Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device according to an aspect comprises: a source unit which generates an RF signal; a radiation unit which radiates the RF signal in the form of electromagnetic waves to an insertion space into which an aerosol-generating article is inserted, thereby heating the aerosol-generating article; a detection unit which detects a change in moisture of the aerosol-generating article resulting from heating by the radiation unit; and a control unit which controls a frequency and power of the RF signal output from the source unit, on the basis of the change in moisture of the aerosol-generating article.

Description

Aerosol generating device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating device capable of controlling the output of microwaves according to the moisture level of an aerosol generating article.

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is an increasing demand for systems that generate aerosols by heating a cigarette (or 'aerosol generating article') using an aerosol generating device, rather than by burning a cigarette to generate an aerosol.

[0003] Meanwhile, conventional aerosol generating devices heat aerosol generating articles using resistance heating, induction heating, and ultrasonic heating methods; however, compared to dielectric heating methods, these conventional aerosol generating devices have the problem of slow preheating speeds and the inability to achieve uniform heating.

[0004] In addition, some conventional aerosol generating devices use a dielectric heating method, but this conventional dielectric heating method tracks the matching frequency based on the consumption of an aerosol generating substance (e.g., moisture) without a separate moisture detection sensor, and controls the output of the oscillating unit solely based on this matching frequency. This method has the problem of hindering user satisfaction because it considers only the optimal heating efficiency without considering the user's actual taste sensation.

[0005] The technical problem of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device capable of obtaining the absolute value of the moisture content contained in an aerosol generating article through a separate moisture sensing sensor in a dielectric heating method, and controlling the output of microwaves based on the moisture content.

[0006] The technical problems of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other technical problems can be inferred from the following examples.

[0007] An aerosol generating device according to one aspect includes a source unit that generates an RF signal, a radiating unit that heats an aerosol generating article by radiating the RF signal in the form of electromagnetic waves into an insertion space into which an aerosol generating article is inserted, a sensing unit that detects a change in moisture of the aerosol generating article due to the heating of the radiating unit, and a control unit that controls the frequency and power of the RF signal output by the source unit based on the change in moisture of the aerosol generating article.

[0008] The aerosol generating device of the present disclosure can directly obtain the moisture level of an aerosol generating article from a separate moisture detection sensor and can adjust the frequency and power of the source unit according to changes in the moisture level of the aerosol generating article. In particular, since the frequency and power according to the moisture level are set by experiment considering the user's taste sensation, it has the effect of increasing user satisfaction.

[0009] In addition, the aerosol generating device does not uniformly increase or decrease both the frequency and power of the source section as the moisture level of the aerosol generating article decreases, but rather increases the frequency of the source section and decreases the power as the moisture level decreases. Through such complementary control of the frequency and power of the source section, the power consumption of the aerosol generating device can be reduced while the user's savory taste can be improved.

[0010] In addition, according to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device can operate the frequency and power of the source section at maximum output during the initial phase of the preheating section. Accordingly, user satisfaction is enhanced through rapid preheating.

[0011] In addition, the moisture detection sensor of the aerosol generating device performs the functions of detecting the insertion of aerosol-generating items and identifying their types, thereby eliminating the need for additional detection sensors.

[0012] In addition, the aerosol generating device can control the source unit in real time according to a matching frequency rather than a preset control profile when the moisture content of the aerosol generating article is below or exceeds the expected moisture content as the manufacturing, delivery, and storage stages progress. Accordingly, even if the aerosol generating article does not meet the specified standards, the user's taste sensation is not significantly impaired.

[0013] The effects of the invention are not limited to those exemplified above, and a wider variety of effects are included in this specification.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0016] This is a block diagram for explaining the operation of a dielectric heating unit according to one embodiment of FIG. 3.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for explaining the arrangement of a sensing unit and an antenna according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly to illustrate the arrangement of a sensing unit and an antenna according to another embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a method for controlling the frequency and power of a source unit in response to changes in the moisture level of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 7 is an example of a heating profile to explain a frequency and power control method of a source section in a portion of a preheating section according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0022] An aerosol generating device according to one aspect includes a source unit that generates an RF signal, a radiating unit that heats an aerosol generating article by radiating the RF signal in the form of electromagnetic waves into an insertion space into which an aerosol generating article is inserted, a sensing unit that detects a change in moisture of the aerosol generating article due to the heating of the radiating unit, and a control unit that controls the frequency and power of the RF signal output by the source unit based on the change in moisture of the aerosol generating article.

[0023] Additionally, the detection unit detects changes in moisture of the aerosol generating item during the preheating section and the smoking section after the preheating section, and transmits the detection result to the control unit. The control unit controls the frequency and power of the RF signal output by the source unit during at least a portion of the preheating section and the smoking section, wherein if it is determined that the moisture level of the aerosol generating item is a first level, the output frequency and output power of the source unit are each adjusted to a first frequency and a first power, respectively, and if it is determined that the moisture level of the aerosol generating item is a second level lower than the first level, the output frequency and output power of the source unit are each adjusted to a second frequency higher than the first frequency and a second power lower than the first power, respectively.

[0024] In addition, the control unit adjusts the output frequency of the source unit to a third frequency higher than the first frequency and the second frequency, independently of the detection result of the detection unit, at least in part of the preheating section, and adjusts the output power of the source unit to a third power greater than the first power and the second power.

[0025] Additionally, the aerosol generating device further includes a directional coupler that receives reflected electromagnetic waves reflected from the insertion space, and the control unit sets the first frequency, the second frequency, and the third frequency independently of the matching frequency output by the source unit when the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves is included within a reference power range.

[0026] In addition, the control unit blocks the output of the source unit when the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article falls within a preset reference end level range.

