Aerosol-generating device

The aerosol generating device uses a thin-film antenna with integrated shielding and insulating layers to address size and complexity issues, achieving compact and efficient microwave containment.

WO2026059182A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-03-19KT&G CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-08-28
Publication Date
2026-03-19

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Abstract

Disclosed is an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure comprises: a body; and a radiation unit disposed on the body and providing an insertion space in which an aerosol-generating article is accommodated. The radiation unit comprises: a single sheet elongated in one direction; an antenna surrounding the insertion space and emitting microwaves for dielectrically heating the aerosol-generating article; and a shielding unit surrounding the antenna and blocking the microwaves from being emitted to the outside of the radiation unit. The radiation unit may be formed by arranging the antenna and the shielding unit on the sheet so as to be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the sheet, and rolling the sheet in the longitudinal direction.
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Description

Aerosol generator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

[0002] An aerosol generator is intended to extract specific components from a medium or substance through an aerosol. The medium may contain substances of various components. The substances contained in the medium may be flavor substances of various components. For example, the substances contained in the medium may include nicotine components, herbal components, and / or coffee components. Recently, much research has been conducted on such aerosol generators.

[0003] An aerosol generating device that heats an aerosol generating material by a dielectric heating method is equipped with a radiating unit for radiating microwaves. To prevent microwaves radiated from the radiating unit from leaking outside the device, the aerosol generating device may be equipped with a microwave shielding structure.

[0004] In this case, there is a problem in that the size or volume of the device increases due to the microwave shielding structure. Additionally, there is a problem in that the shielding structure complicates the device's structure and the assembly process.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to solve the aforementioned problems and other problems.

[0006] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a thin-film antenna disposed on a single sheet and a radiating part formed by a shielding part being rolled together with the sheet.

[0007] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device in which a shielding portion surrounds the outer side of an antenna and at least one insulating layer is disposed between the shielding portion and the antenna.

[0008] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device in which at least one protective layer surrounding the inner side of the antenna is disposed inside the antenna.

[0009] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a structure in which a sheet surrounds the outer side of the shielding portion multiple times.

[0010] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device having a bracket that fixes the upper and lower ends of the radiating part and connects to the shielding part.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, the aerosol generating device comprises: a body; and a radiating member disposed in the body and providing an insertion space in which an aerosol product is received, wherein the radiating member comprises: a sheet extending in one direction; an antenna surrounding the insertion space and emitting microwaves that dielectric heat the aerosol product; and a shielding member surrounding the antenna and blocking the microwaves from being emitted to the outside of the radiating member, wherein the radiating member is formed such that the antenna and the shielding member are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the sheet, and the sheet is rolled in the longitudinal direction.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a thin-film antenna disposed on a sheet and a shielding portion formed by rolling together with the sheet are provided with a radiating portion, so that the size or volume of the radiating portion may be reduced.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a shielding portion surrounds the outer side of an antenna, and at least one insulating layer is disposed between the shielding portion and the antenna to prevent electrical contact between the shielding portion and the antenna, and to block microwaves radiated from the antenna from being emitted outside the radiating portion.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one protective layer surrounding the inner side of the antenna is disposed inside the antenna, so that damage to the antenna can be prevented during the insertion and removal of aerosol products.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a structure is provided in which a sheet surrounds the outer side of the shielding portion multiple times, so that heat can be minimized from being released outside the radiating portion.

[0016] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a bracket is provided that fixes the upper and lower ends of the radiating part and connects to the shielding part, thereby ensuring the rigidity of the radiating part and blocking microwaves from being emitted outside the radiating part through the insertion space.

[0017] Further scopes of the applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure are clearly understood by those skilled in the art, specific embodiments, such as the detailed description and preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, should be understood as being given merely as examples.

[0018] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a radiating part according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating an antenna of a radiating part according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a shielding portion of a radiation portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 6 is an upper view of the unfolded state of a radiating portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a side view of the unfolded state of a radiating part according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a radiating portion viewed from the side according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a radiating portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from above.

[0027] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating the unfolded state of a radiating portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a radiating portion viewed from the side according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] 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.

[0030] The suffixes "module" and "unit" for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the sake of ease of drafting the specification, and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Meanwhile, the suffixes "module" or "unit" may include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. "Module" or "unit" may be a component formed as a whole, or the smallest unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, "module" or "unit" may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0035] 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.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0037] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device (1) may include a control unit (10), a source unit (20), and a radiating unit (30). The control unit (10) may refer to a circuit for controlling the basic operation of the aerosol generating device (1). The source unit (20) may refer to a circuit for generating an RF (Radio Frequency) signal under the control of the control unit (10). The radiating unit (30) may be a device for radiating the RF signal generated by the source unit (20) in the form of an electromagnetic wave into a space (hereinafter, insertion space) into which an aerosol generating article is inserted. The charges or ions of a dielectric (e.g., glycerin) contained in the aerosol generating article may vibrate or rotate due to the radiated electromagnetic wave (e.g., RF signal), and the aerosol generating article may be heated as the dielectric heats up due to the frictional heat generated during the process of the charges or ions vibrating or rotating. In other words, the aerosol generating device (1) may be a device that generates aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article using a dielectric heating method.

