Aerosol-generating device, and method for controlling aerosol-generating device

Abstract

This aerosol-generating device and method for controlling the aerosol-generating device set a power profile in order to perform dielectric heating using microwaves on an aerosol-generating article when a smoking session is initiated, monitor power feedback data for power provided to a source unit for generating a microwave signal while dielectric heating is performed with the power profile during the smoking session, determine, on the basis of the monitored power feedback data when the smoking session is terminated, whether calibration of the power profile is required, and update the power profile on the basis of the monitored power feedback data when it is determined that calibration of the power profile is required.

Description

Aerosol generating device and method for controlling the aerosol generating device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device and a method for controlling the aerosol generating device, and more specifically, to a method for updating a power profile used to perform dielectric heating in the aerosol generating device.

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for methods in which aerosols are generated as an aerosol-generating substance is heated, rather than methods that generate aerosols by burning cigarettes. Accordingly, research on heated aerosol generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] However, since heated aerosol generators are devices that consume high power for heating operations, efficient battery usage is required. Furthermore, precise control of the heating temperature is required to provide the user with a satisfactory smoking sensation. Accordingly, measures are needed to optimize the power profile used for heating control for the aerosol generator.

[0004] An aerosol generating device generates aerosols by performing heating control according to a preset power profile. However, due to factors such as the usage pattern of the aerosol generating device and the surrounding environment, the performance of heating control may be degraded using the preset power profile. Therefore, a method is required to improve the efficiency and performance of heating control by performing precise power control of the aerosol generating device. The technical problems of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other technical problems can be inferred from the following embodiments.

[0005] The aerosol generating device according to the present disclosure can enable efficient power usage and accurate heating control by employing a function to update the power profile.

[0006] According to one aspect, an aerosol generating device comprises: a source unit that generates a microwave signal to perform dielectric heating using microwaves on an aerosol generating article; and a control unit that controls the intensity of the microwave signal by controlling the power to be supplied from a power source to the source unit, wherein the control unit includes a processor that monitors power feedback data regarding the power supplied to the source unit while performing the dielectric heating with a preset power profile during a smoking session, and updates the power profile based on the monitored power feedback data when calibration of the target powers of the power profile is required.

[0007] According to another aspect, a method for controlling an aerosol generating device comprises: setting a power profile to perform dielectric heating using microwaves on an aerosol generating article when a smoking session is initiated; monitoring power feedback data for powers provided to a source unit that generates a microwave signal while performing dielectric heating with the set power profile during the smoking session; determining whether calibration of the power profile is required based on the monitored power feedback data when the smoking session is terminated; and updating the power profile based on the monitored power feedback data when it is determined that calibration of the power profile is required.

[0008] According to another aspect, a computer-readable non-transitory storage medium may include a storage medium on which one or more programs containing instructions for executing the method described above are recorded.

[0009] As described above, if calibration of the power profile currently used in the aerosol generator is required, it is updated to a new power profile. Accordingly, since aerosols can be generated by controlling dielectric heating with a power profile optimized for the usage pattern of the aerosol generator, efficient control of dielectric heating is possible, and an enhanced smoking sensation can be provided to the user.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a power profile according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a method for generating a power profile to be used in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a comparison between a preset power profile and a change in power supply during actual smoking when dielectric heating is performed in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for performing calibration of a power profile according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a method for determining whether calibration of a power profile is required according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a power profile updated through calibration according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a method for setting up a power profile update function according to one embodiment.

[0018] According to one aspect, an aerosol generating device comprises: a source unit that generates a microwave signal to perform dielectric heating using microwaves on an aerosol generating article; and a control unit that controls the intensity of the microwave signal by controlling the power to be supplied from a power source to the source unit, wherein the control unit includes a processor that monitors power feedback data regarding the power supplied to the source unit while performing the dielectric heating with a preset power profile during a smoking session, and updates the power profile based on the monitored power feedback data when calibration of the target powers of the power profile is required.

[0019] In addition, the processor determines whether calibration is required by analyzing data regarding the power difference between the target powers of the power profile and the powers provided to the source unit from the monitored power feedback data.

[0020] In addition, the data regarding the power difference includes at least one of the frequency at which a power difference exceeding a predetermined range occurs between the target powers and the powers provided to the source unit, the period during which the power difference exceeding the predetermined range is maintained, the magnitude of the power difference, and the time period during which the power difference occurs frequently.

[0021] In addition, the processor updates the power profile by determining that calibration is required when the data regarding the analyzed power difference satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0022] In addition, the above-mentioned predetermined conditions include at least one of the following: when the frequency of power difference occurring within a certain period is greater than a predetermined number of times; when the power difference is maintained for a predetermined period of time; when the magnitude of the power difference is greater than a predetermined magnitude; and when it is repeated for every predetermined number of smoking sessions.

[0023] In addition, the processor updates the power profile by calibrating the target powers among the target powers of the power profile that are determined to require calibration, using the power data included in the power feedback data.

[0024] In addition, the power feedback data includes data on the actual power supplied to the power amplifier equipped in the source unit.

[0025] According to another aspect, a method for controlling an aerosol generating device comprises: setting a power profile to perform dielectric heating using microwaves on an aerosol generating article when a smoking session is initiated; monitoring power feedback data for powers provided to a source unit that generates a microwave signal while performing dielectric heating with the set power profile during the smoking session; determining whether calibration of the power profile is required based on the monitored power feedback data when the smoking session is terminated; and updating the power profile based on the monitored power feedback data when it is determined that calibration of the power profile is required.

[0026] In addition, the above-mentioned determining step determines whether calibration is required by analyzing data regarding the power difference between the target powers of the power profile and the powers provided to the source unit from the above-mentioned monitored power feedback data.

[0027] In addition, the data regarding the power difference includes at least one of the frequency at which a power difference exceeding a predetermined range occurs between the target powers and the powers provided to the source unit, the period during which the power difference exceeding the predetermined range is maintained, the magnitude of the power difference, and the time period during which the power difference occurs frequently.

[0028] Additionally, the above-mentioned determining step determines that calibration is required when the data regarding the analyzed power difference satisfies a predetermined condition, and the predetermined condition includes at least one of the following: when the frequency of power difference occurrence within a certain period is greater than a predetermined number of times; when the power difference is maintained for a predetermined period of time; when the magnitude of the power difference occurs greater than a predetermined size; and when it is repeated for every predetermined number of smoking sessions.

[0029] In addition, the updating step updates the power profile by calibrating the target powers among the target powers of the power profile that are determined to require calibration using the power data included in the power feedback data.

[0030] In addition, the power feedback data includes data on the actual power supplied to the power amplifier equipped in the source unit.

[0031] According to another aspect, a computer-readable non-transitory storage medium may include a storage medium on which one or more programs containing instructions for executing the method described above are recorded.

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numeral regardless of the drawing symbols, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar drawing symbols may be used for similar or related components.

[0033] The suffixes "module" and "unit" for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the sake of ease of drafting the specification, and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Meanwhile, the suffixes "module" or "unit" may include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. "Module" or "unit" may be a component formed as a whole, or the smallest unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, "module" or "unit" may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0034] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, such detailed description is omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings; it should be understood that the drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the concept and technical scope of this disclosure.