[0027] Additionally, the sensing unit further detects changes in moisture in the insertion space due to the insertion of the aerosol-generating article, and the control unit further identifies the type of the aerosol-generating article based on the changes in moisture in the insertion space.

[0028] Additionally, the aerosol generating device further includes a memory that stores information regarding the output frequency and output power of the source unit corresponding to the moisture level of each aerosol generating item.

[0029] In addition, if the type of aerosol generating article cannot be identified, the control unit adjusts the output frequency of the source unit according to the matching frequency obtained based on the reflected electromagnetic waves.

[0030] Additionally, the sensing unit includes at least one capacitive sensor, and the control unit detects a change in moisture of the aerosol-generating article based on the number of charge-discharge cycles per unit time of the capacitive sensor.

[0031] In addition, the capacitive sensor is made of a flexible material and is configured to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the insertion space.

[0032] In addition, the capacitive sensor is positioned adjacent to the lower surface of the insertion space where the aerosol-generating article comes into contact.

[0033] 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.

[0034] The suffixes “module” and “unit” for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the sake of ease of drafting the specification, and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Meanwhile, the suffixes “module” or “unit” may include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” may be a component formed as a whole, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0039] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory (15)) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)). For example, a processor (e.g., control unit (10)) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating device (1)) may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by the machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-temporary' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily.

[0040] In the present disclosure, the direction of the aerosol generating device (1) can be defined based on an orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device (1). The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0041] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0042] Referring to FIG. 1, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a housing (100) capable of receiving an aerosol generating article (S) and a heater assembly (200) for heating the aerosol generating article (S) received in the housing (100).

[0043] The housing (100) may form the overall exterior of the aerosol generating device (1), and components of the aerosol generating device (1) may be placed in the internal space (or 'mounting space') of the housing (100). For example, a heater assembly (200), a battery, a processor and / or a sensor may be placed in the internal space of the housing (100), but the components placed in the internal space are not limited thereto.

[0044] An insertion space (100h) may be formed in one area of ​​the housing (100), and at least one area of ​​an aerosol-generating article (S) may be inserted into the interior of the housing (100) through the insertion space (100h). For example, the insertion space (100h) may be formed in one area of ​​the top surface (e.g., the side facing the z-direction) of the housing (100), but the location where the insertion space (100h) is formed is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the insertion space (100h) may be formed in one area of ​​the side surface (e.g., the side facing the x-direction) of the housing (100).

[0045] A heater assembly (200) is positioned in the internal space of the housing (100) and can heat an aerosol generating article (S) inserted or received inside the housing (100) through an insertion space (100h). For example, the heater assembly (200) can be positioned to surround at least one area of ​​the aerosol generating article (S) inserted or received inside the housing (100) to heat the aerosol generating article (S).

[0046] According to one embodiment, the heater assembly (200) can heat an aerosol-generating article (S) by a dielectric heating method. In the present disclosure, "dielectric heating method" refers to a method of heating a dielectric material, which is the object to be heated, using electromagnetic waves of microwave wavelength. Since microwaves are an energy source for heating the object to be heated and are generated by high-frequency power, microwaves may be used interchangeably with microwave power in the following description.

[0047] In the interior of the heater assembly (200), the charge or ion of the dielectric contained within the aerosol generating article (S) can vibrate or rotate by microwaves, and heat is generated in the dielectric by frictional heat generated during the process of the charge or ion vibrating or rotating, thereby heating the aerosol generating article (S).

[0048] As the aerosol generating article (S) is heated by the heater assembly (200), an aerosol may be generated from the aerosol generating article (S). In the present disclosure, 'aerosol' may refer to gaseous particles generated by mixing steam and air as the aerosol generating article (S) is heated.

[0049] The aerosol generated from the aerosol generating item (S) can pass through the aerosol generating item (S) or be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1) through the empty space between the aerosol generating item (S) and the insertion space (100h). The user can smoke by contacting the mouth to a part of the aerosol generating item (S) exposed to the outside of the housing (100) and inhaling the aerosol discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0050] An aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may further include a cover (100c) movably disposed in a housing (100) to open or close an insertion space (100h). For example, the cover (100c) may be slidably coupled to the upper surface of the housing (100) to expose the insertion space (100h) to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1), or cover the insertion space (100h) so that the insertion space (100h) is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0051] In one example, the cover (100c) may allow the insertion space (100h) to be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1) at a first position (or 'open position'). When the aerosol generating device (1) is exposed to the outside, an aerosol generating article (S) may be inserted into the interior of the housing (100) through the insertion space (100h).

[0052] In another example, the cover (100c) can cover the insertion space (100h) in a second position (or 'closed position') so that the insertion space (100h) is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1). At this time, the cover (100c) can prevent external foreign matter from entering the interior of the heater assembly (200) through the insertion space (100h) when the aerosol generating device (1) is not in use.

[0053] FIG. 1 illustrates only an aerosol generating device (1) for heating a solid state aerosol generating article (S), but the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

[0054] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may generate an aerosol by heating a liquid or gel-state aerosol generating material, rather than a solid-state aerosol generating article (S), through a heater assembly (200).

[0055] According to another embodiment, an aerosol generating device (1) may include a heater assembly (200) for heating an aerosol generating article (S) and a cartridge (or 'vaporizer') for heating an aerosol generating material in a liquid or gel state. The aerosol generated from the aerosol generating material may travel to the aerosol generating article (S) along an airflow passage communicating the cartridge and the aerosol generating article (S), mix with the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article (S), and then pass through the aerosol generating article (S) to be delivered to the user.

[0056] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a power source (11), a control unit (10), a detection unit (12), an output unit (13), an input unit (16), a communication unit (14), a memory (15), and / or a dielectric heating unit (17). 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.