[0038] In one example, the control unit (10) may include a power connector (110), a charging circuit (120), a power source (130), a first power converter (140), a second power converter (150), a third power converter (160) and / or a processor (170). Additionally, the source unit (20) may include an RF signal generation circuit (210), a drive amplifier (220), a power amplifier (230), a directional coupler (240) and / or a temperature sensing circuit (250). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to this embodiment that, depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1), some of the components shown in FIG. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0039] 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. The aerosol generating device (1) may transmit and receive data with 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 at a current of 1A, but is not necessarily limited thereto. The power connector (110) may include an interface for wirelessly transmitting and receiving power.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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).

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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).

[0057] 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).

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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).

[0060] 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).

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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).

[0064] 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).

[0065] 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).

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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).

[0068] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] As another example, the puff sensor may include a capacitance sensor. In the present disclosure, the capacitance sensor may be referred to as a cap sensor or 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) may detect the user's puff based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space, etc., output from the capacitance sensor.

[0073] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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 alternating current, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.). Alternatively, a susceptor (SUS), etc., may be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the medium part 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[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 result detected by the sensor unit.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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, the processor (170) can use a cartridge detection sensor to determine that the cartridge is separated, and if it is determined 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is genuine and / or of a type. For example, the processor (170) can detect whether the aerosol generating item is genuine and / or of a type using a cigarette identification sensor. For example, if the processor (170) detects that the aerosol generating item (or cartridge) is counterfeit, the processor (170) can 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, the processor (170) can control (e.g., initiate) the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater. For another example, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater differently depending on the 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).

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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).

[0114] The aerosol generating article mentioned in the present disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium part) and at least one filter rod. The spinning part (30) may be positioned to correspond to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating material, and an additive. For example, the aerosol generating material may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may include various other materials. For example, the additive may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may include various other materials. For example, the aerosol generating rod may comprise an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco material (e.g., an aerosol generating material and / or nicotine), and / or may comprise a solid tobacco material (e.g., leaf tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). The tobacco material may be included in the aerosol generating rod in various forms, such as whole tobacco, granules, or powder. According to one embodiment, the additive of the aerosol generating rod may comprise a basic material. Based on the basic material, the nicotine in the tobacco material included in the aerosol generating rod may have a basic pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, freebase nicotine may be released from the aerosol generating rod even at low temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod comprises two or more aerosol generating rods, and said two or more aerosol generating rods may each comprise a tobacco material and / or a non-tobacco material.Meanwhile, although not illustrated, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each and / or integrally be wrapped by at least one wrapper. In the present disclosure, the aerosol generating article may be referred to as a stick.

[0115] 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.

[0116]

[0117] FIG. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a housing (11), a control unit (10), a source unit (20), and a radiation unit (30). However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art related to this embodiment that the components included in the aerosol generating device (1) are not limited to those shown in FIG. 2, and that some of the components may be omitted or new components may be added. The aerosol generating device (1) shown in FIG. 2 may be referred to as an 'external heating type' aerosol generating device that heats the outside of an aerosol generating article (2). In the following drawings, descriptions that overlap with FIG. 2 will be omitted.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the housing (11) may provide a space that is open upward to allow an aerosol-generating article (2) to be inserted. In the present disclosure, the space that is open upward may be referred to as an insertion space (IS). The insertion space (IS) may be formed by being recessed to a predetermined depth toward the interior of the housing (11) so that at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article (2) can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space (IS) may be greater than the length of the area containing the aerosol-generating material and / or medium in the aerosol-generating article (2). The bottom end of the aerosol-generating article (2) may be inserted into the interior of the housing (11), and the top end of the aerosol-generating article (2) may protrude outside the housing (11). A user may take the top end of the aerosol-generating article (2) exposed to the outside into their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the radiating part (30) can heat the aerosol generating article (2). Referring to FIG. 2, the radiating part (30) may be an external heating type structure.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the radiating member (30) may extend upwardly around an insertion space (IS) into which an aerosol generating article (2) is inserted. For example, the radiating member (30) may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space (IS). For example, the radiating member (30) may include a tube shape (e.g., a cylindrical shape) containing a hollow inside. The radiating member (30) may include a shape containing a hollow inside and surrounding said hollow. In this case, the radiating member (30) may be supported by a polyimide film. The radiating member (30) may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space (IS). The radiating member (30) may heat the outside of the aerosol generating article (2) inserted into said hollow.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the radiating member (30) may include a dielectric heating type heater. The aerosol generating device (1) may include a tube-shaped antenna surrounding the insertion space (IS). Meanwhile, an insulating material may be placed on the outside of the radiating member (30). Through this, heat radiated outward from the radiating member (30) and applied to the outside of the housing (11) can be reduced.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the radiating member (30) may be a multi-heater, and the first antenna and the second antenna may be arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction to each surround at least a portion of the insertion space (IS). The first antenna and the second antenna may operate as dielectric heating type heaters and may radiate electromagnetic waves sequentially or simultaneously.

