Aerosol generating device

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is disclosed. The aerosol generating device includes: a housing; a cartridge disposed in the housing and including a first container and a second container rotatably coupled to each other, wherein the second container includes a plurality of chambers isolated from each other; a dial gear disposed in the housing and configured to rotate about a rotation axis parallel to the rotation axis of the second container; and a cartridge gear coupled to the second container and engaged with the dial gear such that rotation of the dial gear causes rotation of the second container via the cartridge gear.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] An aerosol generating device is a device that extracts certain components from a medium or substance by forming an aerosol. The medium can contain a multi-component substance. The substance contained in the medium can be a multi-component flavoring substance. For example, the substance contained in the medium can include a nicotine component, a herbal component, and / or a coffee component. Recently, various studies have been conducted on aerosol generating devices. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Technical Problem

[0004] One object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can provide a user with a medium that maintains its optimal quality without reducing its service life due to long-term use or decomposing due to exposure to external air without having to replace the cartridge.

[0005] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can provide a user with different media according to the user's preference without having to replace the cartridge.

[0006] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can increase the cartridge replacement cycle.

[0007] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that can prevent unused media from decomposing.

[0008] Technical Solution

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention for achieving the above and other objects, there is provided: a housing; a cartridge disposed in the housing and including a first container and a second container rotatably coupled thereto, wherein the second container includes a plurality of chambers isolated from each other; a dial gear disposed in the housing and configured to rotate about a rotation axis parallel to the rotation axis of the second container; and a cartridge gear coupled to the second container and engaged with the dial gear such that rotation of the dial gear causes rotation of the second container via the cartridge gear.

[0010] Advantageous Effects

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device can provide a user with a medium that maintains its optimal quality without reducing its service life due to long-term use or decomposing due to exposure to external air without having to replace the cartridge.

[0012] In addition, according to at least one embodiment among the embodiments of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device can provide different media to the user according to the user's needs without having to replace the cartridge.

[0013] In addition, according to at least one embodiment among the embodiments of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device enables an increase in the medium replacement cycle.

[0014] In addition, according to at least one embodiment among the embodiments of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device can prevent the decomposition of unused media.

[0015] Based on the following detailed description, other applications of the present disclosure will become apparent. However, since various changes and modifications falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments including the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are given by way of example only. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The above and other objects, features and other advantages of the present disclosure will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0017] Figures 1 to 18 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] A description will now be given in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings according to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein. For the sake of brevity of the description with reference to the drawings, the same or equivalent components are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will not be repeated.

[0019] Generally, suffixes such as "module" and "unit" may be used to refer to elements or components. The use of such suffixes herein is merely for the convenience of the description of the specification and the suffixes do not have any special meaning or function.

[0020] In the present disclosure, for the sake of brevity, what is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art is usually omitted. The drawings are used to facilitate the understanding of various technical features and it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the drawings. Therefore, the present disclosure should be construed as extending to any changes, equivalents and alternatives other than those specifically set forth in the drawings.

[0021] It should be understood that although terms such as "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

[0022] It should be understood that when it is stated that an element is "connected" to another element, there may be an intermediate element. Conversely, it should be understood that when it is stated that an element is "directly connected" to another element, there is no intermediate element.

[0023] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms may include the plural forms.

[0024] Hereinafter, based on Figures 1 to 3 、 Figure 5 and Figure 6 the orthogonal coordinate system shown, the orientation of the aerosol generating device is defined. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the x-axis direction may be defined as the right and left directions of the aerosol generating device. Here, based on the origin, the +x-axis direction may represent the left direction, and the -x-axis direction may represent the right direction. In addition, the y-axis direction may be defined as the forward and backward directions of the aerosol generating device. Here, based on the origin, the +y-axis direction may represent the forward direction, and the -y-axis direction may represent the backward direction. Additionally, the z-axis direction may be defined as the upward and downward directions of the aerosol generating device. Here, based on the origin, the +z-axis direction may represent the upward direction, and the -z-axis direction may represent the downward direction.

[0025] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the housing 10 may have a receiving space 11 formed therein and may be open at one of its surfaces. The upper housing 20 may be mounted on the upper portion of the housing 10 (hereinafter referred to as the upper housing 13). The upper housing 20 may surround the upper housing 13. The upper housing 20 may be vertically perforated to define an opening O therein. The opening O may communicate with the receiving space 11. The cartridge 30 may be inserted into the receiving space 11 defined in the housing 10. An aerosol may be generated in the cartridge 30 and may be discharged to the outside through the interior of the cartridge 30.

[0026] The opening O may be formed in the upper surface 21 of the upper housing 20. The upper surface 21 of the upper housing 20 may be disposed above the housing 10. The side surface 22 of the upper housing 20 may extend along the peripheral side of the upper surface 21. A top cover 23, which is a part of the upper surface 21 of the upper housing 20, may cover the upper portion of the container head 33.

[0027] A mounting groove 27 may be formed inside the side surface 22. A mounting protrusion 17 may protrude outward from the upper housing 13 to be fitted into the mounting groove 27. The mounting protrusion 17 and the mounting groove 27 may be formed at corresponding positions. Each of the mounting protrusion 17 and the mounting groove 27 may include a plurality of mounting protrusions or a plurality of mounting grooves.

[0028] The cartridge 30 may include a first container 31 and a second container 32. For example, the first container 31 may have a chamber configured to contain a liquid therein. The second container 32 may have a chamber configured to contain a medium therein. The second container 32 may be rotatably connected or coupled to the first container 31. The second container 32 may be disposed on the first container 31. The first container 31 and the second container 32 may have substantially the same diameter.

[0029] A first guiding slit 316 may be formed in the outer peripheral surface of the first container 31. The first guiding slit 316 may be recessed inward from the outer peripheral surface of the first container 31. The first guiding slit 316 may be formed to extend vertically. The first guiding slit 316 may extend from the upper end to the lower end of the outer peripheral surface of the first container 31. The outer peripheral surface of the first container 31 may be referred to as the outward-facing surface or the outer surface of the first container 31.

[0030] A second guiding slit 326 may be formed in the outer peripheral surface of the second container 32. The second guiding slit 326 may be recessed inward from the outer peripheral surface of the second container 32. The second guiding slit 326 may be formed to extend vertically. The second guiding slit 326 may extend from a predetermined vertical position of the second container 32 to the lower end of the outer peripheral surface of the second container 32. The outer peripheral surface of the second container 32 may be referred to as the outward-facing surface or the outer surface of the second container 32.

[0031] When the second container 32 rotates to a predetermined position, the second guiding slit 326 may be aligned with the first guiding slit 316. In this position, the lower end of the second guiding slit 326 may be connected to the upper end of the first guiding slit 316.

[0032] The second guiding slit 326 may include a portion that widens downward. The second guiding slit 326 may be widest at the lower end of the second container 32. The width of the second guiding slit 326 may increase upward from the lower end of the second guiding slit 326 and may be maintained at a specific value from a predetermined height. The width of the lower end of the second guiding slit 326 may be the same as the width of the upper end of the first guiding slit 316. The width of the first guiding slit 316 may be maximum at its lower end and / or upper end.

[0033] The first guiding slit 316 may include a plurality of first guiding slits arranged along the circumferential side of the first container 31. The second guiding slit 326 may include a plurality of second guiding slits arranged along the circumferential side of the second container 32.

[0034] Each of the first guiding slit 316 and the second guiding slit 326 may be referred to as a guiding channel or a guiding groove.

