Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device is disclosed. An aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a housing including an insertion space into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted; a radiation unit for heating the aerosol-generating article by radiating electromagnetic waves into the insertion space; and a processor. Under control of the processor, the aerosol-generating device may be configured to block the electromagnetic waves when a frequency of the insertion space escapes from a preset resonance frequency band.

Description

Aerosol generating device

[0001] Various embodiments of the present invention relate to a safer dielectric heating type aerosol generating device.

[0002] Recently, research is underway to provide an aerosol generating device using the dielectric heating method. Dielectric heating is an efficient heating method that uses electromagnetic waves to heat aerosol-generating materials.

[0003] However, in dielectric heating type aerosol generating devices, there is a problem in that if the frequency within the insertion space related to the aerosol generating material deviates from the resonant frequency band, serious safety issues may arise due to unintended electromagnetic waves.

[0004] The present invention has been devised to provide an aerosol generating device configured to prevent safety accidents through a Frequency Out-of-Detection (FOD) function that stops electromagnetic radiation or outputs a warning when an event exceeding the resonant frequency band occurs in a dielectric heating type aerosol generating device.

[0005] The problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below.

[0006] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include: a housing comprising an insertion space into which an aerosol generating article may be inserted; a radiating unit that heats the aerosol generating article by radiating electromagnetic waves into the insertion space; and a processor. Under the control of the processor, the aerosol generating device may be configured to block the electromagnetic waves when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from a preset resonant frequency band.

[0007] A control method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a control method for an aerosol generating device comprising a housing including an insertion space into which an aerosol generating article can be inserted, a radiating unit, and a processor, and may include the step of heating the aerosol generating article by radiating an electromagnetic wave into the insertion space; and the step of blocking the electromagnetic wave when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from a preset resonant frequency band.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, electromagnetic wave exposure and safety accidents can be effectively prevented by blocking electromagnetic waves when the frequency within the insertion space in a dielectric heating type aerosol generating device exceeds the resonant frequency band.

[0009] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below.

[0010] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description together with the accompanying drawings.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an aerosol generating device control operation according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an aerosol generating device control operation according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an electromagnetic wave blocking operation according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an electromagnetic wave blocking operation according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an electromagnetic wave blocking operation according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a warning output operation according to one embodiment.

[0019] 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.

[0020] The suffixes “module” and “unit” for components used in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably solely for the sake of ease of drafting the specification, and do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Meanwhile, the suffixes “module” or “unit” may include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” may be a component formed as a whole, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0025] 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.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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).

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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).

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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).

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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).

[0050] 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).

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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).

[0054] 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).

[0055] 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).

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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).

[0058] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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. According to one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor may include a switch, etc., for detecting pressure caused by an aerosol-generating article.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, a barometric 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the aerosol generating 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).

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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).

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] FIG. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0107] The control unit (10), source unit (20), radiation unit (30), and housing (40) disclosed in FIG. 2 are illustrated as exemplary components of an aerosol generating device (1) and do not limit their physical form or configuration order.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device (1) may have a housing (40) including an insertion space. An aerosol generating article (2) may be inserted into the insertion space. The control unit (10) supplies power to the radiating unit (30) through the source unit (20), and the radiating unit (30) may radiate electromagnetic waves into the insertion space of the housing (40) to vibrate the dielectric of the aerosol generating article (2). By doing so, the aerosol generating article (2) may be heated.

[0109] The aerosol generating device (1) of FIG. 2 may operate based on a dielectric heating method using electromagnetic waves. In this case, the electromagnetic waves radiated by the radiating part (30) can generate heat by vibrating a dielectric (e.g., glycerin). The dielectric is included in a part of the aerosol generating article (2), and this part may correspond to an aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium part).

[0110] Meanwhile, in FIG. 2, electromagnetic waves are shown being radiated to a stick-shaped aerosol generating article (2), but the aerosol generating device (1) is not limited thereto and can also be implemented in a form in which electromagnetic waves are radiated to a cartridge containing an aerosol generating material such as a liquid.