[0124] Unlike as shown in FIG. 2, the antenna of the radiating part (30) may be wound around a rod-shaped or needle-shaped structure and inserted into the aerosol-generating article (2) through the lower part of the aerosol-generating article (2). In this case, electromagnetic waves radiated from the antenna may propagate from the inside to the outside of the aerosol-generating article (2) and heat the aerosol-generating article (2).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may be provided with an airflow channel through which air flows. For example, the housing (11) may include a structure (e.g., a hole) through which air from the outside can be introduced into the housing (11). The air introduced into the housing (11) may be introduced into the aerosol generating article (2) through the bottom (i.e., upstream side) of the aerosol generating article (2). The aerosol generated based on the heating of the aerosol generating article (2) may be inhaled into the user's mouth through the top (i.e., downstream side) of the aerosol generating article (2) together with the introduced air.

[0126]

[0127] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a radiating member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an antenna of a radiating member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a shielding member of a radiating member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0128]

[0129] Referring to FIG. 3, the radiating part (30) may be disposed within a body (11) (e.g., a housing (11)). The radiating part (30) may be referred to as a heater assembly. The radiating part (30) may be in the shape of a tube or cylinder containing a hollow inside. The radiating part (30) may provide an insertion space (IS) inside. By the radiating part (30), an aerosol product (2) inserted into the insertion space (IS) may be heated.

[0130] The radiating part (30) may include a sheet (310), an antenna (320), and a shielding part (330). The antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) have a thin and wide shape in the form of a thin film and can be rolled up together with the sheet (310) to form a hollow structure.

[0131] A pair of brackets (340, 350) may be attached to or coupled to the radiating member (30). Each of the pair of brackets (340, 350) may be coupled to an opening at one end and an opening at the other end of the hollow radiating member (30). The pair of brackets (340, 350) may be coupled to the radiating member (30) to support the radiating member (30).

[0132] A casing (360) may be attached to or coupled to the radiating section (30). The casing (360) may include a first casing (360a) that surrounds a portion of the side of the radiating section (30) and a second casing (360b) that surrounds the remainder of the side of the radiating section (30). The first casing (360a) and the second casing (360b) may be coupled to surround the side of the radiating section (30). The first casing (360a) and the second casing (360b) may be coupled to a bracket (340, 350) coupled to the radiating section (30).

[0133] The casing (360) and the brackets (340, 350) are joined together to accommodate the radiating part (30) inside. Accordingly, the radiating part (30) can be protected from the outside and the radiating part (30) can be firmly supported to ensure the rigidity of the radiating part (30).

[0134]

[0135] Referring to FIG. 4, the antenna (320) has a thin and wide shape in the form of a thin film and can be rolled up to form a hollow structure. The antenna (320) can be formed by etching a metal thin film with a laser. The antenna (320) can radiate an RF signal generated by the source part (20, see FIG. 1 and 2) into the insertion space (IS) in the form of microwaves. Here, microwaves may refer to electromagnetic waves having a frequency of 300 MHz to 300 GHz.

[0136] The antenna (320) may include a radiation track (321) and a connecting part (322). The antenna (320) may be a meander-shaped antenna that extends in both directions overall.

[0137] The radiating track (321) may include at least one track. For example, the radiating track (321) may include two tracks extending in different directions overall (e.g., +x direction and -x direction). Each track may include at least one bent portion and may have a serpentine, curved shape. Each track may have a shape symmetrical to one another. Each track may have one end connected to the other and the other end forming a free end (323, 324).

[0138] The connecting portion (322) may protrude outward from one side of the radiation track (321). The connecting portion (322) may be formed integrally with the radiation track (321). The connecting portion (322) is connected to the source portion (20) and can receive an RF signal from the source portion (20).

[0139] The shape of the antenna (320) may be rectangular, having a length (L1) and a width (W1). The antenna (320) may have an overall rectangular shape when unfolded flat. The length (L1) of the antenna (320) may be defined as the distance between one end (325) and the other end (326) of the radiation track (321) with respect to one direction (e.g., x direction) when the antenna (320) is unfolded. The width (W1) of the antenna (320) may be defined as the distance between one end (327) and the other end (328) of the radiation track (321) with respect to a direction perpendicular to one direction (e.g., z direction) when the antenna (320) is unfolded.

