Aerosol-generating device and operation method thereof

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present application comprises: an oscillation unit for generating microwaves; a resonance unit which includes an accommodation space for accommodating an aerosol-generating article, and which resonates the microwaves so as to heat the aerosol-generating article; a sensor unit for identifying the state of a medium of a tobacco rod included in the aerosol-generating article; and a processor for adjusting the frequency of the microwave according to the identified state of the medium. When the state of the medium is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value, the processor controls, during a preheating period, that the oscillation unit generates the microwaves having a first frequency corresponding to moisture contained in the medium, and controls, during a smoking period, that the oscillation unit generates the microwave having a second frequency corresponding to glycerin contained in the medium.

Description

Aerosol generating device and method of operation thereof

[0001] The embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device capable of generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article by a dielectric heating method and a method of operating the same.

[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] Aerosol generation devices that generate aerosols by heating aerosol-generating materials using resistance heating or induction heating methods have been common, but recently, aerosol generation devices using dielectric heating methods that heat aerosol-generating materials using microwaves have also been proposed.

[0004] A dielectric heating type aerosol generating device refers to a device capable of generating heat in a dielectric material contained within an aerosol generating material through microwave resonance and heating the aerosol generating material using the heat generated from the dielectric.

[0005] Depending on the state of the medium of the aerosol generating material inserted into the aerosol generating device, the power profile required to maintain optimal atomization performance may vary. Moisture has a higher specific heat than air and a greater heat capacity than air at the same temperature. Consequently, when a user inhales an aerosol with a high moisture content, a problem may arise where they feel significantly hotter than when inhaling air at the same temperature.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an induction heating type aerosol generating device capable of applying a temperature profile corresponding to the medium state of an aerosol generating article can be provided.

[0007] The problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0008] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an oscillator that generates microwaves, a receiving space for receiving an aerosol generating article, a resonator that resonates the microwaves to heat the aerosol generating article, a sensor that identifies the state of a medium of a tobacco rod contained in the aerosol generating article, and a processor that adjusts the frequency of the microwaves according to the identified state of the medium. When the state of the medium is above a preset threshold value, the processor controls the oscillator to generate microwaves having a first frequency corresponding to moisture contained in the medium during a preheating section, and controls the oscillator to generate microwaves having a second frequency corresponding to glycerin contained in the medium during a smoking section.

[0009] A method of operation of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes, when the insertion of the aerosol generating article is detected, a step of identifying the state of the medium of the tobacco rod included in the aerosol generating article, and a step of adjusting the frequency of the microwave according to the identified state of the medium. The step of adjusting the frequency of the microwave comprises, when the state of the medium is above a preset threshold, controlling the oscillator to generate a microwave having a first frequency corresponding to moisture included in the medium during a preheating section, and controlling the oscillator to generate a microwave having a second frequency corresponding to glycerin included in the medium during a smoking section.

[0010] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention can measure the amount of moisture contained in the medium of an aerosol generating article using a sensor capable of identifying the state of the medium of the aerosol generating article, and can provide a temperature profile corresponding to the amount of moisture contained in the medium.

[0011] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects described above, and unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 is an internal block diagram of the heater assembly of Figure 2.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly of Figure 4.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a heater assembly according to another embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the frequency control of microwaves according to the state of the medium of the tobacco rod contained in the aerosol generating article.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a drawing for illustrating a lookup table including power profiles corresponding to each of a plurality of aerosol-generating articles.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation method of a dielectric heating type aerosol generator.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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).

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0028] 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.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0030] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device (1) may include a processor (10), a source unit (20), and a radiating unit (30). The processor (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 processor (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.

[0031] In one example, the processor (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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] The RF signal generation circuit (210) can generate an RF signal based on power delivered from the power supply (130) or the second power converter (150). The RF signal may mean a signal having a frequency within the range of 300 MHz to 300 GHz. In one example, the RF signal may have a frequency of 1 GHz to 100 GHz. Additionally, the RF signal may have a frequency in the Industrial Scientific and Medical Equipment (ISM) band, for example, 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz, and / or 5.8 GHz.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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).

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] The radiating unit (30) can heat an aerosol generating article by radiating electromagnetic waves (e.g., amplified RF signal or transmitted RF signal) into the insertion space. In order for the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating article to be maximized, resonance of the electromagnetic waves must occur within the insertion space. The resonance condition of the insertion space (e.g., resonance frequency) may vary depending on the amount of dielectric material contained in the inserted aerosol generating article, etc. The processor (170) can control the frequency of the RF signal generated by the RF signal generating circuit (210) so that it corresponds to or approaches the resonance condition of the insertion space by adjusting the control signal input to the RF signal generating circuit (210). The processor (170) may use a directional coupler (240) to obtain information about the resonance condition of the insertion space.

[0049] 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).

[0050] 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).

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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).

[0053] 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).

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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).

[0057] 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).

[0058] 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).

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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).

[0061] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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).

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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).

[0107]

[0108] *98 The aerosol generating article described in this disclosure may comprise 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 comprise at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating material, and an additive. For example, the aerosol generating material may comprise glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may comprise various other materials. For example, the additive may comprise flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may comprise 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 2, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a housing (100) capable of receiving an aerosol generating article (2) and a heater assembly (50) for heating the aerosol generating article (2) received in the housing (100).

[0112] 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 (50), 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.

[0113] An insertion opening (100h) may be formed in one area of ​​the housing (100), and at least one area of ​​the aerosol generating article (2) may be inserted into the interior of the housing (100) through the insertion opening (100h). For example, the insertion opening (100h) may be formed in one area of ​​the top surface (e.g., the surface facing the y direction) of the housing (100), but the location where the insertion opening (100h) is formed is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the insertion opening (100h) may be formed in one area of ​​the side surface (e.g., the surface facing the x direction) of the housing (100).

[0114] A heater assembly (50) is positioned in the internal space of the housing (100) and can heat an aerosol generating article (2) inserted or received inside the housing (100) through an insertion port (100h). For example, the heater assembly (50) can be positioned to surround at least one area of ​​the aerosol generating article (2) inserted or received inside the housing (100) to heat the aerosol generating article (2).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the heater assembly (50) can heat an aerosol generating article (2) by a dielectric heating method. In this disclosure, "dielectric heating method" refers to a method of heating a dielectric material to be heated by utilizing the resonance of microwaves and / or the electric field (or magnetic field) of microwaves. Since microwaves are an energy source for heating a material to be heated and are generated by high-frequency power, microwaves may be used interchangeably with microwave power below.

[0116] The charges or ions of the dielectric material contained within the aerosol generating article (2) can vibrate or rotate due to microwave resonance inside the heater assembly (50), and heat can be generated in the dielectric material by frictional heat generated during the process of the charges or ions vibrating or rotating, thereby heating the aerosol generating article (2).

[0117] As the aerosol generating article (2) is heated by the heater assembly (50), an aerosol may be generated from the aerosol generating article (2). In the present disclosure, 'aerosol' may refer to gaseous particles generated by mixing steam and air as the aerosol generating article (2) is heated.

[0118] The aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article (2) can pass through the aerosol generating article (2) or be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1) through the empty space between the aerosol generating article (2) and the insertion port (100h). The user can smoke by contacting the mouth to a part of the aerosol generating article (2) exposed to the outside of the housing (100) and inhaling the aerosol discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0119] An aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may further include a cover (101) movably disposed in a housing (100) to open or close an insertion port (100h). For example, the cover (101) may be slidably coupled to the upper surface of the housing (100) and may expose the insertion port (100h) to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1), or cover the insertion port (100h) so that the insertion port (100h) is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1).

[0120] In one example, the cover (101) may allow the insertion opening (100h) to be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1) at a first position (or 'open position'). When the insertion opening (100h) is exposed to the outside, an aerosol generating article (2) may be inserted into the inside of the housing (100) through the insertion opening (100h).

[0121] In another example, the cover (101) can cover the insertion port (100h) at a second position (or 'closed position') so that the insertion port (100h) is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device (1). At this time, the cover (101) can prevent external foreign matter from entering the interior of the heater assembly (50) through the insertion port (100h) when the aerosol generating device (1) is not in use.

[0122] FIG. 2 illustrates only an aerosol generating device (1) for heating a solid state aerosol generating article (2), but the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

[0123] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may generate an aerosol by heating a liquid or gel-state aerosol generating material, rather than a solid-state aerosol generating article (2), through a heater assembly (50).

