frequency range.

[0352] For example, the aerosol generating device (100) can variably adjust the value of the inductance of the feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320). Specifically, the aerosol generating device (100) can perform an adjustment to move the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving unit (315) of the heating structure (310) is coupled with a matching position for changing the resonant frequency within the feed pad.

[0353] Here, the adjustment for moving the heating structure (310) may include an operation of rotating the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving portion (315) of the heating structure (310) is positioned in a pre-engagement release position corresponding to the matching position within the feed pad, and an operation of moving the heating structure (310) in the longitudinal direction of the heating structure (310) so that the signal receiving portion (315) of the heating structure (310) is engaged with the engagement position within the feed pad at the release position.

[0354] For example, if the heating temperature for heating the aerosol generating article does not reach the target temperature, the aerosol generating device (100) can perform an adjustment to increase the value of the inductance of the feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0355] For example, if the heating temperature for heating the aerosol generating article exceeds the target temperature, the aerosol generating device (100) can perform an adjustment to reduce the value of the inductance of the feed pad of the signal transmitting unit (320).

[0356] In step S1420, the aerosol generating device (100) can generate a frequency signal corresponding to the changed resonance frequency based on the power supplied from the power supply unit (230) and the structure of the changed heating unit (220).

[0357] In step S1430, the aerosol generating device (100) can transmit a frequency signal to the heating structure (310) of the heating unit (220) through the signal transmitting unit (320) of the heating unit (220).

[0358] In step S1440, the aerosol generating device (100) can heat the aerosol generating article based on the frequency signal through the heating structure (310).

[0359] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0360] Referring to FIG. 15, in step S1510, the aerosol generating device (100) can change the size of the space of the heating unit for heating the aerosol generating article based on a frequency selected within a preset frequency range. The space of the heating unit may be a space for accommodating at least a portion of the aerosol generating article.

[0361] Here, the heating unit may include a heating structure whose spatial size changes in response to a selected frequency within a preset frequency range. For example, the heating structure may be formed in a double cylinder shape due to the arrangement of the first structure and the second structure, and the distance between the first structure and the second structure may be set to a preset interval. In addition, the surface of the first structure may include at least one opening. Here, the at least one opening may be in the form of a slit or a slot. In addition, 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 in which the one end is not open to the outside.

[0362] For example, the aerosol generating device (100) can change the size of the space so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the space becomes smaller when a frequency higher than the reference frequency is selected among the preset frequencies.

[0363] As another example, the aerosol generating device (100) can change the size of the space so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the space increases when a frequency lower than the reference frequency is selected among the preset frequencies.

[0364] In step S1520, the aerosol generating device (100) can generate a frequency signal corresponding to the selected frequency based on the power supplied from the power supply unit.

[0365] In step S1530, the aerosol generating device (100) can transmit a frequency signal to the heating structure of the heating unit.

[0366] For example, the aerosol generating device (100) can obtain a frequency signal corresponding to a selected frequency through a frequency selection unit. The aerosol generating device (100) can transmit the frequency signal corresponding to the selected frequency to the heating structure.

[0367] In step S1540, the aerosol generating device (100) can heat the aerosol generating article based on the frequency signal through the heating structure.

[0368] The aerosol generating device (100) 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 perform the operating method of the aerosol generating device (100). Furthermore, the present disclosure may be written as a computer-executable program and implemented on a general-purpose digital computer that operates such a program using a computer-readable storage medium.

[0369] 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.

[0370] 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 a frequency signal within a preset frequency range; and A heating structure comprising a first structure having a space for accommodating at least a portion of an aerosol generating article and a second structure surrounding the outside of the first structure; and a heating unit including a signal transmission unit for transmitting the generated frequency signal to the heating structure. An aerosol generating device, wherein the heating unit heats the aerosol generating article based on a frequency signal corresponding to a specific frequency range determined by a structure connected between the heating structure and the signal transmitting unit.

2. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device, characterized in that the heating structure is formed at a preset interval between the first structure and the second structure.

3. In paragraph 2, An aerosol generating device, characterized in that the heating structure is formed into a double cylinder shape due to the arrangement of the first structure and the second structure.

4. In paragraph 1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that at least one opening is formed on the surface of the first structure.

5. 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.

6. In paragraph 1, The above preset frequency range is an aerosol generating device that includes a frequency band to which microwaves belong.

7. In paragraph 6, An aerosol generating device, characterized in that the preset frequency range is 5 GHz to 20 GHz.

8. In paragraph 1, The signal transmission unit includes a plurality of feed pads, An aerosol generating device wherein the plurality of feed pads transmit a frequency signal of a frequency range assigned to each feed pad within the preset frequency range to the heating structure.

9. In paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device further comprising an adjustment unit that receives an adjustment for changing a structure connected between the heating structure and the signal transmission unit.

10. In paragraph 9, The above signal transmission unit, An aerosol generating device that transmits a frequency signal corresponding to the specific frequency to the heating structure based on the structure of the heating unit changed according to the above adjustment.

11. In paragraph 9, The above adjustments are, An aerosol generating device comprising at least one of an adjustment for rotating the heating structure in a preset direction and an adjustment for connecting or disconnecting the heating structure and the signal transmitting unit.

12. In paragraph 9, The above adjustments are, An aerosol generating device characterized by a physical adjustment for selecting a feed pad of the signal transmitting unit for transmitting a frequency signal of the specific frequency range to the signal receiving unit of the heating structure.

13. In paragraph 12, The above physical adjustments are, An aerosol generating device, wherein the signal receiving unit of the heating structure exhibits an operation of moving the heating structure so that the signal receiving unit is coupled with at least one feed pad among a plurality of feed pads of the signal transmitting unit.

14. In paragraph 1, The above heating structure, An aerosol generating device that heats the aerosol generating article based on a frequency signal corresponding to a feed pad coupled to the heating structure among a plurality of feed pads of the signal transmitting unit.

15. In paragraph 14, The above heating structure, An aerosol generating device that controls the temperature range for heating the aerosol generating article differently according to the combined feed pad.

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