Ultrasonic-based aerosol generation device

Abstract

This disclosure provides an ultrasonic-based aerosol generation apparatus. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the aerosol generation apparatus may include: a storage chamber for storing a liquid aerosol forming matrix; a wick for absorbing the stored aerosol forming matrix; an ultrasonic vibrator for vaporizing the absorbed aerosol forming matrix using ultrasonic waves to generate an aerosol; and a control unit for controlling the ultrasonic vibrator. In this case, at least a portion of the wick and at least a portion of the ultrasonic vibrator can be made into flat shapes and are arranged in close contact with each other. This maximizes the vaporization area and significantly increases the atomization volume.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ultrasonic-based aerosol-generating device, and more particularly, to an ultrasonic-based aerosol-generating device of a new structure capable of improving atomization amount and smoking sensation and reducing cartridge replacement cost. BACKGROUND

[0002] In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the shortcomings of general cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for devices that generate aerosols by vaporizing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate (so-called "liquid aerosol-generating devices"). Recently, an ultrasonic-based aerosol-generating device that vaporizes a liquid by ultrasonic vibration has been proposed.

[0003] Most of the ultrasonic-based aerosol-generating devices proposed so far adopt a cartridge (e.g., an atomizing cartridge) replacement structure in consideration of user convenience. Also, the replaceable cartridge is basically composed of a liquid storage chamber, a liquid absorbing wick, and an ultrasonic vibrator. However, there is a problem in this structure in that the cartridge replacement cost (or cartridge unit price) increases since the cartridge is composed of the ultrasonic vibrator, which is a relatively expensive component.

[0004] Due to the above cost problem, some ultrasonic-based aerosol-generating devices adopt a method of refilling a liquid without replacing the cartridge. However, the liquid refilling method complicates the structure of the aerosol-generating device, and causes inconvenience to the user since the user needs to directly refill the liquid. In addition, during the liquid refilling process, the liquid often gets on the user's clothes or body, causing great discomfort to the user. SUMMARY

[0005] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0006] A technical problem to be solved by some embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide an ultrasonic-based aerosol-generating device of a new structure capable of reducing cartridge replacement cost (or cartridge unit price).

[0007] A technical problem to be solved by some other embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide an ultrasonic-based aerosol-generating device capable of improving atomization amount and smoking sensation.

[0008] The technical problem of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-mentioned technical problem, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the following description.

[0009] SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

[0010] To solve the above technical problem, an ultrasonic wave-based aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure can include a liquid storage cavity to store a liquid aerosol generating substrate, a wick to absorb the stored aerosol generating substrate, an ultrasonic wave vibrator to vaporize the absorbed aerosol generating substrate by ultrasonic waves to generate an aerosol, and a control portion to control the ultrasonic wave vibrator. At this time, at least a portion of the wick and at least a portion of the ultrasonic wave vibrator can have a flat shape.

[0011] In some embodiments, the flat portion of the wick can have a thickness of 1 mm or less.

[0012] In some embodiments, an area of the wick can be greater than an area of the ultrasonic wave vibrator.

[0013] In some embodiments, the flat portions of the wick and the ultrasonic wave vibrator can be disposed to be in close contact with each other.

[0014] In some embodiments, the flat portion of the wick can be a central portion of the wick, and a damper can be further included to fix a periphery of the wick.

[0015] In some embodiments, a damper can be further included to be disposed in close contact with the ultrasonic wave vibrator to absorb vibrations of the ultrasonic wave vibrator.

[0016] In some embodiments, an aerosol generating area adjacent to the flat portion of the wick can be formed, and the aerosol generating device can further include a first airflow path formed such that external air enters a center of the aerosol generating area, and a second airflow path formed such that the generated aerosol moves from a periphery of the aerosol generating area toward a mouthpiece direction.

[0017] In some embodiments, the liquid storage cavity and the wick can constitute at least a portion of a replaceable cartridge, and the ultrasonic wave vibrator and the control portion can constitute at least a portion of a control body combined with the cartridge.

[0018] Effects of Invention

[0019] According to the various embodiments of the present disclosure described above, at least a portion of the wick and the ultrasonic wave vibrator are implemented to have a flat shape, and the flat portions can be disposed in close contact with each other. Such a structure can greatly increase an atomization amount of the aerosol generating device by maximizing a vaporization area of the wick (or an ultrasonic wave vibration receiving area).

[0020] Further, the ultrasonic vibrator, which is a relatively expensive component, can be provided at the control body side, not the cartridge side. Accordingly, the cartridge replacement cost (or cartridge unit price) can be greatly reduced.