[0111] For example, the insertion space may include not only the space into which the aerosol-generating article in FIG. 2 is inserted, but also a receiving space into which a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating substance (e.g., liquid, etc.) is inserted. In this case, the aerosol-generating substance contained in the cartridge may be interpreted as an aerosol-generating article.

[0112] An aerosol generating device (1) according to various embodiments of the present invention may include a Frequency Out-of-Detection (FOD) function. Specifically, the control unit (10) may provide a function to detect in real time whether the frequency within the insertion space has deviated from a preset resonant frequency band and to perform an appropriate control operation accordingly. The control unit (10) may detect a state of deviation from the frequency band that may occur during the initial insertion of the aerosol generating item (2) or during the operation of the device, block electromagnetic waves, and output a warning to the user.

[0113] The control operation of the aerosol generating device (1) will be explained below through FIGS. 3 to 8. Overlapping content in FIGS. 3 to 8 may be omitted, and at least some of the steps in the flowchart may be omitted or their order may be changed. In addition, it is also possible to insert operations according to various embodiments of the present invention into any step of the flowchart.

[0114] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an aerosol generating device control operation according to one embodiment.

[0115] The control unit (10) can detect when an aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1) (S310).

[0116] The housing of the aerosol generating device (10) may include an insertion space into which an aerosol generating article can be inserted. The control unit (10) can confirm that the aerosol generating article is inserted into the insertion space through a sensor unit. For example, the sensor unit may generate a specific signal when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the housing, or detect physical contact or optical change, and transmit the detected information to the control unit (10).

[0117] Next, the control unit (10) can radiate electromagnetic waves in the resonant frequency band (S320).

[0118] The control unit (10) can control the radiating unit (30) to radiate electromagnetic waves to heat the inserted aerosol generating article (2). For example, the radiating unit (30) can generate electromagnetic waves in a set resonant frequency band (e.g., any band from 2.4 GHz to 915 MHz) by receiving power from the source unit (20), and the generated electromagnetic waves can be transmitted to the insertion space to heat the dielectric material (e.g., medium region) of the aerosol generating article (2). These electromagnetic waves can be pre-set to be radiated at a predetermined value depending on the aerosol generating device (1) or the aerosol generating article (2).

[0119] The electromagnetic waves radiated through the radiating part (30) operate by vibrating the dielectric material to generate thermal energy. The heating efficiency can be maximized by maintaining the frequency of the radiated electromagnetic waves within the resonant frequency band.

[0120] Next, the control unit (10) can check whether the frequency of the insertion space of the aerosol generating device (1) deviates from the resonant frequency band (S330).

[0121] The control unit (10) can monitor the state of the electromagnetic waves radiated from the radiating unit (30) in real time, periodically, or at any time, and thereby determine whether the frequency within the insertion space maintains a set resonant frequency band.

[0122] For example, the control unit (10) can check the frequency within the insertion space through various means. For example, the control unit (10) can collect data indicating the standing wave ratio (SWR) of the electromagnetic wave, the feedback voltage value, or other resonance states through the sensor unit. The standing wave ratio indicates the degree of reflection of the electromagnetic wave in the insertion space, and if it exceeds a set threshold value, it may be determined that it has moved out of the resonance frequency band. The feedback voltage value has the highest value at the resonance frequency, and if this value decreases or shows an irregular pattern, it may be considered as a frequency deviation. The method of checking the frequency of the insertion space is not limited to this, and the frequency can be checked in various ways.

[0123] Deviation from the resonant frequency band may occur in the initial state where the aerosol generating article (2) is inserted into the insertion space, or it may occur later during the operation of the device. These two cases may occur under different causes and circumstances.

[0124] The case where the resonant frequency band deviates from the initial insertion may be, for example, when an aerosol generating product from a different manufacturer is inserted. For example, the dielectric properties of the product, namely the permittivity, may differ from the resonant frequency band set in the aerosol generating device (1). As a result, the frequency within the insertion space may deviate from the resonant state from the beginning.