[0124] According to another embodiment, an aerosol generating device may include a heater assembly (50) for heating an aerosol generating article (2) and an aerosol generating material in a liquid or gel state, and may also include a cartridge (or 'vaporizer') for heating the aerosol generating material. The aerosol generated from the aerosol generating material may travel to the aerosol generating article (2) along an airflow passage communicating the cartridge and the aerosol generating article (2), mix with the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating article (2), and then pass through the aerosol generating article (2) to be delivered to the user.

[0125] Figure 3 is an internal block diagram of the heater assembly of Figure 2.

[0126] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the heater assembly (50) may include an oscillation unit (510), an isolation unit (540), a power monitoring unit (550), a matching unit (560), a microwave output unit (530), and a resonance unit (520).

[0127] The oscillation unit (510) can generate high-frequency microwave power. At this time, the oscillation unit (510) may be configured to correspond to the RF signal generation circuit (210), driving amplifier (220), and power amplifier (230) of FIG. 1.

[0128] The oscillation unit (510) includes a solid-state based RF generation device and can generate microwave power using it. The solid-state based RF generation device can be implemented as a semiconductor. When the oscillation unit (510) is implemented as a semiconductor, there is an advantage that the heater assembly (50) can be miniaturized and the device lifespan is increased.

[0129] The oscillator (510) can output microwave power toward the resonator (520). The oscillator (510) includes a power amplifier that increases or decreases microwave power, and the power amplifier can adjust the magnitude of the microwave power under the control of the processor (170). For example, the power amplifier can decrease or increase the amplitude of the microwave. As the amplitude of the microwave is adjusted, the microwave power can be adjusted. The processor (170) can adjust the microwave frequency output from the oscillator (510) based on a pre-stored power profile (or temperature profile). For example, the power profile includes target temperature information according to the preheating section and the smoking section, and the oscillator (510) can supply microwaves having a first frequency in the preheating section and microwaves having a second frequency lower than the first frequency in the smoking section.

[0130] The processor (170) can adjust the magnitude and / or frequency of the power of the microwave output from the oscillator (510) based on the operating mode of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the aerosol generating device (1) can operate in a standby mode and a heating mode. The standby mode refers to a state where the power to the aerosol generating device (1) is turned on but the heater assembly (50) is not operating in a heating mode. The heating mode is a stage where the heater assembly (50) operates in a heating mode and can be divided into a preheating section and a smoking section. The oscillator (510) can supply microwave power at a first power in the standby mode and supply microwave power at a second power greater than the first power in the heating mode.

[0131] In standby mode, the processor (170) can identify the state of the medium contained in the aerosol generating article (2) and determine the type of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0132] In heating mode, the oscillator (510) can adjust the magnitude and / or frequency of the power of the microwave output from the oscillator (510) based on a temperature profile corresponding to the type of aerosol generating article (2) determined in standby mode and / or the state of the medium contained in the aerosol generating article (2).

[0133] For example, the heating profile includes target temperature information according to the preheating section and the smoking section, and the oscillator (510) can supply microwave power at a second-1 power during the preheating section and supply microwave power at a second-2 power that is smaller than the second-1 power during the smoking section. Additionally, the heating profile includes frequency information according to the preheating section and the smoking section, and the oscillator (510) can supply microwaves having a first frequency during the preheating section and supply microwaves having a second frequency lower than the first frequency during the smoking section.

[0134] The isolation unit (540) can block microwave power input from the resonance unit (520) toward the oscillation unit (510). Most of the microwave power output from the oscillation unit (510) is absorbed by the object being heated, but depending on the heating pattern of the object being heated, some of the microwave power may be reflected by the object being heated and transmitted back toward the oscillation unit (510). This is because the impedance viewed from the oscillation unit (510) toward the resonance unit (520) changes as polar molecules are depleted due to the heating of the object being heated. The meaning of "the impedance viewed from the oscillation unit (510) toward the resonance unit (520) changes" may be the same as the meaning of "the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (520) changes." When microwave power reflected from the resonance unit (520) is input to the oscillation unit (510), not only is the oscillation unit (510) prone to failure, but the expected output performance cannot be achieved. The isolation unit (540) can absorb the microwave power reflected from the resonance unit (520) by guiding it in a predetermined direction, rather than sending it back to the oscillation unit (510). To this end, the isolation unit (540) may include a circulator and a dummy load.

[0135] The power monitoring unit (550) can monitor the incident microwave power output from the oscillation unit (510) and the reflected microwave power reflected from the resonance unit (520), respectively. The power monitoring unit (550) can transmit information regarding the incident microwave power and the reflected microwave power to the matching unit (560).

[0136] The reflection characteristics of microwaves within the resonance section (520) may vary depending on the permittivity within the resonance section (520). Permittivity is an important characteristic value that represents the electrical properties of a dielectric material, i.e., an insulator. Permittivity does not represent electrical properties for DC current, but is directly related to the properties of AC current, particularly alternating electromagnetic waves. Specifically, the magnitude of the reflected microwaves reflected from the resonance section (520) may vary depending on the complex permittivity within the resonance section (520). The microwave absorption within the resonance section (520) can be expressed as a loss tangent, which is the ratio of the imaginary part to the real part of the complex dielectric constant. Additionally, the phase of the reflected microwaves reflected from the resonance section (520) may vary depending on the permittivity within the resonance section (520). Since the dielectric material contained in the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the receiving space (520h) of the resonance member (520) varies by type, the dielectric constant of the resonance member (520) may differ. Therefore, by analyzing the reflected microwaves reflected from the resonance member (520), the type of aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the receiving space of the resonance member (520) can be determined.

[0137] The matching unit (560) can match the impedance viewed from the oscillator (510) toward the resonator (520) and the impedance viewed from the resonator (520) toward the oscillator (510) so that the reflected microwave power is minimized. Impedance matching may have the same meaning as matching the frequency of the oscillator (510) with the resonant frequency of the resonator (520). Therefore, the matching unit (560) can vary the frequency of the oscillator (510) to match the impedance. In other words, the matching unit (560) can adjust the frequency of the microwave power output from the oscillator (510) so that the reflected microwave power is minimized. The impedance matching of the matching unit (560) can be performed in real time regardless of the temperature profile.

[0138] Meanwhile, the aforementioned oscillation unit (510), isolation unit (540), power monitoring unit (550), and matching unit (560) are separate components distinct from the microwave output unit (530) and resonance unit (520) described later, and can be implemented as a microwave source in the form of a chip. Additionally, according to an embodiment, the aforementioned oscillation unit (510), isolation unit (540), power monitoring unit (550), and matching unit (560) may also be implemented as part of the processor (170).

[0139] The microwave output unit (530) is configured to input microwave power to the resonant unit (520) and may be a configuration corresponding to the coupler shown in FIG. 3 or lower. The microwave output unit (530) may be implemented in the form of an SMA, SMB, MCX, or MMCX connector. The microwave output unit (530) may connect a chip-type microwave source and the resonant unit (520) to each other to transmit microwave power generated from the microwave source to the resonant unit (520).

[0140] The resonant section (520) can heat a body to be heated by forming microwaves within the resonant structure. The resonant section (520) includes a receiving space (520h) in which an aerosol generating article (2) is received, and the aerosol generating article (2) can be exposed to microwaves and dielectric heated. For example, the aerosol generating article (2) may contain a polar material, and molecules within the polar material may be polarized by microwaves inside the resonant section (520). The molecules may vibrate or rotate due to the polarization phenomenon, and the aerosol generating article (2) may be heated by frictional heat generated during this process.

[0141] The resonance section (520) includes at least one inner conductor so that microwaves can resonate, and microwaves can resonate inside the resonance section (520) depending on the arrangement, thickness, and length of the inner conductor.

[0142] The resonant section (520) can be designed with consideration of the wavelength of the microwave so that the microwave can resonate within the resonant section (520). For the microwave to resonate within the resonant section (520), a short end with a closed cross section and an open end with at least one region of the cross section open in the direction opposite to the short end are required. Additionally, the length between the short end and the open end must be set as an integer multiple of 1 / 4 of the microwave wavelength. The resonant section (520) of the present disclosure selects a length of 1 / 4 of the microwave wavelength for device miniaturization. In other words, the length between the short end and the open end of the resonant section (520) can be set to a length of 1 / 4 of the microwave wavelength.