[0021] Further, the airflow path can be formed such that the external air enters the center of the aerosol generating area (or vaporization area) formed adjacent to the wick, and the aerosol moves to the mouthpiece side through the periphery of the aerosol generating area. Such an airflow path structure can generate a high-quality aerosol by properly mixing the external air and the vaporized aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the entered external air can be properly mixed with the vaporized aerosol-forming substrate while sweeping the entire vaporization area of the wick, and thus a high-quality aerosol can be generated. Accordingly, the user's smoking sensation can be greatly improved.

[0022] Effects according to the technical idea of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic view to schematically show the structure of an ultrasonic wave-based aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A schematic view to show a detailed structure of a cartridge according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 5 A schematic view to show a detailed structure of a control body according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 6 A schematic view to show a detailed structure of an ultrasonic wave-based aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and a state in which the cartridge and the control body are combined.

[0027] Figure 7 A schematic view to show an airflow path structure of an ultrasonic wave-based aerosol generating device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The advantages and features of the present disclosure and methods of achieving them can be apparent from the embodiments described below in detail together with accompanying drawings. However, the technical idea of the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below, but can be implemented by various modes, and the following embodiments are merely used to make the technical idea of the present disclosure complete and to enable those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present disclosure pertains to fully understand the scope of the present disclosure, and the technical idea of the present disclosure is defined by the scope of the claims.

[0029] In adding reference numerals to components of all the drawings, it should be noted that even components shown in different drawings have the same reference numerals, which refer to the same components. Also, in explaining the present disclosure, when it is considered that detailed description of related known technology construction or function will confuse the gist of the present disclosure, detailed description thereof can be omitted.

[0030] If not specifically defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the following embodiments can be used as meanings that can be commonly understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present disclosure pertains. Also, for terms commonly used in a dictionary, if not specifically defined, they will not be interpreted abnormally or excessively. The terms used in the following embodiments are used only for the purpose of explaining the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. In the following embodiments, unless otherwise specified, singular forms also include plural forms.

[0031] Also, in describing components of the present disclosure, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. can be used. These terms are used only to distinguish a component from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the related components are not limited by the terms. It should be understood that if a component is described as being "connected", "coupled", or "linked" to another component, it can mean that the component is not only directly "connected", "coupled", or "linked" to the other component, but can also be indirectly "connected", "coupled", or "linked" via a third component.

[0032] The terms "comprises" and / or "comprising", used in the present disclosure, specify the presence of the stated components, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components, steps, operations, and / or elements.

[0033] Before describing various embodiments of the present disclosure, some terms used in the embodiments will be clarified.

[0034] In the following embodiments, "aerosol forming matrix" can refer to a material capable of forming an aerosol. An aerosol can include volatile compounds. The aerosol forming matrix can be solid or liquid. For example, a solid aerosol forming matrix can include solid materials based on tobacco raw materials, such as reconstituted tobacco, pipe tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, etc. A liquid aerosol forming matrix can include liquid compositions based on nicotine, tobacco extracts, and / or various flavorings. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the examples listed above. In the following embodiments, "liquid" can refer to a liquid aerosol forming matrix.

[0035] In the following embodiments, "aerosol generating device" can refer to a device that generates aerosols using an aerosol forming matrix in order to generate aerosols that can be directly inhaled into the lungs of a user through the user's mouth.

[0036] In the following embodiments, "puff" refers to the user's inhalation, which means the state of being drawn into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs through the user's mouth or nose.

[0037] In the following, various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Example diagram illustrating the structure of an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] like Figure 1 or Figure 2 As shown, the ultrasonic-based aerosol generating device 1 may include a smoke cartridge 10 and a control unit 20. However, Figure 1 or Figure 2 Only components relevant to embodiments of this disclosure are shown. Therefore, those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will understand that other components may also be included. Figure 1 or Figure 2 Other general components besides those shown. The components of aerosol generating apparatus 1 will now be described.

[0040] The cartridge 10 can refer to a container used to store a liquid aerosol forming matrix. Furthermore, depending on the circumstances, the cartridge 10 may also have some or all of the functions of a mouthpiece and a vaporizer (e.g., a cartomizer). For example, the cartridge 10 may be configured to include some components including a mouthpiece 110 and a vaporizer 30 (see reference). Figure 1 As another example, the cartridge 10 can also be configured to include all components of the mouthpiece 110 and the vaporizer 30. As another example, the cartridge 10 can be configured to exclude the mouthpiece 110.