[0035] The holding groove 317 may be formed to be recessed inward from the outer peripheral surface of the first container 31. The holding groove 317 may be formed at a position spaced apart from the first guiding slit 316. The holding protrusion 117 provided in the lower part of the receiving space 11 may be fitted into the holding groove 317 (see Figure 3 ).

[0036] The cartridge 30 may include a container head 33 located on the second container 32. The container head 33 may extend upward from the outer peripheral surface of the second container 32. The container head 33 may be configured such that its upper part is open. The container head 33 may be open at a part of its side surface portion. The container head 33 may be configured such that its upper surface portion and side surface portion are continuously open to form an "L"-shaped opening.

[0037] The fitting protrusion 337 may be formed to protrude outward from one side surface of the container head 33. The fitting protrusion 337 may be inserted into the fitting groove 137 formed in the upper part of the receiving space 11 (see Figure 5 ).

[0038] The cartridge 30 may include a mouthpiece 34 pivotally connected or coupled to the container head 33. A suction channel 343 may be formed in the mouthpiece 34 (see Figure 3 ). The suction channel 343 may communicate with both the second inlet 341 and the second outlet 342 (see Figure 5 ). For ease of explanation, the suction channel 343 may be referred to as the channel 343 or the second channel 343.

[0039] The mouthpiece 34 may be exposed to the outside from the opening portion of the container head 33. When the mouthpiece 34 is inserted into the receiving space 11, the mouthpiece 34 may be exposed to the outside through the opening O in the upper housing 20. The mouthpiece 34 may have a shape corresponding to the opening O. The mouthpiece 34 may pivot in the opening O.

[0040] The sealing cap 35 may protrude outward from the mouthpiece 34. The sealing cap 35 may be coupled to one side of the mouthpiece 34. The sealing cap 35 may be oriented to protrude in the direction in which the mouthpiece 34 pivots.

[0041] The seating portion 14 may be formed in the upper housing 13. The seating portion 14 may be recessed downward from the upper housing 13. The seating portion 14 may have a shape corresponding to the mouthpiece 34. When the mouthpiece 34 pivots to a specific position and the cartridge 30 is disposed in the receiving space 11, the mouthpiece 34 may be seated and received in the seating portion 14.

[0042] The holding groove 347 can be formed to be recessed inward from the side surface of the mouthpiece 34. The holding protrusion 147 can protrude inward from the side surface of the seating portion 14. The holding protrusion 147 can be detachably assembled into the holding groove 347. When the mouthpiece 34 pivots and seats in the seating portion 14, the holding protrusion 147 can be inserted into the holding groove 347 so that the mouthpiece 34 is held in the seated position. When the mouthpiece 34 pivots in the opposite direction, the holding protrusion 147 can be disengaged from the holding groove 347 so that the mouthpiece 34 becomes separable from the seating portion 14.

[0043] The dial 43 can be rotatably provided in the housing 10. At least a part of the dial 43 can be exposed from the housing 10 to the outside. The dial 43 can be provided adjacent to the upper housing 13. The dial 43 can be rotated to rotate the second container 32.

[0044] Referring Figure 3 , the cartridge 30 can be vertically inserted into the receiving space 11 in the housing 10 (see Figure 2 ). The battery 50 can be received in the housing 10 so as to be arranged parallel to the receiving space 11. The gear assembly 40 can be received in the housing 10 so as to be arranged above the battery 50. The seating portion 14 can be oriented parallel to the receiving space 11. The seating portion 14 can be provided above the battery 50.

[0045] The first container 31 can include a liquid chamber 311 and an evaporation chamber 312 therein. The material for evaporation can be received in the liquid chamber 311. The wick 313 can be provided in the evaporation chamber 312. The wick 313 can be formed to extend in the forward and backward directions. The heater 314 can be provided in the evaporation chamber 312. The heater 314 can be arranged around the wick 313 to heat the wick 313. The heater 314 can be configured in the form of a coil around the wick 313.

[0046] The material for evaporation can be absorbed from the liquid chamber 311 into the wick 313 and then can be introduced into the evaporation chamber 312. The heater 314 can heat the wick 313, thereby evaporating the material for evaporation absorbed in the wick 313 to generate an aerosol. The evaporation channel 318 can communicate with the evaporation chamber 312. The evaporation channel 318 can be formed above the evaporation chamber 312. The evaporation channel 318 can be located above the wick 313 and the heater 314. The evaporation channel 318 can be oriented in the longitudinal direction of the vertically arranged container axis 325.

[0047] The second container 32 may include a plurality of chambers 321 and 322 that are isolated from each other. The plurality of chambers 321 and 322 may be respectively referred to as a first granulation chamber 321 and a second granulation chamber 322. Hereinafter, although only the first granulation chamber 321 and the second granulation chamber 322 will be described for ease of explanation, the second container 32 may include a plurality of chambers 321, 322,... that are isolated from each other, without limiting the number thereof. For example, the plurality of chambers 321, 322,... may include four chambers.

[0048] The second container 32 may rotate about a vertically oriented container axis 325. The plurality of chambers 321 and 322 may be arranged around the container axis 325 in the rotational direction of the second container 32. A medium may be received in the plurality of chambers 321 and 322. The container axis 325 may be referred to as the rotation axis of the second container 32.

[0049] A lower chamber hole 323 may be formed in a lower portion of the first granulation chamber 321. The lower chamber hole 323 may be formed in a lower portion of the second granulation chamber 322. An upper chamber hole 324 may be formed in an upper portion of the first granulation chamber 321. The upper chamber hole 324 may be formed in an upper portion of the second granulation chamber 322.

[0050] The first container 31 and the second container 32 may be connected to each other via a first connection passage 319. The first connection passage 319 may be located between the first container 31 and the second container 32. The first connection passage 319 may be located above the evaporation passage 318 so as to communicate with the evaporation passage 318.

[0051] When the second container 32 rotates, the first connection passage 319 may be connected to one of the plurality of chambers 321 and 322 in the second container 32. The first connection passage 319 may be connected to the lower chamber hole 323 formed in the lower portion of the first granulation chamber 321. The first connection passage 319 may be connected to the lower chamber hole 323 formed in the lower portion of the second granulation chamber 322.

[0052] Among the plurality of chambers, the remaining chamber or the plurality of remaining chambers (hereinafter referred to as the remaining chambers) that are not connected to the first connection passage 319 may be hermetically closed to prevent external air from entering. The chamber holes in the remaining chambers may be closed.

[0053] The first inlet 301 (see Figure 4) It can be formed in the lower part of the first container 31, and the first outlet 302 can be formed in the upper part of the second container 32. The first inlet 310 can communicate with the evaporation chamber 312. The evaporation chamber 312 can be located above the first inlet 301. The first outlet 302 can communicate with the upper chamber hole 324. The first outlet 302 can be positioned above the upper chamber hole 324. The second connection channel 329 (see Figure 5 ) can be connected to the first outlet 302 and the upper chamber hole 324. The second connection channel 329 can be located between the first outlet 302 and the upper chamber hole 324. The first outlet 302 can face the second inlet 341 to communicate with the suction channel 343. The user can inhale air through the mouthpiece 34. The air can be discharged upward through the first outlet 302. The channel formed in the cartridge 30 can be referred to as the first channel or the cartridge channel. The first channel can communicate with the first inlet 301 and the first outlet 302. The air introduced through the first inlet 301 can be discharged from the first outlet 302 through the first channel. The first channel can be formed by connecting one of the multiple chambers in the second container 32 to the channel formed in the first container 31.