[0143] The resonant section (520) may include a dielectric receiving space. The dielectric receiving space is configured to be distinct from the receiving space (520h) of the aerosol generating article (2), and a material capable of miniaturizing the resonant section (520) by changing the overall resonant frequency of the resonant section (520) is disposed therein. In one embodiment, a dielectric with low microwave absorption may be received in the dielectric receiving space. This is to prevent the phenomenon where energy that should be transferred to the body to be heated is transferred to the dielectric, causing the dielectric itself to generate heat. Microwave absorption may be expressed as a loss tangent, which is the ratio of the imaginary part to the real part of the complex dielectric constant. In one embodiment, a dielectric having a loss tangent less than or equal to a preset size may be received in the dielectric receiving space, and the preset size may be 1 / 100. For example, the dielectric may be at least one of quartz, tetrafluoroethylene, and aluminum oxide, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0144] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 4, a heater assembly (50) according to one embodiment may include an oscillation part (510) and a resonance part (520). FIG. 4 may be an embodiment of the heater assembly (50) described above, and redundant descriptions below will be omitted.

[0146] The oscillator (510) can generate microwaves of a specified frequency band as power is supplied. The microwaves generated by the oscillator (510) can be transmitted to the resonator (520) through a coupler (not shown).

[0147] The resonance unit (520) may include a receiving space (520h) for accommodating at least one region of the aerosol generating article (2), and the aerosol generating article (2) may be heated by a dielectric heating method by resonating the microwave generated from the oscillation unit (510). For example, the charges of glycerin contained in the aerosol generating article (2) may vibrate or rotate due to the resonance of the microwave, and heat may be generated in the glycerin due to the frictional heat generated when the charges vibrate or rotate, thereby heating the aerosol generating article (2).

[0148] According to one embodiment, the resonant part (520) may be formed of a material with a low microwave absorption rate to prevent microwaves generated in the oscillating part (510) from being absorbed by the resonant part (520).

[0149] Below, with reference to FIG. 5, we will examine the specific structure of the resonance part (520) of the heater assembly (50).

[0150] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly of FIG. 4. FIG. 5 shows a cross-section of the heater assembly (50) of FIG. 4 cut in the IV-IV' direction.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 5, a heater assembly (50) according to one embodiment may include an oscillation unit (510), a resonance unit (520), and a coupler (530). The components of the heater assembly (50) may be identical or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly (50) of FIG. 4, and redundant descriptions below will be omitted.

[0152] The oscillation unit (510) can generate microwaves of a specified frequency band as an alternating voltage is applied, and the microwaves generated by the oscillation unit (510) can be transmitted to the resonance unit (520) through the coupler (530).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the oscillating unit (510) may be fixed to the resonating unit (520) to prevent separation from the resonating unit (520) during the use of the aerosol generating device. In one example, the oscillating unit (510) may be fixed to the resonating unit (520) by being supported by a bracket (520b) that protrudes along the x-direction in one area of ​​the resonating unit (520). In another example, the oscillating unit (510) may be fixed to the resonating unit (520) by being attached to one area of ​​the resonating unit (520) without the bracket (520b).

[0154] Although the drawing illustrates only an embodiment in which the oscillating unit (510) is fixed in a region facing the x direction of the resonating unit (520), the position of the oscillating unit (510) is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. In other embodiments, the oscillating unit (510) may be fixed in another region facing the -z direction of the resonating unit (520).

[0155] The resonant section (520) is positioned to surround at least one area of ​​the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device, and can heat the aerosol generating article (2) through microwaves generated from the oscillating section (510). For example, dielectric materials contained in the aerosol generating article (2) can generate heat by the electric field generated inside the resonant section (520) by microwaves, and the aerosol generating article (2) can be heated by the heat generated from the dielectrics.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating article (2) may include a tobacco rod (21) and a filter rod (22).

[0157] The tobacco rod (21) comprises an aerosol-generating material and may be made into a sheet or a strand, or the tobacco sheet may be made into finely cut tobacco. For example, the aerosol-generating material may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the tobacco rod (21) may contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Additionally, a flavoring liquid, such as menthol or a humectant, may be added to the tobacco rod (21) by spraying it onto the tobacco rod (21).

[0158] The filter rod (22) may be a cellulose acetate filter. Meanwhile, there are no restrictions on the shape of the filter rod (22). For example, the filter rod (22) may be a cylindrical type rod or a tubular type rod containing a hollow interior. Additionally, the filter rod (22) may be a recessed type rod. If the filter rod (22) is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

[0159] At least some of the aerosol generating material (e.g., glycerin) contained in the aerosol generating article (2) may be a dielectric having polarity in an electric field, and at least some of such aerosol generating material may generate heat by dielectric heating to heat the aerosol generating article (2).

[0160]

[0161] According to the 150-day embodiment, the resonant part (520) may include an outer conductor (521), a first inner conductor (523), and a second inner conductor (525).

[0162] The outer conductor (521) can form the overall exterior of the resonance section (520) and is formed in a hollow shape with an empty interior so that the components of the resonance section (520) can be placed inside the outer conductor (521). The outer conductor (521) may include a receiving space (520h) in which an aerosol generating article (2) can be received, and the aerosol generating article (2) can be inserted into the interior of the outer conductor (521) through the receiving space (520h).

[0163] According to one embodiment, the outer conductor (521) may include a first surface (521a), a second surface (521b) positioned to face the first surface (521a), and a side (521c) surrounding the empty space between the first surface (521a) and the second surface (521b). At least some of the components of the resonant part (520) (e.g., a first inner conductor (523), a second inner conductor (525)) may be positioned in the internal space of the resonant part (520) formed by the first surface (521a), the second surface (521b), and the side (521c).

[0164] The first inner conductor (523) is formed in a hollow cylindrical shape extending from the first surface (521a) of the outer conductor (521) toward the inner space of the outer conductor (521), and an electric field can be generated inside the first inner conductor (523) as microwaves generated from the oscillator (510) are transmitted. According to an embodiment, the first inner conductor (523) may be referred to as a 'first resonator' that generates an electric field through the resonance of microwaves.

[0165] According to one embodiment, a region of the first inner conductor (523) may come into contact with a coupler (530) connected to an oscillator (510), and an electric field may be generated inside the first inner conductor (523) as microwaves transmitted through the coupler (530) resonate. For example, the coupler (530) may be positioned to penetrate the outer conductor (521), with one end in contact with the oscillator (510) and the other end in contact with a region of the first inner conductor (523), and an electric field may be generated inside the first inner conductor (523) as microwaves generated from the oscillator (510) are transmitted to the first inner conductor (523) through the coupler (530).

[0166] The second inner conductor (525) may be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape extending from the second surface (521b) of the outer conductor (521) toward the inner space of the outer conductor (521). The second inner conductor (525) may be spaced apart from the first inner conductor (523) by a predetermined distance in the inner space of the outer conductor (521), and a gap (526) may be formed between the first inner conductor (523) and the second inner conductor (525).

[0167] The second inner conductor (525) can be inductively coupled with the first inner conductor (523), so that an induced electric field can be generated inside the second inner conductor (525) as an electric field is generated inside the first inner conductor (523). In this disclosure, 'inductive coupling' may refer to a coupling relationship in which energy can be magnetically transferred by mutual inductance between two conductors.

[0168] For example, as microwaves generated from the oscillator (510) are transmitted to the first inner conductor (523), an electric field may be generated inside the first inner conductor (523) by resonance, and an induced electric field may be generated inside the second inner conductor (525) which is inductively coupled with the first inner conductor (523). According to an embodiment, the second inner conductor (525) may be referred to as a 'second resonator' that generates an electric field through the resonance of microwaves.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the resonant part (520) may include a short end with a closed cross-section having a length (λ / 4) of 1 / 4 of the wavelength (λ) of the microwave, and an open end located opposite to the short end, with at least one region of the cross-section open.