[0058] The detection unit (12) can 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 control unit (10). For example, the detection unit (12) may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a reuse detection sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, a cap detection sensor, and / or a motion detection sensor. Meanwhile, the detection unit (12) may further include various sensors, such as a liquid residue sensor for detecting the liquid residue in the cartridge and a immersion sensor for detecting the immersion of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0059] In one embodiment, the sensing unit (12) may include a moisture sensing sensor (121 in FIG. 4). The moisture sensing sensor (121) can detect changes in moisture in the insertion space (100h). Since the moisture of the aerosol generating article (S) (e.g., Vegetable Glycerin) contributes most to the moisture content within the insertion space (100h), the meaning of the moisture sensing sensor (121) detecting changes in moisture in the insertion space (100h) may be the same as the meaning of the moisture sensing sensor (121) detecting changes in moisture in the aerosol generating article (S) inserted into the insertion space (100h).

[0060] The moisture detection sensor (121) may be configured as a capacitance-based sensor. In the present disclosure, a capacitance-based sensor may refer to a capacitive sensor. The capacitance sensor is positioned adjacent to the insertion space (100h) so that the dielectric constant may vary according to the moisture change of the aerosol generating article (S). The control unit (10) receives a detection result from the moisture detection sensor (121) and can control the dielectric heating unit (17) based on the detection result. A method of control according to the moisture change of the aerosol generating article (S) will be described later with reference to FIG. 6 and below.

[0061] The control unit (10) may determine whether to insert an aerosol generating item (S) based on a change in moisture in the insertion space (100h). When an aerosol generating item (S) is inserted into the insertion space (100h), the dielectric constant of the moisture sensing sensor (121) may vary. The control unit (10) may determine whether to insert an aerosol generating item (S) based on a change in the dielectric constant of the moisture sensing sensor (121). In an example where the control unit (10) determines whether to insert an aerosol generating item (S) based on a change in moisture in the insertion space (100h), the moisture sensing sensor (121) may function as the insertion sensing sensor described above.

[0062] Additionally, the control unit (10) may identify an aerosol-generating item (S) based on changes in moisture in the insertion space (100h). The aerosol-generating item (S) has a unique moisture content range, and the control unit (10) may identify the aerosol-generating item (S) based on this unique moisture content range. In an example where the control unit (10) identifies the type of aerosol-generating item (S) based on changes in moisture in the insertion space (100h), the moisture detection sensor (121) may function as the cigarette identification sensor described above.

[0063] The output unit (13) can output information regarding the status of the aerosol generating device (1). The output unit (13) 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 status of the power supply (11) of the aerosol generating device (1), the preheating status of the dielectric heating unit (17), the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating item and / or cartridge, the mounting and / or removal status of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device (1) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item). The display may visually provide information regarding the status 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 (16) if it includes a touch pad. The haptic unit can provide information about the state of the aerosol generating device (1) to the user tactilely. For example, the haptic unit may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electric stimulation device, etc. The acoustic output unit can provide information about the aerosol generating device (1) to the user audibly. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it externally.

[0064] The power source (11) can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The power source (11) may include one or more batteries. The power source (11) can supply power to enable the operation of the dielectric heating unit (17). Additionally, the power source (11) may supply power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device (1), such as the control unit (10), detection unit (12), output unit (13), input unit (16), communication unit (14), memory (15), etc. The power source (11) may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source (11) may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source (11) may be a replaceable type (detachable) battery (hereinafter referred to as a 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 also be charged via wired and / or wireless connections.

[0065] The dielectric heating unit (17) can heat an aerosol generating article (S) by a dielectric heating method. The dielectric heating unit (17) may include some components of the heater assembly (200) of FIG. 1. The dielectric heating unit (17) can heat an aerosol generating article (S) using electromagnetic waves of microwave wavelength. The heating method of the dielectric heating unit (17) may be a microwave radiation method or a microwave resonance method. The dielectric heating unit (17) may output high-frequency microwaves into an insertion space (100h). The microwaves may be power in the ISM (Industrial Scientific and Medical Equipment) band permitted for heating, but are not limited thereto.

[0066] An aerosol generating article (S) is inserted into an insertion space (100h), and the dielectric material within the aerosol generating article (S) can be heated by microwaves. For example, the aerosol generating article (S) may contain a polar material, and molecules within the polar material may be polarized within the insertion space (100h). The molecules may vibrate or rotate due to the polarization phenomenon, and the aerosol generating article (S) may be heated by frictional heat generated during this process. The method of operation of the dielectric heating unit (17) is explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 3.

[0067] The input unit (16) can receive information input from a user. For example, the input unit (16) may include a touch panel, a button, a keypad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0068] Memory (15) is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device (1), and can store data processed by the control unit (10) and data to be processed. For example, memory (15) may include at least one type of storage medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, 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, magnetic disk, and optical disk. For example, memory (15) can 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.

[0069] The communication unit (14) may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices (e.g., portable electronic devices). For example, the communication unit (14) may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (wireless local area network) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (infrared Data Association, IrDA) communication unit, a WFD (Wireless Fidelity Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant (Adaptive Network Topology)+ communication unit, a cellular network communication unit, an internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0070] The control unit (10) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the control unit (10) may include at least one processor (170 in FIG. 3). The control unit (10) 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 a 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 it may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the control unit (10) can control the temperature of the dielectric heating unit (17) by controlling the output frequency and output power of the microwave. The control unit (10) can control the temperature of the dielectric heating unit (17) and / or the power supplied to the dielectric heating unit (17) based on the temperature of the dielectric heating unit (17) detected using a temperature sensor (e.g., a detection unit (12)). The control unit (10) can control the temperature of the dielectric heating unit (17) and / or the power supplied to the dielectric heating unit (17) based on a temperature profile and / or power profile stored in a memory (15).