[0054] When the cartridge 30 is inserted into the receiving space 11, the top cover 23 of the upper housing 20 can be disposed above the container head 33. The top cover 23 can cover the upper part of the container head 33.

[0055] Therefore, the cartridge 30 can be prevented from coming out of the receiving space 11 outwardly.

[0056] The holding protrusion 117 can be disposed in the lower part of the receiving space 11 and can protrude toward the inside of the receiving space 11. When the cartridge 30 is inserted into the receiving space 11, the holding protrusion 117 can be fitted into the holding groove 317 (see Figure 2 ).

[0057] Therefore, when the second container 32 rotates in the receiving space 11, the first container can be held in place without rotating with the second container 32.

[0058] The fitting groove 137 can be formed in the upper side of the receiving space 11. When the cartridge 30 is inserted into the receiving space 11, the fitting protrusion 337 can be fitted into the fitting groove 137 (see Figure 5 ).

[0059] Therefore, when the cartridge 30 is inserted into the receiving space 11, the user can set the cartridge 30 in the correct position.

[0060] Therefore, when the second container 32 rotates in the receiving space 11, the container head 33 can be held in place without rotating with the second container 32.

[0061] The gear assembly 40 can rotate the second container 32. The gear assembly 40 can be mounted in the housing 10. The gear assembly 40 can include at least one of a cartridge gear 41, a dial gear 42, and a dial 43.

[0062] The dial gear 42 can be mounted in the housing 10. The dial gear 42 can include a rotating shaft that is parallel to the rotating shaft of the second container 32. The rotating shaft of the dial gear 42 and / or the rotating shaft of the dial 43 can be referred to as the dial shaft 45. The dial shaft 45 of the dial gear 42 can be oriented parallel to the container shaft 325. The dial gear 42 can be disposed above the battery 50. The dial gear 42 can be disposed adjacent to the side surface of the cartridge 30. The dial gear 42 can be disposed adjacent to the side surface of the second container 32.

[0063] The dial gear 42 can be rotated by rotating the dial 43. The dial gear 42 can be rotated by receiving power from a motor (not shown).

[0064] The dial gear 42 can rotate while being engaged with the second container 32. The dial gear 42 can rotate while being directly engaged with the outer peripheral surface of the second container 32.

[0065] The cartridge gear 41 can be rotatably mounted in the housing 10. The cartridge gear 41 can be coaxially positioned with the second container 32.

[0066] The cartridge gear 41 can be configured in the form of a ring, and an inner peripheral surface thereof defines a space therein. The inner peripheral surface of the cartridge gear 41 can be configured to surround the receiving space 11. The inner peripheral surface of the cartridge gear 41 can be engaged with the outer peripheral surface of the second container 32 so as to rotate therewith. The dial gear 42 can be engaged with the outer peripheral surface of the cartridge gear 41 so as to rotate therewith. The inner peripheral surface of the cartridge gear 41 can be referred to as the inward-facing surface or the inner surface of the cartridge gear 41.

[0067] The dial 43 can be mounted in the housing 10. At least a part of the dial 43 can be exposed to the outside from the housing 10. The dial 43 can be coaxially positioned with the dial gear 42. The dial 43 can rotate together with the dial gear 42 about the dial shaft 45. The dial shaft 45 can be disposed parallel to the container shaft 325.

[0068] Thus, the user can rotate the second container 32 by rotating the dial 43 at the outside of the housing 10.

[0069] The dial 43 can be mounted to the upper housing 13. The dial 43 can be mounted above the battery 50.

[0070] Thus, the user can conveniently rotate the dial 43 while holding the aerosol generating device.

[0071] The rotary switch 44 can be coaxially mounted with the dial gear 42 and / or the dial 43. The rotary switch 44 can be disposed above the battery 50. The rotary switch 44 can detect the rotational position of the dial gear 42 and / or the dial 43, thereby detecting the position of the second container 32.

[0072] The controller 70 can use the rotary switch 44 to determine which granulation chamber among the plurality of granulation chambers the first connection passage 319 and the first outlet 302 communicate with.

[0073] The battery 50 can be disposed on the lateral side of the receiving space 11. The battery 50 can be parallel to the receiving space 11 and / or the cartridge 30. The battery 50 can be disposed adjacent to the dial gear 42 and the receiving space 11 in the longitudinal direction of the rotation axis of the dial gear 42.

[0074] Therefore, even when the volume of the battery 50 is increased to increase its capacity, the aerosol generating device can have a compact structure suitable for being held in the user's hand without unnecessarily increasing its length.

[0075] Therefore, the space for accommodating the gear assembly 40, the seating portion 14, the flow sensor 60, the vibration motor, etc. can be ensured above and below the battery 50.

[0076] The flow sensor 60 can be disposed below the battery 50. The flow sensor 60 can be disposed to face the side surface of the lower portion of the receiving space 11. The sensing hole 61 can be formed between the flow sensor 60 and the receiving space 11. The flow sensor 60 can detect the flow rate of the air introduced into the cartridge 30 through the first inlet 301.

[0077] The seating portion 14 can be formed in the upper housing 13 above the battery 50. The seating portion 14 can be located above the dial gear 42 and the dial 43. The seating portion 14 can be positioned above the dial gear 42 and / or the dial 43 in the longitudinal direction of the rotation axis of the dial gear 42.

[0078] The socket 80 can be mounted on one surface of the housing 10. The socket 80 can be connected to the charging terminal to supply power to the battery 50 and the like.

[0079] The vibration motor 90 can be received in the housing 10. The vibration motor 90 can be disposed in the lower portion of the housing 10. The vibration motor 90 can be disposed adjacent to the controller 70. The controller 70 can be disposed below the battery 50.

[0080] The controller 70 can be received in the lower part of the housing 10. The controller 70 can be disposed below the receiving space 11. The controller 70 can be electrically connected to components such as the heater 314, the rotary switch 44, the battery 50, the flow sensor 60, the socket 80, the vibration motor 90, etc. The controller 70 can control the operation of the components electrically connected thereto.

[0081] The controller 70 can control the heater 314 to heat the core 313, thereby generating an aerosol. The controller 70 can operate the flow sensor 60. The controller 70 can control the operation of the internal components based on information corresponding to the detection result of the air flow. The controller 70 can receive an electrical signal from the rotary switch 44. The controller 70 can control the operation of the components based on the electrical signal received from the rotary switch 44. The controller 70 can operate the vibration motor 90 to transmit vibration to the user.

[0082] Referring to Figure 4 , the first container 31 can include a cylinder 310 that defines its appearance. A liquid chamber 311 can be formed in the cylinder 310. An evaporation channel 318 can be formed in the cylinder 310. The evaporation channel 318 can be formed in a vertically extending evaporation duct 3180. The evaporation duct 3180 can be surrounded by the liquid chamber 311.

[0083] The evaporation housing 3120 can extend downward from the evaporation duct 3180. The lower part of the evaporation housing 3120 can expand radially outward to connect to the cylinder 310. An evaporation chamber 312 can be formed in the evaporation housing 3120. The evaporation chamber 312 can be connected to the evaporation channel 318 in the vertical direction.

[0084] The core 313 can be disposed in the evaporation housing 3120. The heater 314 can be disposed in the evaporation housing 3120. The heater 314 can be wound around the core 313 so as to surround the core 313.

[0085] A core hole 3121 can be formed in the evaporation housing 3120 to connect the liquid chamber 311 to the evaporation chamber 312. The core 313 can be inserted into the core hole 3121. The material for evaporation can be introduced through the core hole 3121 to wet the core 313.