[0125] In addition, if the aerosol generating article (2) itself is defective (e.g., defect in internal dielectric material, structural damage, etc.), it becomes impossible to maintain the set resonant frequency band. Meanwhile, if the inserted article is not inserted correctly and is misaligned, it may also deviate from the resonant frequency band.

[0126] On the other hand, there are cases where the resonant frequency band deviates during operation after the aerosol generating material (2) is inserted into the insertion space. For example, this could be an event where the aerosol generating material (2) exits the insertion space. In such cases, the resonant frequency band may change rapidly as the dielectric material disappears from the insertion space.

[0127] In particular, if electromagnetic waves continue to be emitted while the aerosol generating material (2) is missing, there is a risk of safety accidents such as exposure of the user or the surrounding environment to electromagnetic waves.

[0128] Next, the control unit (10) can block electromagnetic waves if it is confirmed that the frequency in the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band (S340).

[0129] According to one embodiment, if the control unit (10) confirms that the frequency of the insertion space is outside the resonant frequency band, it can physically block the emission of electromagnetic waves by cutting off the power supplied to the radiating unit (30) or by blocking the opening of the housing (40). In addition, the control unit (10) can block electromagnetic waves by forcibly shutting off the entire system power of the aerosol generating device (1). Specific details regarding this will be described later.

[0130] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an aerosol generating device control operation according to one embodiment.

[0131] The control unit (10) can check that the frequency of the insertion space has deviated from the resonant frequency band (S410) and can block electromagnetic waves (S420). For example, the control unit (10) can control the source unit (20) or the radiating unit (30) to immediately block the radiation of electromagnetic waves, or can forcibly shut down (e.g., turn off) the aerosol generating device (1).

[0132] Next, the control unit (10) can check the deviation range of how much the frequency in the insertion space exceeds the resonant frequency band, and can determine whether the checked deviation range exceeds the allowable range (S430).

[0133] In other words, for safety reasons, if the frequency within the insertion space exceeds the resonant frequency band, the electromagnetic waves are initially blocked, but the process after blocking can be monitored to consider whether to release the electromagnetic waves.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the deviation range may include at least one of the magnitude of a frequency outside the resonant frequency band, the time at which the frequency outside the resonant frequency band, or the time at which the frequency outside the resonant frequency band.

[0135] The control unit (10) compares this deviation range with a look-up table or a reference database to determine whether it is within an allowable range. For example, if the frequency within the insertion space exceeds the resonant frequency band and persists for a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) or if the magnitude of the exceeded frequency exceeds a preset reference value (e.g., ±50 MHz), the control unit (10) may determine that the deviation range is outside the allowable range (S430: No).

[0136] On the other hand, if the deviation range is within the allowable range (S430: yes), the control unit (10) can release the blocking of electromagnetic waves and resume radiation (S440).

[0137] This process can be based on the premise that the frequency within the insertion space has been stabilized and restored to a state where it can maintain the resonant frequency band. For example, if the frequency state within the insertion space is normalized within a certain period of time, the control unit (10) reactivates the power supplied to the radiating unit (30) so that the device can normally generate aerosol.

[0138] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an electromagnetic wave blocking operation according to one embodiment.

[0139] The control unit (10) can block electromagnetic waves (S520) when it confirms that the frequency in the insertion space has deviated from the resonant frequency band (S510).

[0140] According to one embodiment, the control unit (10) can control the source unit (20) to cut off power supplied to the radiating unit (30). For example, if the control unit (10) confirms that the frequency of the insertion space has deviated from a preset resonant frequency band, it can transmit a signal to the source unit (20) to stop the power supply to the radiating unit (30). This stops the radiation of electromagnetic waves from the radiating unit (30) and prevents safety accidents caused by heating that has deviated from the resonant state.

[0141] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an electromagnetic wave blocking operation according to one embodiment.

[0142] The control unit (10) can block electromagnetic waves (S620) when it confirms that the frequency in the insertion space has deviated from the resonant frequency band (S610).