[0140] However, the shape of the antenna (320) is not limited thereto, and the antenna (320) may include a structure such as a loop antenna, a PIFA (Planar Inverted F Antenna), a monopole antenna, or a dipole antenna.

[0141]

[0142] Referring to FIG. 5, the shielding portion (330) has a thin and wide shape in the form of a thin film and can be rolled up to form a hollow structure. The shielding portion (330) may include a metal mesh or a metal sheet having a plurality of holes (330h) formed therein. The shielding portion (330) may include a metal material with high electrical conductivity. For example, the shielding portion (330) may include at least one of a metal material such as copper, silver, aluminum, etc.

[0143] The metal mesh may include at least one hole (330h). The diameter (D1) of the hole (330h) may be designed with consideration of the wavelength of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320). For example, the diameter (D1) of the hole (330h) may be equal to or smaller than half the wavelength of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320). For example, the diameter (D1) of the hole (330h) may be equal to or smaller than one-fourth the wavelength of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320).

[0144] The shielding portion (330) may be a rectangular shape having a length (L2) and a width (W2). The shielding portion (330) may have a rectangular shape when unfolded flat. The length (L2) of the shielding portion (330) may be defined as the distance between one end (331) and the other end (332) of the shielding portion (330) with respect to one direction (e.g., x direction) when the shielding portion (330) is unfolded. The width (W2) of the shielding portion (330) may be defined as the distance between one end (333) and the other end (334) of the shielding portion (330) with respect to a direction perpendicular to one direction (e.g., z direction) when the shielding portion (330) is unfolded.

[0145]

[0146] FIG. 6 is an upper view of the unfolded state of a radiating member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 7 is a side view of the unfolded state of a radiating member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0147] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the sheet (310) may be extended in one direction (e.g., x-direction). An antenna (320) and a shielding part (330) may be attached to the sheet (310). The antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) may be rolled together with the sheet (310) along the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310). The sheet (310) may form a plurality of layers in a hollow radiating part (30). The sheet (310) may form at least one layer surrounding the antenna (320) on the outside of the antenna (320) and at least one layer surrounding the shielding part (330) on the outside of the shielding part (330).

[0148] The sheet (310) may be formed from a heat-resistant material as a flexible sheet. The sheet (310) may include polyimide or polyetheretherketone (PEEK), but is not limited thereto, and may include other materials having elasticity, heat resistance, and electrical insulation.

[0149] The antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) may be arranged sequentially along the length direction of the sheet (310). The antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the length direction of the sheet (310).

[0150] The antenna (320) and the shielding portion (330) may be placed on the same surface of the sheet (310). The sheet (310) may be a single sheet that extends in one direction (e.g., x-direction). The sheet (310) may include a flat first surface (311) and a second surface (312) that forms a surface opposite to the first surface (311) in the thickness direction. The antenna (320) and the shielding portion (330) may be placed on the first surface (311). The sheet (310) may be rolled so that the first surface (311) faces the inside of the hollow radiating portion (30) or the insertion space (IS) (see FIG. 8). The radiating portion (30) may be formed by rolling the antenna (320) and the shielding portion (330) together with the sheet (310).

[0151] The sheet (310) may include first to fifth parts (310a, 310b, 310c, 310d, 310e). An antenna (320) may be disposed in the first part (310a). A shielding portion (330) may be disposed in the second part (310b). The third part (310c) may be disposed to the left of the first part (310a) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (40) and may be connected to the first part (310a). The fourth part (310d) may be disposed between the first part (310a) and the second part (310b) and may be connected to the first part (310a) and the second part (310b). The fifth part (310e) extends from the second part (310b) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310) and may face the fourth part (310d) with respect to the second part (310b). The sheet (310) may be rolled in a direction from one end (313) of the first part (310a) toward one end (314) of the fifth part (310e).

[0152] The antenna (320) may be positioned spaced apart from one end (313) of the sheet (310) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310). In the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310), one end (325) of the antenna (320) may be positioned spaced apart from one end (313) of the sheet (310) by a first distance (A1). In other words, the one end (325) of the antenna (320) and the one end (313) of the sheet (310) may be spaced apart by the length (A1) of the third part (310c) of the sheet (310).

[0153] The length (L1) of the antenna (320), defined along the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310), may be less than or equal to the first distance (A1). Due to this structural feature, in the hollow radiating part (30), the third part (310c) of the sheet (310) may surround the inner side of the antenna (320), and the antenna (320) may be prevented from being exposed to the insertion space (IS).

