Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

Disclosed is an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure comprises: a body providing an insertion space in which an aerosol-generating article is accommodated; an antenna for radiating, into the insertion space, microwaves for dielectrically heating the aerosol-generating article; and a processor, wherein the processor can control the depth to which the microwaves penetrate into the aerosol-generating article by changing the frequency band of the microwaves radiated from the antenna.

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 heats the aerosol generating material within the aerosol generating material by radiating microwaves into an insertion space. The depth to which the radiated microwaves penetrate into the aerosol generating material varies depending on the frequency. For example, microwaves of a relatively high frequency penetrate shallower into the aerosol generating material compared to microwaves of a relatively low frequency.

[0004] Conventional aerosol generating devices have a problem of reduced heating efficiency because, by using microwaves of a fixed frequency, the microwaves do not sufficiently reach the central part of the aerosol product.

[0005] In addition, there is a problem in that the internal aerosol product is not heated uniformly because only the outer part of the aerosol product is heated mainly.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to solve the aforementioned problems and other problems.

[0007] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generator capable of changing the frequency range of the radiated microwaves.

[0008] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device that changes the frequency of microwaves based on reflected waves within a single frequency range and changes the frequency range when the changed frequency reaches the boundary of the frequency range.

[0009] Another objective may be to provide an aerosol generating device that determines the frequency range of microwaves radiated according to the type of aerosol product.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, an aerosol generating device is provided comprising: a body providing an insertion space in which an aerosol product is received; an antenna radiating microwaves into the insertion space to dielectric heat the aerosol product; and a processor, wherein the processor controls the depth to which the microwaves penetrate into the aerosol product by changing the frequency range of the microwaves radiated from the antenna.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the frequency range of the radiated microwaves can be changed so that the depth of penetration of the microwaves into the aerosol product can be controlled and the aerosol product within the aerosol product can be heated evenly.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the frequency of microwaves is changed based on reflected waves within a frequency range, and the frequency range is changed when the changed frequency reaches the boundary of the frequency range, thereby controlling the penetration depth of microwaves and simultaneously preventing malfunction or failure of the device caused by reflected waves.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the frequency range of microwaves radiated according to the type of aerosol product is determined, so that the radiation of microwaves can be controlled to suit the type of aerosol product and the heating efficiency can be increased.

[0014] 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.

[0015] FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2 are block diagrams of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating an antenna of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 5 illustrates the bandwidth of the antenna and the frequency range of the microwave.

[0019] Figure 6 illustrates the penetration depth of microwaves according to the frequency range of microwaves.

[0020] FIGS. 7 and FIGS. 8 illustrate frequency interval change control according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a frequency interval change control process according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 10 illustrates frequency range change and power control according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a frequency interval change control process according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 12 illustrates changing the frequency of microwaves based on reflected waves.

[0025] FIG. 13 illustrates frequency range change and power control according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 14 is an enlarged view of a section of Figure 13.

[0027] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a process for determining a frequency range based on the type of aerosol product according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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).

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0034] 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.

[0035] FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2 are block diagrams of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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).

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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).

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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).

[0056] 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).

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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).

[0059] 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).

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device (1) may include additional components in addition to those shown in FIG. 1. For example, referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device (1) may further include a sensor unit (13), an output unit (14), an input unit (15), a communication unit (16), and a memory (17). 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 a power source (130).

[0063] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (13) can detect the state of the aerosol generating device (1) or the state around the aerosol generating device (1) and transmit the detected information to the processor (170). For example, the sensor unit (13) 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 (13) 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).

[0064] 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).

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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).

[0067] According to one embodiment, the puff sensor can detect the user's puff.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] The puff sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented as various sensors to detect the user's puff.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (13) 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.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the output unit (14) may output information regarding the state of the aerosol generating device (1). The output unit (14) 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.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the input unit (15) can receive information input from 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.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the memory (17) 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 (17) can store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating device (1), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the communication unit (16) may include at least one component for communication with another electronic device (e.g., portable electronic device). For example, the communication unit may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (wireless local area network) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (infrared Data Association, IrDA) communication unit, a WFD (Wireless Fidelity Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant (Adaptive Network Topology)+ communication unit, a cellular network communication unit, an internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0092] 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 (17).