[0143] According to one embodiment, the control unit (10) can block electromagnetic waves by blocking at least one opening included in the housing (40). For example, when the frequency within the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band, the control unit (10) can physically block electromagnetic waves emitted to the outside by operating a blocking device mounted on the opening of the housing (40).

[0144] For example, the blocking device can be implemented in the form of a sliding cover, a rotary shutter, or an electronic valve, and can close the lid of the insertion space when the aerosol-generating article (2) falls out of the insertion space. This prevents the radiated electromagnetic waves from leaking into the external environment and protects the user from the electromagnetic waves.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the operation of blocking at least one opening as described above may be operated when an event is detected in which the aerosol generating article (2) is removed from the insertion space (e.g., falling out). This is because, unlike when the aerosol generating article (2) is defective or of a different manufacturer, if the aerosol generating article (2) itself falls out, electromagnetic waves may be radiated to the outside through the insertion space, potentially causing significant harm to the user. In this case, the control unit (10) may control the source unit (20) or the radiating unit (30) to block the radiation of electromagnetic waves, and additionally control the configuration of the aerosol generating device (1) to also block at least one opening.

[0146] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an electromagnetic wave blocking operation according to one embodiment.

[0147] The control unit (10) can block electromagnetic waves (S720) when it confirms that the frequency in the insertion space has deviated from the resonant frequency band (S710).

[0148] According to one embodiment, the control unit (10) may be configured to forcibly shut down the aerosol generating device (1) when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band.

[0149] For example, the control unit (10) can turn off the device by stopping the power supply to the entire system of the aerosol generating device (1) when the frequency in the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band. This forced shutdown operation can function as a preventive measure to prevent overheating, device damage, or safety accidents that may occur under abnormal conditions.

[0150] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a warning output operation according to one embodiment.

[0151] The control unit (10) can block electromagnetic waves (S820) upon confirming that the frequency within the insertion space has deviated from the resonant frequency band (S810). Additionally, the control unit (10) can output a warning (S830).

[0152] For example, the control unit (10) can provide a warning in a visual, auditory, or tactile manner. A visual warning can be implemented by flashing an LED lamp or outputting a warning message on a display screen. An auditory warning can notify the user of the current status by generating a warning sound, and a tactile warning can transmit a warning signal to the user by vibration using a vibration motor.

[0153] Meanwhile, although the warning output (S830) is depicted as proceeding after the electromagnetic wave blocking, the warning may be output simultaneously with the electromagnetic wave blocking or even before the electromagnetic wave blocking.

[0154] In this way, the control unit (10) immediately conveys to the user the resonant frequency band deviation state through a warning output operation, thereby protecting the user more safely from the risk of electromagnetic wave exposure.

[0155] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include: a housing comprising an insertion space into which an aerosol generating article may be inserted; a radiating unit that heats the aerosol generating article by radiating electromagnetic waves into the insertion space; and a processor. Under the control of the processor, the aerosol generating device may be configured to block the electromagnetic waves when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from a preset resonant frequency band.

[0156] In an aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may be configured to output a warning when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band under the control of the processor.

[0157] In an aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present invention, the warning may be configured to be output in at least one of a visual, auditory, or tactile form.

[0158] In an aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may be configured to cut off power supplied to the radiating part when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band by control of the processor.

[0159] In an aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may be configured to block electromagnetic waves by blocking at least one opening included in the housing when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band, by controlling the processor.

[0160] In an aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may be configured to forcibly terminate the device when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band by the control of the processor.

[0161] In an aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may be configured to check, under the control of the processor, an deviation range in which the frequency of the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band, and to release the blocking of the electromagnetic wave if the checked deviation range is within an allowable range.

[0162] In an aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present invention, the deviation range may include at least one of the magnitude of a frequency outside the resonant frequency band or the time during which the frequency outside the resonant frequency band.

[0163] A control method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a control method for an aerosol generating device comprising a housing including an insertion space into which an aerosol generating article can be inserted, a radiating unit, and a processor, and may include the step of heating the aerosol generating article by radiating an electromagnetic wave into the insertion space; and the step of blocking the electromagnetic wave when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from a preset resonant frequency band.