[0035] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0036] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0037] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0038] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory) that is readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)). For example, a processor (e.g., processor (170)) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0040] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device (1) may include a control unit (10), a source unit (20), and a radiating unit (30). The control unit (10) may refer to a circuit for controlling the basic operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The source unit (20) may refer to a circuit for generating an RF (Radio Frequency) signal under the control of the control unit (10). The radiating unit (30) may be a device for radiating the RF signal generated by the source unit (20) in the form of an electromagnetic wave into a space (hereinafter, insertion space) into which an aerosol generating article is inserted. The charges or ions of a dielectric (e.g., glycerin) contained in the aerosol generating article may vibrate or rotate due to the radiated electromagnetic wave (e.g., RF signal), and the aerosol generating article may be heated as the dielectric heats up due to the frictional heat generated during the process of the charges or ions vibrating or rotating. In other words, the aerosol generating device (1) may be a device that generates aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article using a dielectric heating method.

[0041] In one example, the control unit (10) may include a power connector (110), a charging circuit (120), a power source (130), a first power converter (140), a second power converter (150), a third power converter (160) and / or a processor (170). Additionally, the source unit (20) may include an RF signal generation circuit (210), a drive amplifier (220), a power amplifier (230), a directional coupler (240) and / or a temperature sensing circuit (250). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to this embodiment that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), some of the components shown in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0042] The power connector (110) may refer to a physical connection device used to transmit and receive power by being electrically connected to an electronic device or system (e.g., an external power source) outside the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the power connector (110) may receive power from an external power source and transmit the received power to a component that requires charging (e.g., a power source (130)). The power connector (110) may also provide a path for data transmission. In this case, the power connector (110) may be referred to as a data and power connector. The aerosol generating device (1) may transmit and receive data to and from an external electronic device or system (e.g., a smartphone, a computer, etc.) through the power connector (110). The power connector (110) may include a USB (Universal Serial Bus) power connector, a DC (Direct Current) power connector, etc. In one example, the power connector (110) may be a USB-C type connector capable of supplying a 9V DC voltage with a current of 1A, but is not necessarily limited thereto. The power connector (110) may also include an interface for wirelessly transmitting and receiving power.

[0043] The charging circuit (120) may refer to a circuit for charging the power source (130). The charging circuit (120) may charge the power source (130) using power delivered from the power connector (110). In one example, the charging circuit (120) may be implemented as a charger IC, which is an integrated circuit (IC) that performs functions for efficiently and safely charging the power source (130). The charging circuit (120) may monitor the charging status of the power source (130) or optimize the charging process by monitoring the voltage, current, and / or temperature of the power source (130). For example, the charging circuit (120) may detect the state of the power source (130) and prevent overcharging or over-discharging by providing an appropriate charging voltage and current.

[0044] The power source (130) can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The power source (130) may include one or more rechargeable batteries. The power source (130) can supply power to the radiating unit (30) so that the radiating unit (30) can radiate electromagnetic waves (e.g., RF signals) into the insertion space to heat the aerosol generating article. Here, power supply to the radiating unit (30) may have the same meaning as power supply to the source unit (20). Additionally, the power source (130) can supply power required for the operation of the processor (170), RF signal generating circuit (210), driving amplifier (220), power amplifier (230), temperature sensing circuit (250), etc. In one example, the power source (130) may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source (130) may be a replaceable type (detachable) battery (hereinafter, removable battery). The removable battery may be mounted in a battery housing provided within the aerosol generating device (1) or removed from the battery housing. The removable battery may be charged via wired and / or wireless connections.

[0045] The aerosol generating device (1) may include a power conversion circuit for converting power supplied from a power source (130) into power (e.g., voltage and / or current) suitable for other components. The power conversion circuit may include at least one of a buck converter, a buck-boost converter, a boost converter, a Zener diode, and a low-dropout regulator. Additionally, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter) as needed.

[0046] In one example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a first power converter (140), a second power converter (150), and a third power converter (160). The first power converter (140) is an LDO regulator for supplying power (e.g., DC 3.3V) suitable for a processor (170), the second power converter (150) is a buck-boost converter for supplying power (e.g., DC 5V) suitable for a temperature sensing circuit (250), an RF signal generating circuit (210), and a driving amplifier (220), and the third power converter (160) may be a boost converter for supplying power (e.g., DC 12V / 25W) suitable for a power amplifier (230).

[0047] However, the first power converter (140), the second power converter (150), and the third power converter (160) are not limited to the examples described above and may include other types of power converter circuits. Additionally, although FIG. 1 is illustrated as having three power converters, the aerosol generating device (1) may include more than three power converters or fewer power converters. In one example, at least some of the first power converter (140), the second power converter (150), and the third power converter (160) may be integrated into a single power converter.

[0048] The processor (170) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the processor (170) can directly or indirectly control the charging and discharging of the power supply (130) using the charging circuit (120). Additionally, the processor (170) can control the voltage and / or current output by the power conversion circuit by adjusting the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulse input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit. In addition to the components described above, the processor (170) can control the overall operation of other components to be described later.

[0049] The processor (170) may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose MCU (micro controller unit) (or microprocessor) and memory storing a program that can be executed on such MCU. Additionally, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment belongs that the processor (170) may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0050] The RF signal generation circuit (210) can generate an RF signal based on power delivered from the power source (130) or the second power converter (150). The RF signal may refer to a signal having a frequency within the range of 300 MHz to 300 GHz. In one example, the RF signal may have a frequency of 1 GHz to 100 GHz. Additionally, the RF signal may have a frequency in the ISM (Industrial Scientific and Medical Equipment) band, for example, 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, and / or 5.8 GHz. In these embodiments, the RF signal may be otherwise referred to as electromagnetic waves, microwaves, etc.

[0051] The RF signal generation circuit (210) may include a Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO) that generates an RF signal having a different frequency depending on the input voltage. The RF signal generation circuit (210) may receive a control signal (e.g., a DC signal) from the processor (170) and generate an RF signal having a frequency corresponding to the received control signal. The processor (170) may store the control signal corresponding to the desired frequency in the form of a look-up table, or calculate the control signal corresponding to the desired frequency in real time through at least one operation.

[0052] In one example, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a digital-to-analog converter for converting a digital control signal output from a processor (170) into an analog control signal. An RF signal generating circuit (210) may receive an analog control signal and generate an RF signal having a frequency corresponding to the received analog control signal.

[0053] The driving amplifier (220) can amplify the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit (210). For example, the driving amplifier (220) can provide an input signal suitable for the next stage component (e.g., power amplifier (230)) by amplifying the signal level (e.g., amplitude) of the RF signal. The driving amplifier (220) can minimize signal distortion by maintaining high linearity. However, since the driving amplifier (220) is an amplifier focused on raising the signal level, it can provide relatively low output power.

[0054] The power amplifier (230) can amplify the power of the RF signal received from the driving amplifier (220). The power amplifier (230) may be an amplifier focused on providing sufficient power to the final output device (e.g., the radiator (30)). For example, the power amplifier (230) may provide a high-power RF signal to the radiator (30) so that the radiator (30) can radiate electromagnetic waves into the insertion space to heat the aerosol generating article. The power amplifier (230) may perform the amplification operation using power received through a third power converter (160) that provides higher power and / or voltage than the second power converter (150).

[0055] The driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) may include transistors such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or a field effect transistor (FET), or vacuum tubes. In one example, the driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) may be GaN (Gallium Nitride) transistors capable of handling high efficiency, high speed, and high voltage, but are not necessarily limited thereto. The driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) may also include an operational amplifier.