[0093] 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 the temperature profile and / or power profile stored in the memory (17).

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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 (13).

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[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 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.

[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 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the power supply to the source unit (20) or the cartridge heater based on whether the 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).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) can control the output unit (14) based on the result detected by the sensor unit (13). For example, the processor (170) can control the output unit (14) 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) can also control the output unit (14) to provide visual, tactile, and / or auditory information regarding the temperature of the insertion space, the aerosol generating article, or the cartridge heater.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the processor (170) may store and update a history of the event that occurred in the memory (17) 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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 (14) 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] Although not illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, 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).

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115]

[0116] FIG. 3 illustrates an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may include a body (11) (e.g., a housing), a control unit (10), a source unit (20), and a radiating unit (30). The aerosol generating device (1) may further include a cigarette identification sensor (131). 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. 3, and some of the components may be omitted or new components may be added. The aerosol generating device (1) shown in FIG. 3 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. 3 will be omitted.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the body (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 body (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 lower end of the aerosol generating article (2) may be inserted into the interior of the body (11), and the upper end of the aerosol generating article (2) may protrude outside the body (11). A user may take the upper end of the aerosol generating article (2) exposed to the outside into their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the radiating part (30) can heat the aerosol generating article (2). Referring to FIG. 3, the radiating part (30) may be an external heating type structure.

[0120] 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 that contains a hollow inside and surrounds said hollow. 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.

[0121] 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 (320, see FIG. 4) 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 body (11) can be reduced.

[0122] 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.

[0123] Unlike as illustrated in FIG. 3, the antenna (320) 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 (320) can propagate from the inside to the outside of the aerosol-generating article (2) and heat the aerosol-generating article (2).

[0124] A cigarette identification sensor (131) may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space (IS). The cigarette identification sensor (131) may detect the type of aerosol product (2) contained in the insertion space (IS).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device (1) may be provided with an airflow channel through which air flows. For example, the body (11) may include a structure (e.g., a hole) through which air from the outside can be introduced into the body (11). The air introduced into the body (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. 4 is a drawing showing an antenna (320) of an aerosol generating device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0128] 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 3) 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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. 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.

[0131] 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).

[0132] 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.

[0133] The antenna (320) may include an insulator that surrounds at least a portion of the inner and outer sides of the radiation track (321) and the connection (322). The insulator may be formed of a heat-resistant material as a flexible sheet. The insulator may include polyimide or polyetheretherketone (PEEK), but is not limited thereto, and may include other materials having elasticity, heat resistance, and electrical insulation properties.

[0134]

[0135] FIG. 5 illustrates the bandwidth of an antenna and the frequency range of a microwave, FIG. 6 illustrates the penetration depth of a microwave according to the frequency range of a microwave, and FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 illustrate frequency range change control according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0136]

[0137] Referring to FIG. 5, the antenna (320) may have a bandwidth (BW). Within the bandwidth (BW), the antenna (320) may radiate microwaves of various frequencies. The frequency range of the microwaves radiated by the antenna (320) may be divided into a plurality of frequency sections (FB). For example, the frequency sections (FB) may include a first section (FB1) having a constant frequency band and a first center frequency (fc1), a second section (FB2) having a constant frequency band and a second center frequency (fc2), and a third section (FB3) having a constant frequency band and a third center frequency (fc3). The first to third center frequencies (fc1, fc2, fc3) may be different frequencies from each other. The second center frequency (fc2) may be a lower frequency than the first center frequency (fc1). The third center frequency (fc3) may be a lower frequency than the second center frequency (fc2).

[0138] The center frequencies (fc1, fc2, fc3) of the first to third intervals (FB1, FB2, FB3) may have a multiplication frequency relationship with each other. For example, the first to third center frequencies (fc1, fc2, fc3) may be 2.745 GHz, 1.83 GHz, and 0.915 GHz, respectively, corresponding to a multiplication frequency or fundamental frequency of 0.915 GHz. For example, the first to third center frequencies (fc1, fc2, fc3) may be 3.675 GHz, 2.45 GHz, and 1.225 GHz, respectively, corresponding to a multiplication frequency or fundamental frequency of 1.225 GHz. Although three frequency intervals are exemplified in FIG. 5, the number of frequency intervals is not limited thereto, and depending on the embodiment, the number of frequency intervals may be two or four or more.