[0164] In a control method according to some embodiments, the step of outputting a warning when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band may be further included.

[0165] In a control method according to some embodiments, the step of blocking the electromagnetic wave may include the step of blocking power supplied to the radiating part.

[0166] In a control method according to some embodiments, the step of blocking the electromagnetic wave may include the step of blocking at least one opening included in the housing.

[0167] In a control method according to some embodiments, the step of blocking the electromagnetic wave may include the step of forcibly terminating the aerosol generating device.

[0168] In a control method according to some embodiments, the method may further include the step of checking the deviation range in which the frequency of the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band; and the step of releasing the blocking of the electromagnetic wave when the checked deviation range satisfies an allowable range.

[0169] In a control method according to some embodiments, the deviation information may include at least one of the magnitude of a frequency that has deviated from the resonant frequency band, the time at which the frequency has deviated from the resonant frequency band, or the time at which the frequency has deviated from the resonant frequency band.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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.

[0172] 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. As an aerosol generating device. Housing including an insertion space into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted; A radiating part that heats the aerosol generating article by radiating electromagnetic waves into the insertion space; and Includes a processor, Under the control of the above processor, the aerosol generating device, An aerosol generating device configured to block the electromagnetic waves based on the frequency of the insertion space deviating from a preset resonant frequency band.

2. In Paragraph 1, Under the control of the above processor, the aerosol generating device, An aerosol generating device configured to output a warning when the frequency of the insertion space falls outside the resonant frequency band.

3. In Paragraph 2, An aerosol generating device configured to output the above warning in at least one of a visual, auditory, or tactile form.

4. In Paragraph 1, Under the control of the above processor, the aerosol generating device, An aerosol generating device configured to cut off power supplied to the radiating part when the frequency of the insertion space falls outside the resonant frequency band.

5. In Paragraph 1, Under the control of the above processor, the aerosol generating device, An aerosol generating device configured to block electromagnetic waves by blocking at least one opening included in the housing when the frequency of the insertion space falls outside the resonant frequency band.

6. In Paragraph 1, Under the control of the above processor, the aerosol generating device, An aerosol generating device configured to forcibly shut down the aerosol generating device when the frequency of the insertion space falls outside the resonant frequency band.

7. In Paragraph 1, Under the control of the above processor, the aerosol generating device, Check the deviation range where the frequency of the insertion space deviates from the resonant frequency band, and An aerosol generating device configured to release the blocking of the electromagnetic waves if the confirmed deviation range is within the allowable range.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above deviation range is, An aerosol generating device comprising at least one of the magnitude of a frequency outside the resonant frequency band or the time during which the frequency is outside the resonant frequency band.

9. A method for controlling an aerosol generating device comprising a housing having an insertion space into which an aerosol generating article can be inserted, a radiating part, and a processor, wherein A step of heating the aerosol-generating article by radiating electromagnetic waves into an insertion space; and A control method comprising the step of blocking the electromagnetic wave when the frequency of the insertion space deviates from a preset resonant frequency band.

10. In Paragraph 9, A control method further comprising the step of outputting a warning when the frequency of the insertion space falls outside the resonant frequency band.

11. In Paragraph 9, The step of blocking the above electromagnetic waves is, A control method comprising the step of cutting off power supplied to the above-mentioned radiating part.

12. In Paragraph 9, The step of blocking the above electromagnetic waves is, A control method comprising the step of blocking at least one opening included in the housing.

13. In Paragraph 9, The step of blocking the above electromagnetic waves is, A control method comprising the step of forcibly terminating the aerosol generating device.

14. In Paragraph 9, A step of confirming the deviation range of the frequency of the insertion space above being outside the resonant frequency band; and A control method further comprising the step of releasing the blocking of the electromagnetic wave when the above-mentioned deviation range satisfies the allowable range.

15. In Paragraph 14, The above deviation information is, A control method comprising at least one of the magnitude of a frequency outside the resonant frequency band, the time at which the frequency is outside the resonant frequency band, or the time at which the frequency is outside the resonant frequency band.

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