[0056] Meanwhile, in FIG. 1, the driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) are shown as separate amplifiers, but the driving amplifier (220) and the power amplifier (230) can be integrated into a single amplifier. Additionally, the driving amplifier (220) and / or the power amplifier (230) may be configured as a series connection, a parallel connection, and / or a combination thereof of a plurality of amplifiers.

[0057] The radiating member (30) may include at least one antenna for radiating electromagnetic waves into space. The at least one antenna may have a size and shape suitable for the size and shape of the aerosol generating article. For example, if the aerosol generating article is cylindrical, the at least one antenna may be tubular, surrounding the cylindrical aerosol generating article. Here, the fact that the shape of the antenna is tubular may mean that the overall shape of the antenna is tubular. In other words, if the antenna is formed from a metal (e.g., SUS) track, it may mean that the overall shape of the entire track is tubular. The shape of the at least one antenna is not limited to the examples described above and may include various shapes such as a flat plate shape, a curved plate shape, etc.

[0058] The radiating unit (30) can heat an aerosol generating article by radiating electromagnetic waves (e.g., amplified RF signal or transmitted RF signal) into the insertion space. In order for the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating article to be maximized, resonance of the electromagnetic waves must occur within the insertion space. The resonance condition of the insertion space (e.g., resonance frequency) may vary depending on the type and amount of dielectric material contained in the inserted aerosol generating article. The processor (170) can control the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generating circuit (210) so that it corresponds to or approaches the resonance condition of the insertion space by adjusting the control signal input to the RF signal generating circuit (210). The processor (170) may use a directional coupler (240) to obtain information about the resonance condition of the insertion space.

[0059] The directional coupler (240) may refer to a passive element having a waveguide structure capable of separating incident waves and reflected waves. The directional coupler (240) can receive an RF signal transmitted from the power amplifier (230) toward the radiating unit (30) and an electromagnetic wave reflected from the insertion space after being radiated by the radiating unit (30), respectively. The directional coupler (240) can separate the transmitted RF signal and the reflected electromagnetic wave and transmit them to the processor (170).

[0060] In one example, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include an analog-to-digital converter for converting the analog output of a directional coupler (240) into a digital output. The A / D converter may be built into the processor (170) or may exist as a separate configuration outside the processor (170). By monitoring the output of the directional coupler (240), the processor (170) can analyze the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase and / or frequency) and the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic wave (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase and / or frequency).

[0061] The processor (170) can determine whether the operation of the source unit (20) is being performed as intended based on the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal. Additionally, the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal, along with the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic waves, can be used to determine the heating efficiency of the source unit (20) or the radiating unit (30). The processor (170) can control the source unit (20) so that the heating efficiency of the source unit (20) or the radiating unit (30) is maximized. For example, the processor (170) can adjust the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generation circuit (210) so that the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves is minimized. Minimizing the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves may mean that the frequency of the RF signal approaches the resonance condition of the insertion space. The characteristics of the transmitted RF signal can provide a criterion for whether the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves is minimized.

[0062] Since electromagnetic resonance may occur in the insertion space depending on the frequency of the RF signal, the insertion space may be referred to as a resonant section. At least a portion of the insertion space may be surrounded by at least one shielding member to prevent electromagnetic waves from leaking outside the aerosol generating device (1). According to one embodiment, the insertion space may further include a physical structure to ensure that the resonance condition is contained within a controllable range by the processor (170). The physical structure may include at least one conductor, and the resonance condition of the insertion space may vary depending on the arrangement, thickness, length, etc. of the conductor. Additionally, the physical structure may include a space for accommodating a dielectric with low electromagnetic wave absorption, separate from the dielectric included in the aerosol generating article. A dielectric with low electromagnetic wave absorption can change the resonance frequency of the entire resonant section without absorbing the energy that must be transferred to the heated body. Accordingly, even if the resonant section is miniaturized, the resonance condition can be determined within a controllable range by the processor (170).

[0063] A temperature sensing circuit (250) may be placed in contact with or adjacent to components included in the source section (20) to measure the temperature of the source section (20). For example, the temperature sensing circuit (250) may be placed in contact with or adjacent to at least one of the RF signal generation circuit (210), the driving amplifier (220), and the power amplifier (230). Heat may be generated due to limited efficiency during the generation and / or amplification of the RF signal, and if excessive heat is generated, it may have a negative effect on the components included in the source section (20) or other components included in the aerosol generating device (1). The temperature measured by the temperature sensing circuit (250) may be used to prevent overheating of the source section (20).

[0064] The processor (170) receives the temperature (or a value corresponding to the temperature) measured by the temperature sensing circuit (250) and can stop the operation of the source unit (20) if it is determined that the source unit (20) has overheated. For example, the processor (170) can stop the operation of the source unit (20) by stopping the power supply to the source unit (20) or by transmitting a control signal. In the following, the term "power supply to the source unit (20)" is used to mean controlling whether the source unit (20) operates.

[0065] The temperature sensing circuit (250) may include at least one temperature sensor among a thermocouple, an RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector), a thermistor, a semiconductor temperature sensor, and an optical temperature sensor. In one example, the temperature sensing circuit (250) may be implemented as a chip-type sensor (e.g., an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) sensor) to minimize the area occupied, but is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0066] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (1) may include additional components in addition to the components shown in FIG. 1. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a sensor unit, an output unit, an input unit, a communication unit, and a memory. Additionally, if the aerosol generating device (1) is a hybrid type device that uses both an aerosol generating article and a cartridge, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a cartridge heater. The cartridge heater can heat the medium and / or aerosol generating material within the cartridge by receiving power from the power source (130).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit may detect the state of the aerosol generating device (1) or the state of the surroundings of the aerosol generating device (1) and transmit the detected information to the processor (170). For example, the sensor unit may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a reuse detection sensor, an overly moist detection sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, a cap detection sensor, and / or a motion detection sensor. Meanwhile, the sensor unit may further include various sensors, such as a liquid residue sensor for detecting the liquid residue in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for detecting the water immersion of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0068] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature of an insertion space or an aerosol-generating article. The temperature sensor may be positioned in contact with or adjacent to the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article to directly measure the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the temperature sensor may be positioned spaced apart from the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article to indirectly (e.g., non-contact) measure the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article. In one example, the temperature sensor may include an optical temperature sensor (e.g., an infrared temperature sensor).

[0069] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature of a power source (130). The temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power source (130). For example, the temperature sensor may be attached to one side of the power source (130) (e.g., a battery) or / or mounted on one side of a printed circuit board. For example, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a protection circuit module (PCM), and the temperature sensor may be positioned adjacent to the power source (130) together with the protection circuit module.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may be placed inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device (1) to detect the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0072] For example, the puff sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1), and the processor (170) may detect the user's puff based on the signal corresponding to the internal pressure. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device (1) may correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor may be positioned in the aerosol generating device (1) in correspondence with the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0073] As another example, the puff sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user's puff occurs, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, insertion space, aerosol generating item, etc. The processor (170) can detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the temperature of the airflow path, etc. output from the temperature sensor.

[0074] As another example, the puff sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor may measure the temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an example, the puff sensor may correct a signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the puff sensor may output a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the puff sensor. In this case, the processor (170) may receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0075] As another example, the puff sensor may include a capacitance sensor. In the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor may also be referred to as a capacitive sensor. When a user's puff occurs, a temperature change and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space, and accordingly, the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may change. The processor (170) can detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0076] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0077] According to one embodiment, an insertion detection sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion detection sensor may be installed around the insertion space.