[0154] The shielding portion (330) may be spaced apart from the antenna (320) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310). In the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310), one end (331) of the shielding portion (330) may be spaced apart from the other end (326) of the antenna (320) by a certain distance.

[0155] The width (W0) of the sheet (310) may be larger than the width (W1) of the antenna (320) and the width (W2) of the shielding portion (330). The antenna (320) and the shielding portion (330) may be spaced apart from both ends of the sheet (310) in the width direction (e.g., z-direction) of the sheet (310).

[0156] The width (W2) of the shielding portion (330), defined in the width direction of the sheet (310), may be greater than or equal to the width (W1) of the antenna (320). In the width direction of the sheet (310), one end or top (333) of the shielding portion (330) may be positioned closer to the one end or top of the sheet (310) than to the one end or top (327) of the antenna (320). In the width direction of the sheet (310), the other end or bottom (334) of the shielding portion (330) may be positioned closer to the other end or bottom of the sheet (310) than to the other end or bottom (328) of the antenna (320).

[0157] The length (L2) of the shielding portion (330) defined in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310) may be longer than the length (L1) of the antenna (320).

[0158] In the hollow radiating part (30), the shielding part (330) can surround the antenna (320) from the outside. By a structure in which the width (W2) of the shielding part (330) is greater than or equal to the width (W1) of the antenna (320) and / or the length (L2) of the shielding part (330) is longer than the length (L1) of the antenna (320), the shielding part (330) can surround the entire outer side or outer surface of the antenna (320) without any part of the outer side or outer surface of the antenna (320) being exposed to the outside.

[0159] The antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) can be attached to the sheet (310) by heat fusion. The antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) are each placed on the first surface (311) of the first part (310a) and the second part (310b) of the sheet (310), and the antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) can be attached to the sheet (310) by heating the sheet (310), the antenna (320), and the shielding part (330) to a temperature above a certain temperature.

[0160] Accordingly, the adhesive structure of the radiation part (30) can be simplified.

[0161] Meanwhile, although not shown in the drawing, the antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) may be placed on different sides of the sheet (310). For example, the antenna (320) may be placed on the first side (311) of the sheet (310), and the shielding part (330) may be placed on the second side (312) of the sheet (310). The antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) may be placed spaced apart from one end (313) of the sheet (310) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310). In the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310), one end (325) of the antenna (320) may be placed spaced apart from one end (313) of the sheet (310) by a first distance (A1). The length (L1) of the antenna (320) defined in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310) may be less than or equal to the first distance (A1). The sheet (310) may be rolled so that the first surface (311) faces the inside of the hollow radiating part (30) or the insertion space (IS).

[0162]

[0163] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a radiating member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from the side, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a radiating member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from the top.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 8, in the hollow radiating part (30), an insertion space (IS) may be disposed inside the antenna (320). At least one layer (310c) may be disposed inside the antenna (32). The layer may be referred to as a protective layer. The protective layer (310c) disposed inside the antenna (320) may surround the inner side of the antenna (320). In other words, the third part (310c) of the sheet (310) may surround the inner side of the antenna (320). By the protective layer (310c) disposed inside the antenna (320), at least a portion of the inner surface of the antenna (320) may be prevented from being exposed to the insertion space (IS).

[0165] The protective layer (310c) may surround the insertion space (IS). The inner surface of the antenna (320) may face the aerosol product (2) inserted into the insertion space (IS). At least a portion of the protective layer (310c) may come into contact with the outer surface of the aerosol product (2) inserted into the insertion space (IS).

[0166] Accordingly, at least one protective layer (310c) surrounding the inner side of the antenna (320) is disposed inside the antenna (320), so that the antenna (320) can be prevented from being damaged during the insertion and removal process of the aerosol product (2).

[0167] In the width direction of the sheet (310) or the length direction of the radiating part (30), the antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) may be spaced apart from the top and bottom of the sheet (310). In the hollow radiating part (30), the top and bottom portions of the third part (310c) and the first part (310a) may come into contact with each other. The top and bottom portions of the third part (310c) and the first part (310a) come into contact with each other, and the antenna (320) may be sealed from the outside by the structure in which the sheet (310) is rolled up.

[0168] The brackets (340, 350) can be attached to one end and the other end of the hollow radiating part (30). The brackets (340, 350) may include a first bracket (340) attached to or attached to one side of the radiating part (30) corresponding to the opening of the insertion space (IS), and a second bracket (350) attached to or attached to the other side of the radiating part (30).