[0086] The cap 36 can define the bottom surface of the cartridge 30. The cap 36 can be disposed in the lower part of the first container 31. The cap 36 can cover the lower part of the cylinder 310. The outer surface of the cap 36 can be rounded upward to connect to the outer peripheral surface of the cylinder 310. The outer peripheral surface of the cylinder 310 can be referred to as the outward-facing surface or the outer surface of the cylinder 310. A first inlet 301 can be formed through the cap 36. The first inlet 301 can be connected to the evaporation chamber 312.

[0087] The first extension portion 362 may extend upward from the bottom 361 of the cap 36 so as to surround the first inlet 301. The first extension portion 362 may define a step relative to the bottom 361 of the cap 36.

[0088] Therefore, the material for evaporation leaking from the liquid chamber 311 can be prevented from being discharged to the outside of the cartridge 30 through the first inlet 301.

[0089] The connector 365 may extend upward from the circumferential side portion of the cap 36. The connector 365 may be fitted into the inner circumferential surface of the lower portion of the cylinder 310. The inner circumferential surface of the cylinder 310 may be referred to as the inward-facing surface of the cylinder 310 or the inner surface of the cylinder 310.

[0090] The edge 367 may extend upward from the connector 365. The edge 367 may be spaced inward from the inner circumferential surface of the cylinder 310.

[0091] The lower sealant or lower seal 37 may be provided between the cap 36 and the evaporation chamber 312. The lower seal 37 may cooperate with the evaporation housing 3120 to define the evaporation chamber 312. The evaporation inlet 371 may be vertically formed through the lower seal 37. The evaporation inlet 371 may be located between the first inlet 301 and the evaporation chamber 312 and may be connected to the first inlet 301 and the evaporation chamber 312.

[0092] The second extension portion 372 may extend upward from the lower seal 37 so as to surround the evaporation inlet 371. The second extension portion 372 may define a step relative to the bottom surface of the lower seal 37.

[0093] Therefore, the material for evaporation leaking from the liquid chamber 311 can be prevented from being discharged to the outside of the cartridge 30 through the evaporation inlet 371 and the first inlet 301.

[0094] The upper edge 375 may extend upward from the outer peripheral portion of the lower seal 37. The rib 3122 may extend downward from the evaporation housing 3120. The upper edge 375 may be fitted between the rib 3122 and the inner circumferential surface of the cylinder 310.

[0095] The lower edge 377 may extend downward from the outer peripheral portion of the lower seal 37. The lower edge 377 may be fitted between the edge 367 of the cap 36 and the inner circumferential surface of the cylinder 310.

[0096] The outer circumferential surfaces of the upper edge 375 and the lower edge 377 may define a continuous surface. The upper edge 375 and the lower edge 377 may contact the inner circumferential surface of the cylinder 310. The outer circumferential surface of the upper edge 375 may be referred to as the outward-facing surface of the upper edge 375 or the outer surface of the upper edge 375.

[0097] Hereinafter, reference will be made to Figure 3and Figure 4 Describe the flow of air and aerosol when the user inhales air through the mouthpiece 34.

[0098] When the user inhales air through the mouthpiece 34, air can be introduced from the outside of the housing 10 and can pass through the receiving space 11 between the housing 10 and the cartridge 30. The air passing through the receiving space 11 between the housing 10 and the cartridge 30 can be introduced into the evaporation chamber 312 in the first container 31 through the first inlet 301. The introduced air can pass through the evaporation channel 318 together with the aerosol contained in the evaporation chamber 312. The aerosol passing through the evaporation channel 318 can be sequentially introduced into the second granulation chamber 322 through the first connection channel 319 and the lower chamber hole 323. The aerosol can sequentially pass through the medium in the second granulation chamber 322, the upper chamber hole 324, and the first outlet 302. The aerosol passing through the first outlet 302 can be discharged upward through the second inlet 341, the suction channel 343, and the second outlet 342.

[0099] Refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the cartridge gear 41 may include an inner peripheral protrusion 416, and the inner peripheral protrusion 416 is inserted into the second guiding slit 326. The inner peripheral protrusion 416 may protrude inward from the inner peripheral surface of the cartridge gear 41. The inner peripheral protrusion 416 may engage with the second guiding slit 326 such that the cartridge gear 41 rotates together with the second container 32.

[0100] The second guiding slit 326 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the rotation axis of the second container 32. The second guiding slit 326 may vertically guide the cartridge 30 along the inner peripheral protrusion 416. When the cartridge 30 is inserted into the receiving space 11, the inner peripheral protrusion 416 may be caught on the upper end of the second guiding slit 326. The upper end of the second guiding slit 326 may serve as a stopper configured to prevent the cartridge 30 from moving further downward.

[0101] The first guiding slit 316 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the second guiding slit 326. The first guiding slit 316 and the second guiding slit 326 may define a continuous surface such that the cartridge 30 is vertically guided along the inner peripheral protrusion 416.

[0102] The mouthpiece 34 may be pivotally connected or coupled to the container head 33. Figure 5 Illustrates a state where the mouthpiece 34 pivots to be positioned in the first position. Figure 6 Illustrates a state where the mouthpiece 34 pivots to be positioned in the second position.

[0103] Hereinafter, with reference to Figure 5 Describe the state where the mouthpiece 34 pivots to be positioned in the first position.

[0104] When the mouthpiece 34 pivots to be positioned in the first position, the mouthpiece 34 can be seated in the seating portion 14, thereby closing the upper portion of the housing 10. The mouthpiece 34 can close the opening O in the upper outer shell 20. One surface of the mouthpiece 34 can be exposed to the outside through the opening O.

[0105] The suction channel 343 in the mouthpiece 34 can be provided in the upper outer shell 20. The suction channel 343 can be oriented not to align with the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 30.

[0106] The sealing cap 35 can protrude downward from the mouthpiece 34. The sealing cap 35 can be configured in the form of a hook. The sealing cap 35 can close the first outlet 302.

[0107] Thus, the medium and the materials for evaporation contained in the cartridge and the internal components can be protected from the external environment.

[0108] The sealing cap 35 can have an outer surface that is circular in the direction in which the mouthpiece 34 pivots. Thus, when the mouthpiece 34 pivots to be positioned in the first position, the sealing cap 35 will not get stuck on the surface around the first outlet 302.

[0109] Next, with reference to Figure 6 the state in which the mouthpiece 34 pivots to be positioned in the second position will be described.

[0110] When the mouthpiece 34 pivots to be positioned in the second position, the mouthpiece 34 can be separated from the seating portion 14. The sealing cap 35 can be separated from the first outlet 302 to open the first outlet 302.

[0111] The first outlet 302 can be in contact with the second inlet 341. The suction channel 343 in the mouthpiece 34 can communicate with the first outlet 302. The suction channel 343 in the mouthpiece 34 can communicate with the space in the first container 31 and the space in the second container 32 through the first outlet 302.

[0112] The suction channel 343 can be oriented to extend in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 30. The suction channel 343 can be oriented to extend vertically. The sealing cap 35 can be provided to protrude toward the seating portion 14.

[0113] Hereinafter, based on Figures 7 to 9 an orthogonal coordinate system, the direction of the mouthpiece 34 will be defined. In the orthogonal coordinate system, the forward direction FD can be defined as the forward direction of the mouthpiece 34. The rearward direction RD can be defined as the rearward direction of the mouthpiece 34. The lateral direction LD can be defined as the right and left direction or the lateral direction of the mouthpiece 34. The upward direction UD can be defined as the upward direction of the mouthpiece 34. The downward direction DD can be defined as the downward direction of the mouthpiece 34.