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit (10) can control the power supply to the dielectric heating unit (17) based on the result detected by the detection unit (12). Additionally, the control unit (10) can control the output unit (13) based on the result detected by the detection unit (12). For example, the control unit (10) can control the output unit (13) to provide the user, visually, tactilely, and / or audibly, information that the aerosol generating device (1) will soon be terminated when the number of puffs counted using the puff sensor (e.g., detection unit (12)) reaches a preset number. For example, the control unit (10) can also control the output unit (13) to provide the user, visually, tactilely, and / or audibly, information regarding the temperature of the dielectric heating unit (17).

[0073] The control unit (10) can store and update the history of the event that occurred in the memory (15) based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. For example, the event may include operations such as the detection of insertion of an aerosol generating article, the start of heating of the aerosol generating article, puff detection, puff termination, detection of overheating of the dielectric heating unit (17), detection of overvoltage application to the dielectric heating unit (17), termination of heating of the aerosol generating article, power on / off of the aerosol generating device (1), start of charging of the power source (11), detection of overcharging of the power source (11), termination of charging of the power source (11), etc.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the control unit (10) can control the communication unit (14) to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0075] According to one embodiment, when the control unit (10) 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.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the control unit (10) can transmit data regarding the status of the aerosol generating device (1) (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply (11), 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.

[0077] The aerosol generating article (S) 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 dielectric heating part (17) may be positioned to correspond to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating material, and an additive. For example, the aerosol generating material may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may include various other materials. For example, the additive may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may include various other materials. For example, the aerosol generating rod may comprise an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco material (e.g., an aerosol generating material and / or nicotine), and / or may comprise a solid tobacco material (e.g., leaf tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). The tobacco material may be included in the aerosol generating rod in various forms, such as whole tobacco, granules, or powder. According to one embodiment, the additive of the aerosol generating rod may comprise a basic material. Based on the basic material, the nicotine in the tobacco material included in the aerosol generating rod may have a basic pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, freebase nicotine may be released from the aerosol generating rod even at low temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod comprises two or more aerosol generating rods, and said two or more aerosol generating rods may each comprise a tobacco material and / or a non-tobacco material.Meanwhile, although not illustrated, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each and / or integrally be wrapped by at least one wrapper. In the present disclosure, the aerosol generating article may be referred to as a stick.

[0078] This is a block diagram for explaining the operation of a dielectric heating unit according to one embodiment of FIG. 3.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 3, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a control unit (10), a source unit (20), and a radiating unit (30). The source unit (20) and the radiating unit (30) of FIG. 3 may be part of the dielectric heating unit (17) of FIG. 2. 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 (100h)) into which an aerosol generating article is inserted. The charges or ions of the dielectric (e.g., glycerin) contained in the aerosol generating article may vibrate or rotate due to radiated electromagnetic waves (e.g., RF signals), and the aerosol generating article may be heated as the dielectric heats up due to 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 an aerosol by heating the aerosol generating article using a dielectric heating method.

[0080] In one example, the control unit (10) may include a power connector (110), a charging circuit (120), a power source (11), 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. 3 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0081] 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 (11)). 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 1A current, but is not necessarily limited thereto. The power connector (110) may also include an interface for wirelessly transmitting and receiving power.

[0082] The charging circuit (120) may refer to a circuit for charging the power source (11). The charging circuit (120) may charge the power source (11) 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 (11). The charging circuit (120) may monitor the charging status of the power source (11) or optimize the charging process by monitoring the voltage, current, and / or temperature of the power source (11). For example, the charging circuit (120) may detect the state of the power source (11) and prevent overcharging or over-discharging by providing an appropriate charging voltage and current.

[0083] The power supply (11) 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 (100h) 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 supply (11) can supply power required for the operation of the processor (170), RF signal generation circuit (210), driving amplifier (220), power amplifier (230), temperature sensing circuit (250), etc.

[0084] The aerosol generating device (1) may include a power conversion circuit for converting power supplied from a power source (11) 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.

[0085] 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).

[0086] 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. 3 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.

[0087] 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 source (11) 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] The RF signal generation circuit (210) can generate an RF signal based on power delivered from the power source (11) or the second power converter (150). The RF signal may mean a signal having a frequency within the range of 300 MHz to 300 GHz. In one example, the RF signal may have a frequency of 1 GHz to 100 GHz. Additionally, the RF signal may have a frequency in the Industrial Scientific and Medical Equipment (ISM) band, for example, 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, and / or 5.8 GHz.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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 (100h) 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).

[0094] 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.

[0095] Meanwhile, in FIG. 3, 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 multiple amplifiers.

[0096] 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.

[0097] The radiating unit (30) can radiate electromagnetic waves (e.g., amplified RF signal or transmitted RF signal) into the insertion space (100h) to heat the aerosol generating article. 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 (100h). The resonance condition (e.g., resonance frequency) of the insertion space (100h) may vary depending on the amount of dielectric material contained in the inserted aerosol generating article, etc. The processor (170) can control the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generating circuit (210) so that it corresponds to or approaches the resonance condition of the insertion space (100h) 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 (100h).

[0098] 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 (100h) 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).

[0099] 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).

[0100] 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 (100h). The characteristics of the transmitted RF signal can provide a criterion for whether the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves is minimized.