[0139] The processor (170) can control the frequency range (FB) of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) to be changed. The processor (170) can change the frequency range (FB) of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) by controlling the source unit (20) to change the frequency of the RF signal generated from the source unit (20). Here, changing the frequency range (FB) of the microwave means that the frequency of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) is changed from a frequency belonging to a specific frequency range to a frequency belonging to another frequency range.

[0140] For example, the processor (170) can control the frequency range (FB) of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) to change from one of the first range (FB1) to the third range (FB3) to another range. In other words, the processor (170) can control the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) to change from a frequency belonging to one of the first range (FB1) to the third range (FB3) to a frequency belonging to another range.

[0141]

[0142] Referring to FIG. 6, the depth to which microwaves penetrate into the aerosol product (2) may vary depending on the frequency of the microwaves radiated from the antenna (320). The depth may be defined as the distance from the outer surface of the aerosol product (2) with respect to the width direction or the radius direction of the aerosol product (2). As the frequency of the microwaves increases, the penetration depth may become shallower, and as the frequency of the microwaves decreases, the penetration depth may become deeper.

[0143] The processor (170) can control the depth to which microwaves penetrate into the aerosol product (2) by changing the frequency range (FB) of the microwaves radiated from the antenna (320). For example, the processor (170) can change the frequency range (FB) of the radiated microwaves from a first range (FB1) to a second range (FB2) or a third range (FB3). Accordingly, the depth to which microwaves penetrate can be changed from a first depth (D1) to a second depth (D2) or a third depth (D3). For example, the processor (170) can change the frequency range (FB) of the radiated microwaves from a third range (FB3) to a first range (FB1) or a second range (FB2). Accordingly, the depth to which microwaves penetrate can be changed from a third depth (D3) to a first depth (D1) or a second depth (D2). In other words, the processor (170) can change the frequency range of the microwave to control the depth to which the microwave penetrates to become deeper or shallower.

[0144] If microwaves having a specific frequency cannot penetrate beyond a certain depth into the aerosol product (2), the interior of the aerosol product (2) cannot be heated evenly by the microwaves of that frequency. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, by changing the frequency range (FB) of the microwaves, the depth to which the microwaves penetrate can be controlled, and the interior of the aerosol product (2) can be heated evenly.

[0145]

[0146] Referring to FIG. 7, the processor (170) can control the frequency range (FB) of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) to change sequentially from a relatively high frequency range to a relatively low frequency range. For example, the processor (170) can control the frequency range (FB) to change in the order of a first range (FB1), a second range (FB2), and a third range (FB3). The processor (170) can control the microwave to be radiated at a single frequency within each range, or control the microwave to be radiated at least two frequencies among a plurality of frequencies belonging to each range. The processor (170) can determine whether a preset criterion for changing the frequency range (FB) is satisfied, and control the frequency range (FB) to change based on the satisfaction of the preset criterion. By changing the frequency range (FB) of the radiated microwaves under the control of the processor (170), the aerosol product can be heated sequentially from the outer part to the center part within the aerosol product (2).

[0147] Referring to FIG. 8, the processor (170) can control the frequency range (FB) of the microwaves radiated from the antenna (320) to change sequentially from a relatively low frequency range to a relatively high frequency range. For example, the processor (170) can control the frequency range (FB) to change in the order of a third range (FB3), a second range (FB2), and a first range (FB1). By changing the frequency range (FB) of the radiated microwaves through the control of the processor (170), the aerosol product can be heated sequentially from the center to the outer part within the aerosol product (2).

[0148]

[0149] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a frequency range change control process according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 10 illustrates frequency range change and power control according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0150] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the processor (170) can control the depth to which microwaves penetrate into the aerosol product (2) by changing the frequency range (FB) of the microwaves radiated from the antenna (320).