[0114] With reference toFigure 7 and Figure 8 The mouthpiece 34 may be configured to extend in the forward and backward directions of the mouthpiece 34. The mouthpiece 34 may be configured to have a flat shape. A second inlet (or introduction inlet) 341 may be formed in a rear portion of the mouthpiece 34. A second outlet 342 may be formed in a front portion of the mouthpiece 34.

[0115] A suction passage 343 (see Figure 6 ) may be formed in the mouthpiece 34 and may extend in the forward and backward directions. The second inlet 341 may be located at one end of the suction passage 343. The second outlet 342 may be located at the other end of the suction passage 343. The distance between the pivot shaft 355 and the second outlet 342 may be greater than the distance between the pivot shaft 355 and the second inlet 341. The suction passage 343 may be referred to as the second passage 343.

[0116] Accordingly, a user can inhale air while holding a portion of the second outlet 342 in his / her mouth.

[0117] A holding groove 347 may be formed as a recess in a side surface of the mouthpiece 34. The holding groove 347 may include two holding grooves formed in two side surfaces of the mouthpiece 34. The holding groove 347 may be positioned closer to the second outlet 342 than to the second inlet 341.

[0118] The mouthpiece 34 may include a sealing cap 35. The sealing cap 35 may protrude outward from the mouthpiece 34. The sealing cap 35 may protrude downward from the mouthpiece 34. The sealing cap 35 may be integrally formed with the mouthpiece 34. The sealing cap 35 may be coupled to the mouthpiece 34. The sealing cap 35 may be provided closer to the second inlet 341 than to the second outlet 342.

[0119] The mouthpiece 34 may pivot about a pivot shaft 355. The pivot shaft 355 may be regarded as the center or pivot center of the pivoting action of the mouthpiece 34. The pivot shaft 355 may protrude in the right and left directions from two side surfaces of the mouthpiece 34 or the sealing cap 35. The pivot shaft 355 may be provided perpendicular to the vertical direction. The pivot shaft 355 may be positioned closer to the second inlet 341 than to the second outlet 342.

[0120] The sealing cap 35 may include an extension portion 352 that extends downward from the mouthpiece 34. The sealing cap 35 may include a first sealing surface 356 that extends in the backward direction of the mouthpiece 34 from a lower end of the extension portion 352. The first sealing surface 356 may define an outer surface of a lower end of the sealing cap 35.

[0121] When the mouthpiece 34 pivots, the first sealing surface 356 can contact the area around the first outlet 302. When the mouthpiece 34 is in the first position, the first sealing surface 356 is disposed above the first outlet 302 to close the first outlet 302 (see Figure 5 ). When the mouthpiece 34 is in the first position, the first sealing surface 356 can be in close contact with the gasket 331 (see Figure 11 ), and the gasket 331 is disposed around the first outlet 302. The gasket 331 can alternatively be referred to as a docking member or a docking ring.

[0122] The first sealing surface 356 can include a portion that extends while being circular in the direction of pivoting of the mouthpiece 34. The first sealing surface 356 can include a first planar portion 356a and a first circular portion 356b. The first planar portion 356a is formed to have a planar surface, and the first circular portion 356b is circular in the direction of pivoting of the mouthpiece 34.

[0123] The first planar portion 356a can define the lower surface of the extension 352. The first circular portion 346b can define a surface that extends from the first planar portion 356a toward the second inlet 341 while being circular. The first circular portion 356b can have a radius of curvature, and the center of the radius of curvature is positioned adjacent to the pivot center of the mouthpiece 34.

[0124] Therefore, when the mouthpiece 34 pivots, the mouthpiece 34 can pivot smoothly between the first position and the second position without the first sealing surface 356 of the sealing cover 35 getting stuck on the surface around the first outlet 302. The sealing surface 356 and / or the end of the sealing cover 35 can be spaced apart from the lower surface of the mouthpiece 34 so as to define a space S between the mouthpiece 34 and the end. The front side and the lower side of the space S can be surrounded by the extension 352 and the first sealing surface 356. The extension 352 and the first sealing surface 346 of the sealing cover 35 can define a hook-shaped portion.

[0125] The sealing cover 35 can be made of an elastic material. For example, the sealing cover 35 can be made of a plastic material.

[0126] Therefore, when the mouthpiece 34 is in the first position, the first sealing surface 356 can contact the first outlet 302 and can press the first outlet 302 while being pushed toward the space S.

[0127] The mouthpiece 34 can include a second sealing surface 346, and the second sealing surface 346 forms the rear surface of the mouthpiece 34 and surrounds the second inlet 341. The second sealing surface 346 can define the outer surface of the mouthpiece 34 around the second inlet 341.

[0128] When the mouthpiece 34 pivots, the second sealing surface 346 can contact the area around the first outlet 302. When the mouthpiece 34 is in the second position, the second sealing surface 346 can be arranged to surround the first outlet 302, and the second inlet 341 can communicate with the first outlet 302 (see Figure 6 ). When the mouthpiece 34 is in the second position, the second sealing surface 346 can be in close contact with the gasket 331 (see Figure 11 ), and the gasket 331 is arranged around the first outlet 302.

[0129] The second sealing surface 346 can include a portion that extends while being circular in the direction of pivoting of the mouthpiece 34. The second sealing surface 346 can include a planar portion 346a and a second circular portion 346b. The planar portion 346a is formed to have a planar surface, and the second circular portion 346b is circular in the direction of pivoting of the mouthpiece 34. The second planar portion 346a can be formed to be higher than the second circular portion 346b.

[0130] The second circular portion 346b can constitute a surface that extends while being circular in the direction of pivoting of the mouthpiece 34. The second circular portion 346b can have a predetermined curvature. The center of curvature of the second circular portion 346b can be positioned adjacent to the pivot center of the mouthpiece 34. The second planar portion 346a can extend from the second circular portion 346b in the upward direction of the mouthpiece 34 to define a plane.

[0131] Therefore, when the mouthpiece 34 pivots, the second sealing surface 346 of the mouthpiece 34 can pivot smoothly between the first position and the second position without getting stuck on the surface around the first outlet 302.

[0132] The spring 344 can be connected to the mouthpiece 34. The spring 344 can be exposed to the outside of the mouthpiece 34 through the slit 354 formed in the sealing cover 35. A part of the spring 344 can be exposed downward from the mouthpiece 34.

[0133] Referring to Figure 9 , the sealing cover 35 can include an inwardly protruding assembly protrusion 359. The assembly protrusion 359 can include two assembly protrusions formed on two inner surfaces of the sealing cover 35. The mouthpiece 34 can have an inwardly recessed assembly groove 349. The assembly groove 359 can include two assembly grooves formed in two side surfaces of the mouthpiece 34. The assembly protrusion 359 can be fitted into the assembly groove 349. The sealing cover 35 can be assembled with the mouthpiece 34 so as to protrude downward from the mouthpiece 34.

[0134] The mouthpiece 34 may include a spring coupling shaft 345 protruding outward from its side surface. The spring coupling shaft 345 may be formed coaxially with the pivot shaft 355. The spring 344 may be wound around the spring coupling shaft 345 so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the spring coupling shaft 345. One end of the spring 344 may contact the mouthpiece 34, and the other end of the spring 344 may be exposed from the mouthpiece 34.