[0101] Since electromagnetic resonance may occur in the insertion space (100h) depending on the frequency of the RF signal, the insertion space (100h) may be referred to as a resonant section. At least a portion of the insertion space (100h) may be surrounded by at least one shielding member so that electromagnetic waves do not leak outside the aerosol generating device (1). According to one embodiment, the insertion space (100h) may further include a physical structure to ensure that the resonance condition is contained within a range controllable by the processor (170). The physical structure may include at least one conductor, and the resonance condition of the insertion space (100h) 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 energy that should be transferred to the heated body. Accordingly, even if the resonance part is miniaturized, the resonance condition can be determined within a controllable range by the processor (170).

[0102] 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).

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for explaining the arrangement of a sensing unit and an antenna according to one embodiment.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 4, a heater assembly (200) may be placed within a housing (100). The entire exterior of the heater assembly (200) may be in the shape of a tube or a cylinder containing a hollow inside. The hollow of the heater assembly (200) may be referred to as an insertion space (100h), and an aerosol generating article (S) may be inserted into the insertion space (100h) and heated.

[0107] The heater assembly (200) may include a conductor (410) that provides a hollow space and a support (420) that supports the conductor (410). According to an embodiment, the heater assembly (200) may include an insulating material, a shielding material, etc. on the outside of the conductor (410).

[0108] A support member (420) may be coupled to a housing (100). A conductor (410) may be attached to or pressed into the support member (420). An insertion space (100h) may be formed by the coupling of the conductor (410) and the support member (420). The conductor (410) may be coupled to the support member (420) and extend in the vertical direction of the aerosol generating device (1). At least a portion of the inner surface of the conductor (410) may come into contact with the outer surface of the aerosol generating article (S) inserted into the insertion space (100h). The conductor (410) may be made of stainless steel, aluminum, or an alloy, but is not limited thereto.

[0109] The antenna (310) may surround at least a portion of the inner surface of the conductor (410). For example, the antenna (310) may be configured as a flexible patch antenna and may be attached to the inner surface of the conductor (410). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the antenna (310) may be configured to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the conductor (410). In this case, the conductor (410) may further include a slot at the location where the antenna (310) is attached.

[0110] The antenna (310) may be positioned at the lower part (-z direction) of the conductor (410). The lower side of the present disclosure may refer to the side opposite to the opening provided by the insertion space (100h). The antenna (310) may be positioned at a predetermined distance from the support (420) at the lower part of the conductor (410). When the antenna (310) is positioned at the distal direction of the opening, external exposure of electromagnetic waves may be reduced.

[0111] The antenna (310) can radiate electromagnetic waves into the insertion space (100h). The aerosol generating rod (SS) of the aerosol generating article (S) can be heated by the electromagnetic waves radiated into the insertion space (100h). In an embodiment in which the aerosol generating article (S) is heated using the resonance of electromagnetic waves, the conductor (410) and the support (420) may be referred to as resonators.

[0112] As described above, since the conductor (410), support (420) and antenna (310) contribute to heating the aerosol generating article (S), these components may be part of the dielectric heating section (17).

[0113] The moisture detection sensor (121) may surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the conductor (410). For example, the moisture detection sensor (121) may be composed of a capacitive sensor, and the capacitive sensor may be made flexible and attached to the outer surface of the conductor (410). As the moisture detection sensor (121) is placed outside the conductor (410) rather than inside the conductor (410), noise caused by electromagnetic waves may be reduced.

[0114] A moisture detection sensor (121) may be positioned on the upper part (+z direction) of the conductor (410). The upper part of the present disclosure may refer to the direction of the opening provided by the insertion space (100h). The moisture detection sensor (121) may be positioned on the upper part of the conductor (410) at a predetermined distance from the opening. The predetermined distance may be set according to the length of the aerosol generating rod (SS). The moisture detection sensor (121) may be positioned on the outer surface of the conductor (410) at a location corresponding to a portion of the aerosol generating rod (SS).

[0115] In an embodiment where the moisture detection sensor (121) is configured as a capacitive sensor, the dielectric constant of the capacitive sensor may vary according to changes in moisture in the insertion space (100h). Accordingly, the number of charge-discharge cycles per unit time of the capacitive sensor may vary. The control unit (10) can detect changes in moisture in the insertion space (100h) and / or the aerosol generating article (S) based on the number of charge-discharge cycles per unit time of the capacitive sensor. The control unit (10) can control the output of the source unit (20) based on changes in moisture in the insertion space (100h) and / or the aerosol generating article (S). Additionally, the control unit (10) can determine the insertion of the aerosol generating article (S) based on changes in moisture in the insertion space (100h) and / or the aerosol generating article (S). Additionally, the control unit (10) may identify the type of aerosol generating article (S) based on changes in moisture of the insertion space (100h) and / or the aerosol generating article (S).

[0116] Meanwhile, unlike FIG. 5 which will be described later, the moisture detection sensor (121) of FIG. 4 is positioned on the upper part of the conductor (410) adjacent to the opening. This arrangement allows the moisture detection sensor (121) to detect changes in moisture in the insertion space (100h) and / or the aerosol generating article (S) earlier than when the moisture detection sensor (121) is positioned on the lower part of the conductor (410). Additionally, this arrangement allows the moisture detection sensor (121) to detect changes in moisture in the insertion space (100h) and / or the aerosol generating article (S) for a longer period than when the moisture detection sensor (121) is positioned on the lower part of the conductor (410). Accordingly, the arrangement of FIG. 4 can increase sensing accuracy in an embodiment where the moisture detection sensor (121) also functions as an insertion detection sensor.

[0117] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly to illustrate the arrangement of a sensing unit and an antenna according to another embodiment.