[0151] The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves of a frequency belonging to the first section (FB1) through the antenna (320) (S910). The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves based on the insertion of an aerosol product (2) into the insertion space (IS). The processor (170) can control the source unit (20) to provide an RF signal having a preset frequency and magnitude to the antenna (320). The antenna (320) can radiate microwaves into the insertion space (IS) based on the RF signal transmitted from the source unit (20). The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves of a specific frequency among the frequencies belonging to the first section (FB1). For example, the processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves having a first center frequency (fc1) of the first section (FB1).

[0152] The processor (170) can determine whether a preset first time (t1) has elapsed since microwaves of a frequency belonging to the first section (FB1) began to be radiated. The first time (t1) may be a time during which all or most of the aerosol generating material located at a specific depth and surrounding area can be vaporized by the radiated microwaves to generate an aerosol. For example, the first time (t1) may be a time during which all or most of the aerosol generating material located in the area from the outer surface of the aerosol generating material (2) to the first depth (D1) can be vaporized to generate an aerosol. When the processor (170) determines that the first time (t1) has elapsed (S920), it can control the frequency section to be changed. The processor (170) can control the frequency section (FB) of the radiated microwaves to be changed from the first section (FB1) to the second section (FB2) (S930). The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves of a specific frequency among the frequencies belonging to the second section (FB2). For example, the processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves having a second center frequency (fc2) of the second section (FB2).

[0153] The processor (170) can change the frequency range (FB) of the microwave from the second range (FB2) to the third range (FB3) in the same way that the frequency range (FB) of the microwave is changed from the first range (FB1) to the second range (FB2). The processor (170) determines whether a preset second time (t2-t1) has elapsed since the microwave of the frequency belonging to the second range (FB2) began to be radiated, and if the second time (t2-t1) has elapsed, it can control the frequency range (FB) of the radiated microwave to change from the second range (FB2) to the third range (FB3). For example, the second time (t2-t1) may be the time during which all or most of the aerosol generating material located in the region from the first depth (D1) to the second depth (D2) inside the aerosol generating product (2) can be vaporized to generate an aerosol. The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves of a specific frequency among the frequencies belonging to the third section (FB3). For example, the processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves having a third center frequency (fc3) of the third section (FB3). The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves of a frequency belonging to the third section (FB3) during a preset third time (t3-t2). For example, the third time (t3-t2) may be a time during which all or most of the aerosol-generating material located in the region from the second depth (D2) to the third depth (D3) inside the aerosol-generating material (2) can be vaporized to generate an aerosol.

[0154] The first to third times can be pre-set through experiments, etc. and stored in memory (17).

[0155] In this way, by sequentially changing the frequency ranges and radiating microwaves for a time set appropriate for each frequency range, the aerosol product material within the aerosol product (2) can be heated evenly.

[0156] The processor (170) can control the magnitude of the power of the microwaves radiated in each frequency range. The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves of first power (Pw1) in the first range (FB1), control the radiation of microwaves of second power (Pw2) in the second range (FB2), and control the radiation of microwaves of third power (Pw3) in the third range (FB3). The second power (Pw2) may be larger than the first power (Pw1), and the third power (Pw3) may be larger than the second power (Pw2).

[0157] Relatively low-frequency microwaves can penetrate deeper than relatively high-frequency microwaves. However, since the amount of penetrating microwaves decreases in proportion to the penetration depth, microwaves of higher power need to be radiated to sufficiently heat the aerosol products located inside.

[0158] According to the present embodiment, by controlling the power of the microwaves radiated in a relatively lower frequency range to be greater, a sufficient amount of microwaves can reach the interior of the aerosol product (2) and be heated evenly inside.

[0159] FIG. 10 illustrates a frequency range control such that the penetration depth of the microwave gradually increases, but alternatively, the frequency range may be controlled such that the penetration depth of the microwave gradually decreases. In this case, the processor (170) may control the frequency range (FB) to change sequentially from the third range (FB3) to the first range (FB1). The processor (170) may control the microwave to be radiated with power set corresponding to each range.