[0169] The first bracket (340) has a cylindrical shape overall and may be provided with a flange (342) protruding radially outward from the upper end. The lower side of the first bracket body (341) may be attached to or press-fitted into one end of the radiating part (30). The first bracket (340) may have an insertion opening (343) that penetrates the central part vertically. One side of the flange (342) may be indented radially inward to form an alignment groove. The alignment groove may have a shape corresponding to a protrusion provided on the body (11). The alignment groove may be coupled to a protrusion provided on the body (11). The alignment groove prevents the radiating part (30) from rotating on the body (11) and allows the radiating part (30) to be stably coupled to the body (11).

[0170] The second bracket (350) has an overall cylindrical shape and may be provided with a flange (352) protruding radially outward from the lower end. The upper side of the second bracket body (351) may be attached to or press-fitted into the other end of the radiating portion (30). The second bracket (350) may have a hole (354) formed that penetrates the central portion vertically.

[0171] The insertion opening (343) of the first bracket (340) may communicate with one side of the opening of the insertion space (IS). The hole (354) of the second bracket (350) may communicate with the other side of the insertion space (IS). The aerosol product (2) may be inserted into the insertion space (IS) through the insertion opening (343). Through the hole (354), outside air may flow from the outside of the radiation part (30) through the end of the aerosol product (2) into the aerosol product (2). The inner surface of the first bracket body (341) may support at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol product (2) inserted into the insertion space (IS). The upper surface (353) of the second bracket body (351) may support at least a portion of the lower end of the aerosol product (2) inserted into the insertion space (IS).

[0172] Accordingly, both ends of the radiating part (30), including the antenna (320) and the shielding part (330), are stably fixed so that the rigidity of the radiating part (30) can be secured.

[0173] The bracket (340, 350) may be made of stainless steel, aluminum, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) or an alloy, but is not limited thereto.

[0174]

[0175] Referring to FIG. 9 together with FIG. 8, the radiating portion (30) may be formed in layers in the order of the third part (310c) of the sheet (310), the antenna (320), the first part (310a) and / or the fourth part (310d) of the sheet (310), the shielding portion (330), the second part (310b) of the sheet (310), and the fifth part (310e) of the sheet (310), in a radially outward direction from the insertion space (IS).

[0176] At least a portion of the sheet (310) may be positioned between the antenna (320) and the shielding portion (330) in the radial direction of the radiating portion (30) or in the radial direction of the insertion space (IS), and may form at least one layer between the antenna (320) and the shielding portion (330). For example, a fourth part (310d) of the sheet (310) may be in contact with the antenna (320) and may surround the outside of the antenna (320). The fourth part (310d) may be in contact with the shielding portion (330), and the shielding portion (330) may surround the outside of the fourth part (310d). The corresponding layer may be referred to as an insulating layer.

[0177] Accordingly, the antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) can be prevented from being electrically short-circuited.

[0178] The shielding portion (330) may surround the outside of the antenna (320) by at least one turn in the periphery direction of the radiating portion (30) or in the periphery direction of the insertion space (IS). The length (L2) of the shielding portion (330), defined in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310), may be longer than the length (L1) of the antenna (320). In the radial direction of the radiating portion (30), the end portion (331) of the shielding portion (330) and the portion adjacent to the end portion (331) may overlap with the other end portion (332) of the shielding portion (330) and the portion adjacent to the other end portion (332).

[0179] In the radial direction of the radiating portion (30), at least one layer formed by a sheet (310) may be disposed between one end (331) and the other end (332) of the shielding portion (330). The total thickness (T1) of the layer disposed between one end (331) and the other end (332) of the shielding portion (330) may be an integer multiple of the thickness (T0) of the sheet (310). The total thickness (T1) of the layer disposed between one end (331) and the other end (332) of the shielding portion (330) may be equal to or smaller than half the wavelength of the microwave. Alternatively, the total thickness (T1) of the layer disposed between one end (331) and the other end (332) of the shielding portion (330) may be equal to or smaller than one-fourth the wavelength of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320).

[0180] At least a portion of the sheet (310) may be positioned outside the shielding portion (330) in the radial direction of the radiating portion (30) and may form at least one layer surrounding the outside of the shielding portion (330). A second part (310b) of the sheet (310) may be in contact with the shielding portion (330) and may surround the outside of the shielding portion (330). A fifth part (310e) of the sheet (310) may surround the outside of the second part (310b). The corresponding layer may be referred to as an insulating layer.

[0181] In the radial direction of the radiating part (30), the number of layers surrounding the outer side of the shielding part (330) may be greater than the number of layers arranged on the inner side of the antenna (320). For example, 1 to 2 layers may be arranged on the inner side of the antenna (320), and 2 to 4 layers may be arranged on the outer side of the shielding part (330).

[0182] In this way, the outer side of the shielding part (330) is surrounded multiple times by a sheet (310), so that heat can be minimized from being released outside the radiation part (30).