[0041] Figure 1 As shown, the cartridge 10 and the control body 20 are combined to form the upper part of the aerosol generating device 1, and the control body 20 forms the lower part of the aerosol generating device 1, but the scope of this disclosure is not limited to these structures. In some other embodiments, the cartridge 10 may be a component housed within the upper housing of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0042] In some embodiments, the cartridge 10 can be a replaceable component. That is, when the liquid in the cartridge 10 is depleted, it can be replaced with a new cartridge without needing to refill it. In this case, the overall structure of the aerosol generating device can be simplified, thus ensuring advantages in the manufacturing process (e.g., reduced manufacturing costs, reduced defect rates, etc.). Furthermore, since the inconvenience of consumers needing to directly refill the liquid is eliminated, the product's market competitiveness can be improved. However, the replacement cost of the cartridge 10 may be a problem, which can be solved by excluding some components of the vaporizer 30 (i.e., the relatively expensive ultrasonic vibrator) from the cartridge 10. In the following description, the premise that the cartridge 10 is a replaceable component will continue to be explained. However, it should be noted that in the various embodiments or technical ideas described below, even if the cartridge 10 is not a replaceable component, it can be fully applied. For example, the shape of the suction core for maximizing the vaporization area or the combination structure of the suction core and the ultrasonic vibrator (see Figures 3 to 6 (See the explanatory section) Airflow path structure that can improve atomization and smoking sensation (refer to...) Figure 7 (The description section, etc.) can be applied to various types of aerosol generating devices regardless of the replaceability of the smoke cartridge 10.

[0043] like Figure 1 As illustrated in the schematic example, the cartridge 10 according to the embodiment may include a mouthpiece 110 and a portion of a vaporizer 30. More specifically, the vaporizer 30 may include: a liquid reservoir ( Figure 3 The liquid storage chamber 120 stores liquid aerosols to form a matrix; the liquid suction core ( Figure 3 The liquid-absorbing core 140 is used to absorb the stored liquid; and the ultrasonic vibrator ( Figure 5 The ultrasonic vibrator 240 in the cartridge 10 vaporizes the absorbed liquid using ultrasonic waves (ultrasonic vibration). The liquid storage chamber 120 and the liquid absorption core 140 can be located within the cartridge 10. Furthermore, the ultrasonic vibrator 240 can be located within the control unit 20. In this case, the vaporizer 30 can be constructed by combining the cartridge 10 and the control unit 20, thus eliminating the ultrasonic vibrator, a relatively expensive component, from the cartridge 10, thereby significantly reducing the replacement cost (or unit price) of the cartridge 10. (See below for further details.) Figure 3 The accompanying drawings illustrate the detailed structure of the smoke cartridge 10 in more detail.

[0044] In addition, the control unit 20 can perform the overall control functions of the aerosol generating device 10. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the control body 20 can be attached to the cartridge 10. If the cartridge 10 is a component housed in the aerosol generating device 1, the control body 20 can be attached to the upper housing including the cartridge 10.

[0045] like Figure 1 or Figure 2 As shown, the control unit 20 may include a control unit 210 and a battery 220. The control unit 210 and the battery 220 will be briefly described below.

[0046] The control unit 210 can control the operation of the aerosol generating device 1 as a whole. For example, the control unit 210 can control the operation of the vaporizer 30 and the battery 220, as well as the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 210 can control the power supplied by the battery 220, the ultrasonic vibrator (… Figure 5 The vibration frequency and amplitude of the ultrasonic vibrator 240 in the device are also considered. When the aerosol generating device 1 also includes a heater (not shown in the figure), the control unit 210 can also control the heating temperature of the heater (not shown in the figure).

[0047] Furthermore, the control unit 210 can determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state by checking the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0048] The control unit 210 can be implemented by at least one processor. This processor can be implemented by a plurality of logic gate arrays, or by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by that microprocessor. Furthermore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains, the control unit 210 can also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0049] Additionally, battery 220 can supply power for operating the aerosol generating device 1. For example, battery 220 can supply power to power the ultrasonic vibrator constituting the vaporizer 30. Figure 5 The ultrasonic vibrator 240 in the middle can generate ultrasonic waves and can also supply the power required for the operation of the control unit 210.

[0050] In addition, the battery 220 can supply the power required for the operation of electrical components such as the display (not shown), sensor (not shown), and motor (not shown) installed in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0051] The detailed structure of the control unit 20 will be discussed later. Figure 5 The following figures illustrate this in more detail.

[0052] As previously described, the cartridge 10 can be attached to the control unit 20. Various attachment methods are possible, including methods using magnets, mechanical fastening methods such as hooks, etc. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to these examples. Considering user convenience, manufacturing costs of the aerosol generating device, etc., the attachment method of the two components (cartridge 10, control unit 20) can be designed in various ways.