[0170] In one example, the resonant portion (520) may include a closing portion (524) located inside the first inner conductor (523) and closing the cross-section of the first inner conductor (523), and as the cross-section of the first inner conductor (523) is closed by the closing portion (524), a closed end may be formed in the first region (5231) of the first inner conductor (523) where the closing portion (524) is placed. In the second region (5232) spaced apart from the first region (5231) of the first inner conductor (523), the closing portion (524) is not present, so the cross-section of the second region (5232) may be open, and as a result, an open end may be formed in the second region (5232) of the first inner conductor (523). That is, the first inner conductor (523) is formed in an overall “C” shape when viewed on the xz plane and may include a closed end and an open end, and due to the structure of the first inner conductor (523) described above, the first inner conductor (523) can operate as a resonator having a wavelength of 1 / 4 of a microwave.

[0171] In another example, a receiving space (520h) is formed in a region of the second inner conductor (525) facing the closed end, so that the cross-section of the second inner conductor (525) can be opened, and as a result, when viewing the resonance part (520) as a whole, a closed end is formed in the first region (5231) of the first inner conductor (523), and an open end is formed at one end of the second inner conductor (525) facing the closed end, so that a resonance of 1 / 4 wavelength length can be formed within the resonance part (520).

[0172] According to the resonance structure of the resonance section (520) described above, the electric field may not propagate in the outer region of the resonance section (520) where conductors such as the first inner conductor (523) and the second inner conductor (525) do not exist. Therefore, the heater assembly (50) can prevent the electric field from leaking to the outside of the heater assembly (50) without a separate shielding member for shielding the electric field.

[0173] An aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the inner space of an outer conductor (521) through a receiving space (520h) can be heated by a dielectric heating method by being surrounded by a first inner conductor (523) and a second inner conductor (525). For example, a portion of the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the inner space of the outer conductor (521) may be placed inside the first inner conductor (523) and the second inner conductor (525), and another portion may be placed outside the first inner conductor (523) and the second inner conductor (525). The aerosol generating article (2) can be heated by the dielectric contained in the aerosol generating article (2) generating heat by an electric field generated inside and outside the first inner conductor (523) and / or the second inner conductor (525).

[0174] According to one embodiment, when an aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the interior of a resonant member (520) through a receiving space (520h), the tobacco rod (21) of the aerosol generating article (2) may be positioned at a location corresponding to the gap (526) between the first inner conductor (523) and the second inner conductor (525).

[0175] A resonance peak is formed at the end of the first inner conductor (523) operating as a first resonator and at the end of the second inner conductor (525) operating as a second resonator, so that a strong electric field can be generated compared to other regions, and as a result, the strongest electric field can be generated in the gap (526) between the first inner conductor (523) and the second inner conductor (525) within the inner region of the resonance part (520). In a heater assembly (50) according to one embodiment, the heating efficiency (or 'dielectric heating efficiency') of the heater assembly (50) can be improved by placing a tobacco rod (21) containing a dielectric that generates heat by the electric field at a position corresponding to the gap (526) where the electric field is strongest.

[0176] According to one embodiment, the resonant member (520) may further include a dielectric receiving space (527) for receiving a dielectric. The dielectric receiving space (527) may be formed in the empty space between the outer conductor (521), the first inner conductor (523), and the second inner conductor (525), and a dielectric with low microwave absorption may be received in the dielectric receiving space (527). For example, the dielectric may be at least one of quartz, tetrafluoroethylene, and aluminum oxide, or a combination thereof, but is not limited thereto.

[0177] A heater assembly (50) according to one embodiment can generate an electric field similar to that of a resonant part that does not include a dielectric while reducing the overall size of the resonant part (520) by placing a dielectric inside the dielectric receiving space (527). That is, the heater assembly (50) according to one embodiment can reduce the size of the resonant part (520) through the dielectric placed inside the dielectric receiving space (527), thereby reducing the mounting space of the resonant part (520) within the aerosol generating device, and as a result, the aerosol generating device can be miniaturized.

[0178] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a heater assembly according to another embodiment.

[0179] A heater assembly (300) according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6 may include a resonant part (320) that generates microwave resonance and a coupler (311) that supplies microwaves to the resonant part (320).

[0180] The resonant part (320) may include a case (321), a plurality of plates (323a, 323b), and a connecting part (322) connecting the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) and the case (321).

[0181] The coupler (311) can supply microwaves to at least one of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) to generate microwave resonance in the resonance section (320).

[0182] The resonant section (320) may surround at least one area of ​​the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device. The coupler (311) may supply microwaves generated from the oscillating section (not shown) to the resonant section (320). When microwaves are supplied to the resonant section (320), microwave resonance occurs in the resonant section (320), and the resonant section (320) may heat the aerosol generating article (2). For example, dielectrics contained in the aerosol generating article (2) may generate heat due to the electric field generated inside the resonant section (520) by the microwaves, and the aerosol generating article (2) may be heated by the heat generated from the dielectrics.

[0183] The case (321) of the resonance part (320) functions as an 'outer conductor'. Since the case (321) is formed with a hollow shape with an empty interior, the components of the resonance part (320) can be placed inside the case (321).

[0184] The case (321) may include a receiving space (320h) in which an aerosol-generating article (2) can be received, and an opening (321a) in which an aerosol-generating article (2) can be inserted. The opening (321a) is connected to the receiving space (320h). Since the opening (321a) is open toward the outside of the case (321), the receiving space (320h) is connected to the outside through the opening (321a). Thus, the aerosol-generating article (2) can be inserted into the receiving space (320h) of the case (321) through the opening (321a) of the case (321).

[0185] The case (321) shown in the drawing has a square cross-sectional shape, but the shape of the case (321) can be modified into various shapes. For example, the structure of the case (321) can be modified to have various cross-sectional shapes such as a rectangle, an ellipse, or a circle. The case (321) can be extended in one direction.

[0186] A plurality of plates (323a, 323b) capable of functioning as the 'internal conductor' of the resonant part (320) may be arranged inside the case (321).

[0187] A plurality of plates (323a, 323b) may be spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction of an aerosol-generating article (2) contained in a receiving space (320h). The plurality of plates (323a, 323b) may include a first plate (323a) placed to surround one area of ​​the aerosol-generating article (2) and a second plate (323b) placed to surround another area of ​​the aerosol-generating article (2).

[0188] Multiple plates (323a, 323b) can be connected to the case (321) by a connecting part (322). Additionally, one end of the first plate (323a) and one end of the second plate (323b) of the multiple plates (323a, 323b) can be connected to each other by the connecting part (322). Thus, a closed end can be formed by the connecting part (322) at one end of the multiple plates (323a, 323b).

[0189] The other end (323af) of the first plate (323a) and the other end (323bf) of the second plate (323b) of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) can be opened by being spaced apart from each other. Since the other ends of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) are spaced apart from each other, an open end can be formed at the other ends of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b).

[0190] A resonator assembly can be completed by connecting a plurality of plates (323a, 323b) and a connecting part (322) to each other. The shape of the cross-section cut along the longitudinal direction of the resonator assembly may include a 'horseshoe shape'.

[0191] A plurality of plates (323a, 323b) extend in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article (2). At least a portion of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) may be curved to protrude outward from the center in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article (2).

[0192] For example, if the aerosol generating article (2) is manufactured in a cylindrical shape, a plurality of plates (323a, 323b) may be formed to be curved in the circumferential direction along the outer surface of the aerosol generating article (2). The radius of curvature of the cross-section of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) may be the same as the radius of curvature of the aerosol generating article (2). The radius of curvature of the cross-section of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) may be varied in many ways. For example, the radius of curvature of the cross-section of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) may be larger or smaller than the radius of curvature of the aerosol generating article (2).

[0193] According to the structure in which a plurality of plates (323a, 323b) are formed to be curved in the circumferential direction along the outer surface of the aerosol generating article (2), a more uniform electric field is formed in the resonance part (320), so the heater assembly (300) can uniformly heat the aerosol generating article (2).

[0194] The open ends of the other ends of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) may be positioned to face the opening (321a) of the case (321). The opening (321a) of the case (321) may be positioned spaced apart in a direction away from the ends of the other ends of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b).

[0195] The open ends of the other ends of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) can be aligned with the opening (321a) of the case (321). Thus, when an aerosol-generating article (2) is inserted through the opening (321a) of the case (321) and placed in the receiving space (320h), a portion of the aerosol-generating article (2) located in the receiving space (320h) can be surrounded by the plurality of plates (323a, 323b).