[0078] For example, the insertion detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor may change. The processor (170) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0079] As another example, the insertion detection sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and said at least one coil may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. If the aerosol generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space or removed from the insertion space, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil through which the current flows. The processor (170) may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency of the alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.). Alternatively, a susceptor (e.g., SUS) may be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the medium portion of the aerosol generating article). In this case as well, a change in the magnetic field around the coil may occur based on the insertion or removal of a susceptor, etc., within the insertion space, and the processor (170) may detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article based on the characteristics of the current of the inductive sensor.

[0080] The insertion detection sensor is not limited to the examples described above and may be implemented as various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors, etc.) for detecting the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the insertion detection sensor may include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor may include a switch, etc., for detecting pressure caused by an aerosol-generating article.

[0081] According to one embodiment, a reuse detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is reused. For example, the reuse detection sensor may be a color sensor for detecting the color of the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article is used by a user, a change in color may occur in a part of the wrapper covering the outside of the aerosol-generating article due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor may output a signal corresponding to an optical characteristic (e.g., wavelength of light) corresponding to the color of the wrapper based on light reflected from the wrapper. When the processor (170) detects a change in color in a part of the wrapper, it may determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has already been used.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the over-humidity detection sensor can detect whether the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor disposed adjacent to an insertion space. The processor (170) can detect whether the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., output from the capacitance sensor. For example, the processor (170) can determine the level range in which the level of the signal is included based on a look-up table, and determine the amount of moisture for the aerosol generating article based on the confirmed level range.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine or / or detect the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0084] For example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a light sensor for detecting an identification material (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., wrapper) of an aerosol-generating article. The light sensor may irradiate light toward the identification material (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or of a specific type based on the reflected light. For example, the identification material may include a material that emits light of a specific band of wavelength based on the irradiated light. The processor (170) may detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or of a specific type based on the range of the wavelengths.

[0085] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating item inserted into the insertion space. The processor (170) can detect whether the aerosol-generating item is genuine and / or of the type based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitive sensor.

[0086] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. If a conductor is included in the wrapper and / or interior (e.g., the medium) of the aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space, the characteristics of the current detected by the inductive sensor when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space (e.g., frequency of alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) may differ depending on the type of aerosol generating article inserted into the insertion space. The processor (170) can detect whether the inserted aerosol generating article is genuine and / or of the type based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor.

[0087] The cigarette identification sensor is not limited to the examples described above and may be implemented as various sensors for detecting whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine or / or for detecting the type of an aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the cigarette identification sensor may include any combination of the examples described above.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the cartridge detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of a cartridge. For example, the cartridge detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0089] According to one embodiment, a cap detection sensor can detect the mounting and / or removal of a cap. For example, the cap detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device (1), or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device (1). The cap detection sensor may output a signal corresponding to the mounting or removal when the cap is mounted on the housing or removed from the housing, and the processor (170) may detect the mounting or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the mounting or removal.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the motion detection sensor can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device (1). The motion detection sensor may be implemented as at least one of an accelerometer or a gyro sensor.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System, GPS), or a proximity sensor in addition to the aforementioned sensors. Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, a detailed description may be omitted.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the output unit may output information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1). The output unit may include a display, a haptic unit and / or an acoustic output unit, but is not limited thereto. For example, information regarding the aerosol generating device (1) may include the charging / discharging state of the power supply (130) of the aerosol generating device (1), the operating state of the source unit (20) or the radiation unit (30), the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the mounting and / or removal state of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal article). The display may visually provide information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the display may include an LED (light emitting diode) light-emitting element, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), an Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLED), etc. The display can also be used as an input unit if it includes a touch pad. The haptic unit can provide tactile information about the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the haptic unit may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electric stimulation device, etc. The acoustic output unit can provide auditory information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it externally.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the input unit can receive information input by a user. For example, the input unit may include a touch panel, a button, a keypad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the memory is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (1), and can store data processed by the processor (170) and data to be processed. For example, the memory may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. For example, the memory may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the communication unit may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device (e.g., a portable electronic device). For example, the communication unit may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a wireless local area network (WLAN) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wireless Fidelity Direct (WFD) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Adaptive Network Topology (ANT)+ communication unit, a cellular network communication unit, an internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the temperature of the insertion space or aerosol generating article by controlling the amplification rate of the source unit (20) (e.g., power amplifier (230)). The processor (170) can control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) (e.g., power amplifier (230)) based on the temperature of the insertion space or aerosol generating article detected using a temperature sensor. The processor (170) can control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) (e.g., power amplifier (230)) based on a temperature profile and / or power profile stored in memory.

[0097] Additionally, the processor (170) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater by controlling the supply of power from the power supply (130) to the cartridge heater. The processor (170) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the power supplied to the cartridge heater based on the temperature of the cartridge heater detected using a temperature sensor. The processor (170) can control the temperature of the cartridge heater and / or the power supplied to the cartridge heater based on a temperature profile and / or power profile stored in memory.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can prevent the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, and / or the cartridge heater from overheating. For example, the processor (170) can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to reduce the amount of power supplied to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater, or to stop the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater, based on the fact that the temperature of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, and / or the cartridge heater exceeds a preset limit temperature.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on the result detected by the sensor unit.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article into the insertion space. For example, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when it is determined, using an insertion detection sensor, that an aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space. The processor (170) may cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when it is determined, using an insertion detection sensor, that an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space. The processor (170) may also determine that an aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article is above a limit temperature or if the temperature change slope of the insertion space or the aerosol-generating article is above a set slope.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount for the source unit (20) or cartridge heater based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, the processor (170) can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) for the source unit (20) or cartridge heater if it is determined that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humid state using an over-humidity detection sensor.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating article is reused. For example, if the processor (170) determines that the aerosol generating article has been used, it can cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the cartridge is coupled and / or removed. For example, if the processor (170) determines using a cartridge detection sensor that the cartridge is separated, it can stop the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater or control the power supply so that power is not supplied to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted. For example, the processor (170) may determine that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted if it determines that the temperature of the cartridge heater exceeds a limit temperature while preheating the cartridge heater (i.e., during the preheating period). If it determines that the aerosol generating material of the cartridge is depleted, the processor (170) may cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the cartridge is usable. For example, the processor (170) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if, based on data stored in memory, the current number of puffs is determined to be greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge. Alternatively, the processor (170) may determine that the cartridge is unusable if the total time the cartridge heater is heated is greater than or equal to a preset maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater is greater than or equal to a preset maximum amount of power. In this case, the processor (170) may stop the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater, or control the supply so that power is not supplied to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on the user's puff. For example, the processor (170) can determine whether a puff has occurred and / or the intensity of the puff using a puff sensor. The processor (170) can cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs or / or when no puff is detected for a preset time or longer. The processor (170) may also control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater when a puff is detected.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine and / or of a specific type. For example, the processor (170) may detect whether the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine and / or of a specific type using a cigarette identification sensor. For example, if the processor (170) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is counterfeit, it may cut off the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater. If the processor (170) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine, it may control (e.g., initiate) the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater. For another example, the processor (170) may control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater differently depending on the specific type of the aerosol generating item (or cartridge). More specifically, the processor (170) can control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) or the temperature and / or power of the cartridge heater based on a first temperature profile (or a first power profile) when the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is detected to be a first aerosol generating item (or a first cartridge), and control the amplification rate of the source unit (20) or the temperature and / or power of the cartridge heater based on a second temperature profile (or a second power profile) when the aerosol generating item (or a second cartridge) is detected to be a second aerosol generating item (or a second cartridge).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may control the output unit based on the result detected by the sensor unit. For example, the processor (170) may control the output unit to provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information that the aerosol generating device (1) will soon be terminated when the number of puffs counted using the puff sensor reaches a preset number. For example, the processor (170) may control the output unit to provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information regarding the temperature of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, or the cartridge heater.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may store and update a history of the event that occurred in memory based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. For example, the event may include operations performed by the aerosol generating device (1), such as detection of insertion of an aerosol generating item, initiation of heating of the aerosol generating item, puff detection, puff termination, overheating detection, detection of overvoltage application to a cartridge heater, termination of heating of the aerosol generating item, power on / off of the aerosol generating device (1), initiation of charging of the power supply (130), detection of overcharging of the power supply (130), termination of charging of the power supply (130), etc. For example, the history of the event may include the time and date when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is detection of insertion of an aerosol generating item, the log data corresponding to the event may include data regarding the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating of the cartridge heater, the log data corresponding to the event may include data regarding the temperature of the cartridge heater, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater, the current flowing through the cartridge heater, etc.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the communication unit to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0111] According to one embodiment, when the processor (170) receives authentication data from an external device via a communication link, it may release the restriction on the use of at least one function (e.g., heating function) of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique number representing the user, whether the user's authentication is complete, etc.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can transmit data regarding the status of the aerosol generating device (1) (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply (130), operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The transmitted data can be output through a display of the external device, etc.