[0183]

[0184] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating an unfolded state of a radiating portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a radiating portion according to one embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from the side. Among the features illustrated in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11, detailed descriptions of features that overlap with the features illustrated in FIG. 6 to FIG. 9 above are omitted.

[0185] Referring to FIG. 10, the sheet (310) may be extended in one direction (e.g., x-direction). An antenna (320) and a shielding part (330) may be attached to the sheet (310). The antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) may be rolled together with the sheet (310) along the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310). The sheet (310) may form a plurality of layers in a hollow radiating part (30). The sheet (310) may form at least one layer surrounding the antenna (320) on the outside of the antenna (320) and at least one layer surrounding the shielding part (330) on the outside of the shielding part (330).

[0186] The shielding portion (330) may be spaced apart from the antenna (320) in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310). In the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310), one end (331) of the shielding portion (330) may be spaced apart from the other end (326) of the antenna (320) by a certain distance.

[0187] The width (W0) of the sheet (310) may be larger than the width (W1) of the antenna (320). The antenna (320) may be spaced apart from both ends of the sheet (310) in the width direction of the sheet (310).

[0188] The width (W2) of the shielding portion (330), defined in the width direction of the sheet (310), may be greater than or equal to the width (W0) of the sheet (310). In the width direction of the sheet (310), one end or top (333) of the shielding portion (330) may be aligned with one end or top of the sheet (310) or positioned outside the sheet (310). In the width direction of the sheet (310), the other end or bottom (334) of the shielding portion (330) may be aligned with the other end or bottom of the sheet (310) or positioned outside the sheet (310).

[0189]

[0190] Referring to FIG. 11, the antenna (320) can be spaced apart from the top and bottom of the sheet (310). In the hollow radiating part (30), the third part (310c) and the first part (310a) can have their top and bottom portions in contact with each other. The top and bottom portions of the third part (310c) and the first part (310a) are in contact with each other, and the antenna (320) can be sealed from the outside by the structure in which the sheet (310) is rolled up.

[0191] The shielding portion (330) may have its top and bottom aligned with the top and bottom of the sheet (310), or may protrude from the top and / or bottom of the sheet (310) to the outside of the sheet (310). The protruding portion of the shielding portion (330) may be in electrical contact with at least one of the first bracket (340) and the second bracket (350).

[0192] At least one of the first bracket (340) and the second bracket (350) may include a metal component. At least one of the first bracket (340) and the second bracket (350) may electrically contact the shielding portion (330) in the longitudinal direction of the radiating portion (30).

[0193] Accordingly, the rigidity of the radiating part (30) is secured by the first bracket (340) and the second bracket (350), and at the same time, microwaves radiated from the antenna (320) can be blocked from being emitted outside the radiating part (30) through the insertion space (IS) and / or the brackets (340, 350).

[0194]

[0195] As described above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a thin-film antenna disposed on a sheet and a shielding part formed by rolling together with the sheet are provided with a radiating part, so that the size or volume of the radiating part can be reduced.

[0196] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a shielding portion surrounds the outer side of an antenna, and at least one insulating layer is disposed between the shielding portion and the antenna to prevent electrical contact between the shielding portion and the antenna, and to block microwaves radiated from the antenna from being emitted outside the radiating portion.

[0197] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one protective layer surrounding the inner side of the antenna is disposed inside the antenna, so that damage to the antenna can be prevented during the insertion and removal of aerosol products.

[0198] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a structure is provided in which a sheet surrounds the outer side of the shielding portion multiple times, so that heat can be minimized from being released outside the radiating portion.

[0199] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a bracket is provided that fixes the upper and lower ends of the radiating part and connects to the shielding part, thereby ensuring the rigidity of the radiating part and blocking microwaves from being emitted outside the radiating part through the insertion space.

[0200]

[0201] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 11, an aerosol generating device (1) comprises a body (11); and a radiating part (30) disposed in the body (11) and providing an insertion space (IS) in which an aerosol product (2) is received. The radiating part (30) comprises: a sheet (310) that extends in one direction; an antenna (320) that surrounds the insertion space (IS) and emits microwaves that dielectric heat the aerosol product (2); and a shielding part (330) that surrounds the antenna (320) and blocks the microwaves from being emitted outside the radiating part (30). The radiating part (30) may be formed such that the antenna (320) and the shielding part (330) are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310), and the sheet (310) is rolled in the longitudinal direction.

[0202] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the shielding portion (330) may be a metal sheet or a metal mesh.

[0203] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the metal mesh comprises at least one hole (330h), and the diameter of the hole (330h) may be smaller than half the wavelength of the microwave.

[0204] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the width of the shielding portion (330), defined in the width direction intersecting the length direction of the sheet (310), is greater than or equal to the width of the antenna (320), and in the width direction of the sheet (310), the upper end of the shielding portion (330) may be positioned higher than the upper end of the antenna (320), and the lower end of the shielding portion (330) may be positioned lower than the lower end of the antenna (320).