[0135] Referring Figure 10 and Figure 11 , the mouthpiece 34 may be pivotally connected or coupled to the container head 33. The shaft holes 335 may be formed in two side surfaces of the container head 33. The pivot shaft 355 may be fitted into the shaft holes 335. The mouthpiece 34 may pivot about the pivot shaft 355 fitted into the shaft holes 335.

[0136] The container head 33 may be configured to have a cylindrical shape extending upward from the outer peripheral surface of the second container 32. The shaft holes 335 may be formed in two side surfaces of the upper portion of the container head 33. The container head 33 may be open at its upper surface such that the mouthpiece 34 is disposed in the container head 33. A part of one side surface of the container head 33 may be open. The container head 33 may be configured such that its upper surface portion and side surface portion are continuously open, thus having an "L" shape. The mouthpiece 34 may pivot in the opening area of the container head 33.

[0137] The first outlet 302 may be formed in the bottom surface of the container head 33. The first outlet 302 may be connected to a connection passage 329 formed in the upper portion of the second container 32. The aerosol generated from the cartridge 30 may be discharged from the first outlet 302 through the connection passage 329.

[0138] A gasket 331 may be formed around the first outlet 302. The gasket 331 may be around the first outlet 302 at the bottom surface of the container head 33. The gasket 331 may protrude upward from the bottom surface of the container head 33. The gasket 331 may be fixed to the bottom surface of the container head 33. The gasket 331 may have a shape corresponding to the peripheral side of the second inlet 341 so as to surround the second inlet 341. The gasket 331 may be made of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone.

[0139] When the mouthpiece 34 is in the first position, the gasket 331 may be in close contact with the first sealing surface 356 of the sealing cap 35. When the mouthpiece 34 is in the second position, the gasket 331 may contact the second sealing surface 346 which constitutes the rear surface of the mouthpiece 34 surrounding the second inlet 341.

[0140] The container head 33 may have a spring assembly hole 334 therein. The spring assembly hole 334 may be formed on the inner surface of the container head 33. The spring assembly hole 334 may extend upward and may open at its upper portion. The end of the spring 344 exposed downward from the mouthpiece 34 may be assembled and fixed in the spring assembly hole 334. The spring 344 may be fixed in the container head 33 and may be connected to the mouthpiece 34 so as to press the mouthpiece 34 toward the second position. The spring 344 may move the mouthpiece 34 to the second position by means of its restoring force.

[0141] The container head 33 may be coupled to the upper side of the second container 32. An assembly hole 338 may be formed on the bottom surface of the container head 33. An assembly screw 328 may be engaged with the upper portion of the second container 32 through the assembly hole 338.

[0142] Referring Figure 12 and Figure 13 and Figure 15 ), the cartridge gear 41 may be rotatably mounted in the housing 10. The cartridge gear 41 may be configured in the form of a ring (see

[0143] ). A gear assembly hole 411 may define a cavity in the cartridge gear 41. The gear assembly hole 411 may be defined by the inner circumferential surface of the cartridge gear 41. The gear assembly hole 411 may be arranged such that its inner circumferential surface surrounds the receiving space 11. The gear assembly hole 411 may be positioned in the receiving space 11.

[0144] The receiving space 11 may be elongated. The receiving space 11 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 30. The receiving space 11 may extend vertically.

[0145] The inner circumferential protrusion 416 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the receiving space 11. The inner circumferential protrusion 416 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the first guide slit 316. The inner circumferential protrusion 416 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the second guide slit 326.

[0146] The receiving space 11 may open at one of its surfaces. The receiving space 11 may open at its upper side.

[0147] The gear assembly hole 411 may open at the surface of its opening surface facing the receiving space 11. The gear assembly hole 411 may also open at the surface opposite to one of its opening surfaces. Both one surface and the other surface of the gear assembly hole 411 may open. The gear assembly hole 411 may open at the side through which the cartridge 30 is inserted. The gear assembly hole 411 may open at the side from which the cartridge 30 is removed from the gear assembly hole 411. The gear assembly hole 411 may open at both its upper side and lower side.

[0148] The inner peripheral protrusion 416 may include inclined surfaces 416a and 416b. The length of the inner peripheral protrusion 416 at its outer side may be greater than that at its inner side. The inner peripheral protrusion 416 may be configured to have a trapezoidal form.

[0149] The inclined surfaces 416a and 416b may be positioned at both ends of the inner peripheral protrusion 416 in its longitudinal direction. The inclined surfaces 416a and 416b may include a first inclined surface 416a and a second inclined surface 416b, and the first inclined surface 416a and the second inclined surface 416b are respectively located at both ends of the inner peripheral protrusion 416 along the longitudinal direction.

[0150] The first inclined surface 416a may be positioned at one end of the inner peripheral protrusion 416 in the longitudinal direction. The first inclined surface 416a may be positioned at the end of the inner peripheral protrusion 416 where the opening surface of the receiving space 11 is located. The first inclined surface 416a may be positioned at the end of the inner peripheral protrusion 416 where the surface of the gear assembly hole 411 is located. The first inclined surface 416a may be positioned at the upper part of the inner peripheral protrusion 416.

[0151] The second inclined surface 416b may be positioned at the other end of the inner peripheral protrusion 416 in the longitudinal direction. The second inclined surface 416b may be positioned at the other end of the inner peripheral protrusion 416 where the surface opposite to the opening surface of the receiving space 11 is located. The second inclined surface 416b may be positioned at the other end of the inner peripheral protrusion 416 where the other surface (opposite to the one surface) of the gear assembly hole 411 is located. The second inclined surface 416b may be positioned at the lower part of the inner peripheral protrusion 416.

[0152] The first inclined surface 416a may face the opening surface of the receiving space 11. The first inclined surface 416a may face both the opening surface of the receiving space 11 and the central axis of the receiving space 11. The first inclined surface 416a may incline towards the central axis of the receiving space 11 when moving in the direction in which the cartridge 30 is inserted into the receiving space 11. The first inclined surface 416a may incline towards the central axis of the receiving space 11 when moving downward.

[0153] The first inclined surface 416a may face the opening surface of the gear assembly hole 411. The first inclined surface 416a may face both the opening surface of the gear assembly hole 411 and the central axis of the gear assembly hole 411. The first inclined surface 416a may be inclined toward the central axis of the gear assembly hole 411 when moving in the direction in which the cartridge 30 is inserted into the gear assembly hole 411. The first inclined surface 416a may be inclined toward the central axis of the gear assembly hole 411 when moving downward.

[0154] The upper end of the second guiding slit 326 may face the first inclined surface 416a (see Figure 5 ). The upper end of the second guiding slit 326 may be inclined so as to be parallel to the first inclined surface 416a (see Figure 5 ).

[0155] The second inclined surface 416b may face a direction opposite to the direction in which the opening surface of the receiving space 11 faces. The second inclined surface 416b may face a direction opposite to the direction in which the opening surface of the receiving space 11 faces, and may face the central axis of the receiving space 11. The second inclined surface 416b may be inclined toward the central axis of the receiving space 11 when moving in the direction in which the cartridge 30 is taken out from the receiving space 11. The second inclined surface 416b may be inclined toward the central axis of the receiving space 11 when moving upward.