[0113] According to one embodiment, when a processor (170) receives a request to search for the location of an aerosol generating device (1) from an external device via a communication link, the processor (170) may control an output unit to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the processor (170) may control a haptic unit to generate vibrations or control a display to output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can perform a firmware update when firmware data is received from an external device through a communication link.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) transmits data regarding the sensing value of at least one sensor unit to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and receives and stores a learning model generated by learning the sensing value through machine learning, such as deep learning, from the server. The processor (170) can use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0116] Although not illustrated in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit includes at least one switching element and can cut off the circuit to the power source (130) in response to overcharging and / or overdischarging of the power source (130).

[0117] The aerosol generating article mentioned in the present disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium part) and at least one filter rod. The spinning part (30) may be positioned to correspond to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating material, and an additive. For example, the aerosol generating material may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may include various other materials. For example, the additive may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may include various other materials. For example, the aerosol generating rod may comprise an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a non-tobacco substance in a liquid state (e.g., an aerosol generating substance and / or nicotine), and / or may comprise a tobacco substance in a solid state (e.g., leaf tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). The tobacco substance may be included in the aerosol generating rod in various forms, such as cut tobacco, granules, or powder. According to one embodiment, the additive of the aerosol generating rod may comprise a basic substance. Based on the basic substance, the nicotine in the tobacco substance included in the aerosol generating rod may have a basic pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, freebase nicotine may be released from the aerosol generating rod even at low temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod comprises two or more aerosol generating rods, and said two or more aerosol generating rods may each comprise a tobacco substance and / or a non-tobacco substance.Meanwhile, although not illustrated, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each and / or integrally be wrapped by at least one wrapper. In the present disclosure, the aerosol generating article may be referred to as a stick.

[0118] The cartridge mentioned in the present disclosure may contain an aerosol generating material having any one of the states, such as a liquid state, a solid state, a gaseous state, or a gel state. The aerosol generating material may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material containing a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco material. Meanwhile, the cartridge may include a storage portion containing the aerosol generating material and / or a liquid delivery means impregnated (containing) the aerosol generating material. For example, the liquid delivery means may include a wick such as a cotton fiber, a ceramic fiber, a glass fiber, or a porous ceramic. A cartridge heater may be included in the cartridge in a coil-shaped structure that surrounds (or winds) the liquid delivery means or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid delivery means. Alternatively, the cartridge heater may be included in an aerosol generating device (1) that is detachable from the cartridge.

[0119] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a power profile according to one embodiment.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 2, the power profile (201) represents the change in target power supplied to the source unit (20) over time in the aerosol generating device (1). Specifically, the radiating unit (30) can control the intensity of the electromagnetic waves (microwaves) to be radiated into the insertion space for heating the aerosol generating article. At this time, the intensity of the electromagnetic waves can be controlled depending on the amplification level (amplification rate) of the power amplifier (230) provided in the source unit (20). For example, if the radiating unit (30) needs to radiate relatively high-output electromagnetic waves, the power amplifier (230) increases the amplification rate, and if it needs to radiate relatively low-output electromagnetic waves, the power amplifier (230) lowers the amplification rate, thereby controlling the intensity of the electromagnetic waves to be radiated. The amplification rate by the power amplifier (230) can be changed by the magnitude of the power supplied to the power amplifier (230).

[0121] According to one embodiment, the power profile (201) may correspond to a predefined profile of pre-set target powers for the power to be supplied to the power amplifier (230) of the source unit (20). Referring to the power profile (201), after the operation of the source unit (20) is initiated, a preheating phase may proceed in which the output power of the source unit (20) (power amplifier (230)) is increased within a short period of time in order to rapidly increase the temperature of the dielectric within the insertion space and the aerosol generating item for a certain period of time. Once the preheating is complete, a smoking phase may proceed in which the user can perform a puff. In the smoking phase, a period in which the change in target power is not significant may continue until the end of smoking, and the level of target power may be set to be relatively lower than that of the preheating phase.

[0122] Changes in the target power on the power profile (201) correspond to changes in the output power of the source unit (20) (power amplifier (230)), and the intensity of the output electromagnetic wave (output microwave) of the radiating unit (30) corresponds to changes in the output power of the source unit (20) (power amplifier (230)). The intensity of the radiated electromagnetic wave also affects the degree of heat generation caused by frictional heat of the dielectric material within the aerosol generating item. Accordingly, the temperature of the insertion space and the dielectric material within the aerosol generating item in the preheating section and smoking section can be changed to follow the trend of changes in the target power on the power profile (201).

[0123] Meanwhile, the power profile (201) shown in FIG. 2 corresponds to any profile presented for convenience of explanation, and the power profiles available for use in the aerosol generating device (1) are not limited by FIG. 2.

[0124] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a method for generating a power profile to be used in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 3, a power profile can be generated using a test cigarette (311) and an aerosol tester (312). Here, the test cigarette (311) is manufactured through a production process under the same conditions and may correspond to a cigarette manufactured such that the specifications of the cigarette, such as the length of the cigarette, the type of medium, and the content of the medium, are identical. However, due to actual manufacturing process errors, there may be slight differences within the error range for each test cigarette (311).

[0126] The aerosol tester (312) is a device having a heater assembly (321) manufactured similarly to the structure of the heater assembly of the aerosol generating device (1). The heater assembly (321) may be manufactured similarly to internal and external structures provided for dielectric heating, such as the insertion space, source part (20), and radiation part (30) of the aerosol generating device (1), for example. It may be a device that operates to simulate the user's smoking behavior when a test cigarette (311) is inserted. Specifically, the heater assembly (321) of the aerosol tester (312) has a structure having a cavity that accommodates the test cigarette (311), and may be equipped with structures and parts for heating the test cigarette (311) using electromagnetic waves (microwaves) by a dielectric heating method, similar to the aerosol generating device (1).