[0053] At this point, we have referred to Figure 1 and Figure 2 An ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated schematically. In the following, reference will be made to... Figure 3 The following figures illustrate in more detail the structure of the smoke cartridge 10 and the control body 20 constituting the aerosol generating device 1.

[0054] Figure 3 A schematic diagram illustrating the detailed structure of a cartridge 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0055] Reference Figure 3 The cartridge 10 may include a shell 130, a mouthpiece 110, a liquid storage chamber 120, and a liquid-absorbing core 140. However, Figure 3 Only components relevant to embodiments of this disclosure are shown. Therefore, those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will understand that other components may also be included. Figure 3 Other common components besides those shown. The components of the cartridge 10 will be described below.

[0056] The casing 130 can form the appearance of the smoke cartridge 10. Figure 3 As shown, the housing 130, the outer wall of the liquid storage chamber 120, and the mouthpiece 110 are separate structures, but this is only for ease of understanding. The housing 130 can be used as both the outer wall of the liquid storage chamber 120 and / or the mouthpiece 110.

[0057] like Figure 3 As shown on the right, the housing 130 can form an open lower end, through which the cartridge 10 can be attached to the control body 20. Furthermore, as the cartridge 10 is attached to the control body 20, the absorbent core 140 can connect with an ultrasonic vibrator located within the control body 20. Figure 5 The ultrasonic vibrator 240 is placed close to the device.

[0058] Additionally, the mouthpiece 110 can be located at one end of the aerosol generating device 1 and in contact with the user's mouth, allowing the user to inhale the aerosol generated from the cartridge 10. In other words, when the user holds the mouthpiece 110 and inhales, the aerosol generated in the cartridge 10 can be transferred to the user through the mouthpiece 110.

[0059] Next, the storage chamber 120 can store the liquid aerosol forming matrix 1210. Although Figure 3 The illustration shows a liquid storage chamber 120 with one storage space as an example, but the liquid storage chamber 120 may also have multiple storage spaces. For example, the liquid storage chamber 120 may have multiple storage spaces to store aerosol forming matrices with different components or composition ratios.

[0060] Additionally, the absorbent core 140 can absorb liquid aerosols stored in the reservoir 120 to form a matrix 1210. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, at least a portion (e.g., both ends) of the absorbent core 140 is configured to contact the aerosol forming matrix 1210, and the absorbent core 140 can absorb the aerosol forming matrix 1210 through capillary action.

[0061] The absorbent core 140 can be made of a material such as a porous material that can absorb liquid 1210 through capillary action. For example, the absorbent core 140 can be made of materials such as cotton or silica. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the examples listed above.

[0062] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, at least a portion of the suction core 140 may have a flat shape. For example, with an ultrasonic vibrator (see reference...) Figure 5 The central portion of the ultrasonic vibrator 240, which is in close contact with the liquid-absorbing core 140, can have a flat shape. Alternatively, the ultrasonic vibrator 240 can also have a flat shape. In this case, the ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic vibrator 240 are directly transmitted, and the vaporization area of ​​the liquid-absorbing core 140 is maximized, thereby significantly increasing the atomization amount. The flat portion of the liquid-absorbing core 140 can have a circular plate shape, but the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto. The flat portion of the liquid-absorbing core 140 can be implemented in other shapes, such as a square plate shape.

[0063] In the above embodiments, preferably, the thickness of the flat portion of the absorbent core 140 is about 1 mm or less. More preferably, the thickness of the flat portion can be about 0.9 mm, 0.8 mm, or 0.7 mm or less. Most preferably, the thickness of the flat portion can be about 0.6 mm, 0.5 mm, or 0.4 mm or less. Within the above numerical range, the liquid absorbed by the absorbent core 140 will vaporize rapidly, thereby increasing the atomization amount. If the absorbent core 140 is too thick, the ultrasonic vibration will be absorbed, thus the vaporization performance will deteriorate, and leakage may occur because the vaporization rate cannot keep up with the absorption rate.

[0064] Furthermore, the total area of ​​the liquid-absorbing core 140 can be larger than that of the ultrasonic vibrator (see reference). Figure 5The area of ​​the ultrasonic vibrator 240 in the ultrasonic vibrator 240 can be considered. For example, the area of ​​the flat portion of the suction core 140 can be similar to the area of ​​the ultrasonic vibrator 240, while the total area of ​​the suction core 140 can be larger than the area of ​​the ultrasonic vibrator 240. In this case, as will be described below (refer to the explanatory section below), as the suction core 140 moves toward the open lower end, the flat portion of the suction core 140 can be in close contact with the ultrasonic vibrator 240 in a manner that covers the ultrasonic vibrator 240, thereby improving vaporization performance.