[0160] Meanwhile, the length of each frequency interval (FB) can be controlled differently. In this case, the second time (t2-t1) may be longer than the first time (t1), and the third time (t3-t2) may be longer than the second time (t2-t1). The microwaves radiated in each frequency interval (FB) may have the same power magnitude.

[0161] Meanwhile, the length of each frequency interval (FB) may differ, and the magnitude of the microwave power in each frequency interval (FB) may also be controlled differently. In this case, the second time (t2-t1) may be longer than the first time (t1), and the third time (t3-t2) may be longer than the second time (t2-t1). The second power (Pw2) may be greater than the first power (Pw1), and the third power (Pw3) may be greater than the second power (Pw2).

[0162]

[0163] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a frequency range change control process according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 12 illustrates changing the frequency of microwaves based on reflected waves, FIG. 13 illustrates frequency range change and power control according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of one section of FIG. 13.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 11, the processor (170) can control the depth to which microwaves penetrate into the aerosol product (2) by changing the frequency range (FB) of the microwaves radiated from the antenna (320).

[0165] The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves of a frequency belonging to the first section (FB1) through the antenna (320) (S1110). The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves based on the insertion of an aerosol product (2) into the insertion space (IS). The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves of a specific frequency among the frequencies belonging to the first section (FB1). For example, the processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves having a first center frequency (fc1) of the first section (FB1).

[0166] The processor (170) can receive reflected waves reflected from the insertion space (IS) among the microwaves radiated through the antenna (320) via the antenna (320). The processor (170) can determine the magnitude of the power of the received reflected waves (S1120). The characteristics of radiating microwaves and receiving reflected waves under the control of the processor (170) may be described above in relation to FIG. 1.

[0167] The processor (170) can compare the magnitude of the power of the received reflected wave with a preset threshold. If the power of the received reflected wave is not greater than the preset threshold ("No" in S1130), the process of S1120 to S1130 can be repeated. The processor (170) can repeat the process of receiving the reflected wave among the radiated microwaves and comparing the magnitude of the power of the reflected wave with the threshold.

[0168] If the power of the received reflected wave is greater than a preset threshold ("Yes" of S1130), the processor (170) can control the source unit (20) and / or the antenna (320) to change the frequency of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) (S1140).

[0169] As microwaves having a specific frequency (f1) are radiated onto an aerosol generating material, the aerosol generating material vaporizes and its content decreases. As the content of the aerosol generating material decreases, the resonance frequency of the insertion space (IS) into which the aerosol generating material (2) is inserted changes. When the content of the aerosol generating material decreases above a certain level, the power (L1) of the received reflected wave may become greater than a preset threshold value (Ls) (see FIG. 12). In other words, the processor (170) can change the frequency of the microwaves radiated from the antenna (320) in response to the change in the resonance frequency as the content of the aerosol generating material decreases. The threshold value (Ls) may have a constant value regardless of the frequency interval (FB). Alternatively, the threshold value (Ls) may have a different value for each frequency interval (FB). The threshold value (Ls) may be determined in advance through experiments, etc. and stored in memory (17).

[0170] The processor (170) can change the frequency of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) within the current frequency range (FB). That is, the degree (df) of change in the frequency of the microwave within one frequency range (FB) may be a smaller value compared to the size or band (fu-fl) of the frequency range (FB) (see FIG. 13 and 14).

[0171] For example, one frequency interval (FB) may have a size or band of tens of kHz to hundreds of kHz, and the degree to which the frequency changes at once (df) as the content of the aerosol-generating substance decreases may be several kHz to tens of kHz.

[0172] The processor (170) can compare the changed frequency (f0) with the upper frequency (fu) and lower frequency (fl) of the current frequency range (FB). Here, the upper frequency (fu) can be defined as the highest frequency in the frequency range (FB), and the lower frequency (fl) can be defined as the lowest frequency in the frequency range (FB). If the changed frequency (f0) is not the same as the upper frequency (fu) or the lower frequency (fl) ("No" in S1150), the process of S1120 through 1150 can be repeated. The processor (170) can receive the reflected wave through the antenna (320), compare the magnitude of the power of the reflected wave with a threshold value, and if it is greater than the threshold value, repeat the process of changing the frequency of the radiated microwave.