[0127] The aerosol tester (312) can be operated during a preset smoking test session with the same smoking constraint as the aerosol generating device (1), until a predetermined time (e.g., 4 minutes and 30 seconds) has elapsed after the smoking test has started or until a predetermined number of puffs (e.g., 16 times) has been reached.

[0128] The aerosol tester (312) can explore an optimal power profile by varying the dielectric heating conditions of the heater assembly (321) so that the expected amount of aerosol vapor is generated from the test cigarette (311) during the smoking test session of the test cigarette (311). Here, the dielectric heating conditions may be conditions in which the magnitude of the amount of power to be supplied at each time interval during the smoking test session is set differently.

[0129] For example, when cigarette 1 is inserted into the aerosol tester (312), the heater assembly (321) of the aerosol tester (312) can perform dielectric heating on cigarette 1 based on a first power condition. When dielectric heating is initiated, the aerosol analyzer (322) can obtain data on the amount of power supplied to the heater assembly (321) for each time period during the smoking test session and data on the amount of aerosol vaporized by the aerosol analyzer (322). At this time, temperature data for cigarette 1 or temperature data for the heater assembly (321) can also be obtained through a temperature sensor installed inside the heater assembly (321) or a temperature sensor installed outside the heater assembly (321). When the smoking test for cigarette 1 is completed, data on the amount of medium (aerosol generating material) present in cigarette 1 can also be obtained separately. That is, the aerosol tester (312) obtains various analysis data such as the amount of aerosol vaporized (amount produced) and the amount of medium (aerosol generating material) consumed from cigarette 1 consumed by dielectric heating according to the first power condition.

[0130] Meanwhile, such smoking tests can be performed on all test cigarettes (311), such as cigarettes 2, ..., cigarette n (n is a natural number), under second power conditions, ..., n power conditions.

[0131] It may be desirable for the aerosol tester (312) to analyze the amount of vapor produced from the test cigarette (311) under various dielectric heating conditions to find a power profile that produces a uniform amount of aerosol throughout the entire smoking test session. As a result of the test, the power profile thus found can be determined to be the final power profile (301).

[0132] Referring to the final power profile (301), the time to reach the target preheating temperature after the start of preheating, the amount of power supplied to reach the target preheating temperature, the time for maintaining the temperature after reaching the target preheating temperature, the amount of power supplied to maintain the temperature after reaching the target preheating temperature, and the target amount of power per time period during the smoking period are set. However, the final power profile (301) shown in FIG. 3 is merely an example for convenience of explanation, and the final power profile (301) may also include power profiles with other trends.

[0133] When a final power profile (301) is obtained through an aerosol tester (312), the final power profile (301) can be stored as an initial power profile in the memory of the aerosol generating device (1) for controlling dielectric heating of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0134] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a comparison between a preset power profile and a change in power supply during actual smoking when dielectric heating is performed in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 4, the aerosol generating device (1) controls the power supply based on a preset power profile (401) while dielectric heating is being performed. Here, the control of the power supply may mean controlling the intensity of the electromagnetic waves (microwaves) to be output from the radiating unit (30) according to the amplification level (amplification rate) of the power amplifier (230) provided in the source unit (20), as previously described.

[0136] The power profile (401) may be pre-set for optimal aerosol generation from the aerosol generating device (1) according to the method described in FIG. 3. However, the aerosol generating device (1) may operate in an environment different from the test environment conditions due to external factors such as the user's inhalation intensity, usage pattern, and ambient temperature / humidity. Therefore, even if the optimal power profile (401) is set, the target power set in the power profile (401) may not be maintained during the actual operation of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0137] The actual power change graph (402) exemplarily illustrates the change in actual power supplied while the aerosol generating device (1) performs a smoking session by the user. According to the actual power change graph (402), it can be seen that the trend of power change over the entire section is controlled to follow the trend of change in target power in the power profile (401). However, in the sections (410) indicated by arrows, feedback control may be performed so that power exceeding the target power is supplied and then follows the target power again.

[0138] The processor (170) can perform feedback control while monitoring the power actually supplied to the power amplifier (230) relative to the target powers of the preset power profile (401) while the aerosol generating device (1) performs a smoking session using dielectric heating. Here, the processor (170) can perform feedback control while monitoring the power supplied to other components, such as the RF signal generating circuit (210) and the driving amplifier (220), in addition to the power amplifier (230).

[0139] Specifically, the processor (170) can monitor the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal (radiated electromagnetic wave) (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase and / or frequency) and the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic wave (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase and / or frequency) by monitoring the output of the directional coupler (240). Accordingly, the processor (170) can perform feedback control on the operation of the source unit (20) based on the characteristics of the transmitted RF signal. For example, the processor (170) can adjust the frequency of the RF signal so that the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave is minimized, or adjust the amplification rate of the RF signal by an amplifier (e.g., power amplifier (230)).

[0140] In the sections (410) indicated by arrows in the actual power change graph (402), power exceeding the target powers was supplied, but this may be because power different from the target power was supplied to maximize heating efficiency by RF signals while minimizing the power of reflected electromagnetic waves. In other words, the power profile (401) preset in the aerosol generating device (1) may differ slightly from the power optimized for aerosol generation during the actual operation of the aerosol generating device (1). If, during the actual operation of the aerosol generating device (1), a tendency for power different from the target powers of the preset power profile (401) to be supplied is continuously monitored, it may be desirable to perform calibration of the power profile (401).

[0141] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for performing calibration of a power profile according to one embodiment.

[0142] The processor (170) performs power feedback control based on a preset power profile while the aerosol generating device (1) performs a smoking session using dielectric heating, and can update the power profile if a significant difference occurs repeatedly / cumulatively between the target power of the preset power profile and the power supplied during actual operation. The process of updating such a power profile will be described.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 5, in step 501, the processor (170) sets a power profile to perform dielectric heating of the aerosol generating item when a smoking session is initiated in the aerosol generating device (1). Here, the power profile may be stored in memory in advance. The power profile is a target power supplied to the source unit (20), specifically, the target power to be supplied to the power amplifier (230) of the source unit (20) at an hourly rate may correspond to the preset profile. However, in addition to the power profile for power control of the power amplifier (230), the processor (170) may also use other power profiles to control the power supplied to other components of the control unit (10) and the source unit (20), such as the RF signal generating circuit (210) and the driving amplifier (220), to perform power control for each component within the aerosol generating device (1).

[0144] In step 502, the processor (170) monitors power feedback data while performing dielectric heating with a set power profile during a smoking session in the aerosol generating device (1). The power feedback data may include data on the power supplied to the power amplifier (230) on an hourly basis to perform dielectric heating. For example, the power feedback data may include data on the difference between the target power and the actual supplied power on the hourly power profile, data on parameters for feedback control (e.g., PID control (Proportional-Integral-Differential control)), etc.

[0145] Meanwhile, the processor (170) can also monitor power supplied to other components of the control unit (10) and source unit (20), such as the RF signal generation circuit (210) and the driving amplifier (220). The processor (170) can also collect power feedback data by monitoring data regarding power supplied to other components of the control unit (10) and source unit (20), such as the RF signal generation circuit (210) and the driving amplifier (220).

[0146] In step 503, the processor (170) determines whether adjustment (calibration) of the preset power profile is required based on the collected power feedback data when the current smoking session ends.

[0147] Specifically, the processor (170) can analyze the frequency at which a power difference exceeding a predetermined range (power feedback margin (Δp)) occurs between the target power on the power profile and the actual supply power within a certain period while dielectric heating is performed with a preset power profile, the duration at which the power difference exceeding the predetermined range is maintained, the magnitude of the power difference, and the time period at which the power difference occurs frequently. If the analysis results satisfy a predetermined condition, the processor (170) can determine that calibration of the power profile is required.