[0118] FIG. 5 illustrates an example in which a moisture detection sensor (121) is positioned adjacent to the lower surface of an insertion space (100h). In FIG. 5, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components as in FIG. 4, but redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 5, the moisture detection sensor (121) may be placed at the bottom of the insertion space (100h). The moisture detection sensor (121) may be placed outside the insertion space (100h), but adjacent to the bottom surface of the insertion space (100h) where the aerosol generating article (S) comes into contact. As the moisture detection sensor (121) is placed outside the conductor (410) rather than inside the conductor (410), noise caused by electromagnetic waves can be reduced.

[0120] The moisture detection sensor (121) may be formed by injection molding inside the support (420). However, the present disclosure is not limited to such manufacturing methods, provided that the moisture detection sensor (121) is configured to be positioned adjacent to the lower surface of the insertion space (100h) from the outside of the insertion space (100h).

[0121] Unlike in FIG. 4, the moisture detection sensor (121) of FIG. 5 is positioned adjacent to the lower surface of the insertion space (100h), which is opposite to the opening. At this time, the lower surface of the insertion space (100h) may be the area where the aerosol generating item (S) comes into contact. In this way, when the aerosol generating item (S) comes into contact with the lower surface of the insertion space (100h), the sensing noise value caused by moisture existing between the aerosol generating item (S) and the inner surface of the insertion space (100h) can be reduced when determining the moisture change of the aerosol generating item (S). That is, the arrangement of FIG. 5 may be more advantageous for determining the moisture change of the aerosol generating item (S) itself.

[0122] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a method for controlling the frequency and power of a source unit in response to changes in the moisture level of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment.

[0123] FIG. 6 illustrates a graph (610) of the change in moisture level according to the heating of an aerosol generating article (S). FIG. 6 also illustrates an output frequency graph (620) and an output power graph (630) of a source unit (20) according to the change in moisture of the aerosol generating article (S). However, the graphs in FIG. 6 are merely examples to explain a control method according to the change in moisture of the aerosol generating article (S), and the slopes of each graph may vary depending on the experiment.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 6, the moisture of the aerosol-generating article (S) may be provided by glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), flavoring agents, organic acids, etc. This moisture may gradually decrease as the aerosol-generating article (S) is heated.

[0125] The control unit (10) can increase the output frequency of the source unit (20) and decrease the output power as the moisture of the aerosol generating item (S) decreases.

[0126] For example, the control unit (10) can obtain information regarding the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) from the detection unit (12) at a first time point (t1). The control unit (10) can determine that the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) is at a first level (s1) at the first time point (t1). When the control unit (10) determines that the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) is at a first level (s1), it can adjust the output frequency of the source unit (20) to a first frequency (f1) and adjust the output power to a first power (w1).

[0127] The control unit (10) can obtain information regarding the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) from the detection unit (12) at the second time point (t2) after the first time point (t1). The control unit (10) can determine that the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) is at the second level (s2) at the second time point (t2). When the control unit (10) determines that the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) is at the second level (s2), it can adjust the output frequency of the source unit (20) to the second frequency (f2) and adjust the output power to the second power (w2). At this time, the second frequency (f2) may be higher than the first frequency (f1), and the second power (w2) may be lower than the first power (w1).

[0128] Meanwhile, FIG. 6 is an exemplary diagram of output control of a source unit (20) according to a change in the moisture level of an aerosol generating article (S), and such control can be performed substantially in real time. That is, the length between the first time point (t1) and the second time point (t2) can be set to within 100ms.

[0129] The output frequency and output power of the source unit (20) according to changes in the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) can be determined experimentally regardless of the matching frequency. More specifically, the directional coupler (240) can separate the RF signal emitted from the radiating unit (30) and the reflected electromagnetic wave reflected from the insertion space (100h) and transmit them to the control unit (10). The control unit (10) can analyze the characteristics of the reflected electromagnetic wave (e.g., current, voltage, power, phase and / or frequency). The control unit (10) can obtain the output frequency of the source unit (20) when the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave is at its minimum. Thus, the output frequency of the source unit (20) when the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave is at its minimum can be referred to as the matching frequency. In FIG. 6, the control unit (10) can adjust the output frequency and output power of the source unit (20) according to the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) independently of this matching frequency. Information regarding the output frequency and output power of the source unit (20) corresponding to the moisture level for each aerosol generating item (S) can be stored in the memory (15). Identification of the aerosol generating item (S) for output control of the source unit (20) for each aerosol generating item (S) can be implemented by a moisture detection sensor (121).

[0130] In this way, the aerosol generating device (1) does not uniformly increase or decrease both the output frequency and output power of the source unit (20) as the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) decreases, but rather increases the output frequency of the source unit (20) and decreases the output power as the moisture level decreases. Through this complementary control of the output frequency and output power of the source unit (20), the power consumption of the aerosol generating device (1) can be reduced while the user's savory sensation can be enhanced.

[0131] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating item (S) may not satisfy the expected moisture content while undergoing the manufacturing, delivery, and storage stages. For example, the aerosol generating item (S) may fall short of or exceed the expected moisture content depending on the wet or dry environment. If the aerosol generating item (S) does not satisfy the expected moisture content, the control unit (10) cannot identify the type of the aerosol generating item (S). In this way, if the control unit (10) cannot identify the type of the aerosol generating item (S), the control unit (10) can adjust the output frequency of the source unit (20) in real time according to the matching frequency obtained based on the reflected electromagnetic waves described above. In other words, the control unit (10) can adjust the output frequency of the source unit (20) so that the power of the reflected electromagnetic waves is minimized. Additionally, if the control unit (10) cannot identify the type of aerosol generating article (S), it can control the output power of the source unit (20) according to a preset power profile. For example, the preset control profile may be a first power during a first time and a second power during a second time after the first time. At this time, the first time may be 10 seconds, the second time may be 280 seconds, the first power may be 10W, and the second power may be 5W, but is not limited thereto.

