Ultrasonic-based aerosol-generating device

Abstract

This disclosure provides an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus that ensures immediate aerosol generation upon vaping and reduces cartridge replacement costs. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus may include: a control body, a vibrating member that generates ultrasonic vibrations, and a replaceable cartridge coupled to the control body. In this configuration, by placing the relatively expensive vibrating member close to the control body, cartridge replacement costs can be significantly reduced. Furthermore, by placing a vibration transmission member that transmits the ultrasonic vibrations of the vibrating member to a liquid aerosol forming matrix close to the cartridge, aerosol generation can be smoothly achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an ultrasonic-based aerosol generation device. More specifically, it relates to an ultrasonic-based aerosol generation device that ensures immediate aerosol generation upon puffing and reduces cartridge replacement costs. Background Technology

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

[0003] Most ultrasonic-based aerosol generators proposed to date employ a cartridge (or vaporizer cartridge) replacement structure for user convenience. Furthermore, the replaceable cartridge basically consists of a liquid reservoir, a liquid core, and a vibrator. However, this structure suffers from the problem that the cost of cartridge replacement (or the unit price of a cartridge) increases because the vibrator, a relatively expensive component, is included within the cartridge.

[0004] Due to the aforementioned cost issues, some ultrasonic-based aerosol generators use a liquid refill method instead of replacing the cartridge. However, this liquid refill method complicates the structure of the aerosol generator and causes inconvenience for users who need to directly refill the liquid. Furthermore, during the refilling process, the liquid often gets on the user's clothes or body, causing significant discomfort. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by some embodiments of this disclosure is to provide an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating device that can reduce the cost of cartridge replacement (or the unit price of cartridge).

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by some other embodiments of this disclosure is to provide an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus that can ensure the immediate generation of aerosols based on puff.

[0008] The technical problem addressed in this disclosure is not limited to the technical problems described above. Other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the following description.

[0009] Solution to the problem

[0010] To address the aforementioned technical problems, an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus according to some embodiments of this disclosure may include: a control body having a vibrating member for generating ultrasonic vibrations, and a cartridge that is replaceable and combined with the control body; the cartridge may include: a liquid storage chamber for storing a liquid aerosol forming matrix, and a vibration transmission member for generating aerosols by transmitting the generated ultrasonic vibrations to the stored liquid aerosol forming matrix.

[0011] In some embodiments, the vibrating member and the vibration transmitting member may include flat portions, which can be in close contact with each other when the cartridge is combined with the control body. Specifically, the vibration transmitting member may be located near the open lower end of the cartridge, and the flat portion of the vibration transmitting member may be configured to protrude downwards. At the point of contact with the cartridge, the flat portion of the vibrating member is open, and the vibration transmitting member and the flat portion of the vibrating member can be in close contact with each other when the lower end of the cartridge is combined with the control body.

[0012] In some embodiments, the thickness of at least a portion of the vibration transmission member may be from 0.01 mm to 1 mm.

[0013] In some embodiments, the aforementioned cartridge may further include a porous component, which is spaced apart from the aforementioned vibration transmission component and has a plurality of pores. Through the transmitted ultrasonic vibration, the stored liquid aerosol matrix can be vaporized while passing through the plurality of pores.

[0014] In some embodiments, the interval between the vibration transmission member and the porous member can be from 0.1 mm to 2 mm.

[0015] In some embodiments, the size of the pore can be from 1 μm to 500 μm.

[0016] In some embodiments, the cartridge may further include a fixing member, which is configured to fix the periphery of the vibration transmission member and seal the gap between the cartridge shell and the vibration transmission member.

[0017] In some embodiments, the control body may further include a fixing component, which is configured to fix the periphery of the vibration member and seal the gap between the housing of the control body and the vibration member.

[0018] The effects of the invention

[0019] According to some embodiments of this disclosure described above, the vibrating component, which is a relatively expensive component, can be positioned closer to the control body than closer to the cartridge. Therefore, the cost of cartridge replacement (or the unit price of the cartridge) can be significantly reduced.

[0020] Furthermore, by eliminating vibrating components from the cartridge, the cartridge structure can be simplified. This significantly reduces the defect rate during cartridge manufacturing and also facilitates waterproof and / or dustproof designs.