[0065] In some embodiments, the cartridge 10 may further include an elastomer 150 that elastically supports the absorbent core 140. The elastomer 150 may be made of any material that is elastic (i.e., compressible and stretchable). Although Figure 3 The illustration shows two elastomers 150 connected to the absorbent core 140, but this is only for ease of understanding, and the number of elastomers 150 can be varied. For example, when the flat portion of the absorbent core 140 has a disc shape, four elastomers 150 can be spaced apart at 90-degree intervals, or a ring-shaped elastomer 150 extending along the circumference of the disc portion can be provided. The function and effect of the elastomers 150 will be explained in more detail below.

[0066] As described above, in some embodiments, the liquid-absorbing core 140 may be located in the cartridge 10, while the ultrasonic vibrator ( Figure 5 The ultrasonic vibrator 240 can be located in the control body 20. Furthermore, vaporization can be achieved by combining the cartridge 10 and the control body 20. However, if the position of the absorbent core 140 is fixed, a gap will inevitably exist between the absorbent core 140 and the ultrasonic vibrator 240 even when the cartridge 10 and the control body 20 are combined. Moreover, when a gap exists between the two components (absorbent core 140 and ultrasonic vibrator 240), ultrasonic waves may not be directly transmitted to the absorbent core 140, potentially reducing vaporization performance.

[0067] The elastomer 150 is used to solve the above-mentioned problems. Its function is to allow the absorbent core 140 to move toward the open lower end as the cartridge 10 and the control body 20 are combined (or the sealing member 170, described below, is removed). Specifically, when the elastomer 150, which is in a compressed state, is stretched, the absorbent core 140 can move toward the open lower end (see reference). Figure 3 (Right side). As will be described below, due to the combination of the open upper end of the control body 20 and the open lower end of the cartridge 10, and the ultrasonic vibrator ( Figure 5 The ultrasonic vibrator 240 is located at the upper open end, therefore, as the suction core 140 moves towards the lower open end, the suction core 140 can be closely attached to the ultrasonic vibrator 240 (see reference).Figure 6 ).

[0068] In some embodiments, the cartridge 10 may further include a sealing member 170 for sealing the open lower end of the cartridge 10. For example, as Figure 4 As shown, the open lower end of the cartridge 10 can be sealed by the sealing member 170. The function of the sealing member 170 is to prevent damage to the liquid-absorbing core 140 during storage and transportation of the cartridge 10 and to maintain the cleanliness of the cartridge 10. The user can also remove the sealing member 170 when replacing the cartridge and combine the new cartridge 10 with the control body 20. Figure 4 The illustration shows a liquid-absorbing core 140 with a circular plate shape housed within a cartridge 10 that resembles a cylinder. The air vent 1310 refers to a hole for the entry of external air. Furthermore, the connecting portion 1320 shown at the lower part of the housing 130 is a connecting portion; as described above, the connecting portion 1320 is made of a magnetic material or has a hook function, thereby enabling it to perform the function of connecting with the control body 20. However, the connecting portion 1320 can be implemented in other ways.

[0069] Will refer again Figure 3 Continuing with the explanation of smoke cartridge 10.

[0070] In some embodiments, the cartridge 10 may further include a damper 160 disposed near the periphery of the absorbent core 140. Although Figure 3 The example shown is of two dampers 160 on the wick 140, but this is for ease of understanding, and the number of dampers 160 can be varied. For example, when the flat portion of the wick 140 has a circular plate shape, four dampers 160 can be spaced 90 degrees apart, or a single annular damper 160 extending along the circumference of the circular plate portion can be provided. The dampers 160 are used to absorb ultrasonic vibrations reaching the wick 140, preventing these vibrations from being transmitted to the outside of the housing 130. Therefore, preferably, the dampers 160 are made of a material such as silicone that can absorb vibrations and undergoes almost no physical or chemical changes (e.g., a material that does not undergo physical or chemical changes upon contact with a liquid). Furthermore, by fixing the outer portion of the wick 140, the dampers 160 can ensure that the central portion (i.e., the flat portion) of the wick 140 is properly affected by ultrasonic vibrations, thereby further improving the vaporization rate and atomization amount.

[0071] In some embodiments, the cartridge 10 may also include a heater (not shown). The heater is positioned around the absorbent core 140 to heat the liquid 1210 absorbed by the absorbent core 140, thereby accelerating vaporization via ultrasound. The heater can operate as an auxiliary element to aid in the vaporization of the liquid 1210. For example, since the aerosol forming matrix 1210 is a viscous liquid, satisfactory vaporization performance may be difficult to achieve by ultrasound vibration alone. In such cases, the vaporization performance of the aerosol generating apparatus can be improved by using a heater (not shown). The heating temperature of the heater can be set much lower than the heater temperature of a typical heated aerosol generating apparatus, so the additional power consumption may be minimal. The heater can be controlled by a control unit 210, and various control methods can be used.