[0132] FIG. 7 is an example of a heating profile to explain a frequency and power control method of a source section in a portion of a preheating section according to one embodiment.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 7, the heating profile (710) of the present disclosure may include a preheating section and a smoking section after the preheating section. For example, the control unit (10) may heat an aerosol generating article (S) to a target preheating temperature (Ta) above the vaporization temperature by a preset preheating time (tp), and maintain the aerosol generating article (S) above the vaporization temperature from the preheating time (tp) until the end time.

[0134] Meanwhile, the termination time may be determined according to a preset termination time and / or the moisture level of the aerosol generating article (S). In an embodiment that considers both the preset termination time and the moisture level of the aerosol generating article (S), the control unit (10) may block the output of the source unit (20) when at least one of the termination time satisfaction and the termination level satisfaction is satisfied. For example, the control unit (10) may block the output of the source unit (20) when 290 seconds have elapsed since the start of preheating. Additionally, the control unit (10) may block the output of the source unit (20) when the moisture level of the aerosol generating article (S) falls within a preset reference termination level range. At this time, the reference termination level is set based on the volume ratio of moisture to the unit volume of the medium and may be selected within a range of 10%. The control unit (10) can automatically block the output of the source unit (20) based on the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) only when the type of the aerosol generating item (S) is identified. In other words, the control unit (10) can block the output of the source unit (20) based on a preset end time when the type of the aerosol generating item (S) is not identified, and can block the output of the source unit (20) based on a preset end time and a preset reference end level range when the type of the aerosol generating item (S) is identified.

[0135] The control unit (10) can increase the output frequency of the source unit (20) and decrease the output power in response to a decrease in the moisture level of the aerosol generating article (S) in the entire preheating section and smoking section as shown in FIG. 6. However, according to the embodiment, the control unit (10) can control the output of the source unit (20) according to a control method different from FIG. 6 in some sections of the preheating section.

[0136] More specifically, the control unit (10) can perform control different from that shown in FIG. 6 during the initial phase of the preheating phase. The control unit (10) can adjust the output frequency of the source unit (20) to a third frequency higher than the first and second frequencies and the output power of the source unit (20) to a third power higher than the first and second power, independently of the moisture level of the aerosol generating article (S) from the start of preheating until the first sub-preheating time (tps). The third frequency and third power can be optimally determined by experiment, and the third frequency can be adjusted independently of the matching frequency as shown in FIG. 6. For example, the third frequency and third power can be set within a range between 70% and 100% of the maximum output frequency and maximum power of the source unit (20). Since this control up to the first sub-preheating time (tps) is performed independently of the moisture level of the aerosol generating article (S), it can be referred to as forward control. Conversely, control at time after the first sub-preheating time (tps) is determined by the moisture level of the aerosol-generating article (S), so it can be called so-called feedback control.

[0137] In this way, the aerosol generating device (1) of the present disclosure controls the source unit (20) according to a relatively high frequency and power during a first sub-preheating time (tps), thereby enabling rapid preheating.

[0138] FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the operation method of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 8, in step S810, the sensing unit (12) can detect a change in moisture in the insertion space (100h) due to the insertion of an aerosol-generating article (S).

[0140] The sensing unit (12) may include a moisture sensing sensor (121), and the moisture sensing sensor (121) may be composed of a capacitive sensor. Accordingly, the dielectric constant of the moisture sensing sensor (121) may vary when an aerosol generating article (S) is inserted into the insertion space (100h). The control unit (10) can determine whether the aerosol generating article (S) is inserted based on the change in dielectric constant of the moisture sensing sensor (121).

[0141] In step S820, the control unit (10) can identify the type of aerosol-generating article (S).

[0142] The aerosol generating item (S) has a unique moisture content range, and the control unit (10) can identify the aerosol generating item (S) based on this unique moisture content range. At this time, the unique moisture content may refer to the moisture level contained in the aerosol generating item (S) prior to the start of preheating. For example, the memory (15) stores the unique moisture content range of the aerosol generating item (S), and the control unit (10) can compare the data stored in the memory (15) with the moisture level of the aerosol generating item (S) detected by the detection unit (12). The data regarding the moisture content stored in the memory (15) can be used for the identification determination in step S830.

[0143] In step S830, the control unit (10) can determine whether it can identify the type of aerosol-generating article (S).

[0144] If the moisture level detected by the detection unit (12) falls within the unique moisture content range stored in the memory (15), the control unit (10) determines that the type of aerosol generating article (S) is identifiable and can perform steps S840 and below.

[0145] Meanwhile, even if the moisture content of the aerosol generating item (S) is manufactured by the same manufacturer, significant changes may occur due to the surrounding environment during the manufacturing, delivery, and storage stages. In other words, the aerosol generating item (S) may not satisfy the expected moisture content while undergoing the manufacturing, delivery, and storage stages. In this way, if the aerosol generating item (S) does not satisfy the expected moisture content, the moisture level detected by the detection unit (12) may not be included in the unique moisture content range stored in the memory (15). If the moisture level detected by the detection unit (12) is not included in the unique moisture content range stored in the memory (15), the control unit (10) may determine that the type of the aerosol generating item (S) is unidentifiable and perform steps S870 and below.

[0146] In step S840, if the control unit (10) determines that the type of aerosol generating item (S) is identifiable, it can adjust the frequency and power of the source unit (20) based on the control data stored in the memory (15).

[0147] In one embodiment, the control unit (10) may increase the output frequency of the source unit (20) and decrease the output power as the moisture of the aerosol generating item (S) decreases. However, the target values ​​of the output frequency and output power may be set by experiment regardless of the matching frequency. Complementary control of the output frequency and output power according to the decrease in moisture of the aerosol generating item (S) may be performed throughout the entire preheating section and smoking section.