[0173] Accordingly, within a single frequency interval (FB), the frequency of the radiated microwaves can be changed stepwise.

[0174] The processor (170) can control the frequency of the radiated microwaves to be lowered based on the power of the reflected wave being greater than a threshold value (Ls) (see FIG. 13 and 14). The aerosol generating material may contain a moisturizer (e.g., vegetable glycerin). As the content of the moisturizer decreases, the resonant frequency may decrease. The processor (170) can control the frequency of the radiated microwaves to be lowered to correspond to the lowered resonant frequency. Meanwhile, depending on the type of moisturizer, the resonant frequency may increase as the content of the moisturizer decreases. The processor (170) can control the frequency of the radiated microwaves to be higher to correspond to the increased resonant frequency.

[0175] If the changed frequency (f0) is the same as the upper frequency (fu) or lower frequency (fl) ("Yes" of S1150), the processor (170) can control the frequency range to be changed. The processor (170) can control the frequency range (FB) of the radiated microwave to be changed from the first range (FB1) to the second range (FB2) (S1160, see FIG. 13)). The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves of a specific frequency among the frequencies belonging to the second range (FB2). For example, the processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves having a second center frequency (fc2) of the second range (FB2).

[0176] The processor (170) can change the frequency range (FB) of the microwave from the second range (FB2) to the third range (FB3) in the same way as changing the frequency range (FB) of the microwave from the first range (FB1) to the second range (FB2) (see FIG. 13). The processor (170) can control the microwave of a specific frequency among the frequencies belonging to the second range (FB2) to be radiated, receive the reflected wave to determine the magnitude of the power of the reflected wave, and repeat the process of changing the frequency of the radiated microwave when the magnitude of the power is greater than a threshold value. The processor (170) can compare the changed frequency with the upper and lower frequency limits of the second range (FB2), and if the changed frequency is the same as the upper or lower frequency limit, control the frequency range (FB) of the radiated microwave to be changed from the second range (FB2) to the third range (FB3).

[0177] In this way, by changing the frequency of the microwave based on the reflected wave within a single frequency range and changing the frequency range when the changed frequency reaches the boundary of the frequency range, the penetration depth of the microwave can be controlled while simultaneously preventing malfunction or failure of the device caused by the reflected wave.

[0178] The processor (170) can control the magnitude of the power of the microwaves radiated in each frequency interval (see FIG. 13). The processor (170) can control the radiation of microwaves of first power (Pw1) in the first interval (FB1), control the radiation of microwaves of second power (Pw2) in the second interval (FB2), and control the radiation of microwaves of third power (Pw3) in the third interval (FB3). The second power (Pw2) may be larger than the first power (Pw1), and the third power (Pw3) may be larger than the second power (Pw2).

[0179] In this way, by controlling the power of the microwaves radiated in a relatively lower frequency range to be greater, a sufficient amount of microwaves can reach the interior of the aerosol product (2) and be heated evenly inside.

[0180] FIG. 13 illustrates a frequency range control such that the penetration depth of the microwave gradually increases, but alternatively, the frequency range may be controlled such that the penetration depth of the microwave gradually decreases. In this case, the processor (170) may control the frequency range (FB) to change sequentially from the third range (FB3) to the first range (FB1). The processor (170) may control the microwave to be radiated with power set corresponding to each range.

[0181]

[0182] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a process for determining a frequency range based on the type of aerosol product according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 15, the processor (170) can set an initial frequency interval (FB) depending on the type of aerosol product (2). The process illustrated in FIG. 15 can be understood as a process performed prior to the process illustrated in FIG. 9 or FIG. 11.

[0184] The processor (170) can determine the type of aerosol product (2) to be accommodated in the insertion space (IS) (S1510). The processor (170) can receive a signal output from the cigarette identification sensor (131). The processor (170) can determine the type of aerosol product (2) based on the received signal.