[0072] For example, whenever user suction is sensed, the control unit 210 can increase the heating temperature of the heater. Suction can be sensed by an airflow sensor, but the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0073] As another example, the control unit 210 can maintain a constant heating temperature of the heater during smoking, independent of the user's inhalation. In this case, the liquid absorbed by the suction core 140 can be kept in a state where it is easy to vaporize during smoking. Furthermore, whenever the user's inhalation is sensed, the control unit 210 can generate ultrasonic waves to vaporize the liquid absorbed by the suction core 140.

[0074] As another example, the control unit 210 can determine the heating temperature of the heater in response to user input. For instance, when the user selects a high level of atomization, the control unit 210 can increase the heating temperature of the heater, and vice versa. In this case, a suitable level of atomization can be provided, thereby improving the user's smoking satisfaction.

[0075] As another example, the control unit 210 can determine the heating temperature of the heater by analyzing the user's inhalation pattern. Here, the inhalation pattern may include inhalation length, inhalation intensity, etc., but this disclosure is not limited to these. As a specific example, when the inhalation length or inhalation intensity increases, the control unit 210 can increase the heating temperature of the heater. This is because when a user inhales for a long time or intensely during smoking, it is very likely that the atomization is unsatisfactory. Conversely, in the opposite case, the control unit 210 can decrease the heating temperature of the heater. Furthermore, when it is determined that the inhalation length or inhalation intensity remains constant, the control unit 210 can maintain the heating temperature of the heater at a constant temperature.

[0076] As another example, the control unit 210 can control the heater based on various combinations of the above examples.

[0077] At this point, we have referred toFigure 3 and Figure 4 The detailed structure of the smoke cartridge 10 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is described below. Referring to the following... Figure 5 The detailed structure of the control body 20 is described in detail.

[0078] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating the detailed structure of the control body 20 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0079] Reference Figure 5 The control unit 20 may include a main housing 230, a control unit 210, a battery 220, and an ultrasonic vibrator 240. However, Figure 5 Only components relevant to embodiments of this disclosure are shown. Therefore, those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will understand that other components may also be included. Figure 5 Other common components besides those shown. The components of control body 20 will now be described.

[0080] The main housing 230 can form the appearance of the control body 20. The main housing 230 can be made of a suitable material that can protect the internal components (e.g., control unit 210, battery 220).

[0081] To avoid redundancy, descriptions of the control unit 210 and battery 220 will be omitted. For descriptions of these, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 The explanatory section.

[0082] Additionally, the ultrasonic vibrator 240 can generate ultrasonic waves (ultrasonic vibration) to vaporize the liquid aerosol forming matrix 1210. For example, the ultrasonic vibrator 240 can be implemented as a piezoelectric element capable of converting electrical energy into mechanical energy, thereby generating ultrasonic waves under the control of the control unit 210. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand the principle of the ultrasonic vibrator 240, and therefore it will not be described in detail here. The ultrasonic vibrator 240 can be electrically connected to the control unit 210 and the battery 220.

[0083] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic vibrator 240 may have a flat shape and may be disposed in close contact with the suction core 140 (see reference). Figure 6 In this combined structure, the vaporization area and atomization volume can be maximized. Furthermore, the ultrasonic vibrator 240 can be located near the open upper end of the control body 20. In this case, not only is cleaning the ultrasonic vibrator 240 simple and easy, but also, with the control body 20 and the cartridge 10 combined, the ultrasonic vibrator 240 can easily adhere tightly to the suction core 140.

[0084] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the frequency of the aforementioned ultrasonic waves can be approximately 20 kHz to 1500 kHz, or approximately 50 kHz to 1000 kHz, or approximately 100 kHz to 500 kHz. Within these numerical ranges, appropriate vaporization rate and atomization amount can be ensured.

[0085] On the other hand, in some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the control unit 20 may also include a damper 250 disposed in close contact with the ultrasonic vibrator 240. Although Figure 5 Taking the example of two dampers 250 between the ultrasonic vibrator 240 and the main housing 230, this is merely for ease of understanding, and the number of dampers 250 can be varied. For example, when the ultrasonic vibrator 240 has a circular plate shape, four dampers 250 can be arranged at 90-degree intervals, or a single annular damper 250 extending along the circumference of the circular plate portion can be provided. The function of the dampers 250 is to absorb vibrations while protecting the ultrasonic vibrator 240, preventing the vibrations generated by the ultrasonic vibrator 240 from being transmitted to the main housing 230. Therefore, preferably, the dampers 250 are made of a vibration-absorbing material such as silicone.