[0148] Here, the specified conditions may include cases where the frequency of power difference occurring within a certain period is greater than a specified number of times (threshold number), cases where the power difference is maintained for a specified time (threshold time), cases where the magnitude of the power difference is greater than a specified magnitude (threshold size), cases where it is repeated for every specified number of smoking sessions (threshold number), etc.

[0149] For example, it can be assumed that within 10 seconds in any first section within a smoking section, the power supplied to the power amplifier (230) is monitored to exceed the target power on the power profile by more than 10% five times, and that the same phenomenon has occurred cumulatively over five past smoking sessions. If such excess power supply occurs repeatedly in the same way, the processor (170) may determine that calibration of the power profile is required.

[0150] Alternatively, if it is analyzed that the phenomenon in which the power supplied to the power amplifier (230) in any second section within the smoking section exceeds the target power on the power profile by more than 15% and is maintained for more than 2 seconds has accumulated over 3 past smoking sessions, the processor (170) may determine that calibration of the power profile is required.

[0151] That is, various conditions can be set for determining whether calibration of the power profile is required, and the processor (170) can determine whether calibration of the power profile is required by comparing the monitored power feedback data with the conditions. If it is determined that calibration of the power profile is required, the processor (170) performs step 504. However, if it is determined that calibration of the power profile is unnecessary, the processor (170) performs step 501 again.

[0152] In step 504, the processor (170) updates the power profile based on the monitored power feedback data. That is, the processor (170) replaces the existing power profile with the calibrated power profile. Thus, when a new smoking session is initiated, the processor (170) controls the dielectric heating with the updated power profile.

[0153] The processor (170), based on the result of the judgment in step 503, updates the target powers among the existing power profiles that are determined to require calibration using power feedback data. For example, the processor (170) can calibrate the target powers of the first section of the existing power profile based on the power supplied in the first section included in the power feedback data. At this time, the processor (170) can calibrate the existing target powers exactly as the power data included in the power feedback data (i.e., 100% reflection), or calibrate them by a certain percentage of the power data included in the power feedback data (i.e., less than 100% reflection).

[0154] In this way, the aerosol generating device (1) can perform more efficient control of dielectric heating by customizing the power profile for controlling dielectric heating to be optimized for the usage pattern of the aerosol generating device (1), and can provide the user with an improved aerosol smoking sensation.

[0155] Meanwhile, although FIG. 5 focuses on a method for a processor (170) to update a power profile based on power supplied to a power amplifier (230), the method of FIG. 5 is not limited thereto and can be similarly applied to methods for a processor (170) to update power profiles for power supplied to other components of the control unit (10) and source unit (20), such as an RF signal generation circuit (210), a driving amplifier (220), etc.

[0156] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a method for determining whether calibration of a power profile is required according to one embodiment.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 6, target powers are pre-set on the power profile, and the processor (170) can obtain power feedback data regarding the actual power applied to the power amplifier (230) in real time through power monitoring. The processor (170) performs feedback control so that the actual power currently supplied to the power amplifier (230) follows the target power on the power profile.

[0158] However, due to various factors such as the usage pattern of the aerosol generating device (1), the internal and external temperatures of the aerosol generating device (1), the characteristics of the aerosol generating material, interference between internal circuits, and battery voltage fluctuations, power may be supplied outside a predetermined range of the power feedback margin (Δp). The processor (170) collects power feedback data and, after the smoking session ends, can determine whether such power supply outside the predetermined range of the power feedback margin (Δp) is a temporary phenomenon or a phenomenon that requires calibration of the target power to satisfy certain conditions.

[0159] For example, as shown in FIG. 6, if the power feedback margin (Δp) is exceeded three or more times during a certain period of time within the smoking interval, and such power excess occurs cumulatively in three consecutive smoking sessions, the processor (170) may determine that calibration of the target power in the corresponding interval of the power profile is required.

[0160] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a power profile updated through calibration according to one embodiment.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 7, the initial power profile (701) is a power profile initially stored in the aerosol generating device (1) and corresponds to a power profile for which no calibration has been performed. For example, the initial power profile (701) may correspond to a power profile stored at the time of factory shipment of the aerosol generating device (1) through test results such as FIG. 3.

[0162] As k smoking sessions (k is a natural number) proceed, the processor (170) may determine that calibration of the target power of the power profile is required in the first section (712) within the smoking period. For example, as k smoking sessions proceed, the processor (170) may determine that the first section (712) has satisfied a predetermined condition for calibration by accumulating over the past 5 smoking sessions in which the power supplied to the power amplifier (230) within 10 seconds has exceeded the target power on the power profile by more than 10% 5 times. Accordingly, the processor (170) may increase the target power by a certain amount based on the power feedback data obtained for the first section (712) and update the initial power profile (701) to the first power profile (702).

[0163] Subsequently, as m smoking sessions (m is a natural number) are further performed, the processor (170) may determine that calibration of the target power of the power profile is required in the second section (713) within the smoking period. For example, as m smoking sessions are further performed, the processor (170) may determine that the second section (713) has satisfied a predetermined condition for calibration, as the phenomenon in which the power supplied to the power amplifier (230) in the second section (713) exceeds the target power on the power profile by more than 15% and is maintained for more than 2 seconds has accumulated over the past three smoking sessions. Accordingly, the processor (170) may increase the target power by a certain amount based on the power feedback data obtained for the second section (713) and update the first power profile (702) to the second power profile (703).

[0164] In this way, the processor (170) continuously monitors the power difference between the power profile currently in use and the power actually supplied to the power amplifier (230) for dielectric heating while the aerosol generating device (1) continues to be used, so that if calibration of the power profile is required, it can update to a new power profile using power feedback data. Accordingly, the aerosol generating device (1) can provide the user with an enhanced smoking sensation by controlling dielectric heating according to a power profile optimized for the usage pattern to generate aerosol from an aerosol generating item.

[0165] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a method for setting up a power profile update function according to one embodiment.

[0166] Referring to reference number 800 in FIG. 8, the aerosol generating device (1) can set a power profile update function. For example, the power profile update function can be selected as one of enabled, disabled, and initialized.

[0167] Referring to reference numeral 801, when the power profile update function is enabled, the aerosol generating device (1) collects power feedback data while dielectric heating is performed with the current power profile when a smoking session is initiated. Referring to reference numeral 802, if an update of the existing power profile is required, the aerosol generating device (1) updates the existing power profile to a new power profile based on the collected power feedback data and saves the updated power profile. That is, the update of the power profile can be performed according to the process described above in FIGS. 4 to 7.

[0168] Referring to reference number 811, when the power profile update function is disabled, the aerosol generating device (1) performs dielectric heating with the currently set power profile when a smoking session is initiated. However, even in this case, the aerosol generating device (1) can continuously collect power feedback data.

[0169] Referring to reference number 812, if the function to initialize the power profile is set, the aerosol generating device (1) (processor (170)) resets the current power profile to the power profile initially stored. That is, the aerosol generating device (1) performs dielectric heating using the initial power profile again from the subsequent smoking session.

[0170] Meanwhile, the power profile update function can be set and changed by the user through an input unit provided in the aerosol generating device (1).