[0205] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the length (L2) of the shielding portion (330) defined in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310) may be longer than the length (L1) of the antenna (320).

[0206] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the shielding portion (330) may surround the outside of the antenna (320) by at least one turn in the circumferential direction of the radiating portion (30).

[0207] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the shielding portion (330) is disposed on the outside of the antenna (320) in the radial direction of the radiating portion (30), and at least one layer formed by the sheet (310) may be disposed between the antenna (320) and the shielding portion (330) in the radial direction of the radiating portion (30).

[0208] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310), one end (325) of the antenna (320) is spaced apart from one end (313) of the sheet (310) by a first distance (A1), and the length (L1) of the antenna (320) defined in the longitudinal direction of the sheet (310) may be less than or equal to the first distance (A1).

[0209] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the radiating member (30) may include at least one layer formed by the sheet (310) on the inner side of the antenna (320) in the radial direction of the radiating member (30).

[0210] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the radiating member (30) comprises a plurality of layers formed by the sheet (310) on the outer side of the shielding member (330) in the radial direction of the radiating member (30), and the number of layers disposed on the outer side of the shielding member (330) may be greater than the number of layers disposed on the inner side of the antenna (320).

[0211] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, it may further include a first bracket (340) coupled to one side of the radiating member (30) corresponding to the opening of the insertion space (IS) and having an insertion opening communicating with the insertion space (IS); and a second bracket (350) coupled to the other side of the radiating member (30) and blocking a part of the other side of the insertion space (IS).

[0212] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of the first bracket (340) and the second bracket (350) comprises a metal component and can come into contact with the shielding portion (330) in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space (IS).

[0213] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the sheet (310) may include polyimide.

[0214]

[0215] 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.

[0216] 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.

[0217] 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. Body; and It includes a radiating member disposed in the above body and providing an insertion space in which an aerosol product is received. The above-mentioned radiation part is, A single sheet extending long in one direction; An antenna surrounding the insertion space and emitting microwaves that dielectric heat the aerosol product; and A shielding part surrounding the antenna and blocking the microwave from being emitted to the outside of the radiating part; is provided. The above-mentioned radiation part is, An aerosol generating device in which the antenna and the shielding portion are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the sheet, and the sheet is rolled in the longitudinal direction.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above shielding part is, Aerosol generating device that is a metal sheet or metal mesh.

3. In Paragraph 2, The metal mesh above includes at least one hole, and An aerosol generating device in which the diameter of the hole is smaller than half the wavelength of the microwave.

4. In Paragraph 1, The width of the shielding portion defined in the width direction intersecting the length direction of the sheet is greater than or equal to the width of the antenna, and An aerosol generating device in which, in the width direction of the sheet, the upper end of the shielding portion is positioned higher than the upper end of the antenna, and the lower end of the shielding portion is positioned lower than the lower end of the antenna.

5. In Paragraph 1, The length of the shielding portion defined in the longitudinal direction of the sheet is longer than the length of the antenna in an aerosol generating device.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above shielding part is, An aerosol generating device that surrounds the outside of the antenna by at least one turn in the circumferential direction of the above-mentioned radiating part.

7. In Paragraph 1, In the radial direction of the above-mentioned radiating part, the shielding part is disposed on the outer side of the antenna, and An aerosol generating device in which at least one layer formed by the sheet is disposed between the antenna and the shielding part in the radial direction of the radiating part.

8. In Paragraph 1, In the longitudinal direction of the sheet, one end of the antenna is positioned spaced apart from one end of the sheet by a first distance, and The length of the antenna defined in the longitudinal direction of the sheet is, Aerosol generating device that is smaller than or equal to the first distance mentioned above.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned radiation part is, An aerosol generating device comprising at least one layer formed by the sheet on the inner side of the antenna in the radial direction of the radiating part.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above-mentioned radiation part is, In the radial direction of the above-mentioned radiating portion, it includes a plurality of layers formed by the sheet on the outer side of the shielding portion, An aerosol generating device in which the number of layers disposed on the outer side of the shielding part is greater than the number of layers disposed on the inner side of the antenna.

11. In Paragraph 1 A first bracket coupled to one side of the radiating portion corresponding to the opening of the insertion space and having an insertion opening communicating with the insertion space; and An aerosol generating device further comprising a second bracket coupled to the other side of the above-mentioned radiating part and blocking a part of the other side of the insertion space.

12. In Paragraph 11 At least one of the first bracket and the second bracket is, An aerosol generating device comprising a metal component and in contact with the shielding portion in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space.

13. In Paragraph 1, The above sheet is Aerosol generating device containing polyimide.

Citation Information

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