[0086] Furthermore, in some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the damper 250 can be configured to seal the gap between the main housing 230 and the ultrasonic vibrator 240. In this configuration, the problem of control body 20 malfunctioning due to leakage of liquid (e.g., liquid 1210) or gas (e.g., aerosol) into the gap between the main housing 230 and the vibrator 240 can be significantly reduced. For example, damage or malfunction of the control body 20 due to moisture can be prevented in advance. In this embodiment, preferably, the damper 250 is made of a waterproof or moisture-proof material.

[0087] At this point, we have already referred to Figure 5 The control body 20 according to some embodiments of this disclosure is described. In the following, reference will be made to... Figure 6 Additional description of the detailed structure of the smoke cartridge 10 and the control body 20 when they are combined.

[0088] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the detailed structure of an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating device 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as the combined state of the cartridge and the control body. To avoid redundancy, descriptions of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 will be omitted.

[0089] like Figure 6As shown, with the cartridge 10 and control body 20 combined, the open lower end of the cartridge 10 and the open upper end of the control body 20 can be connected. Furthermore, the absorbent core 140 disposed on the cartridge 10 and the ultrasonic vibrator 240 disposed on the control body 20 can be in close contact with each other. As described above, when the elastic body 150 in a compressed state is stretched, the absorbent core 140 can move towards the ultrasonic vibrator 240, resulting in the absorbent core 140 and the ultrasonic vibrator 240 being in close contact with each other. The elastic body 150 can move the absorbent core 140 to the side of the ultrasonic vibrator 240, while simultaneously causing the absorbent core 140 to spread evenly on the ultrasonic vibrator 240. This significantly increases the area of ​​the absorbent core 140 directly affected by the ultrasonic vibrator 240, and also increases the vaporization rate and atomization volume.

[0090] At this point, we have referred to Figure 6 The assembly state of the smoke cartridge 10 and the control unit 20 is explained. In the following text, reference will be made to... Figure 7 Explain the airflow path structure of the ultrasonic-based aerosol generation device 1.

[0091] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the airflow path structure of an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Furthermore, Figure 7 The flow of airflow (e.g., outside air and aerosol) that occurs during suction is also shown.

[0092] like Figure 7 As shown, a first airflow path 191 and a second airflow path 193 can be formed in the aerosol generating device 1. The first airflow path 191 allows external air to enter, and the second airflow path 193 allows aerosols to be discharged to the outside. The airflow paths (first airflow path 191 and second airflow path 193) will be described below.

[0093] The first airflow path 191 can refer to the path of external air entering from the vent 1310, passing near the center of the liquid storage chamber 120, and reaching the central portion of the aerosol generation region 180. The aerosol generation region 180 can refer to the region where external air mixes with the vaporized aerosol forming matrix 1210 and aerosolizes to generate aerosols. Figure 7 In the illustrated structure, an aerosol generation region 180 can be formed in the space between the liquid storage chamber 120 and the liquid suction core 140.

[0094] Figure 7The diagram shows that external air entering from the vents 1310 on both sides converges in an airflow pipe near the center of the liquid storage chamber 120 and moves to the center of the aerosol generation region 180. However, the number of vents 1310 (or the number of first airflow paths 191) and the detailed structure of the first airflow paths 191 can be changed. For example, the number of vents 1310 can be three or more, and airflow paths can be formed such that external air entering through the vents 1310 is moved individually to the vicinity of the center of the aerosol generation region 180.

[0095] Additionally, the second airflow path 193 can refer to the path through which aerosols generated in the aerosol generation region 180 are discharged to the outside via the mouthpiece 110. More specifically, in the aerosol generation region 180, external air and vaporized aerosol forming matrix 1210 can mix and aerosolize to generate aerosols. Aerosols generated in this way can move from the periphery of the aerosol generation region 180 toward the mouthpiece 110 via the second airflow path 193.

[0096] Figure 7 As shown, aerosols moving through two second airflow paths 193 converge at the mouthpiece 110 and are discharged to the outside of the mouthpiece 110. However, the number and detailed structure of the second airflow paths 193 can be varied. For example, the number of second airflow paths 193 can be three or more, and aerosols moving through multiple second airflow paths 193 can be discharged to the outside without converging in the mouthpiece 110.