[0171] The effects described above for the embodiments are merely illustrative and are not limited to those described, and other effects may exist. Furthermore, the present disclosure may be implemented with the following features. Various features of the various embodiments may be combined in various ways to suit various different applications, including some features and excluding others.

[0172] Example 1: An aerosol generating device comprises: a source unit for generating a microwave signal to perform dielectric heating using microwaves on an aerosol generating article; and a control unit for controlling the intensity of the microwave signal by controlling the power to be supplied from a power source to the source unit, wherein the control unit includes a processor for monitoring power feedback data for the power supplied to the source unit while performing the dielectric heating with a preset power profile during a smoking session, and for updating the power profile based on the monitored power feedback data when calibration of the target powers of the power profile is required.

[0173] Example 2: In the aerosol generating device of Example 1, the processor determines whether calibration is required by analyzing data regarding the power difference between the target powers of the power profile and the powers provided to the source unit from the monitored power feedback data.

[0174] Example 3: In the aerosol generating device of Example 2, the data regarding the power difference includes at least one of the frequency at which a power difference exceeding a predetermined range occurs between the target powers and the powers provided to the source unit, the period during which the power difference exceeding the predetermined range is maintained, the magnitude of the power difference, and the time period during which the power difference occurs frequently.

[0175] Example 4: In the aerosol generating device of Example 3, the processor updates the power profile by determining that calibration is required when the data regarding the analyzed power difference satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0176] Example 5: In the aerosol generating device of Example 4, the predetermined conditions include at least one of the following: when the frequency of power difference occurring within a certain period is greater than a predetermined number of times; when the power difference is maintained for a predetermined time; when the magnitude of the power difference is greater than a predetermined size; and when it is repeated for every predetermined number of smoking sessions.

[0177] Example 6: In the aerosol generating device of Example 1, the processor updates the power profile by calibrating the target powers among the target powers of the power profile that are determined to require calibration using the power data included in the power feedback data.

[0178] Example 7: In the aerosol generating device of Example 1, the power feedback data includes data on the power actually supplied to the power amplifier provided in the source section.

[0179] Example 8: A method for controlling an aerosol generating device comprises: setting a power profile to perform dielectric heating using microwaves on an aerosol generating article when a smoking session is initiated; monitoring power feedback data for powers provided to a source unit that generates a microwave signal while performing dielectric heating with the set power profile during the smoking session; determining whether calibration of the power profile is required based on the monitored power feedback data when the smoking session is terminated; and updating the power profile based on the monitored power feedback data when it is determined that calibration of the power profile is required.

[0180] Example 9: In the method of Example 8, the determining step determines whether calibration is required by analyzing data regarding the power difference between the target powers of the power profile and the powers provided to the source unit from the monitored power feedback data.

[0181] Example 10: In the method of Example 9, the data regarding the power difference includes at least one of the frequency at which a power difference exceeding a predetermined range occurs between the target powers and the powers provided to the source unit, the period during which the power difference exceeding the predetermined range is maintained, the magnitude of the power difference, and the time period during which the power difference occurs frequently.

[0182] Example 11: In the method of Example 10, the determining step determines that calibration is required when the data regarding the analyzed power difference satisfies a predetermined condition, and the predetermined condition includes at least one of the following: when the frequency of power difference occurring within a certain period is greater than a predetermined number of times; when the power difference is maintained for a predetermined time; when the magnitude of the power difference is greater than a predetermined size; and when it is repeated for every predetermined number of smoking sessions.

[0183] Example 12: In the method of Example 8, the updating step updates the power profile by calibrating the target powers among the target powers of the power profile that are determined to require calibration using the power data included in the power feedback data.

[0184] Example 13: In the method of Example 8, the power feedback data includes data on the power actually supplied to the power amplifier provided in the source section.

[0185] Example 14: A computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium may be provided that stores a program for executing any one of the methods of Examples 8 to 13 on a computer.

[0186] Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinct from one another. Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or combined for their respective configurations or functions.

[0187] For example, this means that configuration A described in a specific embodiment and / or drawing and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing can be combined. That is, it means that even if the combination between configurations is not directly described, combination is possible except in cases where it is described that combination is impossible.

[0188] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in all respects and should be considered exemplary. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. In an aerosol generating device, A source unit that generates a microwave signal to perform dielectric heating using microwaves on an aerosol-generating article; and It includes a control unit that controls the strength of the microwave signal by controlling the power to be supplied from the power source to the source unit, and The above control unit A processor comprising: monitoring power feedback data for powers supplied to the source unit while performing dielectric heating with a preset power profile during a smoking session, and updating the power profile based on the monitored power feedback data if calibration of the target powers of the power profile is required. Aerosol generating device.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above processor Determining whether calibration is required by analyzing data regarding the power difference between the target powers of the power profile and the powers provided to the source unit from the monitored power feedback data. Aerosol generating device.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above data regarding the above power difference At least one of the frequency at which a power difference exceeding a predetermined range occurs between the target powers and the powers provided to the source unit, the period during which the power difference exceeding the predetermined range is maintained, the magnitude of the power difference, and the time period during which the power difference occurs frequently. Aerosol generating device.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above processor Updating the power profile by determining that calibration is required when the data regarding the analyzed power difference satisfies a predetermined condition, Aerosol generating device.

5. In Paragraph 4, The above predetermined conditions are Including at least one of the following cases: the frequency of power difference occurring within a certain period is greater than a predetermined number of times; the power difference is maintained for a predetermined period of time; the magnitude of the power difference is greater than a predetermined magnitude; and it is repeated for every predetermined number of smoking sessions. Aerosol generating device.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above processor Updating the power profile by calibrating the target powers among the target powers of the power profile that are determined to require calibration using the power data included in the power feedback data. Aerosol generating device.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above power feedback data including data on the power actually supplied to the power amplifier provided in the source section, Aerosol generating device.

8. A method for controlling an aerosol generating device, When a smoking session is initiated, a step of setting a power profile to perform dielectric heating using microwaves on an aerosol-generating article; A step of monitoring power feedback data for powers provided to a source unit that generates a microwave signal while performing dielectric heating with the set power profile during the smoking session; When the above smoking session ends, a step of determining whether calibration of the power profile is required based on the monitored power feedback data; and If it is determined that calibration of the power profile is required, the method includes the step of updating the power profile based on the monitored power feedback data. method.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above-mentioned judgment step Determining whether calibration is required by analyzing data regarding the power difference between the target powers of the power profile and the powers provided to the source unit from the monitored power feedback data. method.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above data regarding the above power difference At least one of the frequency at which a power difference exceeding a predetermined range occurs between the target powers and the powers provided to the source unit, the period during which the power difference exceeding the predetermined range is maintained, the magnitude of the power difference, and the time period during which the power difference occurs frequently. method.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above-mentioned judgment step If the data regarding the analyzed power difference satisfies a predetermined condition, it is determined that the calibration is required, and The above predetermined conditions are Including at least one of the following cases: the frequency of power difference occurring within a certain period is greater than a predetermined number of times; the power difference is maintained for a predetermined period of time; the magnitude of the power difference is greater than a predetermined magnitude; and it is repeated for every predetermined number of smoking sessions. method.

12. In Paragraph 8, The above-mentioned updating step Updating the power profile by calibrating the target powers among the target powers of the power profile that are determined to require calibration using the power data included in the power feedback data. method.

13. In Paragraph 8, The above power feedback data including data on the power actually supplied to the power amplifier provided in the source section, method.

14. A computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium storing a program for executing the method of any one of claims 8 through 13 on a computer.

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