[0196] Two plates (323a, 323b) are arranged at positions opposite to the longitudinal center of the aerosol generating article (2). The embodiments are not limited by the number of plates (323a, 323b), and the number of plates (323a, 323b) may be, for example, three or more.

[0197] Multiple plates (323a, 323b) can be arranged symmetrically with respect to the central axis in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article (2), that is, the direction in which the aerosol-generating article (2) extends.

[0198] At least one of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) may come into contact with a coupler (311) connected to an oscillation unit (not shown). Specifically, at least a portion of the first plate (323a) may come into contact with the coupler (311). As microwaves transmitted to the first plate (323a) through the coupler (311) resonate within the plurality of plates (323a, 323b), an electric field may be generated within the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) and the connection unit (322).

[0199] The coupler (311) penetrates the case (321), and one end of the coupler (311) contacts the oscillation unit (not shown), and the other end of the coupler (311) contacts a region of the first plate (323a). As microwaves generated from the oscillation unit (not shown) are transmitted through the coupler (311) to the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) and the connecting unit (322), an electric field can be generated inside the assembly of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) and the connecting unit (322).

[0200] In addition, according to the structure of the resonance section (320) of the heater assembly (300), triple resonance modes can be formed in the resonance section (320). Between the plurality of plates (323a, 323b), resonance of the microwave TEM mode (transverse electric and magnetic mode) is formed. Also, between the first plate (323a) and the upper plate of the case (321), and between the second plate (323b) and the lower plate of the case (321), resonance of a TEM mode different from the resonance formed between the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) is formed.

[0201] As triple resonance occurs in the resonance section (320) of the heater assembly (300), the aerosol generating article (2) can be heated more effectively and uniformly.

[0202] The resonant part (320) according to the above-described embodiment may include a short end with a closed cross-section having a length (λ / 4) of 1 / 4 of the wavelength (λ) of the microwave, and an open end located opposite to the short end, with at least one region of the cross-section open.

[0203] In FIG. 6, the region of one end of the resonance section (320) corresponding to the left region forms a closed end by a structure in which one end of a plurality of plates (323a, 323b) and a connecting part (322) are connected to a case (321). In FIG. 6, the region of the other end of the resonance section (320) corresponding to the right region forms an open end by the opening (321a) of the case (321) being opened to the outside. Due to this structure of the resonance section (320), the resonance section (320) can operate as a resonator having a wavelength of 1 / 4 of a microwave.

[0204] According to the resonance structure of the resonance member (320) described above, the electric field may not propagate to the outer region of the resonance member (320). Therefore, the heater assembly (300) can prevent the electric field from leaking to the outside of the heater assembly (300) without the need for a separate shielding member to shield the electric field.

[0205] An aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the receiving space (320h) of the case (321) can be heated by a dielectric heating method by being surrounded by a first plate (323a) and a second plate (323b). For example, a portion containing the medium of the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the receiving space (320h) of the case (321) may be placed in the space between the first plate (323a) and the second plate (323b). The aerosol generating article (2) can be heated by the dielectric contained in the aerosol generating article (2) generating heat through the electric field generated in the space between the first plate (323a) and the second plate (323b).

[0206] When the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the interior of the resonance part (320) through the receiving space (320h), the tobacco rod (21) of the aerosol generating article (2) can be positioned between a plurality of plates (323a, 323b).

[0207] The length (L4) of the tobacco rod (21) can be formed to be longer than the length (L1) of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b). Accordingly, the front end (21f) of the tobacco rod (21) that contacts the filter rod (22) is positioned at a location that protrudes more than the other end (323af) of the first plate (323a) and the other end (323bf) of the second plate (323b) in the direction toward the opening (321a) of the case (321).

[0208] A resonance peak is formed at the other end of a plurality of plates (323a, 323b) that operate as resonators, and a strong electric field can be generated compared to other regions. When an aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the heater assembly (300), a tobacco rod (21) containing a dielectric that can generate heat by the electric field is positioned to correspond to the region where the electric field is strongest, thereby improving the heating efficiency (or 'dielectric heating efficiency') of the heater assembly (300).

[0209] Referring to FIG. 6, the length (L1) of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) can be set to be smaller than the length (L1+L2) of the internal space of the case (321). Thus, the other end of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) can be located inside the case (321) rather than the opening (321a). That is, the other end of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b) can be located at a distance of L2 from the rear end of the opening (321a).

[0210] The length from the rear end of the opening (321a) where the opening (321a) is connected to the case (321) to the front end of the opening (321a) where the opening (321a) is opened may be L3. The total length of the case (321) along the longitudinal direction of the case (321) may be L. The total length L of the case (321) may be determined by the sum of the length (L1) of the plurality of plates (323a, 323b), the length (L2) of the rear end of the opening (321a) separated from the plurality of plates (323a, 323b), and the length (L3) of the opening (321a) protruding from the case (321).

[0211] To prevent microwave leakage, the front end of the opening (321a) is positioned to protrude from the case (321) by a length of L3. By protruding the opening (321a) of the case (321) from the case (321), the opening (321a) can function to prevent microwaves inside the case (321) of the resonant part (320) from leaking to the outside of the case (321).

[0212] The resonant part (320) may further include a dielectric receiving space (327) for receiving a dielectric. The dielectric receiving space (327) may be formed in the empty space between the case (321) and a plurality of plates (323a, 323b). A dielectric with low microwave absorption may be received in the dielectric receiving space (327).

[0213] The heater assembly (300) can generate an electric field of the same level as the electric field generated in a resonant part that does not contain a dielectric, while reducing the overall size of the resonant part by placing a dielectric inside the dielectric receiving space (327). That is, by reducing the size of the resonant part (320) through the dielectric placed inside the dielectric receiving space (327), the mounting space of the resonant part (320) within the aerosol generating device can be reduced, and as a result, the aerosol generating device can be miniaturized.

[0214] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the frequency adjustment of microwaves according to the state of the medium of a tobacco rod included in an aerosol generating article. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a lookup table including power profiles corresponding to each of a plurality of aerosol generating articles.

[0215] FIG. 7 illustrates only the components for adjusting the magnitude and / or frequency of the microwave power output of the oscillation unit (510) among the components of FIG. 3 to 6 included in the aerosol generating device (1). Accordingly, descriptions that overlap with FIG. 3 to 6 are omitted below.

[0216] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 7, the aerosol generating device (1) may include an oscillation unit (510), a power monitoring unit (550), a resonance unit (520), a sensor unit (180), and a processor (170).

[0217] The oscillator (510) can output microwaves having a frequency having a preset range and power of a preset magnitude under the control of the processor (170). The oscillator (510) includes at least one switching element, and the processor (170) can vary the output frequency of the microwaves by controlling the on / off of the switching element. For example, the processor (170) can control the oscillator (510) to output microwaves having an output frequency selected from a range of 2.15 GHz to 2.75 GHz or a range of 615 MHz to 1.245 GHz.

[0218] Additionally, the oscillator (510) includes a power amplifier, and the power amplifier can adjust the power magnitude of the output microwave by increasing or decreasing the amplitude of the microwave under the control of the processor (170). For example, the processor (170) can control the oscillator (510) to output a microwave having any one power magnitude selected in the range of 3W to 20W.

[0219] The microwave output from the oscillation unit (510) can be output to the resonance unit (520).

[0220] The resonance unit (520) accommodates an aerosol generating article (2) and can heat the aerosol generating article (2) by resonating microwaves provided from the oscillation unit (510). The internal structure of the resonance unit (520) may be the same as the structure shown in FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 6.

[0221] The sensor unit (180) can be placed inside a resonant unit (e.g., 320, 520). Accordingly, the sensor unit (180) can be protected by an electromagnetic shielding material to prevent electromagnetic interference by microwaves and a heat-resistant material to prevent damage from high temperatures caused by heating of the cigarette rod (21).

[0222] The sensor unit (180) can identify the state of the medium of the tobacco rod (21) included in the aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generating article (2) includes a tobacco rod (21) and a filter rod (22), and the tobacco rod (21) may include an aerosol generating material. The form of the aerosol generating material may be made of a sheet, strand, or bit, etc., and the type of aerosol generating material may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. Additionally, the tobacco rod (21) may further include at least one of a flavoring agent, a wetting agent, an organic acid, and a flavoring liquid.