[0185] The aerosol generating material may include a moisturizer. The moisturizer may include at least one of vegetable glycerin (VG) and propylene glycol (PG). Depending on the type, the aerosol generating product (2) may have different amounts of moisturizer contained therein. For example, the aerosol generating product (2) may include a first article (2a) containing a first amount of moisturizer. For example, the aerosol generating product (2) may include a second article (2b) containing a second amount of moisturizer higher than the first amount. Here, the amount of moisturizer may be defined as the ratio of the weight of the moisturizer to the total weight of the aerosol generating product (2).

[0186] If the type of the determined item is the first item (2a), the processor (170) may determine the frequency range (FB) corresponding to the first item (2a) as the initial frequency range (S1530). If the type of the determined item is the second item (2b), the processor (170) may determine the frequency range (FB) corresponding to the second item (2b) as the initial frequency range (S1540). The initial frequency range refers to the range that is first set after the aerosol product (2) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1).

[0187] The processor (170) can determine a frequency range with a higher center frequency (fc) than when the determined type is the first item (2a) as the initial frequency range when the determined type is the second item (2b). The higher the content of the moisturizer, the more effectively the moisturizer can be heated by microwaves having a higher frequency.

[0188] In this way, by determining the frequency range of the microwaves emitted according to the type of aerosol product, the microwave radiation can be controlled to suit the type of aerosol product, and the heating efficiency can be increased.

[0189]

[0190] As described above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the frequency range of the radiated microwaves can be changed so that the depth of penetration of the microwaves into the aerosol product can be controlled and the aerosol product within the aerosol product can be heated evenly.

[0191] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the frequency of microwaves is changed based on reflected waves within a frequency range, and the frequency range is changed when the changed frequency reaches the boundary of the frequency range, thereby controlling the penetration depth of microwaves and simultaneously preventing malfunction or failure of the device caused by reflected waves.

[0192] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the frequency range of microwaves radiated according to the type of aerosol product is determined, so that the radiation of microwaves can be controlled to suit the type of aerosol product and the heating efficiency can be increased.

[0193]

[0194] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 15, an aerosol generating device (1) according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a body (11) providing an insertion space (IS) in which an aerosol product (2) is received; an antenna (320) that radiates microwaves to dielectric heat the aerosol product (2) into the insertion space (IS); and a processor (170), wherein the processor (170) can control the depth to which the microwaves penetrate into the aerosol product (2) by changing the frequency range (FB) of the microwaves radiated from the antenna (320).

[0195] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the frequency interval (FB) includes a first interval (FB1) and a second interval (FB2) having different center frequencies (fc), and the processor (170) can change the depth to which the microwave penetrates by controlling the frequency interval (FB) of the microwave radiated by the antenna (320) to change from the first interval (FB1) to the second interval (FB2).

[0196] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the center frequency (fc1) of the first section (FB1) and the center frequency (fc2) of the second section (FB2) may have a multiplication frequency relationship.

[0197] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the center frequency (fc1) of the first section (FB1) may be lower than the center frequency (fc2) of the second section (FB2).

[0198] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the center frequency (fc1) of the first section (FB1) may be higher than the center frequency (fc2) of the second section (FB2).

[0199] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the processor (170) may control the antenna (320) to radiate microwaves of a frequency belonging to the first interval (FB1) for a predetermined first time, and, based on the elapsed first time, control the antenna (320) to radiate microwaves of a frequency belonging to the second interval (FB2) for a predetermined second time.

[0200] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the processor (170) can control the antenna (320) to radiate microwaves of the center frequency (fc2) of the second interval (FB2) based on the elapsed time of the first interval.

[0201] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the processor (170) can compare the power of a reflected wave received through the antenna (320) with a predetermined threshold value, and based on the power of the reflected wave being greater than the threshold value, change the frequency of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) within the frequency interval (FB).

[0202] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the processor (170) can control the frequency of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) to be lowered based on the power of the reflected wave being greater than the threshold value.

[0203] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the processor (170) can compare the frequency of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) with the upper frequency (fu) and lower frequency (fl) of the frequency range (FB), and change the frequency range (FB) of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) based on whether the frequency of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320) is the same as the upper frequency (fu) or the lower frequency (fl).

[0204] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a sensor (131) for recognizing the type of the aerosol product (2) is included, and the processor (170) can determine the type of the aerosol product (2) based on a signal output from the sensor (131) and, based on the determined type, determine the frequency range (FB) of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320).