[0021] Furthermore, it is possible to prevent atomization deviations caused by misalignment of the vibrating component. For example, when the vibrating component is included in the cartridge, it is replaced every time the cartridge is changed, potentially leading to atomization deviations. In other words, misalignment of the vibrating component (e.g., manufacturing defects) is directly reflected in the aerosol generating device, resulting in potentially different atomization volumes each time the cartridge is replaced. However, when the vibrating component is positioned close to the control unit, since the vibrating component is not replaced, uniformity of atomization can be maintained.

[0022] Furthermore, a vibration transmission component can be incorporated into the smoke cartridge. This component transmits the vibrations generated by the vibrating element to the liquid, thus enabling efficient aerosol generation even when the vibrating element is positioned close to the control unit.

[0023] Furthermore, when the cartridge is combined with the control unit, the vibration transmission component and the vibration component can form a tightly fitted structure. Therefore, the vibration generated by the vibration component can be transmitted to the liquid without loss through the vibration transmission component.

[0024] In addition, since the vibration component is located near the open upper end of the control body, it can be easily cleaned.

[0025] Furthermore, by placing a porous component comprising multiple pores at an appropriate distance from the vibration transmission component, it is possible to ensure that aerosols are generated immediately during suction. Specifically, the vibration transmitted by the vibration transmission component pushes the liquid between the vibration transmission component and the porous component toward the porous component. The pushed liquid rapidly vaporizes as it passes through the aforementioned multiple pores, thereby generating an aerosol immediately during suction.

[0026] Furthermore, by respectively placing the fixing member and fixing assembly around the periphery of the vibration transmission member and the vibration member, the gaps between each member and the housing can be sealed. Therefore, liquid leakage in the control body direction can be prevented in advance. In addition, the fixing member and fixing assembly can prevent internal vibrations from being transmitted to the outside of the housing by fixing the periphery of the vibration transmission member and the vibration member.

[0027] The effects of the technical concept of this disclosure are not limited to those described above. Other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is provided.

[0029] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a vaporizer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is provided.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the detailed structure of an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a vibration transmission member according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a porous component according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the airflow path structure of an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a cartridge identification method for an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The advantages and features of this disclosure, as well as the methods for implementing them, will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and the embodiments described in detail below. However, the technical concept of this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below, and can be implemented in various different forms. The following embodiments are only used to complete the technical concept of this disclosure, enabling those skilled in the art to fully understand the scope of this disclosure. The technical concept of this disclosure is defined by the scope of the claims.

[0036] When adding reference numerals to components in all the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that the same reference numerals refer to the same components, even if they are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, in the process of describing this disclosure, detailed descriptions of the relevant prior art components or functions may be omitted if it is believed that such detailed descriptions would obscure the gist of this disclosure.

[0037] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the following embodiments are to be understood in a manner commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Furthermore, terms that are commonly used and defined in dictionaries are not subject to unusual or excessive interpretation without explicit specific definitions. The terminology used in the following embodiments is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. In the following embodiments, unless otherwise specified, singular nouns also include plural forms.

[0038] Furthermore, in describing the components of this disclosure, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used. These terms are used only to distinguish a component from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the related components is not limited by the terms. It should be understood that if a component is described as "connected," "combined," or "linked" to another component, it may mean that the component is not only directly "connected," "combined," or "linked" to another component, but also indirectly "connected," "combined," or "linked" via a third component.

[0039] The terms “comprises” and / or “comprising” as used in this disclosure specify the presence of the described 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.

[0040] Before describing the various embodiments of this disclosure, some terms used in the embodiments will be clarified.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] In the following, various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating the structure of an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. In particular, Figure 1 The following examples illustrate the state before and after installing the smoke cartridge 10.

[0046] like Figure 1 As shown, the ultrasonic-based aerosol generating device 1 may include a smoke cartridge 10 and a control unit 20. However, Figure 1 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 Other general components besides those shown. The components of aerosol generating apparatus 1 will now be described.

[0047] 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 include part or all of the components of a mouthpiece and a vaporizer (e.g., a cartomizer). For example, as shown, the cartridge 10 can be configured to also include some components of a mouthpiece 110 and a vaporizer 30. As another example, the cartridge 10 can also be configured to include only some components of the vaporizer 30, excluding the mouthpiece 110.

[0048] 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 installed inside the housing of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0049] 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 the need for refilling. In this case, the overall structure of the aerosol generating device 1 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., relatively expensive vibrating components) from the cartridge 10. The following explanation will continue under the premise that the cartridge 10 is a replaceable component.