[0156] The second inclined surface 416b may face a direction opposite to the direction in which the opening surface of the gear assembly hole 411 faces. The second inclined surface 416b may face the other opening surface of the gear assembly hole 411. The second inclined surface 416b may face a direction opposite to the direction in which the opening surface of the gear assembly hole 411 faces, and may face the central axis of the gear assembly hole 411. The second inclined surface 416b may be inclined toward the central axis of the gear assembly hole 411 when moving in the direction in which the cartridge 30 is taken out from the gear assembly hole 411. The second inclined surface 416b may be inclined toward the central axis of the receiving space 11 when moving upward.

[0157] Therefore, the cartridge 30 can be easily inserted into the receiving space 11.

[0158] Therefore, the cartridge 30 can be easily taken out from the receiving space 11.

[0159] Therefore, the cartridge 30 can be easily inserted into the gear assembly hole 411.

[0160] Therefore, the cartridge 30 can be easily taken out from the gear assembly hole 411.

[0161] Therefore, even when the first guiding slit 316 and the inner peripheral protrusion 416 are misaligned with each other, the cartridge 30 can be easily inserted into the receiving space 11.

[0162] Therefore, even when the first guiding slit 316 and the second guiding slit 326 are misaligned with each other, the cartridge 30 can be easily inserted into and removed from the device.

[0163] Referring to Figures 14 to 16 , the cartridge 30 can be assembled into the gear assembly hole 411 formed in the cartridge gear 41. The cartridge 30 can be assembled in the direction of the rotation axis of the cartridge gear 41. The direction of the rotation axis of the cartridge gear 41 can be the vertical direction.

[0164] The inner peripheral protrusion 416 can be assembled into the first guiding slit 316 and the second guiding slit 326. The inner peripheral protrusion 416 can guide the assembly of the cartridge 30 into the receiving space 11 by sliding along the first guiding slit 316 and the second guiding slit 326. The guiding slit 316 and the second guiding slit 326 can sequentially contact the inner peripheral protrusion 416.

[0165] The first guiding slit 316 can include a plurality of first guiding slits arranged along the circumferential side direction of the cartridge 30. The second guiding slit 326 can include a plurality of second guiding slits arranged along the circumferential side direction of the cartridge 30. The inner peripheral protrusion 416 can include a plurality of inner peripheral protrusions arranged along the circumferential side direction of the cartridge gear 41. The plurality of inner peripheral protrusions 416 can be arranged at positions corresponding to the plurality of second guiding slits 326. Each of the plurality of inner peripheral protrusions 416 can be assembled into a corresponding one of the plurality of second guiding slits 326.

[0166] The circumferential side direction of the cartridge 30 can be the same as the rotation direction of the second container 32. The circumferential side direction of the cartridge gear 41 can be the same as the rotation direction of the cartridge gear 41. The rotation direction of the second container 32 can be the same as the rotation direction of the cartridge gear 41.

[0167] When the cartridge 30 is completely inserted into the receiving space 11, the holding protrusion 117 (see Figure 12 ) can be assembled into the holding groove 317, thereby holding the first container 31 in place. When the cartridge 30 is completely inserted into the receiving space 11, the assembly protrusion 337 can be assembled into the assembly groove 137 (see Figure 6 ), thereby holding the container head 33 in place. When the cartridge 30 is completely inserted into the receiving space 11, the inner peripheral protrusion 416 can be positioned at the upper end of the second guiding slit 326.

[0168] Accordingly, when the cartridge gear 41 rotates, the second container 32 can rotate because the inner circumferential protrusion 416 engages with the second guiding slit 326. When the second container 32 rotates, the position of the first container 31 can be maintained. When the second container 32 rotates, the positions of the container head 33 and the mouthpiece 34 can be maintained.

[0169] The second guiding slit 326 may include a portion that widens continuously when moving downward. The second guiding slit 326 may have a maximum width at the lower end of the second container 32. The width w2 of the second guiding slit 326 may continuously decrease when moving upward from the lower end, and may maintain a constant value w1 from a predetermined height to its upper end. The width w2 of the lower portion of the second guiding slit 326 may be larger than the width w1 of the upper portion of the second guiding slit 326.

[0170] The width w3 of the first guiding slit 316 may become equal to the width w2 of the lower end of the second guiding slit 326 at a portion adjacent to the lower end of the second guiding slit 326. The width w3 of the first guiding slit 316 may be equal to or larger than the width w1 of the upper portion of the second guiding slit 326.

[0171] The second guiding slit 326 may have a portion with the same width as the width of the inner circumferential protrusion 416. The width w1 of the upper portion of the second guiding slit 326 may be equal to the width w0 of the inner circumferential protrusion 416 (see Figure 13 ). The width w2 of the lower portion of the second guiding slit 326 may be larger than the width w0 of the inner circumferential protrusion 416. The width w3 of the first guiding slit 316 may be larger than the width w0 of the inner circumferential protrusion 416.

[0172] Accordingly, even when the cartridge 30 is assembled into the gear assembly hole 411 in a state where the first guiding slit 316 and the second guiding slit 326 are not aligned, the inner circumferential protrusion 416 slides along the side surfaces of the first guiding slit 316 and the second guiding slit 326, thereby aligning the first guiding slit 316 and the second guiding slit 326.

[0173] Accordingly, since the first connection passage 319 communicates precisely with the lower chamber hole 323, a decrease in the aerosol flow efficiency can be prevented.

[0174] Referring to Figure 16 and Figure 17 , the cartridge gear 41 may engage with the dial gear 42 so as to rotate together with the dial gear 42. The rotation axes of the cartridge gear 41 and the dial gear 42 may be oriented parallel to each other.

[0175] The first gear teeth 412 may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cartridge gear 41. The second gear teeth 422 may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the dial gear 42. The first gear teeth 412 and the second gear teeth 422 may be engaged with each other to rotate together. The height of the first gear teeth 412 may be equal to the height of the second gear teeth 422. The outer peripheral surface of the dial gear 42 may be referred to as the outward-facing surface or the outer surface of the dial gear 42.

[0176] The dial 43 may be connected to the dial gear 42 so as to rotate together with the dial gear 42. The dial 43 and the dial gear 42 may be coaxially arranged.

[0177] The concave-convex portions 432 may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the dial 43. The height of the concave-convex portions 432 may be lower than the height of the first gear teeth 412 and the height of the second gear teeth 412. The outer peripheral surface of the dial 43 may be referred to as the outward-facing surface or the outer surface of the dial 43.

[0178] The user can rotate the dial 43 outside the housing 10 (see Figure 1 ). When the user rotates the dial 43, the dial gear 42 and the cartridge gear 41 rotate in sequence, thereby rotating the second container 32.

[0179] Referring to Figure 15 and Figure 18 , the lid 36 may form the bottom surface of the cartridge 30. By pressing the lower surface of the lid 36 upward, an assembly hole 307 may be formed in the lid 36. The assembly hole 307 may be positioned at a distance from the center of the lid 36. The assembly hole 307 may be spaced apart from the axis extending from the rotation axis of the second container 32.

[0180] The base 16 may be configured to surround the lower portion of the receiving space 11. The assembly protrusion 167 may project upward from the bottom surface 168 of the base 16. The assembly protrusion 167 may be positioned at a distance from the center of the base 16. The assembly protrusion 167 may be spaced apart from the axis extending from the rotation axis of the second container 32.

[0181] The assembly hole 307 may be positioned at a position corresponding to the assembly protrusion 167. When the cartridge 30 is inserted into the receiving space 11, the assembly protrusion 167 may be assembled into the assembly hole 307.

[0182] The assembly protrusion 167 may be configured to have the form of a cylinder extending upward. The upper portion of the assembly protrusion 167 may become narrower when moving upward. The upper end of the assembly protrusion 167 may be round.