[0223] At this time, the state of the medium may refer to an excessively humid state of the medium. For example, if the state of the medium of the tobacco load (21) is above a preset threshold, the processor (170) may determine that the aerosol generating item (2) is an aerosol generating item (2) in an excessively humid state (in other words, an excessively humid cigarette), and if it is below the threshold, the aerosol generating item (2) is an aerosol generating item (2) in a normal state (in other words, a normal cigarette). At this time, the threshold may be determined experimentally or statistically.

[0224] Referring to FIG. 8, the processor (170) can control the oscillator (510) to generate microwaves having a first frequency (F1) corresponding to moisture contained in the medium during the preheating section (PR1) when the state of the medium of the tobacco load (21) is above a preset threshold (i.e., a wet cigarette), and control the oscillator (510) to generate microwaves having a second frequency (F2) corresponding to glycerin contained in the medium during the smoking section (PR2).

[0225] On the other hand, the processor (170) can control the oscillator (510) to generate microwaves having a second frequency (F2) in both the preheating period (PR1) and the smoking period (PR2) when the state of the medium of the tobacco load (21) is below a threshold value (i.e., a regular cigarette).

[0226] At this time, the second frequency (F2) may be lower than the first frequency (F1). For example, the first frequency (F1) may be in the range of 2.15 GHz to 2.75 GHz, and the second frequency (F2) may be in the range of 615 MHz to 1.245 GHz. Preferably, the first frequency (F1) may be 2.45 GHz, and the second frequency (F2) may be 915 MHz. That is, the first frequency (F1) may be the optimal frequency set to vibrate water molecules to heat efficiently, and the second frequency (F2) may be the optimal frequency set to vibrate glycerin molecules to heat efficiently.

[0227] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (180) may be an ultrasonic sensor. If the sensor unit (180) is an ultrasonic sensor, when the time for the sound wave emitted toward the medium of the cigarette rod (21) to return is less than or equal to a preset time, the processor (170) may determine that the state of the medium of the cigarette rod (21) is greater than or equal to the threshold value (i.e., an over-moistened cigarette). Generally, the more moisture contained in the medium, the shorter the time for the sound wave to return.

[0228] According to another embodiment, the sensor unit (180) may be a near-infrared sensor. If the sensor unit (180) is a near-infrared sensor, it emits light (i.e., near-infrared light in the range of 700 nm to 2500 nm) and measures the reflected light that is reflected back from the medium of the cigarette rod (21). If the absorption rate at a specific wavelength of the reflected light (e.g., 970 nm, 1450 nm, 1940 nm) is greater than or equal to a preset size, the processor (170) may determine that the state of the medium of the cigarette rod (21) is greater than or equal to the threshold value (i.e., an over-moistened cigarette).

[0229] Meanwhile, the power monitoring unit (550) can measure the incident microwave (W1) output from the oscillation unit (510) or the reflected microwave (W2) reflected from the resonance unit (520) and input to the oscillation unit (510). In one embodiment, the magnitude of the incident microwave (W1) corresponds to the magnitude of the power output from the oscillation unit (510) and input to the resonance unit (520), and the magnitude of the reflected microwave (W2) corresponds to the magnitude of the power reflected from the resonance unit (520) and input to the oscillation unit (510).

[0230] The aerosol generating article (2) includes dielectrics such as aerosol generating substances, flavoring agents, wetting agents, organic acids, and flavoring liquids, and the dielectric constant of the dielectric included in the tobacco rod (21) may differ depending on the type of aerosol generating article (2). Accordingly, the dielectric constant of the dielectric of the resonating section (520) changes depending on the type of aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the resonating section (520). That is, the impedance of the resonating section (520) may differ depending on the type of aerosol generating article (2) inserted into the resonating section (520). Even if the incident microwave (W1) incident on the resonating section (520) is the same, the magnitude of the reflected microwave (W2) may differ because the degree of reflection is different when the impedance of the resonating section (520) is different.

[0231] When the oscillation unit (510) is controlled at a fixed output despite the impedance of the resonance unit (520) being different, the first impedance (Zeq1) viewed from the oscillation unit (510) toward the resonance unit (520) and the second impedance (Zeq2) viewed from the resonance unit (520) toward the oscillation unit (510) may not match. In other words, the first impedance (Zeq1) and the second impedance (Zeq2) may not match each other. Furthermore, since impedance matching is related to the maximum power transfer condition, the maximum power transfer condition may not be satisfied. If the maximum power transfer condition is not satisfied, the aerosol generating device (1) cannot exhibit optimal atomization performance.

[0232] Below, a configuration for adjusting the magnitude of microwave power output to the oscillation unit (510) based on different power profiles depending on the type of aerosol generating item (2) will be described in detail.

[0233] First, in standby mode, the aerosol generating device (1) can identify whether an aerosol generating article (2) has been inserted into the receiving space (550h in FIG. 4).

[0234] A processor (170) according to one embodiment can identify whether an aerosol-generating article (2) has been inserted into a receiving space (550h in FIG. 4) using an insertion detection sensor. At this time, the insertion detection sensor may include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor.

[0235] A processor (170) according to another embodiment may determine whether an aerosol generating article (2) is inserted based on reflected microwaves. The processor (170) may determine that the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the receiving space (520h) of the resonant part (520) if the magnitude of the reflected microwave (W2) is smaller than a first threshold value. At this time, the first threshold value may be determined according to the dielectric constant of the dielectric included in the aerosol generating article (2) and the amount of dielectric. For example, if the dielectric constant of the aerosol generating article (2) is large, it will absorb most of the incident microwave (W1), so the first threshold value may be inversely proportional to the dielectric constant of the aerosol generating article (2). The first threshold value may be calculated experimentally. The first threshold value may be stored in advance in memory (190).

[0236] When the insertion of an aerosol generating item (2) is detected, the processor (170) can output an incident microwave (W1) using an oscillator (510) and measure a reflected microwave (W2) that is reflected from a resonator (520) and input to an oscillator (510) using a power monitoring unit (550). At this time, the processor (170) can receive the incident microwave (W1) and the reflected microwave (W2) measured from the power monitoring unit (550).

[0237] Subsequently, the processor (170) can determine the type of aerosol generating article (2) based on the measured reflected microwave (W2). An aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a memory (190) that stores the relationship between a plurality of reflected microwaves (W2) and aerosol generating articles (2) in the form of a lookup table.

[0238] Each of the plurality of aerosol generating articles (2) may have a dielectric constant fixed according to the composition of the tobacco rod (21). Accordingly, each of the plurality of aerosol generating articles (2) may have different magnitudes of reflected microwaves (W2) in response to incident microwaves (W1) of the same magnitude.

[0239] For example, referring to FIG. 9, a plurality of aerosol generating articles (2) may include a first aerosol generating article, a second aerosol generating article, and a third aerosol generating article. In this case, the dielectric constant of the dielectric included in the aerosol generating article (2) may be greater in the order of the third aerosol generating article, the second aerosol generating article, and the first aerosol generating article (i.e., the dielectric constant of the first aerosol generating article is the smallest, and the dielectric constant of the third aerosol generating article is the largest). Since the greater the dielectric constant of the aerosol generating article (2), the more incident microwaves (W1) it will absorb, the reflected microwaves (W2) for an incident microwave (W1) of the same magnitude may be greater in the order of the first aerosol generating article, the second aerosol generating article, and the third aerosol generating article (i.e., the reflected microwaves (W2) for the first aerosol generating article are the largest, and the reflected microwaves (W2) for the third aerosol generating article are the smallest).

[0240] Next, in heating mode, the processor (170) can adjust the magnitude of the microwave power output from the oscillator (510) based on a power profile corresponding to the type of aerosol generating article (2) determined in standby mode.

[0241] An aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a memory (190) that stores the relationship between a plurality of aerosol generating articles (2) (or, the size of the reflected microwave (W2)) and power profiles in the form of a lookup table. That is, the lookup table stored in the memory (190) may be composed of a first lookup table containing an aerosol generating article (2) corresponding to the size of the reflected microwave (W2) and a second lookup table containing power profiles corresponding to the aerosol generating articles (2). However, it is not limited thereto and may be composed only of a lookup table containing power profiles corresponding to the size of the reflected microwave (W2).