[0050] like Figure 1As schematically shown, the cartridge 10 according to an embodiment may include a mouthpiece 110 and a portion of a vaporizer 30. More specifically, as Figure 2 As illustrated, the vaporizer 30 may include components such as a liquid storage chamber, a vibrating member 360, and an airflow pipe 320. The liquid storage chamber is used to store the liquid aerosol forming matrix 311; the vibrating member 360 vaporizes the liquid through vibration (ultrasonic vibration), and the airflow pipe 320 is used to transmit the vaporized liquid towards the mouthpiece. The vibrating member 360 may be disposed on the control body 20 side (e.g., Figure 2 (below the dotted line in the image), while the remaining components can be located on the side of the cartridge 10 (e.g., below the dotted line). Figure 2 (Above the dotted line in the diagram). In this case, the vaporizer 30 is constructed by combining the cartridge 10 and the control unit 20, while excluding the relatively expensive vibrating component from the cartridge 10, thereby significantly reducing the replacement cost (or unit price) of the cartridge 10. Detailed structure of the cartridge 10 will be discussed later. Figure 3 The accompanying diagrams provide a more detailed explanation.

[0051] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the vaporizer 30 may also include a vibration transmission member 340 disposed near the cartridge 10. The vibration transmission member 340 can smoothly generate an aerosol by transmitting vibrations generated by the vibration member 360 disposed near the control body 20 to the liquid 311. The vibration transmission member 340 will be discussed later. Figure 3 The accompanying diagrams provide a more detailed explanation.

[0052] Will refer again Figure 1 Let me continue explaining.

[0053] The control unit 20 can perform the overall control functions of the aerosol generating device 1. As shown in the figure, the control unit 20 can be combined with the cartridge 10. If the cartridge 10 is a component installed in the aerosol generating device 1, the control unit 20 can be combined with the upper shell including the cartridge 10.

[0054] As shown in the figure, the control unit 20 may include a control unit 210 and a battery 220. Furthermore, as described above, the control unit 20 may also include a vibration member 360, etc. This will be referred to later. Figure 3 Other components of the control unit 20 will be described below, while the control unit 210 and the battery 220 will be briefly described in the following text.

[0055] 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 vibration frequency and vibration intensity of the vibrating member 360, etc. 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).

[0056] Furthermore, the control unit 210 can determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operational state by checking the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0057] In some embodiments, the vibrating member 360 can be implemented based on a piezoelectric element. Furthermore, the control unit 210 can identify the bonding state of the cartridge 10 (e.g., whether it is bonded, the degree of bonding, etc.) by using the piezoelectric phenomenon of the vibrating member 360, without the need for a separate cartridge identification sensor. This reduces the manufacturing cost of the aerosol generating device 1 and alleviates the complexity of its internal structure. (See below for further details.) Figure 7 This embodiment will be described in detail.

[0058] The control unit 210 can be implemented by at least one processor. This processor can be implemented by a plurality of 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.

[0059] In addition, the battery 220 can supply the power required for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 220 can supply power to enable the vibrating member 360 constituting the vaporizer 30 to vibrate, and can also supply the power required for the operation of the control unit 210.

[0060] 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.

[0061] The detailed structure of the control body 20 will be discussed later. Figure 3 The following figures illustrate this in more detail.

[0062] At this point, we have referred to Figure 1 and Figure 2An ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated schematically. As described above, the vibrating member 360, which is a relatively expensive component, can be disposed on the control body 20 side instead of the cartridge 10 side. This significantly reduces cartridge replacement costs (or cartridge unit price). Furthermore, since the vibrating member 360 is excluded from the cartridge 10, the structure of the cartridge 10 can be simplified, the defect rate during cartridge manufacturing can be significantly reduced, and waterproof and / or dustproof designs are easier to implement. Moreover, deviations in atomization volume due to deviations in the vibrating member 360 (e.g., manufacturing deviations) can be prevented in advance. For example, when the vibrating member 360 is included in the cartridge 10, it is replaced every time the cartridge 10 is replaced, potentially leading to atomization volume deviations. However, when the vibrating member 360 is located on the control body 20 side, the same vibrating member 360 can be used continuously, thereby maintaining uniformity in atomization volume.

[0063] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 3 The accompanying drawings will illustrate the detailed structure and operating principle of the ultrasonic-based aerosol generating device 1 in more detail.