[0097] also, Figure 7 As shown, aerosols generated near the center of the aerosol generation region 180 move to the periphery via the elastomer 150. At this point, the aerosols can move to the periphery through holes formed in the elastomer 150, or they can move to the periphery by bypassing the elastomer 150. The detailed airflow path described above can be designed and implemented in various ways.

[0098] In summary, the aerosol generating device 1 according to the embodiment may include: a first airflow path 191, which allows external air to enter near the center of the aerosol generating region 180; and a second airflow path 193, which moves the generated aerosol from near the periphery of the aerosol generating region 180 to the mouthpiece 110. This airflow path structure can generate high-quality aerosols while greatly increasing the atomization amount, for the following reasons.

[0099] According to the airflow path structure described above, the external air entering near the center of the aerosol generation region 180 sweeps across the entire surface of the vaporized absorbent core 140 as it moves towards the periphery of the aerosol generation region 180. Therefore, vaporization is promoted on the surface of the absorbent core 140, thereby significantly increasing the vaporization rate and atomization volume.

[0100] Furthermore, as external air sweeps across the entire surface of the absorbent core 140, the external air and the vaporized aerosol forming matrix 1210 can be properly mixed, thereby generating high-quality aerosols.

[0101] At this point, we have referred to Figure 7 The airflow path structure of the ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is described.

[0102] While embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that other specific forms can be implemented without altering the technical concept or essential features of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and non-limiting in all respects. The scope of protection of this disclosure should be determined by the claims, and all technical concepts within the equivalent scope should fall within the scope of the technical concepts defined by this disclosure.

Claims

1.An aerosol generating device based on ultrasonic waves, characterized by: comprising: a liquid storage cavity for storing a liquid aerosol generating substrate, a liquid absorbing wick for absorbing the stored aerosol generating substrate, an ultrasonic vibrator for vaporizing the absorbed aerosol generating substrate by ultrasonic waves to generate an aerosol, and a control portion for controlling the ultrasonic vibrator; at least a portion of the liquid absorbing wick and at least a portion of the ultrasonic vibrator have a flat shape; the liquid storage cavity and the liquid absorbing wick constitute at least a portion of a replaceable cartridge; the ultrasonic vibrator and the control portion constitute at least a portion of a control body which is combined with the cartridge; an area of the liquid absorbing wick is greater than an area of the ultrasonic vibrator; a flat portion of a central portion of the liquid absorbing wick and a flat portion of the ultrasonic vibrator are disposed to be in close contact with each other; the aerosol generating device further comprises: a first damper provided at an upper portion of a peripheral portion of the liquid absorbing wick to fix the periphery of the liquid absorbing wick to the cartridge, a second damper provided in close contact with the ultrasonic vibrator. 2.The aerosol generating device based on ultrasonic waves according to claim 1, characterized in that: a thickness of the flat portion of the liquid absorbing wick is 1 mm or less. 3.The aerosol generating device based on ultrasonic waves according to claim 1, characterized in that: the second damper absorbs vibration of the ultrasonic vibrator. 4.The aerosol generating device based on ultrasonic waves according to claim 3, characterized in that: a housing forming an appearance of the aerosol generating device is further included, the ultrasonic vibrator is located below the liquid absorbing wick, the second damper is provided to seal a gap between the housing and the ultrasonic vibrator. 5.The aerosol generating device based on ultrasonic waves according to claim 1, characterized in that: an aerosol generating area adjacent to the flat portion of the liquid absorbing wick is formed, the aerosol generating device further comprises: a first airflow path formed so that external air enters a central portion of the aerosol generating area, and a second airflow path formed so that the generated aerosol moves from a peripheral portion of the aerosol generating area toward a mouthpiece. 6.The aerosol generating device based on ultrasonic waves according to claim 5, characterized in that: the second airflow path is provided in a plurality, aerosols moved through the plurality of second airflow paths converge in the mouthpiece and are discharged to the outside. 7.The aerosol generating device based on ultrasonic waves according to claim 1, characterized in that: an open upper end portion of the control body is combined with a lower portion of the cartridge, the ultrasonic vibrator is located near the open upper end portion. 8.The aerosol generating device based on ultrasonic waves according to claim 1, characterized in that: the cartridge further includes an elastic body elastically supporting the liquid absorbing wick, as the elastic body is stretched, the flat portion of the liquid absorbing wick moves toward the ultrasonic vibrator. 9.The aerosol generating device based on ultrasonic waves according to claim 8, characterized in that: The above-described cartridge is sealed by a sealing member in a state in which the above-described elastic body is compressed before being combined with the above-described control body. 10.The ultrasonic-based aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein further comprising a heater that heats the absorbed aerosol generating substrate.

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