[0183] Thus, the first container 31 and the cartridge 30 may be set at a specified position.

[0184] Therefore, even when the fitting protrusion 167 is not precisely aligned with the fitting hole 307, the upper end of the fitting protrusion 167 can be guided into the fitting hole 307, thereby guiding the cartridge to the correct position.

[0185] Therefore, even when the second container 32 rotates, the first container 31 can be held in place.

[0186] The first terminal 164 can protrude upward from the bottom surface 168 of the base 16. The first terminal 164 can be composed of a pair of terminals and can be spaced the same distance from the center of the base 16. The first terminal 164 can be configured in the form of a cylinder extending upward. The first terminal 164 can receive power from the battery 50.

[0187] The second terminal 304 can be formed on the bottom surface of the cap 36. The second terminal 304 can be composed of a pair of terminals and can be spaced the same distance from the center of the cap 36. The second terminal 304 can be electrically connected to the heater 314.

[0188] The second terminal 304 can be located at a position corresponding to the first terminal 164. When the cartridge 30 is inserted into the receiving space 11, the second terminal 304 can contact the first terminal 164 and can thus be electrically connected to the first terminal 164. The first terminal 164 can transmit power to the second terminal 304 so that the heater 314 heats the core 313.

[0189] In summary, referring to Figures 1 to 18 , an aerosol generating device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes: a housing 10; a cartridge 30 disposed in the housing and including a first container 31 and a second container 32 rotatably coupled to each other, wherein the second container 32 includes a plurality of chambers 321, 322,... isolated from each other; a dial gear 42 disposed in the housing 10 and configured to rotate about a rotation axis parallel to the rotation axis of the second container 32; and a cartridge gear 41 coupled to the second container 32 and engaged with the dial gear 42 such that rotation of the dial gear 42 causes rotation of the second container 32 via the cartridge gear 41.

[0190] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge gear 41 is coupled to the second container 32 via a protrusion 416 protruding from the inward-facing surface of the cartridge gear 41, and the protrusion 416 engages with a first guide groove 326 formed at the outward-facing surface of the second container 32.

[0191] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the first guide groove 326 can be formed vertically along the outward-facing surface of the second container 32 and includes a portion that is wider toward the lower end.

[0192] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the first container 31 may include a first guiding groove 316 formed vertically along the outward-facing surface of the first container 31, and the first guiding groove 316 is configured such that the first guiding groove 316 and the second guiding groove 326 are continuously aligned. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 30 is disposed within a receiving space 11 of the housing 10 configured to receive the cartridge 30 therein, and wherein the inward-facing surface of the cartridge gear 41 may correspond to the shape of the inward-facing surface of the receiving space 11 and may define a continuous space together with the receiving space 11.

[0193] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the cartridge 30 may be configured such that one of the plurality of chambers 321, 322,... of the second container 32 can be connected to the first container 31 via a passage, while another of the plurality of chambers 321, 322,... of the second container 32 is closed.

[0194] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of chambers 321, 322,... may be arranged around the axis of rotation of the second container 32.

[0195] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a dial 43 coupled to the dial gear 42 to rotate therewith, wherein at least a portion of the dial 43 is exposed externally from the housing 10.

[0196] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the dial 43 may be configured to rotate coaxially with the dial gear 42.

[0197] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the outward-facing surface of the dial 43 may include uneven portions 432 formed on the outward-facing surface.

[0198] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the height of the uneven portions 432 may be lower than the height of the gear teeth 412 of the cartridge gear 41 and / or the height of the gear teeth 422 of the dial gear 42.

[0199] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the dial 43 may be disposed in the upper portion of the housing 10.

[0200] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a retaining groove 317 and a retaining protrusion 117, the retaining groove 317 is formed at the outward-facing surface of the first container 31, and the retaining protrusion 117 protrudes into the receiving space 11 and is configured to engage with the retaining groove 317 to fix the first container 31.

[0201] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include an assembly hole 307 and an assembly protrusion 167. The assembly hole 307 is provided at the bottom of the first container 31, and the assembly protrusion 167 is located at the bottom of the receiving space 11 and is configured to be inserted into the assembly hole 307.

[0202] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the assembly hole 307 and the assembly protrusion 167 may be spaced apart from an axis extending from the rotation axis of the second container 32.

[0203] Certain embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure as described above are not mutually exclusive or different from each other. Any or all of the elements of the embodiments of the present disclosure as described above may be combined with or among each other in terms of configuration or function.

[0204] For example, the configuration "A" described in one embodiment of the present disclosure and the drawings and the configuration "B" described in another embodiment of the present disclosure and the drawings may be combined with each other. That is, although the combination between the configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible except in cases where the combination is described as impossible.

[0205] Although the embodiments have been described with reference to many exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that many other modifications and embodiments can be designed by those skilled in the art that fall within the scope of the principles of the present disclosure. More specifically, various variations and modifications can be made to the components and / or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the components and / or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device comprising: A housing; A cartridge, the cartridge being disposed in the housing and including a first container and a second container rotatably coupled, wherein the second container includes a plurality of chambers isolated from each other; A dial gear, the dial gear being disposed in the housing and configured to rotate about a rotation axis parallel to the rotation axis of the second container; and A cartridge gear, the cartridge gear being coupled to the second container and engaged with the dial gear such that rotation of the dial gear causes rotation of the second container via the cartridge gear, wherein the cartridge gear is formed in an annular shape, wherein an inner circumferential surface of the cartridge gear engages an outer circumferential surface of the second container to rotate together with the second container, wherein the cartridge gear is coupled to the second container via a protrusion protruding from an inward-facing surface of the cartridge gear, the protrusion engaging a first guide groove formed at an outward-facing surface of the second container, and wherein when the cartridge is disposed in the housing, the protrusion is stuck on an upper end of the first guide groove.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein, The first guide groove is vertically formed along the outward-facing surface of the second container and includes a portion wider toward a lower end.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein, The first container includes a first guide groove vertically formed along an outward-facing surface of the first container, the first guide groove being configured such that the first guide groove and the second guide groove are continuously aligned.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein, The cartridge is disposed in a receiving space of the housing configured to receive the cartridge therein, and wherein an inward-facing surface of the cartridge gear corresponds to a shape of a circumferential side surface of the receiving space such that a continuous space is defined by the inward-facing surface of the cartridge gear and the receiving space together.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein, The cartridge is configured such that one of the plurality of chambers of the second container can be connected to the first container via a channel while another of the plurality of chambers of the second container is closed.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of chambers are arranged around a rotation axis of the second container.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises a dial, the dial being coupled to the dial gear to rotate together with the dial gear, wherein, At least a portion of the dial is exposed outside the housing.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein, The dial is configured to rotate coaxially with the dial gear.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein, An outward-facing surface of the dial includes uneven portions formed on the outward-facing surface.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9, wherein, A height of the uneven portions is lower than a height of gear teeth of the cartridge gear and / or a height of gear teeth of the dial gear.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein, The dial is disposed in an upper portion of the housing.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, the aerosol generating device further comprising: A holding groove formed at an outward-facing surface of the first container; And A holding protrusion protruding into the receiving space and configured to engage with the holding groove to fix the first container.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, the aerosol generating device further comprising: An assembly hole provided at a bottom of the first container; And An assembly protrusion located at a bottom of the receiving space and configured to be inserted into the assembly hole.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, wherein, The assembly hole and the assembly protrusion are spaced apart from an axis extending from the rotation axis of the second container.

Images