[0064] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the detailed structure of an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular, Figure 3 The following examples illustrate the state before and after installing the smoke cartridge 10.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, the cartridge 10 may include a cartridge shell, a mouthpiece 110, a liquid storage chamber 310, a vibration transmission component 340, and an airflow tube 320. 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.

[0066] The cartridge casing can form the appearance of cartridge 10. Although Figure 3 The outer wall of the liquid reservoir 310 and the cartridge shell are not shown separately, but a portion of the cartridge shell may or may not constitute the outer wall of the liquid reservoir 310. Furthermore, a portion of the cartridge shell may serve as the mouthpiece 110, or it may be designed as a separate mouthpiece structure mounted on the cartridge shell. The cartridge shell may be made of a suitable material capable of protecting the components inside the cartridge 10.

[0067] Furthermore, the cartridge shell can have an open lower end. A vibration transmission member 340 can be provided near the open lower end. Thus, by combining the cartridge 10 and the control body 20, the vibration transmission member 340 can be in close contact with the vibration member 360. That is, a structure in which the vibration transmission member 340 and the vibration member 360 are in close contact can be formed. This structure maximizes the vibration transmission area and minimizes the loss during vibration transmission, thereby ensuring rapid aerosol generation and sufficient atomization.

[0068] Additionally, the mouthpiece 110 can be located at one end of the aerosol generating device 1 or the cartridge 10 and contact the user's mouth, allowing the user to inhale the aerosol generated in the cartridge 10. In other words, when the user holds the mouthpiece 110 and inhales, the aerosol generated in the cartridge 10 can be delivered to the user through the mouthpiece 110.

[0069] Additionally, the reservoir 310 can store the liquid aerosol forming matrix 311. The reservoir 310 may include one or more storage spaces. For example, the reservoir 310 may have multiple storage spaces to store aerosol forming matrices with different compositions or composition ratios.

[0070] Additionally, the vibration transmission member 340 can transmit the vibration generated by the vibration member 360 to the liquid 311. For example, the vibration transmission member 340 can vaporize the liquid 311 by transmitting the vibration generated by the vibration member 360 to the liquid 311 located in the periphery. Furthermore, the vibration transmission member 340 can also prevent the liquid 311 from leaking downwards (i.e., in the direction of the control body 20).

[0071] The vibration transmission member 340 may be located near the open lower end of the cartridge 10 and includes a flat portion, and may be configured to project downwards. For example, as Figure 3 or Figure 4 As shown, the vibration transmission member 340 may include a flat lower surface 341 and an inclined surface 342 for making the lower surface 341 protrude downward. In this case, by combining the smoke cartridge 10 with the control body 20, the flat lower surface 341 can be in close contact with the vibration member 360, thereby maximizing the vibration transmission area and minimizing the loss when transmitting vibration.

[0072] On the other hand, the vibration transmission member 340 may be made of a material and / or shape capable of smoothly transmitting vibrations, and the specific material and / or shape may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0073] In some embodiments, the thickness of at least a portion (e.g., the lower surface) of the vibration transmission member 340 may be from about 0.01 mm to 1 mm, preferably from about 0.02 mm to 0.7 mm or about 0.03 mm to 0.5 mm, more preferably from about 0.03 mm to 0.1 mm, about 0.03 mm to 0.2 mm, about 0.03 mm to 0.3 mm or about 0.03 mm to 0.4 mm. Within the above numerical range, losses during vibration transmission can be minimized, and adequate durability can be ensured. If the vibration transmission member 340 is too thick, vibration can be absorbed by the vibration transmission member 340; if the vibration transmission member 340 is too thin, adequate durability cannot be ensured, and the vibration transmission member 340 may be easily damaged.

[0074] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the vibration transmission member 340 may be made of a material with appropriate strength (e.g., a rigid material), such as metal. For example, the vibration transmission member 340 may be made of a metallic material such as stainless steel or aluminum, in which case not only can the vibration absorbed by the vibration transmission member 340 be minimized, but also the material deformation caused by contact with the liquid 311 can be minimized.