[0242] For example, referring to FIG. 9, a first heating profile corresponding to a first aerosol generating article includes target temperature information (or target power information) according to a preheating section (PR1) and a smoking section (PR2), and the oscillator (510) can supply microwave power at a 2-11 power in the preheating section (PR1) and supply microwave power at a 2-21 power, which is smaller than the 2-11 power, in the smoking section (PR2). The processor (170) can progressively increase the magnitude of the microwave power in the smoking section (PR2).

[0243] Additionally, the second heating profile corresponding to the second aerosol generating article includes target temperature information (or target power information) according to the preheating section (PR1) and the smoking section (PR2), and the oscillator (510) can supply microwave power at a 2-12 power in the preheating section (PR1) and supply microwave power at a 2-22 power, which is smaller than the 2-12 power, in the smoking section (PR2). The processor (170) can progressively increase the magnitude of the microwave power in the smoking section (PR2).

[0244] Likewise, the third heating profile corresponding to the third aerosol generating article includes target temperature information (or target power information) according to the preheating section (PR1) and the smoking section (PR2), and the oscillator (510) can supply microwave power at a 2-13 power in the preheating section (PR1) and supply microwave power at a 2-23 power, which is smaller than the 2-13 power, in the smoking section (PR2). The processor (170) can progressively increase the magnitude of the microwave power in the smoking section (PR2).

[0245] At this time, since it is necessary to heat to a higher temperature as the dielectric constant of the body to be heated (or, aerosol generating article (2)) increases, the power may be set to be larger in the order of the 2-13 power, the 2-12 power, and the 2-11 power, and larger in the order of the 2-23 power, the 2-22 power, and the 2-21 power.

[0246] Meanwhile, the processor (170) may determine whether to reuse the aerosol generating article (2) based on the reflected microwave (W2) measured in standby mode.

[0247] Specifically, the processor (170) may stop the generation of microwaves in the oscillator (510) when the reflected microwave (W2) measured in standby mode is greater than or equal to a preset threshold. That is, since the reused aerosol generating item (2) is in a state where the aerosol generating material, etc. contained in the cigarette load (21) is depleted, it may have a dielectric constant significantly lower than that of the unused aerosol generating item (2). Accordingly, the reflected microwave (W2) of the reused aerosol generating item (2) may be greater than the reflected microwave (W2) of the unused aerosol generating item (2). At this time, the preset threshold may be calculated statistically from experiments and stored in advance in memory (106).

[0248] A power monitoring unit (550) according to one embodiment can track changes in the resonance frequency of the resonance unit (520) in real time during heating mode.

[0249] More specifically, as the dielectric material contained in the aerosol generating article (2) is heated and consumed by microwaves, the impedance of the resonant section (520) may vary. When the oscillating section (510) is controlled to a fixed output even though the impedance of the resonant section (520) is varied, the first impedance (Zeq1) viewed from the oscillating section (510) toward the resonant section (520) and the second impedance (Zeq2) viewed from the resonant section (520) toward the oscillating section (510) may not match. In other words, the first impedance (Zeq1) and the second impedance (Zeq2) may not match each other. Additionally, since impedance matching is related to the maximum power transfer condition, the maximum power transfer condition may not be satisfied. In the heating mode, the power monitoring unit (550) can measure the power output from the oscillation unit (510) and input to the resonance unit (520) and the power reflected from the resonance unit (520) and input to the oscillation unit (510) in order to match the first impedance (Zeq1) and the second impedance (Zeq2).

[0250] The processor (170) can adjust the output frequency of the oscillator (510) so that the difference between the power output from the oscillator (510) and input to the resonator (520) and the power reflected from the resonator (520) and input to the oscillator (510) falls within a preset reference power range. For example, the reference power range may be between 0w and 1w, but is not limited thereto.

[0251] The processor (170) can control the oscillator (510) by sweeping the output frequency output from the oscillator (510) within a preset reference band range, such that the difference between the power output from the oscillator (510) and input to the resonator (520) and the power reflected from the resonator (520) and input to the oscillator (510) is included within the preset range. For example, the reference band range may be a range of 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz or a range of 5.7 GHz to 5.9 GHz, but is not limited thereto.

[0252] The output frequency of the processor (170) can be controlled in real time. In other words, the processor (170) can control the output frequency of the oscillation unit (510) independently of the power magnitude control of the oscillation unit (510) described above. That is, the processor (170) can control the magnitude of the microwave power output from the oscillation unit (510) according to a power profile corresponding to the type of aerosol generating article (2) described above, regardless of the output frequency control of the oscillation unit (510).

[0253] FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation method of a dielectric heating type aerosol generating device. At this time, it is obvious that not only the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 but also the embodiments described in FIG. 2 to 9 can be applied to the operation method of the aerosol generating device.

[0254] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 10, a method of operation of an aerosol generating device (1) comprising an oscillator (510) for generating microwaves and a receiving space (520h) for receiving an aerosol generating article (2), and a resonator (520) for resonating microwaves to heat the aerosol generating article (2), may include a step (S10) of identifying whether the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the receiving space (520h) in a standby mode, a step (S20) of identifying the state of the medium of the tobacco rod (21) contained in the aerosol generating article (2) when the insertion of the aerosol generating article (2) is detected, and a step (S30) of adjusting the frequency of the microwaves output from the oscillator (510) according to the state of the medium identified in the standby mode in a heating mode.

[0255] The processor (170) can adjust the magnitude and / or frequency of the power of the microwave output from the oscillator (510) based on the operating mode of the aerosol generating device (1). For example, the aerosol generating device (1) can operate in a standby mode and a heating mode. The standby mode refers to a state in which the power to the aerosol generating device (1) is turned on but the heater assembly (50) is not operating in a heating mode. The heating mode is a stage in which the heater assembly (50) operates in a heating mode and can be divided into a preheating section and a smoking section.

[0256] The oscillator (510) can supply microwave power at a first power in standby mode (e.g., S10, S20) and supply microwave power at a second power greater than the first power in heating mode (e.g., S30).

[0257] Specifically, in step S10, the processor (170) can identify whether an aerosol-generating article (2) has been inserted into a receiving space (550h in FIG. 4) using an insertion detection sensor in standby mode. At this time, the insertion detection sensor may include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor.

[0258] Subsequently, in step S20, if the insertion of an aerosol generating item is detected, the sensor unit (180) can identify the state of the medium of the tobacco rod (21) contained in the aerosol generating item (2). At this time, the state of the medium may refer to an over-humid state of the medium. For example, if the state of the medium of the tobacco rod (21) is above a preset threshold, the processor (170) may determine that the aerosol generating item (2) is an aerosol generating item (2) in an over-humid state (in other words, an over-humid cigarette), and if it is below the threshold, the aerosol generating item (2) is an aerosol generating item (2) in a normal state (in other words, a normal cigarette). At this time, the threshold may be determined experimentally or statistically.

[0259] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (180) may be an ultrasonic sensor. If the sensor unit (180) is an ultrasonic sensor, when the time for the sound wave emitted toward the medium of the cigarette rod (21) to return is less than or equal to a preset time, the processor (170) may determine that the state of the medium of the cigarette rod (21) is greater than or equal to the threshold value (i.e., an over-moistened cigarette). Generally, the more moisture contained in the medium, the shorter the time for the sound wave to return.

[0260] According to another embodiment, the sensor unit (180) may be a near-infrared sensor. If the sensor unit (180) is a near-infrared sensor, it emits light (i.e., near-infrared light in the range of 700 nm to 2500 nm) and measures the reflected light that is reflected back from the medium of the cigarette rod (21). If the absorption rate at a specific wavelength of the reflected light (e.g., 970 nm, 1450 nm, 1940 nm) is greater than or equal to a preset size, the processor (170) may determine that the state of the medium of the cigarette rod (21) is greater than or equal to the threshold value (i.e., an over-moistened cigarette).

[0261] Subsequently, in step S30, the processor (170) can control the oscillator (510) to generate microwaves having a first frequency (F1) corresponding to moisture contained in the medium during the preheating section (PR1) when the state of the medium of the tobacco load (21) is above a preset threshold (i.e., a wet cigarette), and control the oscillator (510) to generate microwaves having a second frequency (F2) corresponding to glycerin contained in the medium during the smoking section (PR2).

[0262] On the other hand, the processor (170) can control the oscillator (510) to generate microwaves having a second frequency (F2) in both the preheating period (PR1) and the smoking period (PR2) when the state of the medium of the tobacco load (21) is below a threshold value (i.e., a regular cigarette).