[0205] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol product (2) comprises a first article (2a) containing a first content of a moisturizer and a second article (2b) containing a second content of a moisturizer higher than the first content, and the processor (170) can determine a frequency range of microwaves radiated from the antenna (320) in which the center frequency (fc) is higher than in the case where the determined type is the second article (2b).

[0206] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the bandwidth of the antenna (320) may include the first section (FB1) and the second section (FB2).

[0207] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the center frequency (fc1) of the first section (FB1) or the center frequency (fc2) of the second section (FB2) may be 2.4 to 2.5 GHz or 0.9 to 0.93 GHz.

[0208] Additionally, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the lower the frequency of the microwave radiated from the antenna (320), the deeper the depth to which the microwave penetrates into the medium of the aerosol product (2).

[0209]

[0210] 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.

[0211] 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.

[0212] 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. A body providing an insertion space for receiving an aerosol product; An antenna that radiates microwaves into the insertion space to dielectric heat the above aerosol product; and Includes a processor, The above processor is, An aerosol generating device that controls the depth to which the microwaves penetrate into the aerosol product by changing the frequency range of the microwaves radiated from the antenna.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above frequency range is, It includes a first section and a second section having different center frequencies, The above processor is, An aerosol generating device that changes the depth of penetration of the microwaves by controlling the frequency range of the microwaves radiated by the antenna to change from the first range to the second range.

3. In Paragraph 2, The center frequency of the first section and the center frequency of the second section are, Aerosol generating device having a relationship of multiplication frequency.

4. In Paragraph 2, An aerosol generating device in which the center frequency of the first section is lower than the center frequency of the second section.

5. In Paragraph 2, An aerosol generating device in which the center frequency of the first section is higher than the center frequency of the second section.

6. In Paragraph 2, The above processor is, Control the antenna to radiate microwaves of a frequency belonging to the first interval during a predetermined first time period, and An aerosol generating device that controls the antenna to radiate microwaves of a frequency belonging to the second interval during a predetermined second time period, based on the elapsed first time period.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above processor is, An aerosol generating device that controls the antenna to radiate microwaves of the center frequency of the second section based on the elapsed first time.

8. In Paragraph 2, The above processor is, The power of the reflected wave received through the above antenna is compared with a predetermined threshold value, and An aerosol generating device that changes the frequency of microwaves radiated from the antenna within the frequency range based on the power of the reflected wave being greater than the threshold value.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above processor is, An aerosol generating device that controls the frequency of microwaves radiated from the antenna to be lowered based on the power of the reflected wave being greater than the threshold value.

10. In Paragraph 8, The above processor is, The frequency of the microwave radiated from the above antenna is compared with the upper and lower frequencies of the above frequency range, and An aerosol generating device that changes the frequency range of microwaves radiated from the antenna based on the frequency of the microwaves radiated from the antenna being equal to the upper frequency or the lower frequency.

11. In Paragraph 1, It includes a sensor that recognizes the type of the above-mentioned aerosol product, and The above processor is, The type of aerosol product is determined based on the signal output from the sensor above, and An aerosol generating device that determines the frequency range of microwaves radiated from the antenna based on the type determined above.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above aerosol product is, A first article comprising a first content of a moisturizer and a second article comprising a second content of a moisturizer higher than the first content, The above processor is, If the above-determined type is the above-determined second item, An aerosol generating device that determines a frequency range in which the center frequency is higher than that of the first item in the case where the above-determined type is the frequency range of microwaves radiated from the antenna.

13. In Paragraph 2, The bandwidth of the above antenna is, An aerosol generating device comprising the above-mentioned first section and the above-mentioned second section.

14. In Paragraph 2, The center frequency of the first section or the center frequency of the second section is, An aerosol generating device having a frequency of 2.4 to 2.5 GHz or 0.85 to 0.95 GHz.

15. In Paragraph 1, An aerosol generating device in which the lower the frequency of the microwaves radiated from the antenna, the deeper the depth of penetration of the microwaves into the medium of the aerosol product.

Images