[0075] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the vibration transmission member 340 includes a flat lower surface (e.g., lower surface 341) and an inclined surface (e.g., inclined surface 342) that causes the lower surface (e.g., lower surface 341) to protrude downwards (see reference). Figure 3 or Figure 4 The angle formed by the vertical side of the lower surface (i.e., the insertion direction of the cartridge 10) and the inclined surface (e.g., inclined surface 342) can be from about 15 degrees to 70 degrees. Preferably, the angle can be from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees, from about 25 degrees to about 55 degrees, or from about 30 degrees to about 50 degrees. Within the above numerical range, the contact area between the lower surface (e.g., lower surface 341) and the vibrating member 360 can be sufficiently ensured, and the angle of the inclined surface (e.g., inclined surface 342) can concentrate the vibration transmission in the airflow pipe 330, thereby increasing the vaporization rate and the amount of atomization.

[0076] On the other hand, in some embodiments, such as Figure 3As shown, the cartridge 10 may further include a fixing member 350, which is used to fix the periphery of the vibration transmission member 340. By fixing the periphery of the vibration transmission member 340, the fixing member 350 allows the central portion (i.e., the flat portion) of the vibration transmission member 340 to transmit vibrations more smoothly, thereby increasing the vaporization rate and the amount of atomization. Furthermore, the fixing member 350 can absorb vibrations reaching the vibration transmission member 340, preventing them from being transmitted to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. Therefore, preferably, the fixing member 350 is 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 when in contact with liquids). In addition, the fixing member 350 can also prevent the liquid 311 or aerosol from leaking downwards by sealing the gap between the vibration transmission member 340 and the cartridge shell.

[0077] The specific shape and / or number of the fixing members 350 can be designed in various ways. For example, the fixing members 350 can be designed as a ring shape extending around the vibration transmission member 340, or can be designed as multiple fixing members 350 fixing the periphery of the vibration transmission member 340.

[0078] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the smoke cartridge 10 may also include a porous component 330, which is spaced apart from the vibration transmission component 340. For example, Figure 5 As illustrated, the porous component 330 can refer to a component including a plurality of holes 331. For example, the porous component 330 may include, but is not limited to, perforated components (e.g., perforated plates), mesh components (e.g., mesh panels), etc. Figure 3 As shown, the porous member 330 can be spaced apart from the vibration transmission member 340 and is disposed near the lower end of the airflow pipe 320. In this case, the vibration transmitted by the vibration transmission member 340 pushes the liquid 311 between the vibration transmission member 340 and the porous member 330 toward the porous member 330, and the pushed liquid 311 rapidly vaporizes as it passes through the multiple holes 331. Therefore, an aerosol can be generated immediately during inhalation, thereby improving the user's smoking satisfaction.

[0079] For example, the porous component 330 can be made of materials such as plastics, metals (e.g., stainless steel), or silicone. However, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0080] Furthermore, the shape of the porous component 330, the size of the holes 331, and the spacing can be designed in various ways, which may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0081] In some embodiments, the size of the pore 331 (e.g., diameter D) can be from about 1 μm to 500 μm, preferably from about 1 μm to 400 μm, 1 μm to 300 μm, 1 μm to 200 μm, or 1 μm to 100 μm. The size d of the pore 331 is related to the particle size of the aerosol. Within the above numerical range, aerosols with suitable particle sizes can be generated, ensuring sufficient atomization. If the size d of the pore 331 is too small, aerosols containing very small, invisible particles may be generated, thereby reducing the visible atomization. Furthermore, the amount of aerosol generated may also be reduced due to the inability to vaporize effectively.

[0082] In some embodiments, the spacing between the vibration transmission member 340 and the porous member 330 can be from about 0.1 mm to 2.0 mm, preferably from about 0.1 mm to 1.8 mm, about 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm, about 0.2 mm to 1.2 mm, or about 0.3 mm to 1.0 mm. Within these numerical ranges, the transfer of liquid 311 and the generation of aerosol can be smoothly achieved. For example, if the spacing is too large, the vibration transmitted by the vibration transmission member 340 may be absorbed by the liquid 311, thereby reducing the amount of atomization. Conversely, if the spacing is too small, the liquid 3111 may not be able to transfer smoothly between the vibration transmission member 340 and the porous member 330, and therefore the amount of atomization may be reduced.

[0083] In some embodiments, the porous member 330 may have a flat shape (e.g., plate-like) and a thickness of about 0.01 mm to 5 mm. Preferably, the thickness may be about 0.02 mm to 3 mm or about 0.03 mm to 2 mm. Within these numerical ranges, aerosols can be generated smoothly, the vaporization rate can be increased, and adequate durability can be ensured. For example, as illustrated, if the porous member 330 has a suitable thin thickness, the porous member 330 also vibrates due to the transmitted vibrations, thereby accelerating vaporization and preventing condensed aerosols from adhering to the pores 331. Therefore, aerosols can be generated smoothly.