[0148] According to an embodiment, the control unit (10) may perform complementary control of output frequency and output power according to the moisture reduction of the aerosol generating article (S) in a part of the preheating section and in the entire smoking section. The control unit (10) may fix the output frequency and output power of the source unit (20) regardless of the moisture level of the aerosol generating article (S) in the initial section of the preheating section. For example, the control unit (10) may set the output frequency and output power within a range between 70% and 100% of the maximum output frequency and maximum power of the source unit (20). This is to facilitate rapid preheating.

[0149] In step S850, the control unit (10) can determine whether the reference end time has been reached or whether it is included in the reference end level range.

[0150] The control unit (10) includes a timer and can monitor the elapsed time from the start of preheating. If the pre-set reference end time has not elapsed from the start of preheating, the control unit (10) can perform step S840 again. Alternatively, if the pre-set reference end time has elapsed from the start of preheating, the control unit (10) can block the output of the source unit (20), as in step S860.

[0151] Alternatively, the memory (15) may store a reference end level for the moisture level of the aerosol generating article (S) to stop heating. The detection unit (12) transmits the moisture change of the aerosol generating article (S) to the control unit (10) in real time, and the control unit (10) may perform step S840 until the moisture level of the aerosol generating article (S) is included in a preset reference end level range. When the moisture level of the aerosol generating article (S) is included in a preset reference end level range, the control unit (10) may block the output of the source unit (20), as in step S860.

[0152] In this way, when the type of aerosol generating item (S) is identified, the control unit (10) can block the output of the source unit (20) when either the standard end time is satisfied or the end level condition is satisfied.

[0153] In step S870, if the control unit (10) determines that the type of aerosol generating item (S) is unidentifiable, it can adjust the frequency and power of the source unit (20) according to the matching frequency obtained based on the reflected electromagnetic wave and the preset power profile.

[0154] In one embodiment, the control unit (10) tracks the matching frequency of the source unit (20) in real time at which the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave is minimized, and can adjust the output frequency of the source unit (20) based on this matching frequency.

[0155] Additionally, the control unit (10) can control the output power of the source unit (20) according to a preset power profile while adjusting the output frequency of the source unit (20) according to the matching frequency. For example, the preset power profile may be a first power during a first time period and a second power smaller than the first power during a second time period after the first time period.

[0156] In step S880, the control unit (10) can determine whether the reference end time has been reached.

[0157] Unlike S850, the control unit (10) can only determine whether the standard end time is satisfied when the type of aerosol generating item (S) cannot be identified. This is because when the type of aerosol generating item (S) is not identified, it is impossible to control the output frequency and output power of the source unit (20) according to changes in moisture.

[0158] The control unit (10) may perform step S870 again if the preset reference end time has not elapsed since the start of preheating. Alternatively, the control unit (10) may block the output of the source unit (20) as in step S860 if the preset reference end time has elapsed since the start of preheating.

[0159] Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not exclusive or distinguishable from one another. Some or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or combined for their respective configurations or functions.

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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, Source unit that generates an RF signal; A radiating unit that heats the aerosol-generating article by radiating the above RF signal in the form of electromagnetic waves into an insertion space into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted; A sensing unit for detecting a change in moisture of the aerosol-generating article due to heating of the radiation unit; and An aerosol generating device comprising a control unit that controls the frequency and power of the RF signal output by the source unit based on changes in moisture of the aerosol generating article.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above sensing unit Detecting changes in moisture of the aerosol-generating product in the preheating section and the smoking section after the preheating section, and transmitting the detection results to the control unit, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that controls the frequency and power of the RF signal output by the source unit in at least a portion of the preheating section and the smoking section, wherein when the moisture level of the aerosol generating article is determined to be a first level, the output frequency and output power of the source unit are each adjusted to a first frequency and a first power, respectively, and when the moisture level of the aerosol generating article is determined to be a second level lower than the first level, the output frequency and output power of the source unit are each adjusted to a second frequency higher than the first frequency and a second power lower than the first power, respectively.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that, in at least a portion of the above-mentioned preheating section, independently of the detection result of the above-mentioned sensing unit, adjusts the output frequency of the source unit to a third frequency higher than the first frequency and the second frequency, and adjusts the output power of the source unit to a third power greater than the first power and the second power.

4. In Paragraph 3, It further includes a directional coupler that receives reflected electromagnetic waves reflected from the insertion space, and The above control unit An aerosol generating device that sets the first frequency, second frequency, and third frequency independently of the matching frequency output by the source unit when the power of the reflected electromagnetic wave is included within a reference power range.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that blocks the output of the source unit when the moisture level of the aerosol generating article is included in a preset standard termination level range.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above sensing unit Further detecting changes in moisture in the insertion space due to the insertion of the aerosol-generating article, and The above control unit An aerosol generating device that further identifies the type of aerosol generating article based on changes in moisture of the insertion space.

7. In Paragraph 6, An aerosol generating device further comprising: a memory for storing information regarding the output frequency and output power of the source part corresponding to the moisture level of each aerosol generating item.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that adjusts the output frequency of the source unit according to a matching frequency obtained based on reflected electromagnetic waves when the type of the aerosol generating article cannot be identified.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above sensing unit It includes at least one capacitive sensor, The above control unit An aerosol generating device that detects changes in moisture of the aerosol generating article based on the number of charge and discharge cycles per unit time of the above-mentioned capacitance sensor.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above capacitance sensor is, An aerosol generating device made of a flexible material and surrounding at least a portion of the outer surface of the insertion space.

11. In Paragraph 9, The above capacitance sensor is An aerosol generating device disposed adjacent to the lower surface of the insertion space to which the aerosol generating article contacts.

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