[0263] At this time, the second frequency (F2) may be lower than the first frequency (F1). For example, the first frequency (F1) may be in the range of 2.15 GHz to 2.75 GHz, and the second frequency (F2) may be in the range of 615 MHz to 1.245 GHz. Preferably, the first frequency (F1) may be 2.45 GHz, and the second frequency (F2) may be 915 MHz. That is, the first frequency (F1) is the optimal frequency set to vibrate water molecules to heat efficiently, and the second frequency (F2) is the optimal frequency set to vibrate glycerin molecules to heat efficiently.

[0264] According to one embodiment, between the step (S20) of identifying the state of the medium of the tobacco rod (21) and the step (S30) of adjusting the frequency of the microwave, the method may further include the step of generating an input microwave (W1) that is output from the oscillator (510) and input to the resonator (520), the step of measuring a reflected microwave (W2) that is reflected from the resonator (520) and input to the oscillator (510), and the step of determining the type of aerosol generating article (2) based on the measured reflected microwave (W2). When the insertion of an aerosol generating article (2) is detected in standby mode, the processor (170) may output an incident microwave (W1) using the oscillator (510).

[0265] Afterward, the processor (170) can measure the reflected microwave (W2) reflected from the resonant unit (520) and input to the oscillating unit (510) using the power monitoring unit (550) in standby mode, and determine the type of aerosol generating item (2) based on the measured reflected microwave (W2). An aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a memory (190) that stores the relationship between the magnitude of the reflected microwave (W2) and power profiles in the form of a lookup table. Each of the plurality of aerosol generating items (2) may have a dielectric constant of a fixed dielectric according to the composition of the tobacco rod (21). Accordingly, each of the plurality of aerosol generating items (2) may have a different magnitude of reflected microwave (W2) in response to an incident microwave (W1) of the same magnitude.

[0266] Subsequently, in heating mode, the processor (170) can adjust the magnitude of the microwave power output from the oscillator (510) based on a power profile corresponding to the type of aerosol generating article (2) determined in standby mode.

[0267] An aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment may include a memory (190) that stores the relationship between a plurality of aerosol generating articles (2) and power profiles in the form of a lookup table. For example, referring to FIG. 9, a first heating profile corresponding to a first aerosol generating article includes target temperature information (or target power information) according to a preheating section (PR1) and a smoking section (PR2), and an oscillator (510) may supply microwave power at a 2-11 power in the preheating section (PR1) and supply microwave power at a 2-21 power, which is smaller than the 2-11 power, in the smoking section (PR2). A processor (170) may progressively increase the magnitude of microwave power in the smoking section (PR2).

[0268] Additionally, the second heating profile corresponding to the second aerosol generating article includes target temperature information (or target power information) according to the preheating section (PR1) and the smoking section (PR2), and the oscillator (510) can supply microwave power at a 2-12 power in the preheating section (PR1) and supply microwave power at a 2-22 power, which is smaller than the 2-12 power, in the smoking section (PR2). The processor (170) can progressively increase the magnitude of the microwave power in the smoking section (PR2).

[0269] Likewise, the third heating profile corresponding to the third aerosol generating article includes target temperature information (or target power information) according to the preheating section (PR1) and the smoking section (PR2), and the oscillator (510) can supply microwave power at a 2-13 power in the preheating section (PR1) and supply microwave power at a 2-23 power, which is smaller than the 2-13 power, in the smoking section (PR2). The processor (170) can progressively increase the magnitude of the microwave power in the smoking section (PR2).

[0270] At this time, since it is necessary to heat to a higher temperature as the dielectric constant of the body to be heated (or, aerosol generating article (2)) increases, the power may be set to be larger in the order of the 2-13 power, the 2-12 power, and the 2-11 power, and larger in the order of the 2-23 power, the 2-22 power, and the 2-21 power.

[0271] 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.

[0272] 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.

[0273] 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. An oscillator that generates microwaves; A resonance unit comprising a receiving space for receiving an aerosol-generating article and resonating the microwave to heat the aerosol-generating article; A sensor unit for identifying the state of the medium of the tobacco rod included in the aerosol generating article; and A processor that adjusts the frequency of the microwave according to the state of the identified medium; comprising, The above processor is, An aerosol generating device that, when the state of the medium is above a preset threshold, controls the oscillator to generate microwaves having a first frequency corresponding to moisture contained in the medium during a preheating section, and controls the oscillator to generate microwaves having a second frequency corresponding to glycerin contained in the medium during a smoking section.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, An aerosol generating device that controls the oscillator to generate microwaves having the second frequency in the preheating section and the smoking section when the state of the medium is below the threshold value.

3. In Paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device wherein the second frequency is lower than the first frequency, the first frequency is 2.15 GHz to 2.75 GHz, and the second frequency is 615 MHz to 1.245 GHz.

4. In Paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device in which, if the sensor unit is an ultrasonic sensor, the time for the sound wave emitted toward the medium to return is less than or equal to a preset time, the processor determines that the state of the medium is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

5. In Paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device in which, if the sensor unit is a near-infrared sensor, it emits light and measures the reflected light that is reflected back from the medium, and if the absorption rate of the reflected light at a specific wavelength is greater than or equal to a preset size, the processor determines that the state of the medium is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

6. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a power monitoring unit that measures an input microwave output from the oscillator and input to the resonator, and a reflected microwave reflected from the resonator and input to the oscillator. The above processor is an aerosol generating device that determines the type of aerosol generating article based on the reflected microwave measured by the power monitoring unit.

7. In Paragraph 6, An aerosol generating device comprising a memory that stores the relationship between a plurality of aerosol generating articles and power profiles in the form of a lookup table.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above processor is an aerosol generating device that adjusts the magnitude of microwave power output from the oscillator according to a power profile corresponding to the determined aerosol generating article based on the lookup table.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above tobacco rod comprises one or more dielectrics selected from an aerosol generating substance and a flavoring liquid, and the reflected microwave is an aerosol generating device that varies depending on the type and amount of the dielectric.

10. A method of operation of an aerosol generating device comprising an oscillator for generating microwaves, and a resonator for heating the aerosol generating article by resonating the microwaves, the resonator having a receiving space for receiving an aerosol generating article, A step of identifying whether the above aerosol-generating article is inserted into the above receiving space; When the insertion of the aerosol generating article is detected by the sensor unit, the step of identifying the state of the medium of the tobacco rod contained in the aerosol generating article; and The method includes the step of adjusting the frequency of the microwave according to the state of the identified medium by a processor; A method of operating an aerosol generating device, wherein the step of controlling the frequency of the microwave is, when the state of the medium is above a preset threshold, the oscillator is controlled to generate a microwave having a first frequency corresponding to moisture contained in the medium during a preheating section, and the oscillator is controlled to generate a microwave having a second frequency corresponding to glycerin contained in the medium during a smoking section.

11. In Paragraph 10, The step of adjusting the frequency of the microwave above is, A method of operation of an aerosol generating device, wherein when the state of the medium is below the threshold value, the oscillator is controlled to generate microwaves having the second frequency during the preheating section and the smoking section.

12. In Paragraph 10, A method of operating an aerosol generating device, wherein the second frequency is lower than the first frequency, the first frequency is 2.15 GHz to 2.75 GHz, and the second frequency is 615 MHz to 1.245 GHz.

13. In Paragraph 10, A method of operation of an aerosol generating device in which, if the sensor unit is a near-infrared sensor, it emits light and measures the reflected light that is reflected back from the medium, and if the absorption rate of the reflected light at a specific wavelength is greater than or equal to a preset size, the processor determines that the state of the medium is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

14. In Paragraph 10, Between the step of identifying the state of the medium of the above tobacco rod and the step of adjusting the frequency of the above microwave, A step of generating an input microwave that is output from the above-mentioned oscillation unit and input to the above-mentioned resonance unit; A step of measuring the reflected microwaves reflected from the resonance unit and input to the oscillation unit; and A method of operating an aerosol generating device further comprising the step of determining the type of aerosol generating article based on the reflected microwaves measured above.

15. In Paragraph 14, A method of operating an aerosol generating device comprising the step of adjusting the magnitude of microwave power output from the oscillator according to the power profile corresponding to the determined aerosol generating article, based on a lookup table including power profiles corresponding to a plurality of aerosol generating articles.

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