[0084] On the other hand, in some embodiments, the cartridge 10 may also include a heater (not shown). The heater is disposed around the vibration transmission member 340 or the porous member 330 to accelerate vaporization by vibration of the liquid 311. The heater can function as an auxiliary element to aid in the vaporization of the liquid 311. For example, since the aerosol forming matrix 311 is a viscous liquid, satisfactory vaporization performance may be difficult to achieve by ultrasonic vibration alone; in such cases, the vaporization performance of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 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 increase in power consumption may be negligible. The heater can be controlled by the control unit 210, and various control methods can be used.

[0085] For example, the control unit 210 can increase the heating temperature of the heater whenever user suction is sensed. Suction can be sensed by an airflow sensor, but the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0086] As another example, the control unit 210 can maintain a constant heating temperature of the heater during smoking, regardless of the user's inhalation. In this case, the liquid 311 can be kept in a state where it is easily vaporized during smoking.

[0087] 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 atomization level, the control unit 210 can increase the heating temperature of the heater, and vice versa. In this case, an atomization level suitable for the user's preference can be provided, thereby improving the user's smoking satisfaction.

[0088] As another example, the control unit 210 can determine the heating temperature of the heater by analyzing the user's inhalation pattern. The inhalation pattern can be defined based on inhalation length, inhalation intensity, inhalation interval, etc., but this disclosure is not limited to these. Specifically, when the inhalation length or inhalation intensity increases, or the inhalation interval decreases, the control unit 210 can increase the heating temperature of the heater. This is because a user inhaling for a prolonged or forceful time during smoking may indicate insufficient atomization. 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 interval, inhalation length, or inhalation intensity remains constant, the control unit 210 can maintain the heating temperature of the heater at a constant temperature.

[0089] As another example, the control unit 210 can control the heater based on various combinations of the examples described above.

[0090] Will refer again Figure 3 The components of control body 20 will be described further.

[0091] like Figure 3 As shown, the control unit 20 may include a main housing 230, a vibration member 360, a control unit 210, and a battery 220. 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 control body 20 will now be described.

[0092] The main housing 230 can form the appearance of the control body 20. Depending on the circumstances, the main housing 230 can also form the appearance of the aerosol generating device 1. The main housing 230 can be made of a suitable material capable of protecting the components inside the control body 20. Figure 3 The illustration shows an example where the main body shell 230 forms a space for the insertion (installation) of the smoke cartridge 10. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the smoke cartridge 10 and the control body 20 can be combined in other ways.

[0093] 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.

[0094] The vibrating member 360 can generate vibration (ultrasonic vibration) to vaporize the liquid aerosol forming matrix 311. For example, the vibrating member 360 can be implemented as a piezoelectric element capable of converting electrical energy into mechanical energy, thereby generating vibration according to the control of the control unit 210. The operating principle of the piezoelectric element will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art, and therefore will not be described in detail here. The vibrating member 360 can be electrically connected to the control unit 210 and the battery 220.

[0095] In some embodiments, the vibrating member 360 may include a flat portion (e.g., plate-like), which, when combined with the cartridge 10, allows the flat portions of the vibrating member 360 and the vibration transmission member 340 to be in close contact with each other (see reference). Figure 3 (Right side). In the above-described combination structure, the vibration transmission area can be maximized while the vibration loss is minimized, thus increasing the atomization amount. Furthermore, at the junction with the cartridge 10, the vibrating member 360 has an open shape (e.g., open upwards), allowing it to fit snugly against the vibration transmission member 340 when combined with the cartridge 10. In this case, cleaning the vibrating member 360 is simple and easy; moreover, when installing the cartridge 10, the vibrating member 360 can easily fit snugly against the vibration transmission member 340. In some embodiments, a coupling gel can be applied between the vibrating member 360 and the vibration transmission member 340. In this case, ultrasonic vibration can be transmitted to the liquid 311 without loss through the vibration transmission member 340.

[0096] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the vibration frequency of the vibrating member 340 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.

[0097] On the other hand, in some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the control body 20 may further include a fixing component 370, which is configured to fix the periphery of the vibrating member 360. The fixing component 370 protects the vibrating member 360 and absorbs vibrations generated by the vibrating member 360, preventing them from being transmitted to the main body housing 230. Therefore, preferably, the fixing component 370 is made of a vibration-absorbing material such as silicone. Furthermore, the fixing component 370 can be made of a waterproof or moisture-proof material, thereby sealing the gap between the vibrating member 360 and the main body housing 230. In this case, the problem of control body 20 malfunctioning due to leakage of liquid (e.g., liquid 311) or gas (e.g., aerosol) into the gap between the main body housing 230 and the vibrating member 360 can be greatly reduced. For example, damage or malfunction of the control body 20 due to moisture can be prevented in advance.

[0098] The specific shape and / or number of the fixing components 370 can be designed in various ways. For example, the fixing components 370 can be designed as a ring shape extending around the vibrating member 360, or can be designed as multiple fixing components 370 fixing the periphery of the vibrating member 360.

[0099] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 6 Explain the airflow path structure of the ultrasonic-based aerosol generation device 1.

[0100] Figure 6 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 6 The arrows of different shapes represent the flow of air (e.g., outside air and aerosols) that occurs during suction.

[0101] like Figure 6As shown, an airflow path for external air (refer to the dashed arrow) can be formed from one or both sides of the aerosol generating device 1 to near the lower part of the airflow pipe 320 where the porous member 330 is located. The incoming external air can mix with the vaporized aerosol as it passes through the porous member 330. The mixed external air and aerosol can be moved towards the mouthpiece 110 by suction along the airflow path inside the airflow pipe 320. In the airflow path structure described above, the external air and the vaporized aerosol are properly mixed in the airflow pipe 320, thereby forming a high-quality aerosol.

[0102] At this point, we have referred to Figures 3 to 6 The detailed structure and operating principle of an ultrasonic-based aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are described. As described above, the vibration transmission member 340, located near the cartridge 10, transmits the vibration generated by the vibration member 360 to the liquid 311, thereby enabling aerosol generation smoothly even when the vibration member 340 is located close to the control body 20. Furthermore, by combining the cartridge 10 and the control body 20, a structure can be formed in which the vibration transmission member 340 and the vibration member 360 are in close contact. Therefore, the vibration generated by the vibration member 360 can be transmitted to the liquid 311 without loss through the vibration transmission member 340, thereby improving the vaporization rate and atomization volume. In addition, by providing a porous member 330 including multiple holes at a suitable distance from the vibration transmission member 340, it is ensured that aerosol is generated immediately upon inhalation.

[0103] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 7 This paper describes a method for identifying cigarette cartridges using an ultrasonic aerosol generating device 1.

[0104] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a cartridge identification method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following, reference will be made to... Figure 7 Please provide an explanation.

[0105] In this embodiment, the vibration member 360 can be implemented based on a piezoelectric element, and the control unit 210 can use the piezoelectric phenomenon of the vibration member 360 to identify the bonding state of the cartridge 10 (e.g., whether it is bonded, the degree of bonding, etc.) without the need for a separate cartridge identification sensor. That is, the control unit 210 can identify the bonding state of the cartridge 10 based on the operating principle of the piezoelectric element, which can convert electrical energy and mechanical energy.

[0106] More specifically, as shown in the figure, when the cartridge 10 is installed in the control body 20, the lower end of the cartridge 10 is in close contact with the vibration member 360, thereby applying pressure P to the vibration member 360. For example, pressure P can be applied when the vibration transmission member 340 is in close contact with the vibration member 360. The vibration transmission member 340 is located near the open lower end of the cartridge 10 and has a downwardly protruding shape. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the above example. Even if it is not the vibration transmission member 340, other parts of the cartridge 10 can be designed to apply pressure P to the vibration member 360. When pressure P is applied to the vibration member 360, a voltage (i.e., electrical energy) can be generated in the vibration member 360 according to the piezoelectric phenomenon. Therefore, the control unit 210 can identify the engagement state of the cartridge 10 (e.g., whether it is engaged, the degree of engagement, etc.) by measuring the voltage (or electrical energy) generated in the vibration member 360.

[0107] To identify the engagement state of the cartridge 10, the control unit 210 may be equipped with a measuring device 211 for measuring voltage (or power). The measuring device 211 may be implemented as a circuit element such as a voltmeter, or in other ways. As long as it can measure the voltage (or power) generated by the vibrating member 360, the measuring device 211 can be implemented in any manner.

[0108] The control unit 210 can identify that the cartridge 10 is in a coupled state in response to a determination that the voltage measured by the measuring device 211 is above or below a reference value or falls within a reference range. Furthermore, the control unit 210 can identify that the cartridge 10 is in a removed state in response to a determination that the voltage subsequently measured is below or exceeds a reference value or exceeds a reference range.

[0109] In some embodiments, the control unit 210 may further identify the engagement state of the cartridge 10 based on the duration of voltage generation. For example, the control unit 210 may identify the cartridge 10 as being in an engaged state only when a voltage above a reference value is continuously generated for a predetermined time or longer. In this case, the problem of the control unit 210 incorrectly identifying the engagement state of the cartridge 10 due to the generation of voltage on the vibrating member 360 by temporary contact with a specific object (e.g., a hand, an iron bar, etc.) can be solved.

[0110] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the control unit 210 can distinguish and identify the type of the cartridge 10 based on the measured voltage magnitude. Specifically, it can be designed such that the pressure applied to the vibration member 360 when the cartridge 10 is installed varies depending on the type of cartridge 10. For example, it can be designed such that the degree to which the vibration transmission member 340 protrudes downward varies depending on the type of cartridge 10. In this case, when the measured voltage is above a first reference value, the control unit 210 can identify the assembled cartridge 10 as a first type of cartridge, and when the measured voltage is above a second reference value higher than the first reference value, the control unit 210 can identify the assembled cartridge 10 as a second type of cartridge. According to this embodiment, the control unit 210 can even accurately identify the assembly state and type of the cartridge 10 without the need for an additional cartridge identification sensor.

[0111] At this point, we have referred to Figure 7 A method for identifying aerosol cartridges according to some embodiments of the present disclosure has been described. As described above, the bonding state of the aerosol cartridge 10 can be identified using the piezoelectric phenomenon of the vibrating member 360, thus eliminating the need for additional sensors. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of the aerosol generating device 1 can be reduced, and the complexity of the internal structure can be alleviated.

[0112] At this point, we have referred to Figure 7 The technical concept described herein can be implemented using computer-readable code in a computer-readable medium. Such a computer-readable medium may be, for example, a removable storage medium (CD, DVD, Blu-ray disc, USB storage device, portable hard disk) or a fixed storage medium (ROM, RAM, computer-defined hard disk). The computer program stored in the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can be transmitted to other computing devices via networks such as the Internet and installed on those other computing devices, thereby enabling its use on those other computing devices.

[0113] Even though the foregoing description of all components constituting embodiments of this disclosure as combined as a single unit or combined to operate as a single unit is illustrated, the technical concept of this disclosure is not necessarily limited to the above embodiments. That is, within the scope of this disclosure, one or more of these components may be selectively combined to operate as one or more units.

[0114] 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 ultrasonic aerosol-generating device, comprising: a control body having a vibration member generating ultrasonic vibrations, and a cartridge replaceable and coupled to the control body; the cartridge including: a liquid chamber storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and a vibration transmission member generating aerosols by transmitting the generated ultrasonic vibrations to the stored liquid aerosol-forming substrate; the vibration member and the vibration transmission member including flat portions, the vibration transmission member being located near an open lower end of the cartridge, the flat portion of the vibration transmission member being configured to protrude downward, the flat portion of the vibration transmission member and the flat portion of the vibration member being in close contact with each other when the lower end of the cartridge is coupled to the control body, the cartridge further including a porous member spaced apart from the vibration transmission member and having a plurality of pores, the stored liquid aerosol-forming substrate being vaporized while passing through the plurality of pores by the transmitted ultrasonic vibrations.

2. The ultrasonic aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein: at least a portion of the vibration transmission member has a thickness of 0.01 mm to 1 mm.

3. The ultrasonic aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein: a distance between the vibration transmission member and the porous member is 0.1 mm to 2 mm.

4. The ultrasonic aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein: a size of the pores is 1 μm to 500 μm.

5. The ultrasonic aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein: the cartridge further includes a fixing member, the fixing member being configured to fix a periphery of the vibration transmission member while sealing a gap between a housing of the cartridge and the vibration transmission member.

6. The ultrasonic aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein: the control body further includes a fixing assembly, the fixing assembly being configured to fix a periphery of the vibration member while sealing a gap between a housing of the control body and the vibration member. ​

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